[Zeke]

I've cut my share of mild steel on a band saw. It needs to run at half (or less) speed and even bi-metal blades don't last a long time. For AL, it's great, even the thick stuff. For steel, shears are the best and most efficient. If the metal is too thick for shears, it's just right for a torch or plasma cutter. I haven't found any upright band saws that are affordable and easy to change speeds.