Band saws...suggestions

[thesmokindragon]

Can anyone suggest one that won't break the bank for entry-level or break after a week's use :wink:

 

[unclearthur]

I have a Delta 14 inch. A reasonable priced model I managed to catch on sale.

 

[hobie1dog]

Delta would be the first choice or if you could find a Jet used on Craigslist...both are fairly tunable to get you a nice cut after you tweak them a bit.

 

[thesmokindragon]

Thanks guys, much appreciated ::

 

[winton]

What do you want to accomplish? If you are roughing out burl blanks and other small items only, then a benchtop is fine. In my bowl turning, I need cut 5" of wet hardwood. That takes the power of a 14" floor model. Obviously you can go higher than that if want to resaw 12" boards for veneer.
I put in a vote for Grizzly.
Winton

 

[igloo]

Look for a older Delta and stay away from the big box stores .

 

[thesmokindragon]

@winton-sorry, yeah; roughing out burl blanks and other small items only..

 

[lordnoble]

My dad recently purchased a Grizzly Polar Bear series 14" band saw that he says is a pretty good saw. Obviously, I haven't used it and he's only had a few months, so I can't give any particulars, but he seems happy with it so far.
-Jason

 

[gecko13]

I have a Craftsman band saw. Generally been happy with it, but it uses an odd sized band and have to special order it or buy from Sears. I have always read and heard good reviews on Grizzly saws. As a matter of fact I'm getting ready to order a new cabinet table saw from them. Busy re-organizing my shop floor space to make room for it and the extensons.

 

[smokindawg]

I have an older 12" Craftsman and wouldn't trade it for anything. I've had it quite a few years and never had a problem with it. I can also buy the blades at Lowes or Home Depot and they won't break the bank.
My suggestion is to watch Craigslist in your area and to go as big as you can afford and have room for. You won't regret it.