Vertical bandsaws
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If you have a Woodcraft store near you, go take a look at the Rikon. I think it is a really sweet saw. They also have a 20" version that would be awesome for re-sawing but it is a bit pricey. They also have Delta, Jet, Powermatic, etc. so you can compare the various brands side by side
Buy Rikon 14" Deluxe Bandsaw at Woodcraft.com
Buy Rikon 14" Deluxe Bandsaw at Woodcraft.com
I have a old delta that I like. Older machinery seems like the way to go.
splitshot
Head cook, Bottle washer, and Peace keeper.
I've got an older Craftsman that I inherited from my father, handy tool. I use it more for making bushings out of bulk poly. For wood I lean more on the radial arm and table (or even the worm gear) for most my work.
I forgot to mention that if re-sawing is important, look into one you can add a riser block to. This will give you an increased throat size to accomodate wider boards. The Rikon has a 13" throat, which is quite impressive in my opinion.
I had the 14" Rikon and didn't care for it. Not rigid enough. Then picked up an older Delta and it's very solid. I'm much happier with the delta.
I have two in my shop. Both are Grizzly.
Grizzly makes some damn fine high end stuff.
I use the 20 inch for re-sawing, and the other is an 18" for general use. Both I have shoved 3" square maple stock through, and could only slightly slow the motor. The 20 inch was about 2 grand, with a 3 HP motor, and the other was only about 1200. Trust me, if you buy a 14, your going to eventually want a bigger stronger one.
if you buy used one, be especially attentive to out of true wheels. Tis will make any operation a pain, and make re-sawing almost impossable.
Grizzly makes some damn fine high end stuff.
I use the 20 inch for re-sawing, and the other is an 18" for general use. Both I have shoved 3" square maple stock through, and could only slightly slow the motor. The 20 inch was about 2 grand, with a 3 HP motor, and the other was only about 1200. Trust me, if you buy a 14, your going to eventually want a bigger stronger one.
if you buy used one, be especially attentive to out of true wheels. Tis will make any operation a pain, and make re-sawing almost impossable.
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Thanks guys I ended up finding a delta 12" for a smoking deal. I know that I am going to want/need a bigger saw. This will get me going for now. I don't plan on resawing anything over ~4" right now. I know that my delta will struggle with this, but I am going to start saving for a larger saw.
Bull****. I couldn't get rid of my 18" quick enough. Having room to work is much more important.
Use what you have. If you actually NEED something bigger it will become obvious over time. Too many folks here and on other boards always convince folks to buy up. Sometimes something smaller, providing more room and flexibility is more important.