Bandsaw recommendations

RVA

Ambassador
Mates,

It is time I got one. However, it seems to be one of those products with which nobody is ever satisfied, so the reviews are unhelpful.

I think I only need a 9-10 inch saw, because I don't see myself cutting anything bigger than a 2×4, but I lack experience and foresight having never used this tool.

I have no need for a top-end product, but I will spend what is needed for a quality product.

Thanks for any advice.
 
I use a Ryobi band saw for my popsicle sticks Ray but it may be a bit small for what you are looking for.
You do have to take a little bit of time and set it up properly or it will keep throwing the blade off track.
 
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I use a Ryobi band saw for my popsicle sticks Ray but it may be a bit small for what you are looking for.
You do have to take a little bit of time and set it up properly or it will keep throwing the blade off track.
Thanks TR. I think that is the Home Depot brand, right? Does it cut well when set up right?
 
Ray, I like Delta Bench top or Stand alone tools.

Get on Facebook Marketplace and see if you can find any brand saw near you. You could go to various sellers and see for yourself with some test wood, and get an idea what stuff you like or don't like. Then buy one of them at a fraction of new prices, or eliminate ones you didn't like, and buy another one retail based on features you liked.
 
Thanks TR. I think that is the Home Depot brand, right? Does it cut well when set up right?
Yes and yes. I even bought a aftermarket roller for the blade. I have used it on guitar bodies with no issues.
It didn't fit exactly perfect but with a few mods here and there, it's still going strong.
 
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Thanks Don. The reviews are all over the place on that one. Do you like it?
I haven’t done a significant project with it yet (like a guitar body) but it is very easy to use and cuts well. I also bought their desktop belt sander, you can see that behind the band saw. I have since moved it to the other side of the shop.

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Most Motor driven Belt Driven tools last a lifetime.
As 67 said, his Delta fried. I am guessing it may have been a direct motor type.

All depending on your space, and needs, Ray. Like I said, I like stuff like Rockwell/Delta were the shiz.
Bridgeport, Grizzly, Powermatic all make mice stuff.

For occasional use, you can always take your chances on some new Box store or used stuff and go from there if you want an upgrade down the road, get the good long term stuff if it suits you.
 
Jet makes good stuff too


 
The Delta is a belt drive the motor fried under warranty it took 1 1/2 years to get the replacement China trash.

It put me in a bind massive orders the Laguna HD-16 saved me 5HP Baldor motor 240 VAC it paid for it self in a week.
 
Mates,

It is time I got one. However, it seems to be one of those products with which nobody is ever satisfied, so the reviews are unhelpful.

I think I only need a 9-10 inch saw, because I don't see myself cutting anything bigger than a 2×4, but I lack experience and foresight having never used this tool.

I have no need for a top-end product, but I will spend what is needed for a quality product.

Thanks for any advice.
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