band saw

J

jollymon

Joined
Aug 20, 2009
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going to purchase a metal band saw. would anyone know about jet v grizzly or could advise on another brand. thanks for the help.
 
I disagree.

I have not used the Jet, but have heard good things about it. Originally didn't reply because I don't have enough experience to compare the two options that you gave.
 
HF Portaband and hearing protection for around $100. If you have a small welder, you can make a base with a 12" piece of steel plate and 8" of 1x1x1/8" angles. Probably the most widely used tool in my shop for things other than grinding. I hate using my reciprocating saw when I can use the bandsaw instead.

bandsaw1.jpg
 
Take this advice how you like - I have a VS portable Harbor Freight model. I've used nearly every commonly available portable (minus the vaunted DeWalt). I've used at least half a dozen different HF/Enco/whatever Chinese 4x6 jobs and I own one of those as well.

The portable is a great option on a budget or if space is a concern, but if you've got funding and space for a 4x6, I'd never take a portable over it.
 
I can not recommend the Dewalt Porta-Band with the Swagoff-road stand!!:thumbup:
 
jll346 said:
I can not recommend the Dewalt Porta-Band with the Swagoff-road stand!!:thumbup:
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Can or cannot? I thought the dewalt port a band was a pretty popular choice and people have commented they like the swag stand.

I made my own stand and have the dewalt and like it.
 
jollymon said:
going to purchase a metal band saw. would anyone know about jet v grizzly or could advise on another brand. thanks for the help.
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I have a 20 year old Grizzly that's done fine. Not sure if the new ones are as good, but they probably are.
Jet is a step above Grizzly and likely a better machine.
 
Jet is usually a tad nicer than the griz, but both will work well.

A portaband will suffice for small work, but isn't made for larger cutting. I would not recommend it unless it is all you can afford, or have room for.

A 4X6 (or larger) will allow you to cut up large channel iron, 2" steel round stock, 4" pipe, a billet of damascus, etc.......as well as cut out a blade blank, or chop off a 12" bar from longer stock.
 
i have used 2 4x6s (killed them both but im not a normal maker )

i cut piles of sheet steel into kitchen knives and not just make a few cuts to prep a bar for the forge

im a bit rammy tho so im now using a roll in saw 14 incher (not in mose makers budget but i got mine used)
 
If you have the money I vote metal / wood saw.. I have Jet 14" VERTICAL METAL/WOOD BANDSAW and really like it. Just make sure you get the clutch to engage when switch to the slower speeds for cutting metal. Pull the knob out and turn it a little. If you pull it strait out it doesn’t always seat. You can tell right of the blade will be humming at high speed that you use for cutting wood.
 
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