band saws

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rhettfcr

Joined
Oct 8, 2002
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Hi all-looking for some comments here on two band saws. I am looking at the Delta 9" and Craftsman 9". Delta has a bit more speed which is one of the big differences. I work with micarta and wood for handles. Is one of these a better choice than the other or should I look for other(bigger than 9", variable speed,etc)band saws. Both are on sale now.

rhettfcr
 
I am not familiar with either of those bandsaws, but if either of them is a three wheel saw, steer clear of it.
You can get a 14" woodcutting bandsaw from Harbor Freight, for about $250.00, for the single speed, and about $299.00, for the four speed.They will also pay the freight.
I have been using the four speed model for some years, and I like it, although, I think I wasted my $$ getting four speeds. I have never changed it, I have always had it set on the fastest speed.;)
 
I use a 9 inch model for handle material,these saws are not built as sturdy as the 14 models ,I picked up a used one mainly for cutting ivory I'm using a thin .016 blade and am able to slice off inner scales from some of the mammoth ivory i have figured it has paid for itself,If you descide on a 9inch make sure it has bearings instead of bushings......
 
People often seem to overlook the Building Materials and Tools section in their local classified ads. I found a used high end Craftsman saw for $200 a few years ago, plus all kinds of goodies over the years.

Just being cheap,

Dave
 
New gear is great but my kids get the money I have to be cheap. I got a band saw at an auction for $100.

I have a one speed, it pivits at the end it is made for cuting steel.
I have set it up vertical and screwed on a cutting plate. The new one comes with it but I had to make one.

You can buy blades to suit different material. Look up the local phone dorectory for a saw doctor they can give best advice for the right blade for the job you are doing.

I usually buy a couple of blades and pick up some fee off cuts for damascus.

Getting back to the machines you have asked about I have not sen them however just as a general tip. Check the throat gap. My saw works well but the gap between the blade and the case metal frame is sometimes a bit limiting. So the tip is more throat and manouvering room may be an advantage. Or may not depending on other features.
 
Chuck,I picked up the .016blade at a local tool supplier the brand name Starrett,Lost the part # but next time i<m in the store I,ll get you more infro.It was longer than i needed but i shortened it and silver brazed
 
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