First, the shop will be experiencing a 250 square ft expansion. Walls are coming down, others are getting painted. Floors are getting a new surface and a complete rearrange of tools, equipment, power, and dust collection is in order. New cabinets and work surfaces along with a new bench. Big project... but I am excited. Should be fun to document.
Second:
For many years I have been on the hunt for a bigger, more powerful band saw for re-sawing stock/ veneers/ laminating, so finally the shop will be getting a new one. I don't want the massive 24" Andre the Giant saw. 18" is where I want to live. I've been looking at used saws for a while but have finally narrowed it down to 3 new models in my price range. Decided on new because right now I just don't want to fuss with some of the baggage that accompanies older equipment plus I want to know I can order parts, get a warranty, etc... Help me out here if you are a woodworker and have had any experience with these models. I based a lot of my research on Fine Woodworking reviews and input from local natives. Here are my 3 choices: All have similar basics but there are across the board differences.
- most expensive of the 3
- most horse power (3)
- no blade drift adjustment
- still totally badass and looks the coolest.
Rikon 18" 10-345
- middle on cost
- Top Tool Popular WoodWorking
Fine Woodworking Best Value for 18" band saws
- When it was reviewed for Fine Woodworking the guy loved it. I believe it would have gotten "Best Overall" had it had a bigger motor. At the time it was 2hp but Rikon has since upgraded to 2.5 HP for more re-saw power. A definite plus. This is the saw I am leaning towards.
- lowest cost
- reviewed well in Fine Woodworking
- lowest Horsepower (2hp)
- No blade drift adjustment
- Owned a few Grizzly machines and have been somewhat pleased however a few were machined poorly.
Any feedback would be appreciated.
Out.
