What kind of band saw do you have?

[caddyman1973]

I'm in the market for a new "affordable" bandsaw, somewhere in the $300-$500 range. I have a cheapie Delta that runs way too fast for metal cutting, its fine for handle material but not steel. A would prefer a 14" saw, 2 speed and roller bearing guides. I've looked through the "tools, materials and tips" section, but didn't see many bandsaws. So, what do you guys use? What do you like about them, what don't you like. I've looked at all the major brands and leaning toward a Grizzly. I would just like to hear some feedback from different saws that are available. Thanks for your time and trouble, in advance. Bill

[wishful]

caddy, I have a floor model Delta. You can change the speed on most bandsaws by moving the belt to different pulleys.

[caddyman1973]

Mine is just a single speed benchtop model. A 9" I think. Not enough power either. It bogs down pretty easy.

[orvet]

I got my 14" Delta floor model when my neighbor who repairs & builds musical instruments upgraded to a Grizzly with all the bells and whistles, but for $100 I can’t complain!

I can actually get metal cutting blades for my 14” but I also have a metal cutting band saw so I don’t need to do that.

From what I have seen of my neighbors Grizzly, you can’t go wrong with one!

[whitebuffalo58]

I tried using my 14" Rockwell woodworkers saw, but the metal dust/shavings get imbedded in the rubber tires. Duh! Soooo...now, (see above)

Grandpa used to have an old metal cutting saw. It was actually an oversized hacksaw, hooked to a motor with a concentric wheel and arm. It wasn't too good on curves, but it'd hack straight through a piece of 1/2" steel 6" wide in less then a minute. (with a good blade, of course) Not sure where that ol' saw ended up.

WB

[jerryd6818]

This is what I have now. It belonged to my dad. Back before I sold my house in '06, I had a 1939 Delta 14" dual speed for metal or wood. It had a mechanical shifting mechanism down on the side. She was a solid old rascal.

[whitebuffalo58]

Jerry, back when those were made, they sold machinery by the pound, and they cast metals more then they stamped 'em.

WB

[orvet]

Wow Jerry!
I thought my cast iron Delta was solid, that ol' thing looks bullet proof!
I like that old thing! Its older than we are and will no doubt out last the both of us!
They don't build 'em like that anymore, (the saw not is us old jarheads).

[caddyman1973]

Sweet old saw Jerry! Yours too WB. Thanks for the responses guys!