New bandsaw What would you buy

[BrushWolf]

Originally posted by Texasrecurve:
I found a Minimax MM16 barely used for 1700 a few years ago. Expensive yeah, but I don't think I will ever need another bandsaw.

Thats what I am looking to do. Buy one really good saw to last a very long time

[eflanders]

If you are going to do any serious amount of resaw work, I would strongly suggest the 17" vs. a 14" saw.  I have been looking to replace my current 14" saw as it is just too underpowered and too small for resaw work.  My next saw will certainly have roller bearing blade guides, a cast iron trunnion, blade brake and likely cast iron wheels too.  Right now I am leaning towards the same Grizzly saw that Kenny M mentioned or the Laguna SUV.

[michaelschwister]

I have 17 inch 2 hp jet. Not one regret, I even re-saw 8" osage like butter.

[tenbrook]

Go 14" grizzly.  I have both the 17" and the 14" and love them both!

[BrushWolf]

I want a saw that will be able to do what ever job I get. So far I am leaning toward the 17" grizzly. How much difference is there between a 1" blade and 3/4 for resawing?

[leftyfred]

It was difficult for me to keep my mouth closed, but you mentioned you wanted a really good one, something that would last a long time.  My shop only consists of American made equipment except for one calibrating sander.  Rockwell Delta made exceptional saws that are simple to work on when necessary.  The saw that is most purposefull for a smaller shop is a 28-350 or a 28-3X0, both 20".  Bullet proof and usually sell for around $1200 used.  If three phase,a simple motor swap is all it needs.  LF

[BrushWolf]

Leftyfred I will check them out to see what they have.

[Dmaxshawn]

MIke I have the steel city 14 inch saw.  It works great for me but I dont have anything to compare it to as I've never had a delta or grizzly or any others.  

My first saw was my grandfathers 1972 12 inch craftsman. So I was elated when big Jim sold me this steel city saw.  3/4 resaw blade and I can saw em as thin as I want.