I am looking to purchase a new bandsaw. It is replacing an old small benchtop saw, that I rarely use, because it doesn't work well, at all. I am not using this commercially. I am a weekend warrior in my shop, getting in about 8-12 hours a week, when I'm able. I prefer furniture building (intermediate level), but do my share of home improvement work at the same time.
Here's what I have to work with. I am looking for a 14-18 inch BS. I have about $1100-1200 to work with. I only have 115V available, so the motor needs to be either 115V or 115/230V. Minimum of 1 1/4HP. Obviously, the more HP the merrier. Cast iron wheels are preferable. Resaw capability of 10-12" (preferably in the 11-12" range). My shop floor space is limited, so I will need to make this mobile.
On this saw, I will be doing mostly scroll sawing. Mostly, in either oak, cherry or maple, up to 3 1/2" thick. Otherwise, I will hopefully be able to do resawing of the same stock. Up to now, I have had to rip it to a workable width, resaw on the table saw, and plane and glue back together.
I know there is always the discussion of 14 vs 17 vs 18" saws. Considering the vast array of choices, and the fact that I plan to make this my last BS (no more upgrades from here), I want to make the best choice possible. I don't have any models currently under consideration, yet. I'm looking for any feedback I can get.
Thanks.
Here's what I have to work with. I am looking for a 14-18 inch BS. I have about $1100-1200 to work with. I only have 115V available, so the motor needs to be either 115V or 115/230V. Minimum of 1 1/4HP. Obviously, the more HP the merrier. Cast iron wheels are preferable. Resaw capability of 10-12" (preferably in the 11-12" range). My shop floor space is limited, so I will need to make this mobile.
On this saw, I will be doing mostly scroll sawing. Mostly, in either oak, cherry or maple, up to 3 1/2" thick. Otherwise, I will hopefully be able to do resawing of the same stock. Up to now, I have had to rip it to a workable width, resaw on the table saw, and plane and glue back together.
I know there is always the discussion of 14 vs 17 vs 18" saws. Considering the vast array of choices, and the fact that I plan to make this my last BS (no more upgrades from here), I want to make the best choice possible. I don't have any models currently under consideration, yet. I'm looking for any feedback I can get.
Thanks.