Reply by Jim55

Ok, I am brand new here. But I have this to contribute.

I see on this and other topics and sites people denigrating HF while extolling the virtues of Grizzly & other lower/mid grade machines. You all need to start looking closer at what you’re paying for.

I just recently purchased a 14” bandsaw for $199. The Grizzly saw sells for $369 or some near such.
They are one and the same machine! The only difference from the one at HF was the stand and that the switch was located in different places.

I have found this to be true of many different machines and brands, up to and including “Jet.” Many times, people are paying to or three times the price for a machine that rolled out of the same Chinese factory as Harbor Freight’s. Usually only paint colors and a few minor cosmetic differences Differentiate.
The best thing about HF machines is to buy cheap and add a few upgrades to make the equal of better machines for less cost.

Obviously, that is not true of all machines and some machines from HF are crap. Like any other significant purchases, research will pay dividends.

Does all this mean I buy only HF? No. I research what is available to find what will best suit my needs and then find the best source/price.
Just my .oh2

In keeping with this topic, I have a floor standing drill press but, from what I’m reading, it would not be a good candidate for a mortising attachment. So, considering I don’t do many right now, I will stick with ye olde chisel.