Choosing a bandsaw

Look at the Hitachi resaw. Look at blade width capacity.

I have had a o514, 3hp. It was just ok for the most part. Fence was cheesy. Dust collection was very good using just the upper port, the lower was not even remotely neccessary. Glad to sell it after using it 3 yrs. If you want this to be your last one better expand your selection a bit. You do however have the size choice in order, maybe even larger given the right deal. JB

The Rikon you mention has almost 19” wheels (18.75” IIRC). It also has a pretty good warranty (last I checked 5 years). It is also on sale for $400 less than normal right now. That may help you decide as all 3 of these are probably going to be pretty awesome saws.

I know that’s not a big help or personal experience, but it’s a thought.

-- "Well, at least we can still use it as firewood... maybe." - Doss

I have the General International 18 inch. Mine came with a 3 hp motor but now there is a 5 hp. It is built better than the Delta or the Jet I looked at at the time. I can’t bog this saw down. Dust collection is bad on all bandsaws I think. I really like my saw.

I have the Grizzly 5013X2 and it works great. Plenty of power and Unless you really need the extra 2” of throat depth it saves you some money.
One small problem is the blade is an odd length, 131.5”, so I have to order through Grizzly or special order them to size. Dust collection is not great but that seems to be the nature of bandsaws.

-- Les B, Oregon

rogerrylie,

What’s the actual height on the General between table and blade guides? On the Jet and Rikon it is 12 1/4”. I need it to be slightly greater than 12” for resawing full 12” boards. What’s a good source for General?

WDB!

I own Grizzly’s G0636×17” ultimate bandsaw and am more than pleased with this machine. I have owned it for more than 4 years now. Massive trunnions and a unstoppable 5hp engine. The saw also has 16” of resaw. Deaf worth looking into if your aiming for a “Mans Saw Bandsaw”

-- "I don't cut wood. I machine it!" G.M. The wood machinest