Powermatic 20" Bandsaw

[Michael Sloop]

I'm looking at a 2008 Powermatic 20" bandsaw for sale. I don't currently have a bandsaw, but been looking for a while. I'm a hobbyist and recognize that a smaller one would most likely be adequate, but I also don't want to miss out on a great saw bc I'm concerned it's more than what I need. I do plan on milling my own lumber.

Three questions. (1) any opinions on the saw itself? (2) asking $1800, is that a reasonable price? It's the original owner, used by a hobbyist. (3) would $1800 be "better" spent on another bandsaw, such as a Laguna?

Thanks in advance for your feedback

[Matt Day]

I have the model 2013 bandsaw - 20 for 20", and the 2413 is the big brother at 24". Is that the saw you mean?

[Craig Regan]

14" band saw can be limiting. With the 20" saw you will be set for life.

Used machinery is always a better value. Bring some wood and see how it runs,...

[Tom M King]

Good saw, but seems like a lot of money for it. I've seen older models of that saw go for 1,000 or less, but sometimes it's hard to find one close to you.

[Mike Cutler]

Michael

My personal opinion is to buy the biggest bandsaw you can afford, that will fit in your shop. A big, powerful, bandsaw allows a person to have much more control over their material.
Powermatic is a respected product line. Some folks say that it's a bit over priced new, but that's not where you're at. Test it out and see what you think.
You won't find a 20" bandsaw for that price new. ;)

[Rollie Kelly]

I have had a model 81 for 40+ years, it has done everything I have asked of it and then some. The only thing I have done to it is replace the tires and change blades. This saw was used in a furniture factory for a unknown number of years before I got it. In early '70s I paid $1000 for it.

[Michael Sloop]

Yes, the 20"

[Mike Hollingsworth]

You will use every one of those 20 inches.

[M Toupin]

It's $4700-$5000 new and $1800 is 35% ish of the new value.

That's a good deal in my book if it's in decent shape.

Mike

[Robert Hayward]

It's $4700-$5000 new and $1800 is 35% ish of the new value.

That's a good deal in my book if it's in decent shape.

Mike


I second this opinion. $1800 for a 20" eight year old Powermatic used by a hobbiest ? Go for it ! I doubt you will beat this deal. For years down the road you will be glad you bought it.

[Jesse Busenitz]

Buy it now, and thank yourself later.

[Wayne Jolly]

What are the power requirements for that little beastie?

Wayne

[Michael Sloop]

What are the power requirements for that little beastie?

Wayne

Its a single phase, 220V motor. I wired my garage for 220V a few years back. So I'm all set there.

[Matt Day]

My 2013 has a 3 phase motor, so if the one you're looking does too, budget another $200-$250 for a VFD to be able to use it on single phase 220V.

I got mine for a song ($350) but I had to replace a number of parts that were damaged and buy a VFD. I spent around $750 total for the working saw. The stars aligned to get that saw at that price though.

At $1800, make sure to look at other options in that range just to cover your bases.

[Chris Hachet]

It's $4700-$5000 new and $1800 is 35% ish of the new value.

That's a good deal in my book if it's in decent shape.

Mike

I would throw in a third....

[Chris Hachet]

Its a single phase, 220V motor. I wired my garage for 220V a few years back. So I'm all set there.

Even then 220 is a fairly simple upgrade, and a major boon to tools...

[John C Bush]

Check if it has a footbrake/switch or motor/electric brake. Important feature for larger BSs. I have a Griz 21" and has been a great machine for not much more than the PM. You will be able to mill large stock --get a good blade--(Lenox Woodmaster CT for me~~$185.00 for 165"s). I imagine the PM is a great machine and that seems like a reasonable price.