View Full Version : Powermatic 20" Bandsaw
Michael Sloop
01-17-2016, 12:19 AM
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
01-17-2016, 5:40 AM
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
01-17-2016, 8:06 AM
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
01-17-2016, 8:28 AM
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
01-17-2016, 8:29 AM
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
01-17-2016, 9:09 AM
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
01-17-2016, 9:18 AM
Yes, the 20"
Mike Hollingsworth
01-17-2016, 4:25 PM
You will use every one of those 20 inches.
M Toupin
01-17-2016, 4:47 PM
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
01-17-2016, 5:57 PM
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
01-17-2016, 6:12 PM
Buy it now, and thank yourself later.
Wayne Jolly
01-17-2016, 7:47 PM
What are the power requirements for that little beastie?
Wayne
Michael Sloop
01-17-2016, 8:40 PM
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
01-17-2016, 9:00 PM
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
01-18-2016, 1:47 PM
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
01-18-2016, 1:47 PM
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
01-19-2016, 6:07 PM
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.
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