Getting a band saw

[Mike Shoemaker]

I think I'm going to sears in the morning. I know.. But I'm actually selling things to support my new hobby habit. Anyway I'm looking at their 10" saw. Cost around 150.00 I'm excited, my first band saw.:)

[Dave Malen]

But consider - If this is your only saw get something bigger. I have a 12 inch craftsman which I think you can get for 280 maybe cheaper on sale. It has a cast iron table , 7 inches of cutting height, and a throat that is 2 inches bigger than the 10. With bandsaws bigger is better:)

Have fun,
Dave

[Michael McCoy]

Home Depot is clearing out their equipment displays and they have been going for around $225 for the Ridgid 14"

[Jim Becker]

Mike, if you do strictly very small projects the 10" saw will work, but it's very limited in utility for mid-size stuff, both in cut width/height and power. Dave and Michael both offer excellent advice. And that Ridgid 14" at $225 is a much, much better buy than the 10" at Sears...if you can find a way to fund the extra $75 and they have one in stock. Do check the SMC classifieds, too...folks often upgrade and offer a good buy on a "thoughtfully used" tool. Same for Craig's List.

[Mike Shoemaker]

Thanks for the advice, I'll check the Rigid's.

[Don Bullock]

I got a Rockler flyer in the mail today that shows a Jet 12" open stand band saw - model JWBS-12OS for $249.99 (limited quantity).

[Mike Shoemaker]

Just checked thier web site, couldn't find it.

[Brian Keith]

Mike I went the route your going also and bought a craftsman 10", worked fine but I outgrew it very quickly. I had it for about 3 weeks when I decided to get a bigger one. Wednesday I bought the 14" craftsman and am very happy so far with it. I also brought back the 10". With band saws bigger is better. This is only a hobby for me, maybe 15 hours a week and I still tried to get the biggest I could afford. Good luck.

[Don Bullock]

Just checked thier web site, couldn't find it.

The deal isn't on their website. It's only in the flyer that they mail out The offer is only good at their retail stores according to the "fine print."