More Bandsaw confusion, help me decide

[Steve Milito]

I'm in the market for a bandsaw. In the Griz catalog alone there are 5 choices near my price range. The units in my price range include the G0566, G0531, G0636x, and possibly the G0568 or G0514X2. Then there are the three imports. How do the big Griz units compare to the smaller, but pricer Italian units? For example, would a 24" Griz be better than a 16" or 18" Laguna/Minimax/Agazzani? How does the new 17" Griz compare to the 16" Italian models? Can anyone help me sort this out?

[James Phillips]

I am saving for a BS right now and I have my heart set on the Steel City (with the Granite table). I am looking at a 14" with the riser block, but I am sure the large ones have the same benefits. They are built like a tank, the dust collection is well thought out, and it has an integrated mobile base. SC is running rebates through March 31, 08. The 18" is $1300 and the 20" is $1960. This works out cheaper than grizzley after you add shipping for I think a better tool.

[Steve Milito]

I am saving for a BS right now and I have my heart set on the Steel City (with the Granite table). I am looking at a 14" with the riser block, but I am sure the large ones have the same benefits. They are built like a tank, the dust collection is well thought out, and it has an integrated mobile base. SC is running rebates through March 31, 08. The 18" is $1300 and the 20" is $1960. This works out cheaper than grizzley after you add shipping for I think a better tool.

That doesn't make things any easier! ;)

[Dave MacArthur]

Click the link in my signature below for some threads on this to help you ;)

[Walt Caza]

Hi Steve,
This is probably not the quick fix you might prefer, but my best advice
for bandsaw shopping would be to educate yourself with Mark Duginski's
fresh new bs book. I have both of the bs classics, MD's original bs book,
and also Lonnie Bird's highly rated book, but I must say MD's fresh new
bs book is comprehensive and well put together.

The rub is that only you can best determine the optimal machine within
your budget. Only you know your needs, electrical capacity, and
available shop space, etc...
We can all toss unqualified but well meaning suggestions at you, but
your best chance to find the right machine for you is to learn the
features and differences and make an informed decision for yourself.

These books can help you understand and select a saw, and then
begin to learn the skills of set-up, blade selection, and techniques.
Valuable before you buy, and indispensable after you buy your saw.

I have no connection to these books, but have learned from them...
good luck with saw shopping,
Walt

ps the right saw for me, may not be the right saw for others
:)