Bandsaw table and fence

[Michael Merrill]

OK, well I put the Rockler bandsaw table and fence on my gift list as I need a fence for my 14" Jet BS. Now that I've had time to examine the table I'm not so sure about the choice.

Pro's

Pretty nice fence with T-slots for jigs
Available resaw fence
Larger worksurfaceCon's

To change blades the table needs to be removed as the slot is not on the side as the standard Jet table, this seem troublesome as how to get the table back into the right position each change, and make changes longer.
The insert is made for 1/2" MDF but it rides below the surface the thickness of the laminate, poor design in my opinion.
The table is very think about 1 1/8" that means I loose all the capacity for resaw and only having 6" to start that is a lot.I'd like to hear from other folks that have this BS table as well as alternatives? Don't want to start the install until I'm sure, and right now I'm leaning toward returning this product.

Thanks,

[George Bregar]

Can't comment on the table but add a riser block for more resaw capacity

[Paul Fitzgerald]

You could make one. You can download plans from Wood Magazine.

Here's a couple of threads with pictures:

http://www.sawmillcreek.org/showthread.php?t=4204
http://www.sawmillcreek.org/showthread.php?t=67306

I, on the other hand, have been looking at the Kreg Precision Band Saw Fence (http://www.kregtool.com/products/pms/product.php?PRODUCT_ID=38).

Paul

[Michael Merrill]

Well as far as the riser I know that can be added anytime, not the issue right now.

I was thinking to build an alternative, use some aluminum T-slot and make something like you've shown in the threads. I could make it about 3/4-7/8" thick and save a bit on the resaw, and make the slot in the proper place for blade changes.

I too have looked at the Kreg fence but thought it was a bit pricey for just the fence that is why I first went with the Rockler product. I think building my own might give me a more usable product in the end????? Just worry about getting everything true and exact as it is a fence!

[Paul Fitzgerald]

I too have looked at the Kreg fence but thought it was a bit pricey for just the fence that is why I first went with the Rockler product. I think building my own might give me a more usable product in the end????? Just worry about getting everything true and exact as it is a fence!

My needs may be different than yours. I currently don't need a larger table (mine is 16"x16"), nor do I work with large heavy stock... so a good fence is all I really need. The price for the Kreg fence is a bargain when you start looking at the prices for the cheap OEM fences.

Paul

[Raymond McInnis]

Maybe you can get some examples here. My setup is for my laguna 18 incher, but you might be able to incorporate some of its features on a 14 incher. My set up has become the center of my shop -- I am strictly amateur -- for all my ripping and resawing. Click on the top link for the page dedicated to describing and illustrating my bandsaw.

http://www.woodworkinghistory.com/bandsaw_table_fence.htm
http://www.woodworkinghistory.com/images/bandsaw_fence_infeed_view.jpg

[Eddie Darby]

That's some sweet fence!!!:)
Thanks for posting.

[Pat Padden]

I made both a table and fence for my bandsaw many years ago and still use the table with it's outfeed attachment and love it. The fence was never what I wanted. This past year I upgraded to the Kreg fence and absolutely love it. It's on my Delta 14" with riser block.

PS. I also upgraded to Carter guides and tensioning lever - both are worth the price.