SCMI Mini-Max v Grizzly 514 x2

[Eric Gustafson]

I need a bandsaw and had decided on the Grizzly 514x2. It would not be cheap, but in all it seems like a nice BS.

However, I have a line on SCMI Mini-Max S45 18 inch bs, used but I could get it for $800. That will save a good penny. Any opinions on it?

[Tom Davis]

Eric:

I had an older (10 years+) S45 and replaced it with a new 514X2 Grizzly. I got:

More horsepower (3 vs 1.5)

More resaw height (12" vs 10+)

Much larger table

Rack & Pinion table adjustment

Better fence system

Much easier blade changing

Better dust collection

Detensioning lever

Easier tracking control

Easier bearing adjustment

Foot brake

The customer service I had gotten from MiniMax was "average". My experience with Grizzly over the years has been excellent.

My S45 was a well built machine, but I would put the diffence in features between the 2 saws as much more than the $500 difference in the price of the 514 X2 and the S45. I feel that the quality of the Grizzly saw is as good (mambe better) than the S45.


Tom

[Joe Mioux]

I need a bandsaw and had decided on the Grizzly 514x2. It would not be cheap, but in all it seems like a nice BS.

However, I have a line on SCMI Mini-Max S45 18 inch bs, used but I could get it for $800. That will save a good penny. Any opinions on it?

How old is the S45?

The new generation of S45 seems pretty impressive. I sometimes wonder if the S45 would have been a better fit than my MM16.

[Eric Gustafson]

I called the owner, the saw is 15 years old and you are right about the hp. He said it was only 1300 watt, so that adds up. Thanks for the advice. I won't be getting the Grizz for a few months, but I will pass on the Mini-Max.