So I am in the common position of deciding what Bandsaw to buy. I am a weekend warrior that will want the ability to do various tasks with the bandsaw. I will need to do some periodic resawing, but not of large logs or anything like that. For example, I have some very nice old barnwood that I will be using to make a Green Egg Table. I have some boards that are 4/4 and I will resaw them into 1/2" boards for door frames, etc. These range from 4" wide to a max of 10-12", but those will be few and far between. I will then use it for other common bandsaw tasks. Nothing out of the ordinary. I don't turn, so no bowl blanks or anything like that.
I have considered 14" - 18" saws. While an 18" would be nice, I don't think I want or need to take up that much room for what I will be doing. It's simply overkill. This isn't a daily or even weekly use item for me. I have looked at Laguna, Rikon, and Grizzly. Just not a fan of the Grizzly overall although they seem to be a good value.
So I am basically down to the Laguna and Rikon. Laguna has such a long wait that I have given up on the idea of a new 14BX simply due to the wait even though it was just on sale. It appears to me the 14 SUV is either discontinued or they just aren't making them at all right now. I like the 10-353 Rikon due to weight and HP although I also come back to the 10-326 as a nice general purpose saw. Both Rikons have the better fence it appears (vs. the standard Laguna fence). So where does the 14 SUV come into play, well there is a like new, used one a couple of hours from me and I think it is probably the best saw of my options. I am aware of the table height issues, but for as much as I am going to use it, I don't think any of them are make or break for me.
As I see it, here is where I am:
Rikon 10-326 - Approx $1400 delivered to me. There is a promo to include a mobility cart, but that is not a make or break it issue in my consideration. Lighter machine, 1.75hp, 5 Year warranty.
Rikon 10-353 - Approx 1950-$2000 to me. Heavier, 3HP, 5 Year warranty, better fence
Laguna 14SUV - Asking $1900 with 3 blades, $1800 with one. Heavier, 3Hp, Standard fence only. 2 hour drive to pick it up. probably out of warranty.
So I think I like the Laguna in general as I like the idea of the ceramic guides, known quality, etc, but think I need to factor in no warranty.
I am one to want to offer a fair price. Everyone wants things as cheap as possible, but what are your opinions on these options and if you think the Laguna is the best option what would be a fair price to pay. Not looking to lowball.
Thanks.