Quoting a job right now that would require me to get a new, fun tool: beam chainsaw (or rent one). I'll be making some simple cuts on 12" x 12" posts.
The price range from Skilsaw to Mafell: $700 to $7000, respectively. The Skilsaw gets bad reviews (out of square cuts on 12" cuts), which isn't a big surprise given the price. However, I'm not seeing much in between. Do any of you have experience with beam saws? Do you have any recommendations?
Portable bandsaw is another option. Again, Mafell is $7000.
I may only get one or two jobs out of this tool (so far), so anything above a few grand is not worth it. However, I'm guessing it could be a tool that once you have it, opportunities to use it will suddenly become everywhere.
Edit:
The most economical approach seems to be a Makita 16" beam saw and cut from each side. ($800) The idea just scares me a bit, but I suppose that it's used safely by many a person.
Cheers,