Bandsaw Upgrade Advice

[Keegan Shields]

I currently have a Grizzly 514x 3hp bandsaw that I’m pretty happy with. But in the spirit of continuous improvement, I’m always looking for used deals to upgrade my shop. So here’s the question: would there be a significant performance improvement if I upgraded to a 20” Powermatic Model 81 bandsaw? There are 2 in my area that look to be in good shape. I typically resaw and cut joinery, and am looking for improved cut quality if possible which might result from higher tensions. Thanks!

[Bill Dufour]

Varibale speed and a blade welder open up lots of possibilities and more to go wrong. I would guess it is double the weight. The powermatic is almost double the depth of the Rockwell behind the blade in the base cabinet.
Also consider a Grob or Doall saw. I would assume they are more heavy duty then most wood only saws
Bill D

[Mike King]

Do you have room for two bandsaws? Personally, I find having two to be a real benefit. My big bandsaw (Felder FB510) has a 1" Woodmaster CT mounted on it that I use for resawing and ripping. My Inca 10" has a ⅜" mounted on it that I use for cutting curves.

So, the question really comes down to what are your work practices and space availability. Personally, I find the added flexibility of multiple bandsaws to be the big payoff rather than higher tension or resaw capacity.

[Jim Becker]

'Seems like a very small incremental increase in capacity, but if the PM has a larger motor (be sure you understand if it requires 3 phase power since that's a cost consideration) it might be better for the heavier resaw work. I'm guessing that the PM is a "beast" that's much heavier, too. The question remains if it's "enough more" to justify the costs involved with making the change. I honestly can't say either way. It's an easier leap decision to a 20" from a 16" MM like I have than from a 19" to a 20" other than the "beef" factor.

[Bill Dufour]

https://orangecounty.craigslist.org/...404166276.html

[Phillip Mitchell]

I’ve never understood the draw of the Powermatic 81. It’s a huge, wide and deep footprint for its capacities. Having used one in someone else’s shop, I can’t say that I would prefer it over a decently built euro style steel spine saw. Never used the particular Grizzly model, but I have used / own a handful of different Italian mid sized saws and I’d choose that type of saw all day and twice on Sunday compared to an 81. Maybe I’m missing something.

[Alex Zeller]

Isn't the Model 81 discontinued? I looked at a couple before buying a 514X2. They come in 2 different resaw heights, 12" and 24" (or maybe 20"). But I was only finding the older green ones for sale. The ones I looked at were underpowered for resaw work. I personally think it would be a step backwards depending on the type of work you do. They do have large tables, that can be worthwhile.

[Keegan Shields]

Thanks! My instinct is that the performance upgrade will be minimal compared to the effort required to buy/load/unload/tune the “new” bandsaw and sell the old one. Now a 36” northfield might be worth it if one pops up near me.