Bandsaw Question

[Daniel Warren]

Currently I have a Grizzly G0555 (14") with a riser block. I use my bandsaw exclusively for cutting blanks.

I've found a decent Delta 28-628 18" bandsaw for sale. I don't believe parts are readily available for the Delta.

Will there be an appreciable difference between the two? Particularly when cutting thicker blanks?

Delta has a 2hp motor and my Grizz is stated as 1hp.

 

[Kirk Amidon]

I don't think that particular saw is worth all that much. Also to anyone looking - it should be the 28-682 saw. If you could find a 20" Delta, that would be a much more robust saw. That said, I have a 16" walker turner saw from 1942 or so, and have been very happy with its performance cutting blanks etc. I did have to put some elbow grease into it, but other than the achilles heel of the table tilt on that model, every thing works well. It is about 600lbs, but does not take up much more room than a delta 14", but will cut circles around the smaller saw. My saw has only a 1/2 HP motor on it, but they did not scrimp on wire back in the day.

I'd not hesitate a minute to find an older Delta 20", the Walker Turner 16, or a Powermatic of similar sizes. It is not just the motor size, but also the weight of machine and stiffness of castings.

 

[Karl Loeblein]

Depends on the price. I bought my Jet 18" at an auction for $475. More than worth it even though it came with those terrible European blade guides.