Shop Fox Bandsaw

[jhudson1977]

Does anyone know anything at all about Shop Fox brand tools?

I see that Grizzly is offering a 9" bench top band saw for about $120, but it isn't a Grizzly brand tool.

Is it worth the $120 or should I save my money for a better bench top unit (because I am in the market for a bench top band saw).

 

[jimbob91577]

I have the Shopfox w1706 bandsaw - the 14" model.

I haven't had any trouble with it, and have used it as a workhorse for about 18 months now. The factory blade tends to wander fairly easily, so I recommend getting an aftermarket blade.

FWIW - I also have their small benchtop lathe. My only complaints with this lathe are that the nuts in the banjo strip easily and the motor is just a little too small for turning medium size faceplate work. Other than that, I have had nothing but great service from them...I'm looking into one of their dust collectors as my next big purchase.

 

[wdcav1952]

Jason,

If you possibly can swing it, get a serious bandsaw like the Grizzly G055. I had the 9 inch Delta, and had a hell of a time keeping it where it would cut straight. As you interests increase, you will want to cut things bigger than pen blanks.

 

[sbell111]

I have the Shopfox w1706 bandsaw - the 14" model.

I haven't had any trouble with it, and have used it as a workhorse for about 18 months now. The factory blade tends to wander fairly easily, so I recommend getting an aftermarket blade.

FWIW - I also have their small benchtop lathe. My only complaints with this lathe are that the nuts in the banjo strip easily and the motor is just a little too small for turning medium size faceplate work. Other than that, I have had nothing but great service from them...I'm looking into one of their dust collectors as my next big purchase.

I also love my W1706. For those not familiar with this machine, it is identical to Grizzly's G0555, except the W1706 uses cast iron wheels instead of aluminum, has a nice cabinet base, and a two-year warranty. Twice, I have needed parts for my W1706 and purchased them from Grizzly (for a G0555).