Bandsaw question

[jnelson]

Friends,

I am looking to add a bandsaw to my tool inventory. The main purpose would be for various tasks associated with pen making (i.e., making laminated blanks, trimming blanks, etc). Additionally, I do a fair amount of home improvement projects, and will eventually get into turning bowls, bottle stoppers, and pepper mills.

I have it pretty much narrowed down to the following models:

• Grizzly G0555 http://www.grizzly.com/products/G0555
• Grizzly G0555X http://www.grizzly.com/products/G0555x
• Craftsman Pro 14" http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_...Tools&cName=Bench+Power+Tools&sName=Band+Saws

I have read many conversations on here and value the variety of thoughts and opinions on tools. I know that the Grizzly models are popular among pen turners, but want to make sure I cover all bases.

Thanks in advance for any and all feedback.

Brad

 

[Nolan]

I bought a bigger model Grizzly and have used it alot and it is a super saw. Very happy with my purchase.

 

[dalemcginnis]

Don't know about Grizzy's but I wouldn't go near a modern crapsmen power tool. JMHO.

 

[gjoffrionjr]

A few weeks back I purchased the G0555 and really like it. The instructions for setting it up is useless but I already knew pretty much how to set one up. I dont think you can go wrong with it. It also has a great fence for it. I like the bearing for guides instead of blocks.

 

[Woodlvr]

FWIW I really love my Ridgid 14" bandsaw. I have had it for three years and no problems.

Mike

 

[Rifleman1776]

I have had my G0555 for about five years and love it. Great bandsaw. The G0555X was new to me until I looked it up. Seems like some great new features. The decision is yours whether you need those features and want to spend the extra money. You can't go wrong with the G0555, it is the best saw and value, in it's class, on the market.

 

[gjoffrionjr]

I too had looked at the Ridgid but for the money and features the Grizzley beat it hands down. [8D]

 

[stevers]

I have the GO555 and love it. Plenty of power for me. Pretty accurate. And the price is hard to beat when it includes roller guides, decent fence and the rest of the "ultimate" add-ons.