If you cut a lot of thick stock, or if you resaw stock in the 9-in.-wide to 12-in.-wide range, an 18-in. bandsaw is worth considering. Not only does it offer extra capacity, but most 18-in. saws also have more horsepower to cut faster. I looked at 11 models ranging in price from $900 to almost $3,000, evaluating cutting ability, machine sturdiness, and blade-changing ease. The Woodtek showed acceptable results in the resaw test, did well in the curve-cutting test, and ranked tenth in the frame-deflection test. It has a good fence, and the cast-iron trunnion support and trunnions are a plus. The fussy-to-adjust guides made blade changing a chore.
Fine Woodworking Recommended Products
Shop Fox W1826
The thick, felted bag on this Shop Fox is a plus and a minus. On one hand, it makes the unit much less expensive than collectors with canister filters, and also lighter and easier to hang on the wall. Without a separate plastic bag to catch chips, however, they stay in the felt bag, and the shortish zipper on the bottom makes it tough to shake them out. Otherwise, the W1826 is an excellent value.
You’ll need help to get this heavy unit onto its bracket, but if you’re looking for a central dust collector that won’t gobble floor space, this may be the unit for you.
With its graceful curves, cabriole legs, and ornamental back splat, a Queen Anne side chair is a bucket list build for many woodworkers. Dan Faia had a very specific Queen…
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Jun 01, 2004
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