The Powermatic PM1800 ($3,900) is a zero-compromise machine. Clearly the designers put an emphasis on function rather than cost, a point exemplified by its hulking 805 lb. The stout frame and guides, massive upper wheel assembly, and threaded blade tensioner can easily support the widest resaw blades. A 24-in. square table, split front to back for easy blade changes, offers great workpiece support and mounts on massive cast-iron trunnions. Table tilt is controlled by a rack-and-pinion assembly with an 8-in. handwheel. The 18-in. throat and resaw measurements and a standard 5 hp, 240-volt motor provide plenty of capacity and power to handle the widest boards and thickest planks. With nicely sized, chrome-plated thumbscrews, the roller blade guides are easily adjusted and maintain their settings. The thrust bearing is grooved to better support narrow blades, a feature that’s unique to Powermatic.

The large, dual-position aluminum fence provides 6-1/2 in. of support for resawing and a short 1/2-in. face for close guide support when ripping thin material.The Powermatic is quiet, almost scary quiet, powerful, easy to set up, and as stout as any big, vintage cast-iron bandsaw.

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Makita LS1219L Miter Saw

This is the saw I want in my shop. For one, it’s easy to use. All of the controls are easy to reach and manipulate, and the glide mechanism is both robust and smooth. The handle works well for righties and lefties. Then there are added bonuses that no other saw has. For instance, its hold-down is superb, as it can move to different locations, hinges for a greater range of coverage, and actually holds down the work. In addition, the saw has two points of dust collection, letting it firmly beat the rest of the field. The one downside was the saw’s laser, which was so faint we had to turn off the shop lights to see it. Still, all these pluses in a package that fits tight to the wall? That’s a winner for me.

Buy at Amazon

Ridgid R4331 Planer

Priced nearly $300 less than the DeWalt 735X, the Ridgid R4331 is an excellent value. Its three-knife cutterhead left wonderfully clean surfaces on plainsawn white oak and white pine. It did not perform nearly as well on curly maple as the 735X.

Buy at Amazon

Ridgid EB4424 Oscillating Spindle/Belt Sander

With five spindles sized from 1/2 in. to 2 in. and a 4 X 24-in. belt, this sander has become a staple in many a shop Fine Woodworking visits.

Buy at Amazon