Replies

1. 
   Ricks503 | Feb 17, 2006 09:11pm | #1

   As a compromise, try looking at 16" BS. Of course, it will depend on what you plan to use the saw for the most.

   1 - measure the board twice, 2 - cut it once, 3 - measure the space where it is supposed to go        4 - get a new board and go back to step 1

   
   

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   Edited 2/17/2006 1:11 pm ET by Ricks503

1. 
   user-93550 | Feb 18, 2006 02:40am | #2

   After much reading at many woodworking and tool forums, I've narrowed my choices to either the PowerMatic 14 or the Laguna LT14SE.  Any observations re these two bandsaws will be greatly appreciated.

   Thanks

   Len ZLoneRider

1. 
   Kleck | Feb 18, 2006 04:55am | #4

   If you are tall, get the Powermatic.

2. 
   wdrite | Feb 18, 2006 02:54am | #3

   I had a 14 in PM in my school shop for several years.  It is a fine machine.  I would try to get a motor larger than 1/2 HP though.  Perhaps a 3/4 or 1 HP.

3. 
   Samson | Feb 18, 2006 06:35am | #5

   I've had the Powermatic for over a year now.  I added the riser right away.  I got eh Powermatic mobile base too.  Nothing but good experiences using it.  Oh, and I added good blades - Timberwolf/Viking too.

   I can't provide a comparison as I have no expereince with the 18" you refer to.

   If you have any specific questions about the Powermatic, I'm glad to tell you what I can.

   My message here is that you are unlikely to be unhappy with the Powermatic.  It does intricate cutting and resawing and everything in between very well.  I 've never used a really narrow blade on it, but some say for such use - super tight scroll type cutting  - the bearings (like those on the Powermatic) are not as good as blocks (which can essentially capture the blade).  Perhaps someone can chime in on that point?  Only matters if it's something you're likely to want to do with your band saw, of course. 

4. 
   PeteBradley | Feb 18, 2006 06:50pm | #6

   It sounds like you've eliminated the larger machines from consideration, but I would give the comment about scroll work a second thought. A 3/8 band will cut a radius about the size of a silver dollar. If you really think you're going to want to run a 1/8" blade then this might be a consideration, but otherwise I wouldn't worry about it.

   Pete