Replies

1. 
   Dustmight | Apr 07, 2004 07:49pm | #1

   From what I understand Grizzly has a no-compete agreement with Busy Bee in Canada.  It doesn't necessarily mean the machines are the same.  I also understand there's a possibility that two owners of the companies are brothers. 

   IMHO the GI 250 you're going to look at is slightly higher quality than the 1023 by Griz, and if it's new, will have a longer warranty plus dealer support.

1. 
   RonInOttawa | Apr 07, 2004 10:21pm | #2

   The General is at least 10, possibly 15 years old. 30 day warranty from the dealer who buys, refurbishes and sells used woodworking equipment.

   Regards,

   Ron

1. 
   Dustmight | Apr 08, 2004 12:44pm | #5

   Now I'm a bit confused.  General makes the 350 right tilt 3hp cabinet saw made in Canada that sells for ~$1900 new and is an industry icon....well worth $1K IMO if it's in good shape.  Their import company, General International sells the 50-250, a right tilt 3hp cabinet saw made in Taiwan....good saw that sells new for $1299.  Not such a good deal used at $1000 unless it's immaculate.    Can you clarify which saw your dealer is offering?

1. 
   RonInOttawa | Apr 08, 2004 02:48pm | #6

   I looked at it yesterday. It was the 50-250, rather beaten up and obviously it had been down several hard, rough roads! I looked it over carefully, then passed on the opportunity.

   Regards,

   Ron

1. 
   Dustmight | Apr 09, 2004 05:08am | #8

   Sounds like the right move. Too bad for your dealer though...LOL ;-)

   Shop Fox is owned by the same guy that owns Grizzly, and they offer similar quality and value. The biggest difference is that SF is sold through dealers and has 2 year warranty vs 1. If you really, really had to have one, you might consider locating a SF dealer near the border. The Griz and SF stuff is decent quality and value IMHO, but I honestly don't think it's worth alot of driving and hassle so you can get a saw that no one near you has parts for, unless the exchange rate makes the price irresistable. There are likely to be other good values closer to home.

2. 
   RonInOttawa | Apr 10, 2004 06:23pm | #9

   Thanks to all who provided advice. I'm still looking around, but I now have at least focused my thoughts. I know what I would like to buy, but don't think I could afford the lawyer that would probably call soon after the purchase!

   Regards,

   Ron

2. 
   jako17 | Apr 08, 2004 04:29am | #3

   Ron look around, you should be able to find a used General 350 with a Bies or equivalent for about the same cost and it is made in Canada with better engineering

3. 
   TomB | Apr 08, 2004 04:51am | #4

   My friend bought a 20 inch planner from Busy bee about 13 years ago. recently he needed a gear for the chain drive and phoned busy bee. They do not handle that make any more and could or would not help him. he finally found one at a bearing shop and all is well. Moral of the story is be careful what you buy and where. You may not be able to get parts down the road when you need them and will have to replace the machine. Stick to name brands is the best advise I can give. Am in the market for a jointer and am being very careful where I get one. good luck

4. 
   tck | Apr 08, 2004 06:35pm | #7

   If you're really interested in the Griz, you could drive down to their Williamsport, PA store. It would probably take you about 7-9 hours driving. (it took me 10 hours to drive to Ottawa from NE Ohio). They usually have a pretty good sale in the summer on all their tools. I don't know what kind of duty you'd have to pay on it, if anything. But then if you ever needed parts, you might be in trouble.