Replies

1. 
   Andrew | Jan 21, 2003 11:12pm | #1

   From what I've heard Wilton is no longer as good as they used to be. I haven't used their bandsaw, but I have used and rebuilt a belt/disc sander of theirs and the quality wasn't great. Anything can look good in a catalogue, you really have to see a tool in person to get a good idea of its quality.

   You can change any woodcutting bandsaw into a metal cutting saw by putting a step pulley on the motor and drive shaft, provided that the saws design allows this. You could also pick up a used Do All saw, which would give you infinitely variable speed, and possibly a blade welder. If you plan on sawing thicker metal, look for a saw with a coolant pump as it beats having to spray coolant with a spray bottle, especially when you need both hands to guide the piece.

   hope this helps

2. 
   rslatm | Jan 22, 2003 04:04am | #2

   I recommend seperate machines. I have a Delta 14" woodcutting saw and a Carolina metal cutting bandsaw. The Carolina can be used horizontal or vertical and I made a small metal table that lives on the machine to use when tipped up. The table never has to be removed even in the horizontal mode. You can do seperates for under $1,500 and the convenience can't be beat. No worry about oil getting on wood and to be able to go back and forth without changing over is priceless. Plus I use a negative hook blade on my tablesaw for non-ferrous such as brass all the time. I know if I had a combination bandsaw my efficiency would be hampered and I'm sure I wouldn't do half the things I do.