[mpwalsh]

Hi,

One of the victims of Hurricane Sandy was my Delta Mini-Band Saw. (I've heard a lot differing opinions on this saw, but it's currently discontinued and it suited my needs just fine.)

I mostly used this to cut fishing plugs. (I turn the plugs on a mini-lathe, then use the band saw for straight clean cuts - Or I used flat boards and used the band saw to cut out the shape in advance of cleaning them up...)

Anyway - it was underwater and a complete loss. So I'm looking for a new one.

The problem I'm finding is that every single review of these "Mini" saws seems to by negative. I think part of the problem is that people expect too much. People buy these things expecting to become Norm from This Old-Yankee... When in reality they are not really even meant for "weekend warriors". I'm looking for something that is going to be cutting out fishing plugs, or maybe the occasional pine-wood-derby racer...

Does anyone have any suggestions? My problem is that I can't determine which reviews are actually reviews of BAD products - and which are people with unrealistic expectations of a 9" or 12" Band saw....

Cost is important, but size is more important. I usually kept this thing on the ground - under a table (Why Sandy got it...) - I do not have room in my shop for a full "Stand Up" saw.

Thanks

 

[joecaption]

As simple scroll saw would do what little your asking.
The trouble with small bandsaws is the small drive wheels that have such a small radius it can cause the welds to crack and fail in the blades.
Still want a small band saw then look into the 14" or 12" Jet, or Grizzley.

 

[SeniorSitizen]

If you could find a small 9" similar to this older Delta Home Craft you'd be set for life or until the next storm at least. I haven't needed any parts but I believe they are available. It's light enough to be moved around if need be.

 

[mpwalsh]

Thanks

Suggestions on a brand?

I'm not hung up on the Band Saw idea, it's just what I grew up on and previously had owned. If a Jig Saw would do the job - please recommend one.

Also - you mean a stationary - "Shop" jigsaw... Right? Not a "Saber Saw" or Hand-held model.... Right?

 

[Fix'n it]

i have a 10y/o model of this one. it works very well, with a new bimetal blade. though getting the blade to stay on was a little trial and error.
http://www.harborfreight.com/horizontal-vertical-metal-cutting-bandsaw-93762.html

 

[ToolSeeker]

Almost all the manufactures that make band saws also make a bench top model from roybi to the big boys.

 

[ratherbefishing]

I don't own one, but have heard very good things about the benchtop and 12" Rikons. It seems like I've seen the benchtops for sale for around $200.