I was wondering if you guys could post the pics and brands of the types of bandsaws you guys use for fabrication. I am in the market to purchase one just have a little time trying to decide which one to buy and from where. I won't be doing heavy fabrication right now but eventually I probably will. Also, if you know a good place to purchase one at a reasonable price please let me know as well. Also, if you know anyone that might be selling one to upgrade to something else please let me know. I am really leaning more towards vertical than horizontal. Thanks for your help and advise.

 

dont have the models off of the top of my head right now, but we use jet verticals and belt sanders at my work (GHL motorsports) and these are the most valuable pieces of equipment that we have, bar none.

 

Definitely vertical. Try to get one with a decent throat depth so it doesn't limit your cuts. I have a Grainger with an 18" throat and it's by far one of our most used pieces of equipment.

 

i have a vertical "roll in" type. you can set something up and walk away while it cuts, or you can take the angle plate off for bigger stuff. the throat is also adjustable and you can run from 1/4" up to 3/4" blades on it. you can swivel the angle plate for cutting angles and it has an auto shut off. it is one of the most versatile bandsaws you can find imo. i got mine at an auction for around $1300.

something like this:

 

ours is like the one above exept it is wet and uses cutting oil... but it still self advances...

 

thanks for ya'lls advise. I was looking at purchasing a wilton tradesman 14 with variable speed control but may have to reconsider and look into one like tony1's. The wilton's only a 14" throat though. I am still looking so if any of you guys suggest a place to go purchase or have one not being used you would like to get rid let me know. thanks

 

For the people with higher power verticle band saws ( Tony ) , how well are these to cut small pieces like sch10 elbows ? I'd imagine the band saw would pull it right from your hands.