Bandsaw Advice

[treds1]

I am in the market for a bandsaw, and have a budget of up to £400 to spend, I have been considering the following saws, and if anyone has and experience of any of them, I would appreciate any comments.

METABO BAS317G
Axminster Hobby Series AWHBS350N Bandsaw
Charnwood W721 12" Woodworking Bandsaw

The only real difference seems to be that the Axminster has a greater cutting / rip dept though there seem to be varying opinions on the new Axminster Range

I am drawn towards the Metabo, mainly as I can get it locally from a specialist machinery supplier so hopefully after-sales should not be a problem. But am open to suggestions.

Thanks in advance

 

[misterfish]

I can only comment on your first suggestion. My first bandsaw was an earlier 315 version that I bought second hand. It worked well and I eventually sold it for more than I paid when I bought a bigger Startrite. The version I had was Elektra Bekuum that later became Metabo. As with all bandsaws make sure you use a decent blade - the manufacturer supplied ones often leave a lot to be desired! The overwhelming advice is to talk to Ian at Tuffsaws who will profer advice as the the best blades for what you plan to do and also provide you with very high quality products at a competitive price.

Misterfish

 

[Steven]

I also have been look at the with the same budget, so looking forward to comments.

I do not know if I am missing something but I have not seen any reviews on the new Axminster range.

 

[treds1]

Well I bit the bullet and went and got the metabo, the shop has new stock coming this week so will deliver on Friday. Will report back.

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[richard.heaton]

Hows the Metabo?

I am basicly trying to make the same decision as you did.

The same 3 bandsaws and a record power one are on my list.

 

[Alexam]

Treds1

You should do well with that. The specification looks good, but think about a blade from Tuffsaw as it will make a big difference to performance. The blades supplied by most manufacturers of bandsaws are rather basic.

Alex

 

[Alexam]

Hows the Metabo?

I am basicly trying to make the same decision as you did.

The same 3 bandsaws and a record power one are on my list.

Hi Richard,

Think about the 5 year guarantee with Record, as well as their excellent track recors of service . Not sure what guarantee is with Metabo, but whatever you get, do try the Tuffsaw blades, they are superb and make a big difference to performance.

Alex

 

[treds1]

I have had the metabo now for over a year and have been very happy with it. Wish I had bought a bigger saw but hey that's and upgrade for the future. Definately get a blade or two from tuffsaws with whatever saw u decide on

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[nicguthrie]

Richard, I'm with Alexam on this, I'd recommend the Record Power.

5yr guarantee and awesome kit. I've got the 350S from them, back when it was a bit cheaper, and for the quality of parts it's fitted with (Cast Iron table and wheels, tension release lever and gauge etc) - the closest equivalent I've seen is about twice it's price.

Love it, and it's capabilities are more than I need, which is infinitely better than the opposite way around!

Nic.

 

[Alexam]

Richard, I'm with Alexam on this, I'd recommend the Record Power.

5yr guarantee and awesome kit. I've got the 350S from them, back when it was a bit cheaper, and for the quality of parts it's fitted with (Cast Iron table and wheels, tension release lever and gauge etc) - the closest equivalent I've seen is about twice it's price.

Love it, and it's capabilities are more than I need, which is infinitely better than the opposite way around!

Nic.

If it's really more than you need Nic, I'll gladly take it off your hands!!!

Alex

 

[nicguthrie]

Noooo! My Precious!