Thread: Opinions wanted! 1st bandsaw on a budget….

My men's shed has the Carba-Tec unit, I fiddled with it a fair bit about two weeks ago after a blade change. As in, I read the manual thoroughly, then adjusted all things correctly for the narrower 6mm blade. Then did some tests, seemed pretty good, nothing flash, but if all things are set to their optimum, then I would say it's something that will do the job adequately.

One difference that may be of concern to you, is blade width ability of the two machines. Oscillating between the two links it seems the Carbatech unit can take a 3.2mm blade, whereby the Jet unit is restricted to 6.4mm, effectively 1/8" versus 1/4".

I'm not sure if that is correct specification wise, but for fiddly stuff a smaller blade usually works better for twisting and turning. Something I would look into more if I was on the market for either of these and get confirmation from someone at either or both places and find out exactly what they can or cannot take.

Mick.

FWIW, Chris Wynne at Thomas Lloyd Guitars in Victoria uses Carbatech band saws for all his stuff.

The models and power should be OK for what you want to do unless you wanted to cut backs and soundboards from slabs where I would be looking at something in the next size up range or bigger.

What ever you do, get the Carbatec, with the price,size and power, it can cover up all you need.

I just bought the Leda BS350 from my local machinery and shapening shop for $427- they're closing, and it was their last large machine.

I'll let you know how it goes!

I'd prefer the cast iron wheels. Anyhow, congrats on your new saw! Hope you'll be pleased with it. Enjoy!

Check out Leda - I am happy with my saw, I have not had a great deal of time on it but I was able to make some pretty thin veneer (4mm) out of really dry red gum burl.

I bought the 18 Inch!

Miko


http://www.ledamachinery.com.au/index.php/bandsaws

I recommend that you consider service when you buy. Hare and Forbes have service techs who come to you if something stops working. I have found them prompt and efficient in Brisbane. Carba-tec have longer warranties but if the machine fails they do not offer on-site service. You have to return it to them. This has just happened to me with one of their machines. I don't know about Leda but recommend that you ask them or any other supplier before you buy. All the Chinese stuff is made to a price and some of them fail.
I had a H&F BP 355 before I bought a big Minimax. The 355 had plenty of power for its price.


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PS I have no affiliation with any manufacturer or retailer, I am just recounting my own experience.


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