Bandsaw purchase advice

[GaryC]

I need to get a 14" bandsaw for cutting blanks and rough patterns for carving larger pieces. I need one that is reliable and easy to use.
I've done a good bit of research and have narrowed my choice of bandsaws to: Jet, Shop Fox, and Delta. I have found a lot of reviews online for Jet and Delta, but not much on Shop Fox. Can anyone give me some insight on which is best for a carver (not a furniture maker)?

[carver6]

I can't give a recommendation for their bandsaws but Shop Fox makes a good drill press. I've looked at Grizzly's products at their store here in Springfield, MO and they appear to have a well made product. Looks can be deceiving but they do look well made. I certainly have no problems with the Shop Fox drill press, for what thats worth.
Garon

[dogcatcher]

The woodturner bunch has some great reviews of the Grizzly 14" with the riser block. I think it is stock number 1455.

[mpounders]

If I had the money, I wouldn't hesitate to buy a Delta! But I have owned and used a Jet for over 20 years. I have had to do some repairs on it, due to my mis-use and age, but it works great, especially with a Timberwolf blade! I would buy a Jet again.

[Goody]

Like Mike I have a 20+ year old Jet band saw with the riser block. This saw does not owe me a penny. Just broke the blade guide housing (cutting 5" by 8" by 10 foot timber by myself) and the casting was still available for $12. I rebuilt it when it was 12 years old with all new bearings and new tires and everything is standard got the bearings at Nappa. Just went over the saw and installed a Kreg resaw jig this week. Very impressed with the setup just cut a 40 thousandths veneer. Just for kick s I cut one half that size at 20 thousandths. Not bad for a 20 year old saw. Would I buy another one? probably not because this ones going to outlast me.
Hey Mike does yours have the elephants on the knobs? I was told they are collectible now in the woodworking circles.

[KeithC]

Santa brought me a 14" Grizzly with a riser block. So far I couldn't be more pleased. It is really well made.
Keith

[Sharon of the Dell]

Hubby and I love my 14" Grizzly, well it's the pretty white polar bear one, same thing!

[Ed Redwine]

I have the 14in. Delta but wouldn't hesitate to purchase a Grizzly should I have to do it again.

[steve brown]

They are all made in China and some are assembled in the USA. Take your pick.
Steve Brown Woodcarving