Beginner Question - Which saw

[mediamst]

I am new to carving and woodworking. The Woodcraft near my house sells basswood blanks in different sizes but I would like to cut them to the sizes I want. I would also like to be able to make cuts to make other things as well. Such as a wood tool box to hold my tools etc. Basically I would like to get the most versatility out of one tool that I can.

I have been looking at products at sears website. I would like to spend $300 or less for whatever I chose.

So if you were me, and were going to buy one saw right now, what would it be? Things I have considered;

Band Saw
Portable sabre saw
Circular saw
Scroll Saw
Table Saw (Only 3 inch depth cuts)
Compound miter saw

If you have a model in mind that would be great too.

Thanks for your time!!!

[vacation212]

JesterA band saw would be my suggestion.

[Buckskin]

My vote would have to be for the band saw

[xsailer]

Me also, a good quality bandsaw. I have delta and I like it. I plan on adding a 6' riser later that will allow me cut approx 12" thick wood. I really haven't found the need yet though or I'd have it.

[CarverFromNoWhere]

Bandsaw nuff said.

I have a Craftsman 12" I think it is, it takes an 80" blade, it isn't accurate at all, but it works great for what I do with it. Just the other day I was ripping some 5" thick solid Red Oak with a 3 tpi hook Olson Allo-Pro blade, the saw didn't slow down at all and I was feeding it as fast as I could.

As I said it's not accurate but it wasn't very expensive I am planning to get a 14" grizzly with the heavier motor and a riser block, I have out grown this small Craftsman and it's inaccuracies.
Carl

[gene-messer]

A band saw is a carvers second tool .. a band saw for sure .. but be careful to get if you can one with at least a 1 hp motor for thicker pieces ..

Gene

[Gulf Coast Handyman]

Band Saw !!!

Dave

[Mitchell]

If you are going to use it for more than carving, I don't know that a bandsaw would be optimum. But that's what I'd recommend if you are even thinking about carving. You can do lots with it, but lose a little bit with accuracy of cuts for ripped/cross cutting. Based on what you've posted, that may not be to big of an issue.

[Dan S]

Band saw. Buy a model with only two wheels. I prefer the older Delta models.

Dan

[catbird]

Band Saw. I have a Craftsman, I have had for years...not too $$$ and does the job!