Bandsaw, Which, and Why?

[NCPete]

I was given cause to browse over to grizzly this afternoon, and stumbled upon these:
1. 14" bandsaw

2. 17" bandsaw

considering they cost the same, which one would you choose? #2 looks to me like the new Rikon which seems to be problematic in its tension adjustment mechanism, but probably has the stronger trunnion. It appears that the same tension adjuster is common through all the bigger Grizzly bandsaws.

Any thoughts?

 

[Travis Porter]

I would say it depends. Motor size, resaw size (if you plan to do any), bearing layout, etc. At least what you can tell. The smaller saw may be beefier and could offer the same resaw height. My .02

 

[Steve D]

Pete,
I have no experience with either saw but I would tend to lean toward the 17" because of it's capacity for resawing and the larger throat. You can always make a tall fence for resawing. I don't know if the design shares anything with the Rikon but that would certainly be worth looking into.

 

[NCPete]

according to the specs, they both have the same motor. the 14" has a 'resaw fence' included. :eusa_thin

 

[McRabbet]

Pete -- you can download the manuals and compare features -- I know that the 17" version is not the same as the new Rikon, because it is tensioned from above the upper wheel. If you plan to resaw, it has 2 more inches of vertical capacity than the smaller one -- both are equipped with 2HP motors which should be adequate from most cutting. I have a Grizzly G0555 with a riser block and it is a decent shop saw, but underpowered for resawing.

Rob

 

[NCPete]

thanks, I hadn't considered/seen that. some more reading after my business law, tonight!