Forum Replies Created
-
AuthorPosts
-
20 May 2020 at 1:34 pm #662188
I got a 14 inch Laguna BX band saw January 2019. My shop is in my basement, and I use both power tools and hand tools. I use a shop vacuum for dust collection. The band saw has been a great addition to my shop. I have been surprised how often I end up using it. being able to easily and accurately re-dimension lumber and make curved cuts quickly has been really helpful. The saw has performed well, and the dust is minimal with the shop vac solution. Less dust than a handsaw really, since it disappears in the vacuum.
The band saw itself is quiet when running, no need for hearing protection, but the shop vac is a banshee, so I need the hearing protection if I want the dust collection. I have run it without dust collection, it does not create that much dust, but to avoid opening the cabinet and vacuuming it out, I prefer to have dust collection.
I do not think that it has helped me develop hand tool skills faster, instead what it does is save me time and effort for those tasks I would rather get over with, so I can spend my time on those tasks I want to focus on. It is a great supplement to my hand tools. And, something about a bandsaw is surprisingly engaging, or intuitive to use, compared to the various circular bladed power tools I have used. Easy to see what the blade is doing, and feels much, much safer than a table saw or radial arm saw while I am using it. It has been surprising how often I now re-dimension lumber, whereas before I rarely did that, it was just too much trouble.
It was a chore getting it into the basement, but slow and carefully wins the day. It was not too bad lifting up, but I got my son to help, and that was mostly to reduce the risk of it slipping and falling back down. It is on a mobile base, so I can move it if needed, which is rare.
Having said all of that, I would summarize by saying it is a great tool to have if you want to make some tasks quicker and easier, but it comes with cost, dust (not a lot, but some) noise (mostly from the shop vac dust collection) and space needed for it. If you want to do hand work, and are happy to use your time to do the things the band saw can do, I see no reason to get one. You have to think about what is important to you. For example, if getting the job done quickly and easily so you can move onto the next job is important, then a bandsaw may be a good purchase. If wood working is your therapy, and hand tool woodworking is what you enjoy, then you may be better of with out a bandsaw. Introspection will help you sort this out.
-
AuthorPosts