Need input on notcher

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I searched various threads on tubing/pipe notchers but didn't really find my answer.  I'm just a weekend welder looking for one that will get light use.  Mostly 3/4" to 1" pipe/conduit will be used.  Is this a good notcher for me?  How long do the cutters last on something like this? (20, 50, 100 times?)  i don't want the drill style notcher.http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/w...7461_200317461Thanks for any advise, I lurk often an learn a lot.
Reply:I have a Lowbuck welder.  I am sure the Lowbuck will last well over 100.  I met a guy who has been using his Lowbuck for 15 yrs. building roll cages.  If the cutter gets dull then he (Lowbuck) suggest laying it on a belt sander.  The dies are case hardened, so there is a limit to how many times it can be sharpened before one must heat treat them again.I would imagine the cutters are similar.  Do they sell extra dies?Wroughtnharv did a post on this forum on notching tubing with a bandsaw.  Might want to check it out if you are only going to need it occasionally.
Reply:That's Lowbuck notcher, not welder.  I have seen no wear on my dies after 2 years on cutting much schedule 40 pipe.
Reply:We use ours daily with secondary and post secondary students.simplicity at it's finest !Plus, they are great to work with !good luck,Last edited by ZTFab; 12-09-2010 at 05:22 PM.
Reply:Thank you.  As for replacing the cutters....I'm not sure.  i know Northern doesn't list any.  I've seen comparable ones for $300 plus.  But I know looks can be deceiving.
Reply:Yet another vote, Lowbuck is the way to go! I have had a Lowbuck notcher for about 12 years with no problems whatsoever. I made a square tube mount/stand that allows me to use it in my shop or in the field on the back of my truck. The other notcher will come " ready to use", and with the Lowbuck unit you will need to make a handle and base of some kind. I will search for some pics I had of my handle etc.I do not know of the quality of the other notcher, but as everyone out here knows, a lot of the stuff they offer is a knock-off of a higher quality tool, and is often not worth it for the serious fabricator.Just my  opinion, not from a book, just from the road.Howes Welding Inc.www.howesweldinginc.com
Reply:check out:http://www.weldingweb.com/vbb/showthread...hlight=notcherJust my  opinion, not from a book, just from the road.Howes Welding Inc.www.howesweldinginc.com
Reply:Thanks.