Yet another bandsaw question

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Sorry about this.I posted an earlier question about entry level horizontal metal cutting bandsaws and ended up leaning toward the Jet 414458 4x6 unit.  Well I have been working a ton of O/T and am wondering if I can get a much better saw if I add a couple of hundred dollars to the $250 that I was already planning on spending on the Jet unit.So here is another plea for help in picking out a bandsaw - one that is a notch or two about the entry level Jet/Grizzly/Homier/Harbor Freight/Northern Tool models.Maybe one of the limitations is the capacity of my welder - a MM175. (?)Also, I don't want to spend more than $450.  $500 tops.Thanks again,ScottI'm a man.But I can change.If I have to.I guess...
Reply:I would consider something with a swivel head.  This will save space if you cut long pieces.   The swivel head allows you to turn the saw head instead of the vice.  Homier, Grizzly and MCS sell this type saw.  Homier advertises on EBay $250.   Since your concerned about capacity being too large, then the 4x6 is probably large enough.  4 in sq. tubing is large, that  translate to 16 pieces on 1 in. sq. ganged or 64 pieces on 1/2 in. sq. ganged.  Don't know what you intend to do with it.  I'd spend the extra money on some good blades and  nice stand w/rollers to support stock while I cut.  By the way www.metalwebnews.com has plans for a great saw station.Last edited by tapwelder; 12-13-2005 at 11:12 PM.
Reply:if your willing to go up to $500, I would recommend adding an additional $95 (if possible, and if you are willing) and going with something like this:http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...lance&n=228013The coolant system will definetely make a big difference with larger material, etc...
Reply:Unfortunately, the jump in price is pretty big between OK quality chinese, and much better.For instance, you could bump up to a Grizzly swivel head- same size saw, just a more useful configuration. I have a friend who is a blacksmith who has had one in his shop for a few years, and he loves it- just under 400 bucks.And then,you could go up to a 7x12 saw- but they are almost all more than $500.But if you want much better quality, all of a sudden you are talking real money- a Griz 7x10 costs $800.A decent American made, or european made saw of the same size range- $2500 to $5000, easy.If you wanna dream, take a look at the ellis saws- they are still considered "lightweight" by guys who saw all day, who buy $10,000 saws, but they are a whole order of magnitude better than a Jet.http://www.ellissaw.com/BandSaws
Reply:Maybe one of the limitations is the capacity of my welder - a MM175. (?)