Thanks in advance for anyone willing to actually read my wordy posts. I know there are a million threads on bandsaws (I've read many of them), but I can't find much on this model. Any thoughts on this would be appreciated....
In trying to find a BS small enough to fit in my tiny shop (10 by 16), I have focused mostly on the standard Delta clones -- the Grizzly 0555X, the Jet etc. One of these would probably be fine, but I have been intrigued by the "steel" bandsaws based on comments here. Resawing (smaller stock) is a key use for me, and I gather they are better for resawing, with possibly other improvements over the old style CI ones.
Most of the steel saws are too big, really, for my space. Height is also an issue -- due to ductwork crossing the ceiling, I really need to stay as close to 70 inches or less as I can (plus I need to factor in a mobile base). One that could probably work ok (in terms of size) -- the Griz G0457 -- really needs 220. I could wire up for 220, but it wasn't something I planned to do, and I'm not sure I need the power (resawing shorter pieces of 6-8 inch walnut, maple etc into maybe 3/8 widths is about all I will ask of the machine).
I looked at the Laguna - it's a bit above my price. The Jet 16" steel saw is interesting, but also a bit pricey and maybe a bit large for me.
So as of now, the options are Delta CI clone, or possibly the G0457 and rewire for the 220.
And then I noticed the Rikon 10-315.
http://www.rikontools.com/productpage_10-315.htm
Interesting saw. It appears to be a steel frame saw like the others, but smaller. 7 1/4 inch resaw, would work for me. I hp motor is nice and I can run it from an existing 20 amp 110 line. The overall dimensions are appealing. It uses standard size (93") blades.
I've never seen a Rikon. Any thoughts on what drawbacks I might experience with this saw (other than size of stock that can be worked)? I hate plastic on tools -- much plastic on these things (handles etc)? The price of this saw is actually more than the Jet 14" CI, and about the same as the G0555X. It appears to be a new model.
Any comments would be welcome.
Mark