I have searched the Creek and spent a lot of time researching bandsaws. I have even PM'd some creekers but am still wavering.
I had narrowed down my bandsaw choice to the Rikon 10-325 Deluxe 14" bandsaw and the Grizzly GO55X was a close second choice. The Rikon was Editors choice in Woodworkers Journal but got some bad marks in Fine Woodworking for difficulty in changing blades and adjusting the blade guides.
For Rikon owners,
1. How long does it take to change blades and how difficult do you rate it?
2. How hard is it to set the blade guides?
3. What is the benefit of running with 220 volts
It's like I picked out a prom date only to learn she had a bad rep, still really like her but not sure what to do.
To compound matters, when I went to the Grizzly site today to compare something, they have the GO513 17" on sale for $695 which is $55 less than the 14" Rikon. It has one inch less resaw but 1/2 horse additional in the motor department. I like the idea of not messing with the riser block and at that price it is only $40 more then the 1 1/2 horse GO555X plus the riser block.
I will use the BS primarily to cut bowl blanks for the lathe but would probably do some resawing for small boxes.
Freight is comparable on both. The Grizzly sale is only good through the 23rd of September so I need to act fast if that is my choice.
As always,
Thanks for your help,
Doug