I am looking into band saws too. I also would like a large resaw capacity so I can make my own quarter sewn lumber from logs I gather myself. I have just about decided a laguna is the way to go. I called them after looking at their web site and the guy sent me a video that was very convincing. They now have a 14 inch with a 12 inch resaw capacity for around $1000, but, the sales person told me the 16hd was the most popular ($1800). It has the same resaw capacity (12 inch) , is italian made (the 14s are also european made but not italian and not quite as heavy duty), and is more powerful. The 16hd is the one used for demos on the video tape they sent me. On the video the guy makes a perfect slice of oak laminate off what appears to be a 10 inch thick block of oak. He also slices a log on the video. If your looking for quality I would definitly give the laguna a look. The other saw I was looking at was the Delta 14 with the extension for more resaw capacity.
After several weeks of searching the Internet and speaking to store people
> about band saws, I have come to the conclusion that I am more confused than
> when I started my research. I am looking for a band saw with a relatively
> large size resaw capacity (10"+) and 1 1/2 to 2 HP. Quality of product is
> important. How important should the following considerations be in my
> decision-making and which products do you recommend:
> 1. Made in U.S. or Tiawan
> 2. Cast iron wheels or aluminum
> 3. Open/Closed base
> 4. Blade changing procedure
> 5. Customer help
> 6. Quiet vs. noisy machine
> 7. Safety factors addressed
> 8. Overall high quality materials and workmanship.
> 9. HP factor
> 10. Machine integrity and stability
>
> Right now, I am considering the Jet 16-18; the Delta 28-231, 28-241,
> 28-299A; the General 90-260. I want to buy a machine that is built with good
> parts, workmanship, and design (don't we all). I am far from being an expert
> in this area so any help I can get will be appreciated..
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