When you use this link to visit our sponsor, you support us► Harvey Woodworking Machinery: www.harveywoodworking.com/ Tutorial video about blades► ruclips.net/video/z7n7Gg4QOkc/видео.html Tutorial video about blade guides►ruclips.net/video/3MPR2kcMhJU/видео.html
I saw the title of the video and almost didn't watch it. I figured I have no need of a band saw but Stumpy's videos are always entertaining and full of useful information so I'll go ahead and watch. After watching the video I decided I now want a band saw. Dang you Stumpy.
I'm sold. I was already 97% there because I have a bunch of walnut and cherry that I want to make veneer with but this video confirmed that I was on the right track. Thanks!
I’m getting ready to buy myself a bandsaw for making my blanks for bowls. After watching this video I’ve changed my whole thought on what I want. I really wanna thank you for placing this video because it has kept me from making some serious mistakes in my choices
Another thing to look into if you are using it primarily for cutting wet bowl blanks- some turners prefer ceramic guide blocks instead of guide bearings on the sides of the blade because wet wood can start to stick to the bearings and cause vibrations while guide blocks tend to scrap themselves clean better. I prefer bearings, but I don't cut much wet wood. Just something to look into...
This is the video that convinced me to go with a Harvey. I just finished setting it up yesterday, even though I bought it a year ago along with my Harvey Alpha 4hp table saw, and what a sweet machine. Now I just have to finish dust collection hook up and I'll be ready to go. But right now, it's on to Stumpy's blade video to get the right blades for what I want to do.
I worked in a production cabinet shop for a number of years. After a series of health problems I had to step away from it. Missing the work dearly. Now I am building my own shop. As I plan to get into manufacturing as part of my business. Its been very apparent how much work my old boss put into setting up that very simple shop. With how he selected tools, and how they where setup for usability. While we only had two band saws in that shop. They where centered in locations that they where used constantly. In that way that you want in such a situation. Setup so perfectly that they fit the tasks at hand. With no fiddling or playing around. I really do miss that shop.
OMG, your example about cutting short pieces of wood on a table saw and creating kickback was spot on. This happened to me two weeks ago and took off the tip and side of my left index finger. I never heard of this to be an issue. Live and learn I guess. Love your videos. 👌
I watch pretty much all of your videos and some of them more than once. You are a good teacher with good delivery. Your old comical delivery was not as good as you are now at what you do. I respect the heck out of you and your team.
Totally agree about blade changing and adjustment. I have a Grizzly 14" band saw and it's nice, but I really hate changing the blade and for that reason I don't do it as often as I should.
I just found your channel and learned in half a day that i used most of my workshops machinery in wrong or suboptimal ways 😄. Count me in as a subscriber and fan! Really great and straight to the point Videos! Thanks a ton for putting so much thought in them! 💪
Got a Grizzly go513a40 40th anniversary this year its now my favorite tool in my shop. Working with mostly reclaimed wood it cut alot of projects in half (no pun intended).
I'm Wanting to buy a band saw. I am 74 years so may get 10 years out of it. But i don't be leave in buying junky I like the Laguna and also the Harvey. I really was swaying to spend the extra money on the Harvey but when I went to place my order where was no-way I was paying $400 shipping. I haven't done it yet Rocklers shipping $190. I can live with that i juess. Stumpy whats your thought
The community group I'm with recently bought a Laguna Bandsaw 14/12 CE which is a terrific upgrade from the old thing we used to have, it was evil and hard to set up. The Laguna has ceramic blade guides with 10 points of contact and a 1.75 hp motor. We do a fair bit of ripping and resawing with this machine and the lack of kickback compared to out table saw for ripping jobs is significant. The group has always had the policy of buying the best machinery/tools we can afford.
Thank you so much Stumpy Nubs!!! Absolute wonderful info! Been yearning to carve wood for DECADES, and I'm just able to buy an electric saw! Been thru a skill saw, circular saw, jig saw ...nothing was working like I'd imagined ...THIS looks like EXACTLY what I would like to use. Your enthusiasm, and the fact that you have 5!😂 is fantastic! You REALLY love a band saw!!!!!!!!! Thanks man
Thank you. I wish I would have seen this a month ago! I bought a Grizzly 14" band saw. It cuts through stuff like butter. I do scroll saw work and I only had a SKIL 9 inch band saw. I got the 14 inch because I want to do some limited resawing (meaning not huge logs or really big stuff) and want to make band saw boxes. I guess I'll just have to see how the saw works out for those purposes. PS. Down the road can you give us an update on what will be done about the empty reservoirs. The news out of area only covers the disasters, not the recovery. Thanks, Dennis
You're absolutely right about 'not settling' on a band saw.....and I'm learning that the hard way. Looking back, I shouldn't have settled for anything less than a 1 hp motor. Also, great advice on the blade guides....I wish I'd done more research on them before I'd made my current purchase. Thanks for the video!
I bought a big old Parks no2 18" bandsaw from a cabinet maker in Ohio a couple years ago. The model with the emblem cast into the riser cover. (1960's maybe, I don't know). 12 1/2" resaw capacity with 17" throat depth. That's been the biggest game changer ever to find a spot in my shop. A good bandsaw opens up so many more possibilities for any project than nearly any other tool. Detroit Bandsaw can weld and mail a blade for any size saw if you're stuck with an odd one. Vintage Machinery website has old publications for those great Craigslist finds. Cheers!
Good info for people. I own a small 9" delta, and the jewel of my shop, a 20" INCA. It cuts like a laser and I can't imagine working without it. Proper set up is critical, and that's what most people don't do.
Nice video, I do segmented wood turning and I use my band saw to cut all my strips, this saves me enough of to pay for a saw in less than a year. The one thing that needs to be done is to add an extension to the back of the table so my long strips do not fall off while I'm cutting them.
Your selection of topic/content is always well thought out and I keep cruising by to see what your up to. Will you consider a suggested difficult instructional topic please? How to Adjust the fence and align a Bandsaw to avoid drift. As we know there are many ways to do this and your approach of researching the many ways to do things and provide the information on various approaches to things might just be a nice video. I realize this is a little off from your "General Content" approach vs. but I think its a good topic and would be curious on how well you could crush that one.
James, mine is a little Shopsmith attachment, but it works really well for the small things I ask of it. I really very much appreciate this video and soooo many of the ones you’ve been making for us during these times when most of us are home twiddling our thumbs- haha.
Thank you for this video, I am in the process of choosing a band saw for home. I had narrowed it down to two models, one is a 12" and the other a 14". I had almost decided on the 12" but after seeing this video I may reconsider the 14" now. The difference in price isn't much anyway. Cheers from Australia.
As a new woodworker I spend a lot of time watching wood your wood working video. Great quality. I would like a ban saw but unfortunately I am not sure exactly what I would need it for. Keep,up,the good work
I upgraded from a cast 14" Delta wit Riser block to the Rikon 14 -326 DVR inch with the new DVR motor - & have been very happy with he results. The Resaw setting increased the blade speed = more momentum. Motor also adjusts torque based on load . Able to resaw 13 inch hard maple to within 1/64 to to bottom of the cut.
Hi Stumpy, Just came across one of your vids today for the first time. The one about expensive tools. Really enjoyed it and will subscribe to view more. I like your delivery of words in an unhurried way. Thank you for the video. Kind regards. Ted
James, thank you for a video in plain easy to understand English, I and actively shopping for a replacement bandsaw and supply here in the uk is proving an issue as the good machines are mostly sold out but your tips will make my choice easier. 👏🏻🇬🇧 Michael
Thanks for the great video. You're very knowledgeable. I just bought the Grizzly G0803Z - 9" Benchtop Bandsaw with Laser Guide and now I'm kicking myself for going too small. Oh well. Now at least I'll have something to cut small corners instead of the jig saw. Thanks again!
James, excellent as usual. I'm one of those guys with a second hand, probably worn out smaller bandsaw with carbon block guides that drifts when I use it, so I almost never use it. Too painful. To see someone resaw veneer off wide boards is a thing of beauty, mystery and envy. But every one of your videos I've seen does a superb and concise job of ending the mysteries. Thanks!
James, Another great tutorial as always. Slowwwwly building up my shop, mainly for guitar building and got my hands on a 1906 36" Crescent band saw with a tilting table. It's a monster and probably overkill for my purposes but I really enjoy the challenge of rescuing old machines. Definitely planning on upgrading the guides and installing safety features not original, like wheel and blade guards..just to start!
Just starting out I purchased a cheap Ryobi band saw- didn’t use it for like 3-4 months - then one day I did use it for first time and now I use it alllll the time and wish I had bought a better band saw lol
Thanks i know a lot about tools worked for Delta Machinery and Porter -Cable for 20 yrs . I have 14ih delta with a height attachment but like you said it is not great. I know that you get a lot of comments from people that do not really know what they are talking about but that is good for you because you get to educate them . Do not stop. PS still do not any info on my wood clamp rack that i ordered ,so bad so sad hope i do not get charged for something i did not get . Julien Lamarche
Howdy from Texas, James. Love all your videos, and your website as well. Trying to decide between Harvey bandsaws. The Ambassador 14 has everything I need. However, I don't like the round bar rail. I like the extruded rail on the Alpha 15 better. The Alpha 15 also has a nicer taller fence and larger table. My questions: 1. Is the rail difference important? Many other brands of bandsaws have the same round rail - but I think the extruded rail can be more accurate - and looks better. 2. Should I worry that you can't get Carter guide products for Harvey bandsaws? It seems that Carter guides are not available for Harvey saws. I am interested in the Stabilizer Guide for small blades mostly, since the stock Harvey guides are similar to the regular Carter guides. Thanks for your reply!
The Alpha is definitely a more robust fence, more like a table saw. But I really haven't found the Ambassador's fence lacking for a band saw's functions. The guides seem a little easier to adjust on the Ambassador, but the Alpha guides are still way better than my Rikon or Jet guides were. I think the Carter guides are comparable, so I don't think that's an issue. It is true that you can't use the Carter single-bearing guide, but I have no personal experience with that guide so I can't say if I would miss it. Here's what I generally saw when people ask me about these saws: The C-14 (www.harveywoodworking.com/products/new-ambassador-c14-3hp-14-band-saw) is a fantastic saw that will do pretty much anything most people will ever need. It has lots of power (3HP) and cutting capacity (14" max re-saw). The fence and trunnions are of high quality. The guides are the best on any saw I have ever used in terms of adjustability without hassle. The wheels are heavy cast iron and the frame is big and beefy. It has a quick-release tension mechanism and a foot brake. It also has dual 4-inch dust collection ports. My only complaint is the table height is a little low for my taste (34"), but I adjusted to that fairly quickly and if I wanted to I could put blocks under the saw base to raise it a few inches. Here's a Cool Tools video we did on the C-14: ruclips.net/video/4XNh0v2GUJA/видео.html The HW615 (www.harveywoodworking.com/products/new-alpha-hw615-15-band-saw) is a beast of a saw. It has all the things I like about the smaller C-14 (3HP, 14" re-saw capacity, quick tension release, foot brake, dual dust collection ports), but it is even more robust. Everything about it screams quality, in my opinion. I have tensioned a 1-1/4" blade on it (the manual recommends 1" max), which puts an enormous strain on a saw's frame. But this thing barely flinches. The fence is the nicest I have ever seen on a band saw. The table is extra large and heavy (I have the tin-coated table, which resists rust). If I had to say something negative, the guides are a little more fiddly to adjust on the HW614 than they are on the C-14, but still nicer than most toolless guides on the market, and very heavy duty. Here's a general video about what to look for in a band saw: ruclips.net/video/sUsKYElDKl0/видео.html Here's a video about choosing band saw guides: ruclips.net/video/3MPR2kcMhJU/видео.html Here's a video about band saw blades: ruclips.net/video/z7n7Gg4QOkc/видео.html Here's a video about setting up a band saw: ruclips.net/video/tPRrEgnt7wM/видео.html
@@StumpyNubs my c14 lower bearings move consistently and significantly whenever I tighten them, even the replacement set they sent me. Does your's do that? Did they change the design?
Hi Stumpy, I bought the harvey c14 bandsaw. I'm getting a lot of vibration when it's turned on. I mean a lot. After closer inspection, I think there are 2 things going on. - I can feel a little high spot in the tire of the upper wheel towards the back side that spans about 1/2 inch. - There is still a considerable table vibration with the saw blade taken off and just the motor turning the lower wheel. Couple more facts. I took off the belt and spun the upper and lower wheels independently without blades or belts, and I did not notice either wheel particularly out of balance. Each wheel had a really minor change of direction after coming to a complete stop by maybe 1/2 inch reversal or 1-2 degrees radially. There was no noise coming from the bearings and both were silent when turning both cast iron wheels. Also, I took the belt off of the lower wheel and motor pulley and ran the motor without any load, and felt no vibration from the motor alone. The shaft appears true. Put the belt back on and tightened the belt really tight, even tighter than what was delivered. There is a bolt that applies downward pressure to the motor which in turn tightens the belt against the pulley wheel, however, when tightening that tight I start to hear noise coming from the bearing in the motor when turning by hand, so I'm afraid it might be too tight, but still getting a bad vibration even with the belt really tight. I put a bottle of 'Simple Green' cleaner/degreaser on the table and you can see the fluid sloshing around in the bottle pretty violently. I suspect maybe one or both wheels might be out of balance but I don't know how to detect where weights should be added to offset the heavy spot in the wheel.
@@StumpyNubs First they asked was anything damaged in shipping, and I said no, it was delivered in perfect condition. Then went through a series of basic checks: is my serpentine belt tight enough?, is the motor vibrating?, etc?. Nothing out of line there, so they took down my info, and I'm waiting for a technician to call me back. This all took place Friday afternoon. Once they diagnose the problem they said they will probably ship me whatever parts might be needed.
@@StumpyNubs Problem solved. The rubber stand pads weren't installed before. After I installed them on the base and leveled the unit, the vibration went away. Made my first cut but I need to get a better blade, it gives a really rough cut
I’ve done rough cut framing projects for many years. I’m a stick builder. However as I get very close to retirement would like small projects from cheap would and plywoods. I’ve had a hand planers, power hand planers, circular saws, routers, jig saws, sanders and a table saw for years. Love your channel but sometimes it’s to advanced for me. I just bought a 10 inch sears craftsman 1/3 band saw with a broken drive belt for 1$ from a closing yard sale and felt like a great deal, now i feel like it’s junk…but I will still get a drive belt and see what I can do.
It's not junk. It's just not the type of saw you will resaw wide, thick lumber into thinner pieces with. You can probably cut curves with it just fine if you tune it up.
My wife is going to hate you for the information you covered in this video, but I am so glad I watched. Thank you! You stopped me from making a big mistake.
Thank you for the informative video Stumpy. Got a large shed, got some tools, got to clear a lot of crap out of said shed and buy more tools. Bandsaw definitely on the list.
Hey Stumpy! I always enjoy your videos....so much helpful information - thank you! My question is: are there any bench top band saws that you would recommend for a beginning wood worker?
I started out with a cheap HF band saw, but when I realized it's limitations I was disappointed. Moving up to a Laguna opened up a whole world of new possibilities. Expensive yes, worth it YES!!
Great video very informative. I am cutting red cedar 2 x 4's into fishing bait bodies 8-13" in size. I also cut the lips for my baits out of Lexan. Can you recommend a table top band saw for me to use.
Stumpy!! Sorry, I meant, Hello Mr Nubbs! Bought my bandsaw before watching this but I am positive it’s going to be perfect! As always, your videos are full of good knowledge! Alright, time to go find more of yer bandsaw vids to check out. Then it’s off to go play with the Laguna!
Great video and your not selling a product, can you make a video about the difference between 110/220 volts how a 220 lowest the amp and less stress for that machine? Thanks for sharing
Great info, James. Thanks. I'm working with a gifted 1970 Powermatic "Gumby". 300lbs+ of cast iron love. I only had to have an armature/electric motor shop near me refurbish the motor ($75), and it purrs along like a content kitty. So, I'm not in the market for a new one, and I don't have room for another, but your info is valuable nonetheless. Cheers.
Great video! I also love my bandsaw, as mediocre as it is. And what you say is very true about inconvenient blade changing and how that affects our woodworking. Namely, our tendency to avoid blade changes and try to get by with what is on there. Ultimately, our finished work and, importantly, enjoyment of the process, suffers. Thank you for doing these!
Thanks. I have been doing hand tool woodworking. A bandsaw is the one machine tool I'm thinking if getting. Mostly for resawing to get wood to desired thickness. Easy to hand plane one side flat. Major pain to then use hand plan to go from 3/4" to 1/2" thick wood.
I've looked at a lot of 14" band saws and agree with you that the Harvey has the feature set of much higher end saws. Unfortunately there are no dealers within hundreds of miles. That necessitates adding the $359 shipping fee which is regularly "included" when other saws go on special or Amazon.
I've checked out some of your videos over the last few months as I'm new to this wood working thing. Just subscribed, great job on the videos. I hope to get some tips and tricks. I'm learning how to make good joints that fit well on my scrap pieces then completely mess up my work pieces. Totally awesome. We've been looking to add a band saw and the info in this video really helped. Don't settle save up for a quality saw was invaluable. So when my wife asks why I spent $1800.00 on a sweet Harvey, gotta be honest I'm dropping your name! Thanks again for the great videos.
I love your product recommendations and follow them more often than not. Can you tell me if the Harvey C14 is the same machine as the Jet JWBS-15-3 15'' Bandsaw, 3HP, 230V? Specs seem very similar and if they are the same, I will gladly go with the Harvey to help support your channel if for no other reason.
Thank you very much for the excellent guide to bandsaws. I bought a really cheap one about 4 years ago. I only paid £49 Sterling and it seemed okay to cut templates in 9 and 12 mm ply or mdf, but any attempt to cut in a straight line and the blade wanders all over the place. I won't be doing much re-sawing, but will want to cut curves and the occasional straight line, so am in the market for a better model. I don't regret the money I've spent on the cheap model, but am ready to spend more on something that will work well out of the box with minimal faffing around. I'm looking forward to checking out your other tutorials on bandsaws. Thanks for sharing.
I bought a 3 wheel bandsaw to "get by", and I instantly regretted it. The thing requires special blades that are expensive, and lasts maybe 2 weeks before it got dull enough to not cut straight at all. By the way if your bandsaw isn't cutting straight, it's because you have dull blades or the blade has damaged set (they need those set in order to have the clearance to not bind and drift). The big problem with 3 wheel bandsaw is that they can't take any blades thicker than what it has, or else it snaps instantly. Always get the biggest bandsaw you can afford. If necessary (due to blade change issues) and you have the space, have two.
hello great video as always, I have limited shop space (as everybody) so I am between a 9 or 10-inch band saw what you recommend? any model you will suggest??? Thanks for your video and help.
I’m very happy I found your series. Great , quality , useful information . I find myself writing down your recommendations, and have actually already purchases some items I learned about from your presentations . You come across professionally with out the bravado and untalented presentations like many of the UTube Wahoos who post their “ educational” videos . For some reason I can never see the links you say are below the screen. ? Maybe my fault. . Please consider doing a video on air compressor basics . I need a good tutorial on how to best use one in the shop . Thank you for taking the time and effort to make informative videos ,
Recreational woodworker. I picked up the cheapest band saw from the cheapest store (you know who I mean) and I'm just enjoying my new tool. I can feel the itch to buy a real bankbreaker comming on real soon.
My two big tools are a 35 year old Craftsman tablesaw and a 14" Buffalo bandsaw and can't get parts for either one. Both have their limitations but still work. After this video, I may consider looking for a new bandsaw. Just spent $200 for new motor on the tablesaw so I guess I will keep it.
I bought the Harvey Bandsaw from your link. Good choice and they had it in stock. James have you considered doing a resaw video? Your unique insight would really be beneficial.
A happy new year from Germany! A great video with a lot of interesting information. Those Harvey machines look great. Do you have any recommendations of brands I can buy in Europe?
I sooo appreciate your videos. I'm a new....ugh.. Very challenges woodworker. Please keep advertising too. Your reviews of tools are spot on. I know that because I've bought some of your reviewed or sponsored stuff. Thanks!
Thanks for the video your statement towards the end kinda hit home as a new woodworker I always believed in buying a quality tool instead buying a so called starter my miter saw for example the Bosch GCM12SD glide very nice saw I wanted it saved and have it the my table saw I have a Metabo 10 inch I like but my band saw for some reason I bought used it is a Craftsman 10 inch I just replaced the tires and couldn't get the blade to stay centered then I put on a new blade and it is fine but I really wanted the grizzly 9 inch but for now I am using this it seems om but I feel like I settled like you said,
I bought the Craftsman 14" three years ago and out of the box it wasn't working well. I did a lot of research and set things up by trial and error. I wish I had this when I was looking to buy! Awesome and informative as always!
Thanks for all of the great information. Going out on a limb of trust and ordered blades from sawblade.com hope they live up to the expectation. I just semi retired an old delta with a 5" resaw height for a new Laguna 14/12, it's not a Harvey but I sell them to my customers at Rockler daily, I love the large capacity and the horsepower. Drop in and see us when you're in Kennesaw Ga.
Big wheels are helpful too because it means you have more choices of blades you can use on them. It means you can use thicker blades without it breaking due to metal fatigue. It actually saves you money as breaking bandsaw blades gets expensive quickly. I think it's just better to get a larger saw than a smaller one. You can still make bandsaw boxes on a large saw (to a point... I don't think those lumber mill bandsaw that goes into a pit makes good bandsaw boxes) but you can't resaw well on a small one. And 10 inch bandsaws are a waste of money. Their wheels are far too small to use any standard blades, which means you pay more for blades that wear out faster, and if you use any bimetal or carbide blades they will break before you even get much use out of them. I got myself an old bandsaw that has wheels the size of a standard 26 inch bicycle wheels... never regretted it.
I just got my first kickback and luckily I followed everyones advice not to stand directly behind the blade. I was taking a kerf width off a 2x4 with a regular throat plate prepping for a bandsaw box blank. I saw the little peice drop down. ok Next thing that 2x4 shot right back! 😳. I need to look for a tablesaw buying guide. I have a Ryobi 10 and I hate the table! It's not flat iron/steel. I mean it's like corrugated aluminum or something and it doesn't have slots for a sled. I don't like my Ryobi Bandsaw much either.
The white one? I hate it. It's brand new. It vibrates way too much, the blade guides are junk, the dust collection stinks and every part of the saw is cheap. If it didn't saw Jet on it I would swear it was a Harbor Freight.
...and on the other hand, there's the "get your feet wet" smaller table-top versions that cost only a few hundred dollars. Still useful and cheap learning. Just got a Porter-Cable at Lowe's 1/3 off. Any saw is better than no saw.
When you use this link to visit our sponsor, you support us►
Harvey Woodworking Machinery: www.harveywoodworking.com/
Tutorial video about blades► ruclips.net/video/z7n7Gg4QOkc/видео.html
Tutorial video about blade guides►ruclips.net/video/3MPR2kcMhJU/видео.html
Hi James I just bought a Grizzly G0555 14''. It's still in the crate in my garage. Was that a mistake? The price was right for me.
Hey stumpy what site did you tell us to buy planer n jointer knives? And you think the jet shopline 6"jointer is worth putting carbide blades in? Tks
I saw the title of the video and almost didn't watch it. I figured I have no need of a band saw but Stumpy's videos are always entertaining and full of useful information so I'll go ahead and watch. After watching the video I decided I now want a band saw. Dang you Stumpy.
😂
I'm sold. I was already 97% there because I have a bunch of walnut and cherry that I want to make veneer with but this video confirmed that I was on the right track. Thanks!
I’m getting ready to buy myself a bandsaw for making my blanks for bowls. After watching this video I’ve changed my whole thought on what I want. I really wanna thank you for placing this video because it has kept me from making some serious mistakes in my choices
Another thing to look into if you are using it primarily for cutting wet bowl blanks- some turners prefer ceramic guide blocks instead of guide bearings on the sides of the blade because wet wood can start to stick to the bearings and cause vibrations while guide blocks tend to scrap themselves clean better. I prefer bearings, but I don't cut much wet wood. Just something to look into...
Stumpy has been my teacher for years! Thank you
This is the video that convinced me to go with a Harvey. I just finished setting it up yesterday, even though I bought it a year ago along with my Harvey Alpha 4hp table saw, and what a sweet machine. Now I just have to finish dust collection hook up and I'll be ready to go. But right now, it's on to Stumpy's blade video to get the right blades for what I want to do.
I worked in a production cabinet shop for a number of years. After a series of health problems I had to step away from it. Missing the work dearly. Now I am building my own shop. As I plan to get into manufacturing as part of my business. Its been very apparent how much work my old boss put into setting up that very simple shop. With how he selected tools, and how they where setup for usability. While we only had two band saws in that shop. They where centered in locations that they where used constantly. In that way that you want in such a situation. Setup so perfectly that they fit the tasks at hand. With no fiddling or playing around. I really do miss that shop.
Good luck with your new shop and business!
I was on the verge of a buying a 2nd band saw since my current band saw (on sale over Xmas at lowes) is worthless. Thank God I watched this.
Considering a band saw and knew Stumpy would have a great video (or three) on the topic. Always quality, useful stuff on this channel. Thank you, sir!
@2:52 That's the happiest rough lumber I've ever seen
OMG, your example about cutting short pieces of wood on a table saw and creating kickback was spot on. This happened to me two weeks ago and took off the tip and side of my left index finger. I never heard of this to be an issue. Live and learn I guess. Love your videos. 👌
I watch pretty much all of your videos and some of them more than once. You are a good teacher with good delivery. Your old comical delivery was not as good as you are now at what you do. I respect the heck out of you and your team.
Totally agree about blade changing and adjustment. I have a Grizzly 14" band saw and it's nice, but I really hate changing the blade and for that reason I don't do it as often as I should.
I really appreciate your info regarding choosing the right Bandsaw.
I just found your channel and learned in half a day that i used most of my workshops machinery in wrong or suboptimal ways 😄. Count me in as a subscriber and fan! Really great and straight to the point Videos! Thanks a ton for putting so much thought in them! 💪
Got a Grizzly go513a40 40th anniversary this year its now my favorite tool in my shop. Working with mostly reclaimed wood it cut alot of projects in half (no pun intended).
I'm Wanting to buy a band saw. I am 74 years so may get 10 years out of it. But i don't be leave in buying junky I like the Laguna and also the Harvey. I really was swaying to spend the extra money on the Harvey but when I went to place my order where was no-way I was paying $400 shipping. I haven't done it yet Rocklers shipping $190. I can live with that i juess. Stumpy whats your thought
Stumpy - thanks for producing sentient videos on woodworking topics.
Excellent video once again. Really gave me a clear idea of what I need in a bandsaw. Thank you!
The community group I'm with recently bought a Laguna Bandsaw 14/12 CE which is a terrific upgrade from the old thing we used to have, it was evil and hard to set up.
The Laguna has ceramic blade guides with 10 points of contact and a 1.75 hp motor. We do a fair bit of ripping and resawing with this machine and the lack of kickback compared to out table saw for ripping jobs is significant. The group has always had the policy of buying the best machinery/tools we can afford.
Thanks for this video. I am thinking about purchasing a band saw and now I have some things to go by.
I'm close to buying a band saw and am on the fence between Harvey and Laguna, thank you for all of the great content!
As ever, the best first class acknowledge from JIM HAMILTON. Thanks fro your contribution to the Woodworking Community.
Thank you so much Stumpy Nubs!!! Absolute wonderful info! Been yearning to carve wood for DECADES, and I'm just able to buy an electric saw! Been thru a skill saw, circular saw, jig saw ...nothing was working like I'd imagined ...THIS looks like EXACTLY what I would like to use. Your enthusiasm, and the fact that you have 5!😂 is fantastic! You REALLY love a band saw!!!!!!!!! Thanks man
Thank you. I wish I would have seen this a month ago! I bought a Grizzly 14" band saw. It cuts through stuff like butter. I do scroll saw work and I only had a SKIL 9 inch band saw. I got the 14 inch because I want to do some limited resawing (meaning not huge logs or really big stuff) and want to make band saw boxes. I guess I'll just have to see how the saw works out for those purposes. PS. Down the road can you give us an update on what will be done about the empty reservoirs. The news out of area only covers the disasters, not the recovery. Thanks, Dennis
Yay! Turns out Harvey Woodworks is close to me. This information is just in time for my bandsaw purchase decision. Thanks!
You're absolutely right about 'not settling' on a band saw.....and I'm learning that the hard way. Looking back, I shouldn't have settled for anything less than a 1 hp motor. Also, great advice on the blade guides....I wish I'd done more research on them before I'd made my current purchase. Thanks for the video!
I bought a big old Parks no2 18" bandsaw from a cabinet maker in Ohio a couple years ago. The model with the emblem cast into the riser cover. (1960's maybe, I don't know). 12 1/2" resaw capacity with 17" throat depth. That's been the biggest game changer ever to find a spot in my shop. A good bandsaw opens up so many more possibilities for any project than nearly any other tool. Detroit Bandsaw can weld and mail a blade for any size saw if you're stuck with an odd one. Vintage Machinery website has old publications for those great Craigslist finds. Cheers!
I waited years to get a planer, then a jointer, now I will save up for a good bandsaw. Thanks
Wow. One of the best educational videos I've ever seen and I watch A LOT of RUclips videos to learn new things. THANK YOU!! GREAT JOB!!!
thank you stumpy, for giving me the posibility to learn. awesome vids
Good info for people. I own a small 9" delta, and the jewel of my shop, a 20" INCA. It cuts like a laser and I can't imagine working without it. Proper set up is critical, and that's what most people don't do.
Nice video, I do segmented wood turning and I use my band saw to cut all my strips, this saves me enough of to pay for a saw in less than a year. The one thing that needs to be done is to add an extension to the back of the table so my long strips do not fall off while I'm cutting them.
Your selection of topic/content is always well thought out and I keep cruising by to see what your up to. Will you consider a suggested difficult instructional topic please? How to Adjust the fence and align a Bandsaw to avoid drift. As we know there are many ways to do this and your approach of researching the many ways to do things and provide the information on various approaches to things might just be a nice video. I realize this is a little off from your "General Content" approach vs. but I think its a good topic and would be curious on how well you could crush that one.
Really appreciate the info. I’m currently looking to upgrade my bandsaw so this couldn’t have come at a better time. Thanks, James!!
James, mine is a little Shopsmith attachment, but it works really well for the small things I ask of it.
I really very much appreciate this video and soooo many of the ones you’ve been making for us during these times when most of us are home twiddling our thumbs- haha.
Thank you for this video, I am in the process of choosing a band saw for home. I had narrowed it down to two models, one is a 12" and the other a 14". I had almost decided on the 12" but after seeing this video I may reconsider the 14" now. The difference in price isn't much anyway. Cheers from Australia.
As a new woodworker I spend a lot of time watching wood your wood working video. Great quality. I would like a ban saw but unfortunately I am not sure exactly what I would need it for. Keep,up,the good work
I upgraded from a cast 14" Delta wit Riser block to the Rikon 14 -326 DVR inch with the new DVR motor - & have been very happy with he results. The Resaw setting increased the blade speed = more momentum. Motor also adjusts torque based on load . Able to resaw 13 inch hard maple to within 1/64 to to bottom of the cut.
Hi Stumpy, Just came across one of your vids today for the first time. The one about expensive tools. Really enjoyed it and will subscribe to view more. I like your delivery of words in an unhurried way. Thank you for the video. Kind regards. Ted
James, thank you for a video in plain easy to understand English, I and actively shopping for a replacement bandsaw and supply here in the uk is proving an issue as the good machines are mostly sold out but your tips will make my choice easier.
👏🏻🇬🇧
Michael
Thanks for the great video. You're very knowledgeable. I just bought the Grizzly G0803Z - 9" Benchtop Bandsaw with Laser Guide and now I'm kicking myself for going too small. Oh well. Now at least I'll have something to cut small corners instead of the jig saw. Thanks again!
Nice to see you stay busy and make the best of the circumstances.
James, excellent as usual. I'm one of those guys with a second hand, probably worn out smaller bandsaw with carbon block guides that drifts when I use it, so I almost never use it. Too painful. To see someone resaw veneer off wide boards is a thing of beauty, mystery and envy. But every one of your videos I've seen does a superb and concise job of ending the mysteries. Thanks!
If fixed drift in a used 14" bandsaw by simply changing a blade. It was night and day after, it is a pleasure now to work with the machine.
Lots of good information, thanks as I was looking to purchase a bandsaw and you might have saved me from buying the wrong one for my needs and wants.
Glad I found this video. I'm currently looking for a 14 inch bandsaw and everything you pointed out is just what my wife needed to hear!!
James, Another great tutorial as always. Slowwwwly building up my shop, mainly for guitar building and got my hands on a 1906 36" Crescent band saw with a tilting table. It's a monster and probably overkill for my purposes but I really enjoy the challenge of rescuing old machines. Definitely planning on upgrading the guides and installing safety features not original, like wheel and blade guards..just to start!
Just starting out I purchased a cheap Ryobi band saw- didn’t use it for like 3-4 months - then one day I did use it for first time and now I use it alllll the time and wish I had bought a better band saw lol
Thanks i know a lot about tools worked for Delta Machinery and Porter -Cable for 20 yrs . I have 14ih delta with a height attachment
but like you said it is not great. I know that you get a lot of comments from people that do not really know what they are talking about
but that is good for you because you get to educate them . Do not stop.
PS still do not any info on my wood clamp rack that i ordered ,so bad so sad hope i do not get charged for something i did not get .
Julien Lamarche
Howdy from Texas, James. Love all your videos, and your website as well. Trying to decide between Harvey bandsaws. The Ambassador 14 has everything I need. However, I don't like the round bar rail. I like the extruded rail on the Alpha 15 better. The Alpha 15 also has a nicer taller fence and larger table.
My questions:
1. Is the rail difference important? Many other brands of bandsaws have the same round rail - but I think the extruded rail can be more accurate - and looks better.
2. Should I worry that you can't get Carter guide products for Harvey bandsaws? It seems that Carter guides are not available for Harvey saws. I am interested in the Stabilizer Guide for small blades mostly, since the stock Harvey guides are similar to the regular Carter guides.
Thanks for your reply!
The Alpha is definitely a more robust fence, more like a table saw. But I really haven't found the Ambassador's fence lacking for a band saw's functions.
The guides seem a little easier to adjust on the Ambassador, but the Alpha guides are still way better than my Rikon or Jet guides were. I think the Carter guides are comparable, so I don't think that's an issue. It is true that you can't use the Carter single-bearing guide, but I have no personal experience with that guide so I can't say if I would miss it.
Here's what I generally saw when people ask me about these saws:
The C-14 (www.harveywoodworking.com/products/new-ambassador-c14-3hp-14-band-saw) is a fantastic saw that will do pretty much anything most people will ever need. It has lots of power (3HP) and cutting capacity (14" max re-saw). The fence and trunnions are of high quality. The guides are the best on any saw I have ever used in terms of adjustability without hassle. The wheels are heavy cast iron and the frame is big and beefy. It has a quick-release tension mechanism and a foot brake. It also has dual 4-inch dust collection ports. My only complaint is the table height is a little low for my taste (34"), but I adjusted to that fairly quickly and if I wanted to I could put blocks under the saw base to raise it a few inches.
Here's a Cool Tools video we did on the C-14: ruclips.net/video/4XNh0v2GUJA/видео.html
The HW615 (www.harveywoodworking.com/products/new-alpha-hw615-15-band-saw) is a beast of a saw. It has all the things I like about the smaller C-14 (3HP, 14" re-saw capacity, quick tension release, foot brake, dual dust collection ports), but it is even more robust. Everything about it screams quality, in my opinion. I have tensioned a 1-1/4" blade on it (the manual recommends 1" max), which puts an enormous strain on a saw's frame. But this thing barely flinches. The fence is the nicest I have ever seen on a band saw. The table is extra large and heavy (I have the tin-coated table, which resists rust). If I had to say something negative, the guides are a little more fiddly to adjust on the HW614 than they are on the C-14, but still nicer than most toolless guides on the market, and very heavy duty.
Here's a general video about what to look for in a band saw: ruclips.net/video/sUsKYElDKl0/видео.html
Here's a video about choosing band saw guides: ruclips.net/video/3MPR2kcMhJU/видео.html
Here's a video about band saw blades: ruclips.net/video/z7n7Gg4QOkc/видео.html
Here's a video about setting up a band saw: ruclips.net/video/tPRrEgnt7wM/видео.html
@@StumpyNubs my c14 lower bearings move consistently and significantly whenever I tighten them, even the replacement set they sent me. Does your's do that? Did they change the design?
I'm in the market for a band saw. Interestingly enough, I've never heard of Harvey before. Now I'm intrigued.
www.woodworkersjournal.com/harvey-bringing-woodworking-education-china/
Hi Stumpy, I bought the harvey c14 bandsaw. I'm getting a lot of vibration when it's turned on. I mean a lot. After closer inspection, I think there are 2 things going on.
- I can feel a little high spot in the tire of the upper wheel towards the back side that spans about 1/2 inch.
- There is still a considerable table vibration with the saw blade taken off and just the motor turning the lower wheel.
Couple more facts.
I took off the belt and spun the upper and lower wheels independently without blades or belts, and I did not notice either wheel particularly out of balance. Each wheel had a really minor change of direction after coming to a complete stop by maybe 1/2 inch reversal or 1-2 degrees radially. There was no noise coming from the bearings and both were silent when turning both cast iron wheels.
Also, I took the belt off of the lower wheel and motor pulley and ran the motor without any load, and felt no vibration from the motor alone. The shaft appears true.
Put the belt back on and tightened the belt really tight, even tighter than what was delivered. There is a bolt that applies downward pressure to the motor which in turn tightens the belt against the pulley wheel, however, when tightening that tight I start to hear noise coming from the bearing in the motor when turning by hand, so I'm afraid it might be too tight, but still getting a bad vibration even with the belt really tight. I put a bottle of 'Simple Green' cleaner/degreaser on the table and you can see the fluid sloshing around in the bottle pretty violently.
I suspect maybe one or both wheels might be out of balance but I don't know how to detect where weights should be added to offset the heavy spot in the wheel.
What did Harvey say when you contacted them?
@@StumpyNubs First they asked was anything damaged in shipping, and I said no, it was delivered in perfect condition. Then went through a series of basic checks: is my serpentine belt tight enough?, is the motor vibrating?, etc?. Nothing out of line there, so they took down my info, and I'm waiting for a technician to call me back. This all took place Friday afternoon. Once they diagnose the problem they said they will probably ship me whatever parts might be needed.
@@StumpyNubs Problem solved. The rubber stand pads weren't installed before. After I installed them on the base and leveled the unit, the vibration went away. Made my first cut but I need to get a better blade, it gives a really rough cut
I noticed your red wings cup! I’m from the Detroit area and just getting started. I really enjoy your videos!
Always great to to hear your information... my next investment is a bandsaw.... going to check out video 9n bandsaw blades now .... thank you again
I’ve done rough cut framing projects for many years. I’m a stick builder. However as I get very close to retirement would like small projects from cheap would and plywoods. I’ve had a hand planers, power hand planers, circular saws, routers, jig saws, sanders and a table saw for years. Love your channel but sometimes it’s to advanced for me. I just bought a 10 inch sears craftsman 1/3 band saw with a broken drive belt for 1$ from a closing yard sale and felt like a great deal, now i feel like it’s junk…but I will still get a drive belt and see what I can do.
It's not junk. It's just not the type of saw you will resaw wide, thick lumber into thinner pieces with. You can probably cut curves with it just fine if you tune it up.
My wife is going to hate you for the information you covered in this video, but I am so glad I watched. Thank you! You stopped me from making a big mistake.
Thank you for the informative video Stumpy. Got a large shed, got some tools, got to clear a lot of crap out of said shed and buy more tools. Bandsaw definitely on the list.
Hey Stumpy! I always enjoy your videos....so much helpful information - thank you!
My question is: are there any bench top band saws that you would recommend for a beginning wood worker?
I started out with a cheap HF band saw, but when I realized it's limitations I was disappointed. Moving up to a Laguna opened up a whole world of new possibilities. Expensive yes, worth it YES!!
Great video very informative. I am cutting red cedar 2 x 4's into fishing bait bodies 8-13" in size. I also cut the lips for my baits out of Lexan. Can you recommend a table top band saw for me to use.
Stumpy!! Sorry, I meant, Hello Mr Nubbs! Bought my bandsaw before watching this but I am positive it’s going to be perfect! As always, your videos are full of good knowledge! Alright, time to go find more of yer bandsaw vids to check out. Then it’s off to go play with the Laguna!
Great video and your not selling a product, can you make a video about the difference between 110/220 volts how a 220 lowest the amp and less stress for that machine? Thanks for sharing
Great info, James. Thanks. I'm working with a gifted 1970 Powermatic "Gumby". 300lbs+ of cast iron love. I only had to have an armature/electric motor shop near me refurbish the motor ($75), and it purrs along like a content kitty. So, I'm not in the market for a new one, and I don't have room for another, but your info is valuable nonetheless. Cheers.
Great video! I also love my bandsaw, as mediocre as it is. And what you say is very true about inconvenient blade changing and how that affects our woodworking. Namely, our tendency to avoid blade changes and try to get by with what is on there. Ultimately, our finished work and, importantly, enjoyment of the process, suffers. Thank you for doing these!
Thanks. I have been doing hand tool woodworking. A bandsaw is the one machine tool I'm thinking if getting. Mostly for resawing to get wood to desired thickness. Easy to hand plane one side flat. Major pain to then use hand plan to go from 3/4" to 1/2" thick wood.
Love this guy. Always has a beer in the coozy on stand by. 😂🤣
I've looked at a lot of 14" band saws and agree with you that the Harvey has the feature set of much higher end saws. Unfortunately there are no dealers within hundreds of miles. That necessitates adding the $359 shipping fee which is regularly "included" when other saws go on special or Amazon.
What's your opinion on the Mattias DIY bandsaws?
I've checked out some of your videos over the last few months as I'm new to this wood working thing. Just subscribed, great job on the videos. I hope to get some tips and tricks. I'm learning how to make good joints that fit well on my scrap pieces then completely mess up my work pieces. Totally awesome. We've been looking to add a band saw and the info in this video really helped. Don't settle save up for a quality saw was invaluable. So when my wife asks why I spent $1800.00 on a sweet Harvey, gotta be honest I'm dropping your name! Thanks again for the great videos.
I love your product recommendations and follow them more often than not. Can you tell me if the Harvey C14 is the same machine as the Jet JWBS-15-3 15'' Bandsaw, 3HP, 230V? Specs seem very similar and if they are the same, I will gladly go with the Harvey to help support your channel if for no other reason.
Based upon photos, they do not look the same to me.
Thank you for directly addressing resawing with riser blocks vs steel frame. Great info!
Thank you very much for the excellent guide to bandsaws. I bought a really cheap one about 4 years ago. I only paid £49 Sterling and it seemed okay to cut templates in 9 and 12 mm ply or mdf, but any attempt to cut in a straight line and the blade wanders all over the place. I won't be doing much re-sawing, but will want to cut curves and the occasional straight line, so am in the market for a better model. I don't regret the money I've spent on the cheap model, but am ready to spend more on something that will work well out of the box with minimal faffing around.
I'm looking forward to checking out your other tutorials on bandsaws.
Thanks for sharing.
I bought a 3 wheel bandsaw to "get by", and I instantly regretted it. The thing requires special blades that are expensive, and lasts maybe 2 weeks before it got dull enough to not cut straight at all. By the way if your bandsaw isn't cutting straight, it's because you have dull blades or the blade has damaged set (they need those set in order to have the clearance to not bind and drift). The big problem with 3 wheel bandsaw is that they can't take any blades thicker than what it has, or else it snaps instantly.
Always get the biggest bandsaw you can afford. If necessary (due to blade change issues) and you have the space, have two.
hello great video as always, I have limited shop space (as everybody) so I am between a 9 or 10-inch band saw what you recommend? any model you will suggest??? Thanks for your video and help.
James what do you think about foot brakes on a band saw how often do you use one? and when.
I’m very happy I found your series. Great , quality , useful information . I find myself writing down your recommendations, and have actually already purchases some items I learned about from your presentations . You come across professionally with out the bravado and untalented presentations like many of the UTube Wahoos who post their “ educational” videos .
For some reason I can never see the links you say are below the screen. ? Maybe my fault. .
Please consider doing a video on air compressor basics . I need a good tutorial on how to best use one in the shop . Thank you for taking the time and effort to make informative videos ,
As always, clear, informative, educational, and upbeat; excellent explanation of the unique features and role of the bandsaw in the shop.
Recreational woodworker. I picked up the cheapest band saw from the cheapest store (you know who I mean) and I'm just enjoying my new tool. I can feel the itch to buy a real bankbreaker comming on real soon.
Nice vid. I will get one some day:] Back in my welding days I spent many hours on a hyd mech horizontal ban saw. Quality really does matter here.
My two big tools are a 35 year old Craftsman tablesaw and a 14" Buffalo bandsaw and can't get parts for either one. Both have their limitations but still work. After this video, I may consider looking for a new bandsaw. Just spent $200 for new motor on the tablesaw so I guess I will keep it.
Hey great content I just looking for a bandsaw at the moment and this was really helpful
I bought the Harvey Bandsaw from your link. Good choice and they had it in stock. James have you considered doing a resaw video? Your unique insight would really be beneficial.
We will definitely be doing a resaw tutorial in the near future :)
A happy new year from Germany!
A great video with a lot of interesting information. Those Harvey machines look great. Do you have any recommendations of brands I can buy in Europe?
Thanks for presenting. What size breaker do you have the hw615p running on?
Where does your Shopsmith bandsaw fit in your lineup? Do you know of good roller bearing upgrades for it?
I sooo appreciate your videos. I'm a new....ugh.. Very challenges woodworker. Please keep advertising too. Your reviews of tools are spot on. I know that because I've bought some of your reviewed or sponsored stuff. Thanks!
Thanks for the video your statement towards the end kinda hit home as a new woodworker I always believed in buying a quality tool instead buying a so called starter my miter saw for example the Bosch GCM12SD glide very nice saw I wanted it saved and have it the my table saw I have a Metabo 10 inch I like but my band saw for some reason I bought used it is a Craftsman 10 inch I just replaced the tires and couldn't get the blade to stay centered then I put on a new blade and it is fine but I really wanted the grizzly 9 inch but for now I am using this it seems om but I feel like I settled like you said,
I bought the Craftsman 14" three years ago and out of the box it wasn't working well. I did a lot of research and set things up by trial and error. I wish I had this when I was looking to buy! Awesome and informative as always!
You're videos are so informative! Thank you!
Absolutely awesome stumpy. I’m in the market a few months down the line.
Thanks for all of the great information. Going out on a limb of trust and ordered blades from sawblade.com hope they live up to the expectation. I just semi retired an old delta with a 5" resaw height for a new Laguna 14/12, it's not a Harvey but I sell them to my customers at Rockler daily, I love the large capacity and the horsepower. Drop in and see us when you're in Kennesaw Ga.
hi there, nice informative video, can u please tell me why some bandsaws have 2 speeds?
Perhaps for metal cutting, which requires a slower speed to avoid overheating the blade.
Big wheels are helpful too because it means you have more choices of blades you can use on them. It means you can use thicker blades without it breaking due to metal fatigue. It actually saves you money as breaking bandsaw blades gets expensive quickly.
I think it's just better to get a larger saw than a smaller one. You can still make bandsaw boxes on a large saw (to a point... I don't think those lumber mill bandsaw that goes into a pit makes good bandsaw boxes) but you can't resaw well on a small one. And 10 inch bandsaws are a waste of money. Their wheels are far too small to use any standard blades, which means you pay more for blades that wear out faster, and if you use any bimetal or carbide blades they will break before you even get much use out of them.
I got myself an old bandsaw that has wheels the size of a standard 26 inch bicycle wheels... never regretted it.
SO HELPFUL, THANK YOU
Great discussion James, thanks.
I just got my first kickback and luckily I followed everyones advice not to stand directly behind the blade. I was taking a kerf width off a 2x4 with a regular throat plate prepping for a bandsaw box blank. I saw the little peice drop down. ok Next thing that 2x4 shot right back! 😳. I need to look for a tablesaw buying guide. I have a Ryobi 10 and I hate the table! It's not flat iron/steel. I mean it's like corrugated aluminum or something and it doesn't have slots for a sled. I don't like my Ryobi Bandsaw much either.
Good video! I have 3 band saws, 2 for wood and 1 for metal and I'm glad I have them. Thanks for the video!
would you have any recommended bench top bandsaws? my workshop is a spare room in my apartment, and most of my projects are smaller.
Thanks for your wisdom and videos. Much appreciated.
Interesting the Band saw you showed when talking about motors looks like a piece of cake to upgrade if you want.
The white one? I hate it. It's brand new. It vibrates way too much, the blade guides are junk, the dust collection stinks and every part of the saw is cheap. If it didn't saw Jet on it I would swear it was a Harbor Freight.
...and on the other hand, there's the "get your feet wet" smaller table-top versions that cost only a few hundred dollars. Still useful and cheap learning. Just got a Porter-Cable at Lowe's 1/3 off. Any saw is better than no saw.