posted by: VTOL51
1/29/2007

This is an exceptional production model shop tool. My interest in the PBS 440 came as a result of the Fine Woodworking review of several 18 inch bandsaws. I conducted my own research and purchased one. Upon delivery, I immediately noticed how well packaged the unit was. While completing the set-up process, I was amazed to find how very well aligned the machine was from the factory.The cast-iron table was machined completely flat. The rip fence was almost perfectly in line with the miter slot (requiring only very minor adjustment). When positioned at "0" the factory alignment of the table surface and a tensioned blade was exactly 90 degrees. Using a Blade Tensioning Gauge, I determined the factory setting of the blade tension meter to be less than accurate by under 250 pounds. I was so impressed by these results that I decided to assess the alignment of the upper and lower wheels. The difference was so slight, I had to order a Shim Kit to find an object thin enough to bring the wheels into perfect alignment!Unlike the Editor's Review conducted by Roland Johnson on 6/1/2004, I found blade changing to be very simple. The straight forward and easy to understand design of the upper and lower blade guides facilitated a nice and easy adjustment. As far as "cutting speed", the horsepower of the motor has less to do with it than a clean and sharp blade. As is true with most work shop machinery, the function of greater horsepower is for production work (refer to my User Review of the Dewalt 735 Planer - 11/5/2006, VTOL51). Far more significant to cutting speed than horsepower is blade guide adjustment, blade tension and as mentioned above a sharp blade.When testing the cutting ability of a bandsaw it is important to use the widest blade possible for the work being conducted. I used blades ranging in width from 1/4" to 1". I believe most cutting can be accomplished with a high level of success using a 1/2" blade with 3 tpi (the wider gullets provide for better saw dust removal - thus a more efficient cut with less blade damage caused by excessive heat!). Naturally, I "Scratch-Built" my own jigs for this outstanding machine and because of the well thought out design of the table, attaching them is a snap. The table tilt mechanism of the Bridgewood PBS 440 is excellent. However, I prefer to use my own jigs to cut angles and consequently enjoy an unlimited capacity in this regard.I like to do most of my "ripping" on the bandsaw and this Bridgewood machine is as good as any I've used since 1965. This includes the outstanding machinery I operated over several years in Hollywood at the Major Motion Picture Studios.In conclusion, it must be obvious how pleased I am with my PBS 440. The Good Lord willing, I expect to enjoy using this machine for many years to come.