Bandsaw Choice: Agazzani or Mini-Max???
I’m trying to make a decision on a 20″ bandsaw. I’ve got it narrowed to the Agazzani (http://www.eagle-tools.com) and the Mini-Max (http://www.minimax-usa.com) The MM20, by Mini-Max has a bigger motor and has more resaw capability, but the Agazzani seems like more of a “finesse” saw… at least when talking with the nice folks at Eagle Tools… maybe a little more emphasis on wheel balance, etc.
The Agazzani has vulcanized rubber wheels that are trued much like a car tire after the rubber is bonded to the wheel. Good for balance, but not good when it comes time for new rubber. The Mini-Max has rubber tires that are easily replaced but maybe not as much focus on runout.
The other consideration I have is the 30-amp breakers in my shop. The Agazzani has a 3HP motor that I know will be okay on the 30-amp breaker. The Mini-Max has a 4.8HP motor that may be pushing it. Any suggestions there?
Has anyone else compared these two saws and found any distinguishing advantages to either? Each of them is a darned fine saw. I’m planning on keeping a 14″ Delta for use with thinner blades and running a 1″ Lennox carbide on the new saw.
Any advice or relative experience will be appreciated.
Thanks!
Replies
Woodwolf,
Both Agazani and Mini Max have great saws. I have seen both at a recent show in PA and would agree the Agazzani is a little nicer on finish but the Mini Max has a lot more mass and better specs. I would do a pro/con list on both of the saws and choose the one that will suits your needs now and later.
Al
Woodwolf,
I have had both machines in my shop and I prefer the agazzani. The mini max does have better specs but I believe that the agazzani has much better quality. When delivered the table on the mini was a bit warped, the bearing guides were not quite in line with each other and the fence rubbed on the table so that when it was tightened it deflected. Also the wheel castings were not centered on the bearing cut outs, I'm sure that it doesn't affect the wheel balance but it shows that the machine isn't made very precisely. As a result I returned the mini and bought the zani. I felt bad about returning the saw but when the zani arrived I knew that I had made the right choice for my situation (I resaw 4/4 and 6/4 exotic hardwood boards into 3/16 flitches). If I was doing less delicate work I might lean towards the beef of the mini.
The zani is not perfect however. The plane milled table has small ( 1/64?) undulations that are annoying, but the table is flat. Some of the hardware is undersized and the miter gauge is pretty wimpy. BUT as a whole it is a great machine. Don't hesitate to email me for more info.
Pete W
Pete,
Good, thoughtful reply. When did you have your MM experience? Coincidentally, after reading some past posts, I picked up the phone today and ordered a MM16.... then came home and read your post. At least my Karma's consistent. I'm sure it will do the job.
Cheers,
Greg
This forum post is now archived. Commenting has been disabled