After reading the Tool Guide article on bandsaws I was looking at the G0457 and then saw the g0513x2. A 17 inch bandsaw with also bigger resaw capactiy interested me for the extra $125. But I am not sure how well the larger saw resaws wider boards when both models have the same horsepower. The only thing I see is that the RPMs are faster on the larger model – so maybe that makes up for same horsepower on the bigger model? Is this an issue for those who resaw 12 inch boards on the g0513x2?
I wonder to myself if I even need that capacity – should I save the extra money and stick with the 14 inch or is that extra $125 really worth it to get the bigger model?
I imagine one day I will resaw something that wide – right now I just want to resaw wood for boxes but I plan on making furniture too.
By the way – for those who own grizzly’s – is it difficult to rewire the bandsaws for the 110 volts from the 220? I know nothing about wiring and I see you have to buy a plug – I wish the company made the 110 volt wiring models available – I am so afraid of wiring I am looking at other brands just to avoid that issue. – Tom
Replies
Hi Tom
I would get the bigger saw in a second. I doubt that many woodworkers have wished they'd bought a smaller bandsaw. One important thing about the 17" saw is that it'll take a 1" blade, whereas the 14" model will only take a 3/4" blade. A wider blade will have less tendancy to bow, making your resaw cuts straighter ( I do not speak from experience, since I have a 14" saw. Everyone who upgrades brags in an annoying fashion about how well their big bandsaws cut though).
The thing you may have trouble with is the 2 hp motor run on 110. I think you'd be tripping your breaker whenever you bogged down the saw. You might want to consider having 220 installed. It will probably work much better. Besides, then you can buy a cabinet saw too.
davidb
Tom,
I have the 17" G0513 and love it! Resawing with a 1/2" 3 tpi woodslicer does a nice job. You can reconfigure the motor leads for 120v but the saw is going to need it's own 20a outlet. If you have to run an outlet anyway, I would suggest running 240v and be done with it. It's a great bandsaw!
-Jerry
I have the g0513 and its been a great saw. They had not come out with the x2 yet when I got mine. Chuck the stock blade and use timber wolfe blades and you will be quite happy.
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