Tools and Tool Buying

[Mike & Ike]

Hi Everyone,

My local Craigslist has a listing for a Rigid bandsaw.  The gentleman is asking $275 for it.  He's claiming it's a year old and only used once.

I know I've seen some comments on this saw, but honestly can't remember what the general consensus was.  I'm thinking it was mostly positive but I don't trust that (my memory ain't what it used to was).  I was hoping maybe you all had some thoughts or input as to the quality of the saw and whether $275 is a fair price.  As I recall, it retails for around $400 which seems reasonable.

If you could all let me know, I'd greatly appreciate it.  If it helps, here's the CL listing:

http://buffalo.craigslist.org/tls/1708731708.html

Thanks.

Mike T.

[sweensdv]

Most everything I've see about the Ridgid bandsaw has been on the negative side.  It's generally considered the weakest link in the Ridgid line of tools.  Many of the Ridgid tools are very well made but the bandsaw, as it comes from the factory, isn't one of them.  If you're willing to spend another $100-$200 on aftermarket upgrades you could turn this saw into a descent bandsaw.  BTW, his asking price is also way to high IMO.

[n5pip]

I'm assuming that it's the Ridgid BS-1400.  I just purchased one brand new in the box at a local box store for $180 (listed for $459).  And that was not a closeout or refurb.  The problems that I noted are that the stock drive belt sucks.  It's a cheapo that took a set and caused a lot of vibration.  I replaced it with a link style belt & 80-90% of the vibration went away.  Next thing is that the metal stand needs more bracing (esp. under the saw and motor mount) to further reduce vibration.  You'll also want to replace the blade(s) with better quality versions.

Would I buy it again? Yes, just be aware that you'll need to invest a little time and effort to really get it to shine.

HTH,

Stirling  

[Rrandy]

I may be crazier than a dyslexic one armed juggler but I swear if you painted all the bottom of the line saws from the different manufacturers purple with a yellow stripe, you'd have a hard time telling them apart. I helped a guy set up his BS1400 and it did ok. A better belt, saw blade, and some cool blocks for guides will certainly help. We built a mobile base for his out of 2 layers of 3/4 inch ply and 2 swivel and 2 straight wheels. His biggest complaint was putting tension on and taking it off the blade but that can be fixed too. Price wise I'd go for new rather than used at 275...box store might let it go for less.

[knotscott]

The Ridgid is fairly similar to many of the other basic Asian import 14" BS.  It has a bit of a reputation for excessive vibration, which can be addressed if you're willing to spend some time.  $275 used seems pretty high to me.  Not enough discount to bother with IMO.  Better to put that money towards a new Grizzly G0555 or Craftsman 22401 (Rikon clone) on sale. 

[AxlMyk]

Home Depot had been closing out that band saw for about the same price.

[JohnModi]

Mike,

If you purchase the saw new and send in all of the required paperwork, it has a lifetime warranty. You probably would get that if you purchase it used.

I got this saw a few years back and it does a good job for me. I did add the 6" riser block, changed the blocks around the blade, and changed the belt from the motor to the saw.

The dust collection is very lacking. The small 2 1/2" port get reduced even more at the point of collection so it doesn't catch much.

Hope this helps.

[kelsochris]

I have this saw and as others have stated it takes a little tweaking.  I saw an article I believe in Fine Woodworking where a well known craftsman bolted two layers of 3/4" plywood the top of his saw stand to make the base more ridgid.

[Mike & Ike]

Hi Everyone,

Thank you all so much for the input.  After reading your responses and going over to the Despot to take a look at the actual saw, I've decided to hold off on the purchase.  The gentleman selling the saw says he would go as low as $250 for it, which I think it a tad high.  I've decided that since I desperately need storage and a new workbench, I'm going to instead put the money into lumber for those.  My father also said that I could make use of his bandsaw whenever I need.

So, again, thanks all for your help and advice, I really appreciate it.

Mike T.