The Asian-made 4x6 Metal cutting Bandsaw
Many folks who need a low cost metal saw turn to this unit since it's
a reasonable price. It's much like many import tools, decent, but
with some work can be quite nice. There are several vendors of this
model, and a couple of variations available as well. The basic unit
is a three speed, 1HP single phase, horizontal/vertical, 4x6" metal
cutting bandsaw. The stand for the unit varies a bit for some of the
manufacturers (the Jet, most notably) and Grizzly's 2002 catalog has a
model with a swivel base. The Enco model has the option of a UL
listed, or even US-made, UL listed motor. Some of the specs vary
slightly by manufacturer (IE, enco now lists it as a 5x6 saw).
The unit weighs a bit over 100 pounds, and comes in a box disassembled
in all cases I've read, and will take 20 minutes to an hour to setup,
depending on breaks and personal diligence. The manual for the Harbor
Freight version, is somewhat fractured and incorrect in the pictures
accompanying the text, so watch out for that. Enco has the manual
available online.
There are three speeds you can select from. It's belt driven, and
there is a low-tech but effective belt tension bolt that is between
the motor and gearbox in a knuckle busting location. The speeds are
80 fpm, 120 fpm, and 200 fpm. Roughly translates to Steel, Brass,
and Aluminum speeds.
The stand that's included with the unit is a pair of sheet metal
legs. They suck. A number of links on the bookmarks page have info
on how they made a new stand. I used some 2x4's and a piece or two of
plywood, and some cheap casters for mine.
Blades:
This unit uses 64.5" x 1/4" x .025" blades. Most bandsaw blade
manufacturers will have a premade set of blades available for it. One
of the first things you should do is purchase a bimetal saw blade for
your saw. This can dramatically help cut times and will last
significantly longer than hard back or carbon steel blades. Enco and
Grizzly have a fair selection of Bi-Metal blades for the saw,
including a 6-10 varitooth up to a 20-24 varitooth. Most of the
BiMetal blades are about $20 (plus shipping). Lenox makes the
DieMaster 2 bimetal blade which comes highly recommended, and Starret
also manufactures a bimetal blade for our saws. Any feedback
regarding any of the aftermarket blades available would be greatly
appreciated.
