I'm quite interested in this topic, as I'm planning on adding a second band saw to my Shop in the coming years. I'm currently using a Laguna LT14SUV (14" saw), and it has served well as a great entry level saw (3hp motor, 14" resaw capacity, ceramic guides, etc...). That being said, I would like to eventually set up the Laguna with a 1/4" blade for curved work, and adding a larger saw for straight work. My inclination is to look at a FB510 or 610, but am curious as to whether there's a compelling case to be made for one machine over the other??
For reference, I work in a one-person shop, and for starters I'd be using the machine primarily for "straight" work (ripping and the occasional re-saw). There's an outside chance that I'd eventually consider a re-saw setup (power feed, etc...), but it is not in cards for starters, and am open to the idea of getting a third, dedicated resaw machine, leaving the FB machine free for utility work.?
The FB510 and FB610 have very similar specifications, including using the same motor and same resaw capacity. They differ slightly in negative tilt (-10 degrees for 510, -5 degrees for 610), rip capacity, and overall size/weight.?
Anyways, for users of FB5xx and FB6xx machines, why did you pick your machine over the other??
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Tom Gensmer
Heritage Home Renewals, LLC
Minneapolis, MN
Tom Gensmer