New woodworker, but used it for cutting my workbench. Great machine
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| Review Date: September 1, 2010 |
| Reviewer: Alisha Dalgewicz, Tuxedo, NY |
| I am giving this machine a five star because I am assuming that (from the extensive research and help desks on how to fix for blade drift) blade drift is quite common among band saws. This band saw was a great addition to my new shop and the only advice I can give for helping the blade cut more smoothly through 6" + wood would be to use paraffin wax on the blade. Ran quite smoothly after I did that. |
Be aware of this saw
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| Review Date: February 17, 2010 |
| Reviewer: D. Throop, Atlanta, GA USA |
I am an avid woodworker. Out of the box this saw will take care of routine hobby cutting needs. However, if you are looking for a machine that will do precise work, you WILL need to shell out a lot of extra dollars to get this saw to perform.
I purchased this saw and have been disappointed in many areas. Vibration is the #1 complaint. I am no woodworking rookie and have tweaked everything multiple times. At the end of the day, unless I build my own stand, this machine will always have what I consider to be unacceptable vibration levels. I planned to perform some re-sawing in excess of 6" so I called Ridgid to inquire about the 6" riser accessory. They are trying to charge $218 plus $22 shipping. The part is available for ~$100 elsewhere and Grizzly (which I have read fits this saw) sells theirs for $67. The fact that Ridgid would charge over HALF the cost for this kit is an outrage. Also, you will have to shell out more money to buy rails and a fence for this saw which will put you way over the cost of other competitors saws such as a Grizzly. If you are an intermediate+ woodworker then I would suggest you spend the extra $100 on a far superior machine which already includes accessories such as a fence! Please do not be short sided by the slightly lower price of this saw... Ridgid wants to rake you over the coals on the accessories.
This thoroughly disgusted me and I have sworn never to purchase another Ridgid product and informed their customer service as well.
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