I'm just a newb when it comes to building guitars but have been using bandsaws for a while now. What John said above is right on the money - the newer bandsaws kick butt for sure when it comes to maintenance and setup, etc. - but I've been using an old Delta 16" for quite a while -tippie53 wrote:One thing about not just the band saw but any good tool , be sure you understand how to set it up. Learning how to adjust the blade and the tracking is crucial , Also that it is square and adjusting guides. Like all tools ,it is only as good as the set up.
I paid $40 for it used on craigslist... put new urethane tires and belts on it, set the tracking true, cool blocks, squared it up, trued my table, etc. It cuts like a dream and I have no complaints.
When I go to my buddy's house his saw is much newer and more user-friendly, but a little extra setup time saved me a bundle of cash and my old tank cuts true.
Granted I haven't tried resawing hardwood logs, but have resawn old barn lumber and it works great - just takes a little extra care.
Just my $0.02.