I found a PC Porta Band saw at a yard sale. Wow, this changes things!
I'm working on a design that will hold it upright in my big vise, to use as a stationary bs. Best of both worlds.
If noise is a concern, they are a lot quieter than a chop saw.
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Location: Williston ND
I am on my second Milwaukee portable band saw. it is used in a home made upright holder much more than handheld. Been fabricating for thirty years and never felt the need for a larger metal bandsaw. Like wood bandsaws, one does need to use the proper blade for the job at hand. 14 tpi is close to a do all but the 10 to 14 variable really shines in thicker metals and the 18 tpi makes cuts in sheet metal with a smoother cut and less vibration than the coarser blades.
Proud maker of large quantities of sawdust......oh, and the occasional project!
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Joined: Jun 2014
I've used the m12 and m18 bandsaw (also used the dewalt 18v and Makita) and the m18 is my favorite. Cuts up to about 3" stock and has a foot than can be retracted for cutting on the ground or tight spaces. I would highly recommend it. Or I say you can never go wrong with a corded portaband
