Jet VBS-1408 Vertical band saw, opinion/experience?

[Scaniaman]

I know the Portaband+table set-up is popular on this forum. I am myself using a smaller hem saw (Femi 783 XL) with a similar set-up. It works ok, but it's a compromise in a few ways of course. And when I'm using it I keep wondering what a proper vertical band saw made for steel would be like to work on.
This model keeps turning up when I'm researching the subject. Is anyone using one, or has used one? I realize it wouldn't make my knives look any better, but working with quality tools is what it is.
They are built by Fuho in Taiwan, a reputable company. 1 HP, variable speed with manual gears, integrated blade welder, cast iron table, chip blower, work light, 14" throat, 114" blades.
Looks like a really nice saw. They turn up on online auctions once in a while. New they are no doubt on the expensive side.

 

[argel55]

Only thing I can tell you is that it has a blade welder on the side post. you can buy and cut to length the ones to use.

 

[butcher_block]

thats a bunch of coin i picked up a used "roll in saw" for 2400$ and its been amazing in the shop cause of the working table and the self feed option. jet useed to make a knock off of it that was 2500 brand new so maybe a used one could save you a bunch of money

 

[john april]

hello, i dont own that one but i do own the jet 8201vs 14" metal cutting saw, and also a portaband on a swag table. i started with the portaband, then bought the jet. i hoped i could whiz through metal when cutting profiles, but the jet does not cut any faster than the portaband. i would have been just as happy with 2 portabands , one for metal, one for handle materials. besides the obvious advantages of the 14" throat, and the blade lasting much longer, i call them even as far as my purposes go.