Shopsmith Forums

I've been using a bandsaw for several years now that has the older style cast iron table. It has been adequate for my work. I just recently acquired a bandsaw with the newer style aluminum table; it also has the fence. Besides having a fence, and being slightly larger, I can't see much of a difference in the two tables.

I just wanted to ask those that have used both types of tables which one you liked better? Also, is one type better for certain situations?

I only have the older cast iron table and I really haven't used it enough to form an opinion, but I'd like to hear what others have to say. As Far As I Know, upgrading from it to the aluminum table is still an open option.

Unless your existing table is inadequate for whatever you do with your bandsaw, WHY UPGRADE????

I considered upgrading but, the iron table suits my needs quite adequately. I have no issues with it's size nor, it's lack of a fence.

I have had both and sometimes I wish I could go back to the cast iron table. You can achieve a fence by using the miter gauge in the cross slot and a piece of wood to make a fence. I also have the fence for the newer table but 99% of the cuts that I make on the bandsaw are free hand. I also liked the way the stock would move across the cast iron table provided that the table is well waxed. Much smoother than the newer aluminum table. JMO.
Bill V

Only the cast iron table can use magnetic jigs.

roy_okc wrote:Only the cast iron table can use magnetic jigs.

I can see that being an advantage. If I could have a cast iron (magnetic) Main Table - I would.

Another iron table user checking in, haven't seen the need to upgrade either. There's no problem with the size. To cut large circles I just clamp a sheet of plywood to the table and stick some kind of pin in where it's needed. You can do the same thing for any object of an unwieldy size.

Like Bill V, most of what I do on the bandsaw is free hand so the fence wouldn't matter much but a miter gauge in the cross slot works fine or just clamping down a piece of angle iron.

I have only the iron table and it suits my needs. I made a fence for it out of wood. I've not had my hands on an aluminum table so have no knowledge of it, but expect it would work very similar to my iron one.

donpol,

It will be up to you as to which one you like best. If you are keeping both than you can use either depending on the task.

I have both but have only really used the newer one I have with the aluminum table with fence, extension and circle cutter. I do like those features. I only recently bought and restored a 1956 Greenie Band Saw which still need one item finished. It does not have any upgrades except new bearings.