Looking for a dry chop saw

[FTWingRiders]

Hello all,

I'm curious for your opinion.. I'm just looking to start adding metal capacity to my shop.. Just for my own use, making brackets, weld up a table, etc. Never done anything but the most rudimentary stuff with a hacksaw and a drill press. Figured I should start with a good chop saw so I can at least start making accurate cuts..lol Looking at three..

DeWalt DW870 14" saw https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000302QS/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Makita LC1230 12" saw https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00004YOLV/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Both in the over $400 range. Then there is the Evo for $187

Evolution Rage2 14"https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000WEORGM/ref=psdc_1026922_t1_B0000302QS

Wondering if anyone would could give me some insight on whether the DeWalt or Makita have extra capacities that are worth the extra dollars.

I have a friend who welds thats going to help get me set up so I can start practicing that art. Just being able to fab for my own use around the shop would be so helpful.

Thanks for any help!

 

[tarbellb]

Do some thread searches, you will find a lot of info.

"dry cut", "cold saw", "band saw vs dry cut" will all yield some good info.

 

[63f100eba]

I have the 14" Evolution, still on original blade after hundreds, maybe thousands of mild steel cuts. The vise isn't perfect, the angles are slightly off out of the box and require some adjustment initially, but overall pretty good.

 

[RVA-Jeff]

I have the Makita. Very pleased with it.

 

[saryon7]

I wanted to point out that you might want to think about this as an option.

These things can be had for $200 if you watch the Harbor Freight ads and use a coupon. I have cut a ton of metal with mine and there is just something awesome about being able to have the tool work on its own while you continue other projects! In addition, it is quiet and doesn't make a mess. It has truly made metal working pleasant.

Just a thought...

 

[dnschmidt]

The best of these types of saws is the M. K. Morse. Best vise, best build quality.