Rikon 10-326 14" Bandsaw Review

11/30/2020

I've been using the Rikon 10-326 14" Bandsaw for a few years now. The Bandsaw is my favorite machine/tool in my shop and offers so much versatility. So when it came down to choosing a bandsaw I did a lot of research at the $1000 price point and narrowed it down to the Laguna 14-12 and the Rikon 10-326. Here's why I chose the Rikon.

First things first you always want quality and reliability in any tool or machine. I have owned Rikon machines before and had great luck with them. I've also had positive experiences with their customer service people. One thing that's stands out is an actual person who works at their office in Billerica, Ma. picks up the phone. Good old fashion customer service. On the flip side I've heard horrible stories about Laguna's customer service from people on social media as well as their quality control. I try not to let a few bad stories influence me too much but unfortunately I've heard more than just a few.

Next I started looking at the options on each bandsaw. Bearing guides are a must. I've never been a fan of cooling blocks. Not only did Rikon's bandsaw come equipped with them, but their spring loaded technology makes setting them or adjusting them fast, easy, and accurate.

Next was the fence. Both had tall fences for resaw which you should expect. In the upright position the Rikon fence stands at 6" tall. The fence can also lay down flat for thinner stock with better access and control of the piece. There is also a drift attachment for resawing which is actually really solid and thick.

Last but not least the Rikon 10-326 is the only bandsaw in its class that's a full 13" resaw capacity. Most are 12" or 12-1/2". That extra 1/2" may not seem like much but its nice to have that option or have a little clearance under the guide bearings.

Price was a factor but not a deciding one. I was prepared to spend around $1000. The fact I got all that Rikon offered on sale for $799 was definitely a bonus; but because I value a bandsaw so much I would have spent the $1000 for the Laguna (which was their sale price at the time) if I thought Laguna offered the best product for me.

Ive put it through a lot of use the last handful of years and it hasn't disappointed me yet. One unexpected surprises was the blade quality that came with the machine. It's a 111", 5/8', 4 TPI blade. Part # 19-1105. (See link below) To this day its the best bandsaw blade I've ever used. It was good I sharpened it twice before getting a new blade. I highly recommend the 10-326 to anyone looking to up their bandsaw game.

For more on this Bandsaw click below and check your local Woodcraft, Rockler, or Menards to purchase it.