Are we thinking of the same thing? I thought you were talking about something like this.

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/pho...3799/93762.gif

I'm considering either that or a chop saw. Haven't decided yet.

If you buy a horizontal band saw (the grizzly link) make sure it isn't a total piece of shit. I bought one, only to have it throw the blade every 30sec of cutting. I took mine back and bought a 14" makita chop saw. I like the size and versitility of my chop saw. That portable bandsaw looks like a pain in the ass to try and use and is probably slower than Hustler's mom.

For aluminum I'd like to try cutting it on my compound miter saw or table saw. I've used a jigsaw and sawzall with OK results already.

oops, sorry i was drunk. but yes that will cut 3" pipe, most will cut something like 4"x6" or a little more.

I've been giving that horizontal bandsaw some serious thought lately. There is a huge community of people that have bought them and modified them. There are plans to build a better stand and everyone says that with new blades it cuts through metal like butter.

If you get a bi-metal blade from Starrett, it will last you a year of reasonable use. I actually have had good luck with the Grizzly bi-metal blades, too. Just picked up a new one this week when I was in the showroom.

Mine is now 6 years old and going strong. I use it all the time. I use a small machinist's square to set the fence to 90* after cutting an angle. Good blades will cut straight verically. If one doesn't cut straight through, it's most likely the blade. I've had to use the standard blades before in a pinch and they dont do well.

Thats really good to know. I think i've read enough about it to just go ahead and buy it instead of a chop saw.