help pick new band saw

[piggy]

I have decided to keep the wood cutting band saw that I bought thinking it would cut metal. Ray pointed out to me that it is a well made tool and I will find uses for it. But I still need a metal cutting band saw. I decided to ask for opinions this time as tools are not cheap. I don't need anything elaborate. Something that will last and make occasional angle iron and square tubing cuts the rest will be knife related. Here are the 3 I have narrowed it down to. There is very little difference between the 3.
The 1st one Northern Tools: 3/4 HP, blade sp 80-200, warranty 12 mo. w/ 1 yr extended for $34.99
#2 Harbor Fr.: 1 HP, blade sp 80, 120, 200, warranty 90 days. Lot of complaints w/ stand, needs a lot of adjustments out of the box, vertical plate listed but not included.
#3 Grizzly: 3/4 HP, blade sp 78, 108, 180, warranty 1 yr. most expensive of the 3. I am open to suggestions if there is something better I should get or at least look at.

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/too...120_200365120#

http://www.harborfreight.com/horizon...saw-93762.html

http://www.grizzly.com/products/4-x-...-Bandsaw/G0622

[Ray Rogers]

Those saws are all much the same. I think Grizzly probably offers the best service and stocks pretty much every part for every machine they sell and I know the saw is good because I have one. But, Northern is probably just as good a saw, not sure about their service. Lots of guys have the HF saw which will probably require some fiddling to get it running smoothly but might have the advantage of not having any freight costs if you have a HF nearby - they're all over the place. HF service is sometimes good, sometimes not.

Personally, I wouldn't spend the money on the warranty. If the saw lasts past the first 90 days it will probably last for 10 years or more. Basically, get used to the idea of having to maintain your equipment yourself. No matter which saw you get, buy only Lenox brand bi-metal blades for it (or Starrett bi-metal blades as a second choice). These blades are pricey at about $30 each but if you don't abuse it, it can last for years (or at least, months). Most other blades will die very quickly ...