The Band Saw Manifesto (Just $9)

If I could own only two electric tools, I’d have a drill and a 14" band saw. More specifically, a pre-Rockwell-era 14" Delta band saw.

These saws are like the original air-cooled Volkswagen Beetle. They will run forever if you take care of them, and there is a robust market for replacement parts and accessories.

If you own a 14" cast-iron band saw, you absolutely should own the Iturra Design catalog. Yes, it’s filled with things you can/should/maybe purchase for your saw. But it’s also a no-BS manual that shows you how to tune your saw better than any book or video I’ve seen.

And here’s the fun part. Iturra Design does not have a website. To get the 260-page catalog, you call them at 904-642-2802 or send an email to iturradesign@gmail.com. And they will tell you to send a check to their Jacksonville, Florida, address. They told us to send $9. Then in a week or two, the catalog arrived.

It is written like a manifesto, with pages of closely set type. Between the meaty articles are accessories and parts. Most of the stuff you cannot find in any other store. Want to upgrade your band saw’s handles and cranks from plastic to beautiful steel and brass? Need replacement pulleys? Tires? Thrust bearings? Not only does Iturra have the parts they have choices at a variety of price points.