What is a good portable band saw?

[CharlieS]

Any real advantage of a Milwaukee over DeWalt?

I use a lot of both DeWalt and Milwaukee power tools and find no advantage with one over the other with one exception. Depending on the tool, (a good example of this is my Milwaukee sawzall) is handle shape/design. On some tools the decision to go with DeWalt the tool handles just fit my hands better.

 

[jimmysisson]

I have a Metabo 2 speed saw that's probably 20 years old and has had lots of use. Only thing I don't like is the trigger is on a spring I find too hard for a long cut. Go to a store and try the hand-fit of the saw and the blade changing and fence moving so you know what you're getting into. Oh and the trigger.
Jim

 

[GeneD14]

I have had great luck with my Porter Cable for many years. It has a variable speed dial also.
I think that you would be safe with any of the professional grade brands mentioned.

 

[RobertBrown]

"I did the stupid human tricks with the Horrible Freight band saws and they voided my warranty after the 3rd replacement in a week."

I try to stay with the tools that have few or no moving parts when I shop HF.
We have used Milwaukee band saws in a commercial application for 30 years. I don't think I've ever seen one fail, they just get "obtained" if you know what I mean.
Spare parts are easy to come by, for example, the cord will need to be replaced after a few years and the power cords are universal so they are not very expensive