Bandsaw

7.5 is halfway on a 15" log. Since you want to cut away the center until you've got about 3/4 between the sides of the first ring, it probably equates to a 16 or better.

You can even go a bit more than that if you're working a circle jig. Tilt, trim either side toward the middle, then the middle to size.

Though a lot of urban timber may be over 16, you'll notice that the heart gets more problematic with diameter. That's why most commercial hardwoods are cut around the 16 point, before they start to degrade.

Having used and heartily cursed two older grizzly models, and repaired and re-repaired three other grant-purchased tools up at the school, I wouldn't go around the block for them, much less pay import. Brand-new Delta stands beside the 40 year old Rockwell BS now. The Grizzly is back in the corner gathering dust.

I have heard that the grizzly is a bit rough, but for a hobbist is mayb

a good start. The Jet and the Delta seem good though, has anyone managed to get th Jet or Delta in the Uk with a riser block attachement