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Many people said that a scroll saw is a waste, but only real woodworkers know the importance of this tool. After reading the best scroll saw reviews, you will understand why we need it.
A band saw can’t perform some tasks which only a scroll saw can do, making intricate cuts, for example.
However, before making perfect results, having a suitable scroll saw is a must. Many readers said that they don’t have enough knowledge to choose the best one. There is never the best for everyone. You can base on your demand and preference to pick up an appropriate product.
Below, we will let you know what the scroll saw is, how to choose, and of course, the top 5 products on the market:
Table of Contents
What is Scroll Saw?
A scroll saw (pedal-operated saw) is a small electric machine which is used to cut intricate pieces of metal, wood, and other materials. Compared to a power jigsaw, the fineness of its blade makes more delicate cuts.
It’s easier to use than a fretsaw or a hand coping saw. The best capacity is to create curves with edges when you pivot its table.
How To Choose The Best Scroll Saw?
Choosing the best scroll saw based on your demands
Investing in a proper scroll saw can change your life, but buying the wrong product is a waste. Therefore, you should carefully learn how to choose the best scroll saw with the following considerations:
Platform
The platform of a scroll saw is the work table. Usually, everyone wants to have a big enough work table, which allows them to perform many different projects.
Furthermore, it must be sturdy because the running blade may cause vibration. A stable platform can minimize vibration and make more delicate cuts.
The arm of the scroll saw
The link arm and holding down the arm can also help you reduce vibration. Each different model has different kind of arms to hold your work in place.
Based on our experiences, we strongly recommend you choose the double parallel-link arm. If possible, you had better purchase the adjustable link arm that will determine the thickness of the wood.
Throat size
The throat size helps you determine the volume of work that you need to complete when using the scroll saw. It is the distance from the front to the back of the blade. Usually, you will see 22-inch-16-inch scroll saw on the box.
It’s best if you can cut double the size of the scroll saws throat, but this thing depends on your preference and demands.
Blades
This is one of the most critical parts of a scroll saw. There are two basic kinds: pinned and unpinned blades.
Pinned blades work well for bigger and less intricate pieces of wood while unpinned ones are great to make the fine detailed cuts. Thus, you must know what you need to cut to choose a proper saw and blade.
The majority of the newest products allows you to change the blade quickly. This is important and necessary for those who use their scroll saw regularly because the blade tends to wear over time.
Another crucial thing is the blade storage. We see that most of the workshops are usually messy all the time. You won’t want your important item is misplaced in a mess, right?
Variable control speed
The variable control speed allows you to adjust the different cuts to fit each project.
The more powerful unit allows you to cut through thicker pieces of wood while the slow blade suits to cut delicate pieces more.
Other features
The best scroll saw should have other added features such as an adjustable dust blower/ a dust port, and a light. Pay attention that using flashlight is hard to make exact cuts. We strongly recommend adjusted LED lights.
Top 10 Scroll Saw 2024
Best Scroll Saw Reviews 2024
Even when you know how to choose an appropriate scroll saw, it’s difficult to pick up one while there are thousands of products available on the market. Thus, let you refer to our best scroll saw based on our experiences as well as others’.
1 – WEN 3921 16-inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw
WEN 3921 has a lot of outstanding features which you find in the expensive brands.
Here are the examples:
The dual direction cutting capability allows you to cut both forwards and backward, so you save a significant amount of time, and you will complete your projects quicker.
It’s fine to use WEN 3921 for bigger projects because of its enormous 16 inches – 11 inches cutting platform allows you to cut wood up to 2 inches thick.
Are you worried about an accident when using this machine?
There is a hold down to lock in your works. It will keep the whole model from moving and sliding while the blade is working. The lockdown clamp makes sure that you cut all the time precisely.
Moreover, the saw comes with other accessories like an adjustable air pump and flexible light. The former will clean off the dust to ensure that you can see your work clearly to avoid wrong cuts. The latter provides you with more light to support your work in low-light conditions better.
There are two blade cutting positions, so you have 2 choices: the standard use (cutting front and back) and the pinned position (cutting the width of the table.)
Like other products, you can adjust 550-1600 strokes per minutes to control the moving speed of the blade. This guarantees safety for beginners while performing.
Though the design of this scroll allows you to switch the blades, it’s not easy to perform. You may seek help from professionals.
It is not easy to find high-level safety and effectiveness, so you should invest in this product if you can solve its problem perfectly.
Pros
- A two-year warranty
- The support of the skilled technicians
- Impressive design
- Low price
- Smooth operation
Cons
- Not well-built
2 – Delta Power Tools 40-694 20 In. Variable Speed Scroll Saw
Its electronic variable speed allows you to adjust from 1750-400 SPM, so that you can perform a variety of cuttings.
It features dual parallel link arms to make sure an effective operation without causing primary vibration.
Because it comes with a tilt table, each cut is at an ideal angle.
If you want to change the blade, the good news is that it’s effortless. This task only requires you a few minutes without any tool.
Apart from the machine, the package also includes a storage thing, which contains 2 blades (this is great to retain their sharpness).
When it comes to accessories, we can’t but mention its adjustable dust hose, helping you blow dust from the working area. It enables you to see everything around to avoid cutting wrongly.
Moreover, there is an adjustable light, supporting you to work in low-lighting conditions.
Although this Delta Power Tools 40-694 is pretty heavy, about 60 pounds, this is a long-lasting investment.
In case you want to improve your overall performance, its upgraded versions with a higher price may be useful. However, we think that this machine is good enough to complete most of the tasks. For us, the weight is not a big issue since we don’t tend to move it regularly.
Pros
- A five-year limited warranty
- Quiet
- Cheap
- Easy to switch
- Well-built
Cons
- Doesn’t have a stand
3- Shop Fox W1872 16-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw
Although this saw isn’t designed with the parallel arm link to minimize vibration, you will still feel great after learning its amazing features as follows:
It’s straightforward to remove the blades. Moreover, all essential tools are available in the package to perform different tasks. You don’t have to spend any extra amount of money.
Here is the best part:
The majority of the projects which need to use a scroll saw is in low-lighting conditions such as basements and garages. Thus, you should consider Shop Fox W1872 with price under $200, which comes with the gooseneck work light, supporting you to have a clear view of your working space.
Apart from that, there is a fixed dust blower and dust port to blow dirt away from your working area.
While its variable speeds allow you to adjust your work on the table, its variable tilt table can tilt up to 45 degrees to make sure that you cut your items at many different angles.
Though the cast iron material brings durability, this compact model is lightweight enough to move around your workplace.
It doesn’t create significant vibration, so you should invest in this great product at a reasonable price if your cutting skill is good enough.
Pros
- A two-year warranty
- Quiet
- Reasonable
- Stable table
Cons
- A bit hard to adjust the proper amount of pressure
4 – DEWALT DW788 1.3 Amp 20-Inch Variable-Speed Scroll Saw
Dewalt DW788 with price under $500, which is famous for long-lasting products, is a trustable brand. It is designed for beginners, which means even the most novice can cut intricate and detailed pieces on any project.
Here is its exceptional feature:
The double parallel-link arm significantly minimizes the vibration, which is a regular issue of any scroll saw. This helps you produce clear cuts as precise as possible.
It also features the flexible dust blower, which takes responsibility for blowing dirt away. There is no build-up of dust that will obstruct the clarity while cutting.
How do you think about the design of this machine?
It is unique, right?
The saw pivots from front to back to cut down the overall movement so that the end will be smoother.
Its variable speed controls (ranging 400-1750 strokes per minute) allow you to slow down or speed up at anytime. This works well for each specific project.
When it comes to weight, it is 56 pounds, so it’s pretty easy and convenient for you to move this lightweight and compact machine from place to place.
This product doesn’t fit those who have a tight budget.
Although it’s expensive, this is a worthy investment. If you can spend this amount of money, you should consider this saw.
Pros
- Unessential to change the blade
- A Dewalt warranty package including 3-years limited warranty.
- Quiet
- Sturdy and stable
- Easy to use
Cons
- Not good customer service
5 – Dremel MS20-01 Moto-Saw Variable Speed Compact Scroll Saw
The Dremel MS2001 MotoSaw Variable Speed Compact Scroll Saw is a great option for anyone looking for a quality scroll saw. This saw is designed for easy use, with a variable speed control that allows you to adjust the speed to match the material you are working with. It also has a compact design, making it easy to store and transport.
The MS2001 Moto-Saw comes with a variety of features that make it a great option for a variety of projects. The saw has a 0 to 5,000 rpm speed range, which allows you to match the speed to the material you are working with. It also has a quick-release blade tension system, which makes it easy to change the blade. The kit also includes a dust port that helps keep your work area clean, and a work light that makes it easier to see your work.
Pros
- This feature allows users to adjust the speed of the saw to match the material they are cutting and the type of cut they are making, resulting in more precise and accurate cuts.
- The Dremel MS20-01 is designed to be compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport and store, and ideal for use in tight spaces or for those who have limited storage space.
- The Dremel MS20-01 is designed to be easy to use, with a simple and intuitive control panel and a comfortable grip handle.
- The Dremel MS20-01 can be used to make a wide variety of cuts, including straight, curved, and angled cuts, making it suitable for a wide range of projects.
Cons
- The Dremel MS20-01 is not as powerful as some other scroll saws, which may make it less suitable for heavy-duty or professional use.
FAQs – scroll saw
Scroll saws are a great way to make intricate cuts in wood. Here are some FAQs about scroll saws to help you get started.
1. What is a scroll saw?
A scroll saw is a saw that is used to make intricate cuts in wood. It has a small blade that can be turned to make curves and other shapes.
2. What are the different types of scroll saws?
There are a few different types of scroll saws: the standard scroll saw, the jigsaw scroll saw, and the band saw scroll saw.
3. What is the difference between a scroll saw and a jigsaw?
The main difference between a scroll saw and a jigsaw is that a jigsaw has a reciprocating blade, while a scroll saw has a blade that moves up and down.
4. What is the difference between a scroll saw and a band saw?
The main difference between a scroll saw and a band saw is that a band saw has a continuous blade, while a scroll saw has a blade that moves up and down.
5. What type of blade should I use for my project?
It depends on the project you are working on. There are a variety of blades available, and each one is designed for a different type of cut.
6. How do I change the blade on my scroll saw?
To change the blade on your scroll saw, you will need to remove the upper blade guard. Then, you can loosen the screws on the blade holder and remove the old blade. You can then install the new blade and tighten the screws.
7. How do I adjust the speed of my scroll saw?
To adjust the speed of your scroll saw, you will need to remove the upper blade guard. Then, you can turn the speed adjustment knob to the desired speed.
8. How do I make a curve with my scroll saw?
To make a curve with your scroll saw, you will need to use a scroll saw blade that is designed for curves. You can then adjust the speed of the saw and the depth of the cut to make the curve you want.
9. How do I make a straight cut with my scroll saw?
To make a straight cut with your scroll saw, you will need to use a scroll saw blade that is designed for straight cuts. You can then adjust the speed of the saw and the depth of the cut to make the cut you want.
10. What are some common mistakes people make when using a scroll saw?
Some common mistakes people make when using a scroll saw are using the wrong blade for the project, not adjusting the speed of the saw, and not adjusting the depth of the cut.
Cutting your pieces now!
Are the best scroll saw reviews informative? Have you chosen an appropriate scroll saw after reading this article? What information do you want to know more? Please leave your comments below.
In case you are not sure about your decision, you can refer to our choice. We choose DEWALT DW788 because it is a long-lasting product. We can cut intricate and detailed materials. What’s more, we are not an expert in this cutting work, so its double parallel-link arm will help us minimize the vibration.
Now, it’s time for you to make your decision and don’t forget to share our article with the people in need as well.