Best Scroll Saw 2022 for Craftsmen & Professionals | A Guide from an Experienced Technician
What is the best scroll saw? If you are looking for your perfect scroll saw, then it can become a challenging task as there are so many options available from different brands. Each unit features specific characteristics and behavior suitable for a particular application. Not all of them are made similarly. However, the most advanced models combine both power and that stunning accuracy expected from the scroll saw. Besides, it should ensure smooth running with no vibrations.
It should be safe in operation and feature all the necessary user-friendly parameters like variable speed control, dust blowing, lightening of the working area, etc. In particular, the DW788 by DEWALT offers the above-mentioned opportunities and even more!
Why have I chosen this model? This model is offered by a well-known brand with a good reputation of a reliable tool manufacturer worldwide, and it is a flying start, isn’t’ it? And the DW788 is a good case in point. Although this scroll saw is offered at a higher price in comparison with its counterparts, the majority of the reviews from the happy owners say that it is worth its money! It can be explained by the accuracy and fineness obtained by this model due to the ergonomic and sturdy design, reliable and powerful motor with an ability to vary the speed of a blade, and a sufficient cutting capacity to perform DIY or professional-grade jobs.
Why do you need a good scroll saw?
The fineness of wood carvings or delicacy of art works are possible to achieve only by using a scroll saw. It is a power unit preferred by DIY craftsmen and professionals instead of the out-of-date manual sawing tools. As the name says, the scroll saw is designed to make scrollwork and intricate patterns from wood, soft metals and other materials due to its ultra-intricate cutting ability.
The design and principle of operation of the scroll saw is similar to a band saw. The main difference is that the blade of a band saw is a rotating continuous loop, whereas the blade of a scroll saw is mounted between the top arm and the bottom, and performs in a reciprocating motion. I would say that, the band saws are designed for cutting, whereas the scroll saws are mainly used for a sophisticated crafting.
Before starting to operate a scroll saw, the work piece to be processed should be drilled to make a hole for a scroll saw blade. The latter is inserted in the hole and mounted on the arm. And that’s all, your saw is ready now to make various unique items with intricate profiles and patterns like wooden toys, promotional merchandise, small pieces of furniture, etc.
However, due to the low speed, an operation of a scroll saw is unprofitable for large-scale industrial purposes. But that doesn’t diminish all the unique opportunities of the scroll saws which are highly demanded at the DIY workshops and design studios.
In order to make the right choice which will perfectly suit your tasks, you should know about the main distinctive features of a scroll saw. This is exactly what I’m going to review in this guide with the best products insight.
Advantages of the scroll saw
There is a number of benefits of the scroll saw in comparison with a band saw, jigsaw or a hand coping saw which makes it perfect for making complicated intricate cuts of all shapes and profiles.
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First of all, it is considered to be a universal unit used for various cutting – shaped, curved, rip and beveled cuts on various types of materials like wood, non-ferrous metals, plastic, etc.
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Its working table can be tilted up to 45 degrees both left and right, that allows making angled cuts. The side guide contributes to higher accuracy even when performing the most delicate jobs. For instance, in comparison with a band saw which offers more versatility in use, a scroll saw is capable of much more precise and intricate cutting.
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The edge surface of a scroll saw cut has better smoothness. Commonly, the machined surface doesn’t require any finishing, like sanding or polishing, in contrast with other sawing processes.
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Besides, being a high-precision power machine, it is still quite compact and small-footprint saw.
Features to be considered when looking for a scroll saw | Buyer’s Guide
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Motor. A motor of a scroll saw is generally mounted at the rear side of the unit with two arms holding the blade. Such saws are not extremely powerful tools in comparison with other types of power saws. But still, they should have enough power to cut through comparatively thick stock. That is why you should consider those models featuring at least 1.25 amp motors.
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Speed. The speed of a scroll saw blade shall be selected depending on the thickness and hardness of the material to be cut. For this reason, most advanced scroll saws offer a variable speed control which is a very useful function. It allows adjusting the blade speed which is measured in strokes per minute or SPM to enhance the general quality of cuts.
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Throat. The throat of a scroll saw is determined as a distance from the rear frame of the saw to the blade. The throat determines the size of a stock to be cut. Thus, it should be chosen in accordance with the project or job you are going to execute with the help of your saw. Smaller scroll saws usually feature 12 inches throat, while professional models may be up to 30 inches.
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Blades. Scroll saws can be used with different blade types for various purposes. There are two common types of blades that can be distinguished, namely pin-end and plain-end blades.
The pin-end blades are larger and capable of cutting through thicker and harder materials. Besides, these blades are easy to install due to pins at both ends to hold it in place.
Plain-end blades have no pins at the ends, just a flat surface, so they have to be clamped with additional attachments to hold the end in place with further tension adjustment. However, only this type of blades is suitable for making genuine intricate and delicate cuts.
Best scroll saws
1. DEWALT DW788 | Best overall
DEWALT is one of the leading manufacturers of power tools on the US market with more than 90 years of experience. The company designs, manufactures and sells a big variety of power saws like jigsaws, band saws, scroll saws and others, both corded and cordless. Their products are highly demanded and recognizable worldwide for the perfect balance of a high quality and performance they offer.
The DW788 scroll saw features a reliable 1.3 Amp motor which delivers enough power to cut 20 inches wide and up to 2 inches deep. This model comes with an electronic variable-speed control which allows speed adjustment from 400 up to 1,750 SPM.
This saw is designed in a user-friendly manner. In particular, its double parallel arm serves for convenience of an operator during the cutting process. Its special design will damp vibration and ensure perpendicularity of the saw to any stock to be cut, thus reducing any risk of over or under cutting. This model comes with a large, cast-iron working table which allows cutting bigger stock and the opportunity to bevel from left and right sides. The blade can be quickly and easily changed by means of an integrated clamp without any additional tools.
Besides, this saw demonstrates on-off switch, flexible dust blower and blade-tensioning lever which contribute to safety and accuracy during its operation and facilitates the overall process from pre-adjustments to the operation itself.
Features
- Power source: Electric-corded
- Blade speed MAX (SPM): 1750
- Cutting capacity: 20" wide x 2" deep
- Weight (lbs): 56
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 29.5 x 19.5 x 12.1
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To my mind, the DW788 is one of the top state-of-the-art scroll saws on the market. It can be successfully used by craftsmen both amateurs and professionals as it combines the simplicity in use and a number of the most advanced features of the modern scroll saw.
DEWALT: Check the current price
2. DELTA POWER TOOLS 40-694 | Best performance
DELTA Power Equipment Corporation is one of the most recognizable brands in woodworking tools with more than 100 years of expertise on the US market. Nowadays, the company is focusing on production of woodworking professional-grade machinery with its distribution to the domestic and foreign markets.
The 40-694 offers an electronic variable speed control from 400-1750 SPM with 2⅛ inches depth and 20 inches width cutting due to its powerful 1.3-amp motor. This scroll saw is also capable of 45-degree angled left and right cutting with its table tilting mechanism.
A blade tensioning lever of this saw simplifies pre-adjustment procedure. Also, this model is equipped with a clamp which allows easy and quick blade replacement.
The dual parallel-link arm design of this saw contributes to a smooth operation with minimum vibration. An adjustable dust hose is another useful feature to remove cutting dust from the working area, thus improving the visibility and accuracy of cutting.
Features
- Power source: Electric-corded
- Blade speed MAX (SPM): 1750
- Cutting capacity: 20" wide x 2 1/8" deep
- Weight (lbs): 60
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 30 x 20 x 13
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This advanced scroll saw comes with numerous outstanding features that make it one of the best options on the market. Thus, it can be successfully used even for some professional-grade projects, despite the fact that it has proved to be an excellent option for a beginner, as well.
Delta: Check the current price
3. WEN 3921 | Best budget
This model primarily gains attention due to its unique design and variety of multiple features it comes with. In particular, its blade holder matches both pin-end and plain-end blades with the tool-free thumb screw blade adapter. More than that, the direction of cuts can be changed, if necessary. An operator can switch from standard to 90-degree cutting, depending on a size and shape of a particular workpiece, and thus enhancing the ripping capacity of the unit.
The tool also comes with a variable speed setting from 550 to 1600 SPM to have better control of the process depending on the material being cut. This ability allows tackling up to 2-inch deep and 16-inch wide cutting in the standard position.
Supported by a cast-iron based, the 16-by-11-inch table of this scroll saw tilts 45 degrees left for angled cuts and minimizes vibration during operation.
Also, this model features an adjustable air pump and a dust port for removing sawing wastes from the cutting line and thus enhancing visibility and final accuracy. The saw also comes with a flexible work light which can be adjusted to any position. It comes with an extra bonus in the form of an onboard storage, thus eliminating any arrangement or storage issues.
Features
- Power source: Electric-corded
- Blade speed MAX (SPM): 1600
- Cutting capacity: 9/16" wide x 2" deep
- Weight (lbs): 26.2
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 26.4 x 13 x 14.8
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I would recommend this model as one of the best budget options, featuring numerous useful functions and offering reliability with its sturdy design.
4. SHOP FOX W1713 | Best value
The SHOP FOX is a part of the Woodstock International, the global supplier of woodworking and metalworking machinery with more than 100-year experience on the market. The broad selection of the machines includes options for commercial and DIY applications, known for the excellent overall quality.
The W1713 runs with a 1.2 amp motor which is capable to provide plenty of power to perform complicated cuts. Its speed can be varied from 550 to1,650 SPM. This model demonstrates standard values of 2 inches deep and 16 inches width cut in its class.
This scroll saw is capable to make angled cuts from 0 to 45-degrees by means of its table tilt mechanism. The W1713 can be fitted with standard pin-end or plain-end blades which can be installed and removed with the included adapters easily.
A flexible work light, dust blower and dust port, and an adjustable hold-down shoe to fix the workpiece in place while cutting, are other worthy features of this model.
Features
- Power source: Electric-corded
- Blade speed MAX (SPM): 1650
- Cutting capacity: 16" wide x 2" deep
- Weight (lbs): 37.5
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 12.8 x 26.4 x 15.9
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The W1713 is a great scroll saw with the basic features which can be primarily anticipated by any craftsman. Besides, it’s an affordable unit of a good quality.
Shop Fox: Check the current price
Best-Selling Scroll Saws | Comparison Table
WEN 3921 16-inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw
- Unique design accepts blades in two directions (standard and 90 degrees) to allow for infinite ripping capacity
- Variable speed goes from 400 to 1600 strokes per minute
- Spacious 16-by-11-inch table bevels up to 45 degrees to the left for angled cuts
- Cuts wood up to 2 inches thick with a 16-inch throat depth in the standard position
- Features a thumb screw blade adapter for tool-free blade changes, a cast iron base, an air pump, a flex light, a dust port, a foot lock clamp, onboard storage, and three blades
WEN 3922 16-inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw with Easy-Access Blade Changes
- Unique side panel flips open for easy-access blade changes
- Variable speed goes from 550 to 1600 strokes per minute
- Spacious 16-by-10-inch table bevels up to 45 degrees for angled cuts
- Cuts wood up to 2 inches thick with a 16-inch throat depth
- Features a thumb screw blade adapter for tool-free blade changes, a cast iron base, an air pump, a dust port, a foot lock clamp, and three 5-inch blades
DEWALT Scroll Saw, Variable-Speed, 1.3 Amp, 20-Inch (DW788)
- Double parallel link arm design dramatically reduces vibration and noise for extremely accurate cuts
- Exclusive tool free blade clamps allow blade changes in seconds. Depth of Cut (inches): 2 inch
- On off switch, electronic variable speed, flexible dust blower, and blade tensioning lever all located on front upper arm
- Arm design pivots from back of the saw to front, shortening the arm movement for smoother, quieter operation
- Arm lifts so blade can be easily threaded through the material for inside cuts
WEN 3921 16-inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw & 4208 8 in. 5-Speed Drill Press
- Product 1: Unique design accepts blades in two directions (standard and 90 degrees) to allow for infinite ripping capacity
- Product 1: Variable speed goes from 400 to 1600 strokes per minute
- Product 1: Spacious 16-by-11-inch table bevels up to 45 degrees to the left for angled cuts
- Product 1: Cuts wood up to 2 inches thick with a 16-inch throat depth in the standard position
- Product 2: Includes a 1/2-inch keyed chuck and onboard key storage
- Product 2: Operates at 5 different speeds: 740, 1100, 1530, 2100, 3140 RPM
- Product 2: Spindle travels up to 2 inches with easy to read, locking linear depth stops for accurate and repeatable drilling operations.Cord Length (ft.):6
- Product 2: Durable 1/3 HP induction motor develops ample torque and power
WEN 3921 16-inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw & OLSON SAW FR49501 Pin End Scroll Saw Blade,18 Pack
- Product 1: Unique design accepts blades in two directions (standard and 90 degrees) to allow for infinite ripping capacity
- Product 1: Variable speed goes from 400 to 1600 strokes per minute
- Product 1: Spacious 16-by-11-inch table bevels up to 45 degrees to the left for angled cuts
- Product 1: Cuts wood up to 2 inches thick with a 16-inch throat depth in the standard position
- Product 2: The product is Easy installation and easy handling
- Product 2: The product is manufactured in USA
- Product 2: The product is easy to use and highly durable
- Product 2: Cuts in hard/soft wood and plastic
DEWALT DW788 1.3 Amp 20-Inch Variable-Speed Scroll Saw with Scroll-Saw Stand and Work Light
- Double parallel link arm design dramatically reduces vibration and noise for extremely accurate cuts
- Exclusive tool free blade clamps allow blade changes in seconds
- On off switch, electronic variable speed, flexible dust blower, and blade tensioning lever all located on front upper arm
- Sturdy, lightweight stand
- Robust all metal construction
- Adjustable legs allows height adjustment for optimum comfort
- Flexible neck for easy positioning
- 25 watt bulb included
- For use with the DW788 scroll saw
BUCKTOOL 16-inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw Pin or Pinless Blade with Pedal Switch Cast Iron Work Table
- Variable Speed: 1.2-Amp DC Motor for Quiet, Smooth Performance
- LED Worklight: Vibration-free LED light with no light bounce provides a clear view when cutting
- Pedal Switch Design: With a hands-free convenience pedal switch for easily stop and start the tool with the tap of your foot when you need to drill a new hole, change blade, or if an emergency occurs
- Quick-Change Blade System: Quick-Change Blade System with Quick open side panel and user-friendly blade holder, easy for blade changing, attached with 3 blades 2 with pin and 1 pinless
- Cast Iron Table: Heavy-duty 16-by-9-inch cast iron work table bevels up to 45 degrees to the left for angled cuts. Cutting depth is 2-Inch with a 16-Inch throat depth
