Best Scroll Saws Reviews & Ratings
When it comes to mechanical saws, there’s the chainsaw – used more commonly for cutting down trees (and the art of trunk sculpting), jigsaw or reciprocating saw (although not great for straight lines, comes in handy when you are cutting out shapes in plywood), table saw (for ripping, crosscutting and mitering), and the miter saw (used to cut angles), to name a few.
Our Top 3 Picks
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When most people first hear the word saw, they probably immediately think about a manual handsaw. But there are so many other types of saws, both manual and machine. Manual saws, for example, come in all forms – the handsaw as mentioned, a hacksaw (used more for metal and plastic cutting), and coping saws (more popularly used by artists).
But what about the scroll saw? When you hear the term scroll saw, you might first be caught by the word scroll. And in fact, scroll saws derived their name due to being used for decorative scrollwork. A scroll saw is actually a slender bladed saw that is used primarily for intricately cut spiral shapes and patterns. It is typically either small, electric or pedal-operated, and is used not just with wood, but also with metal and other materials. Not to be mistaken with the other thin bladed jigsaw, a scroll saw can be similar to a jigsaw in that it can be used to manipulate edges, however, a scroll saw is more capable of creating curves.
Scroll saws are used with a variety of materials besides wood, such as some metals (with a specific scroll saw blade), cork, ivory, and plastic. Due to its use of creating fine lines, a scroll saw is used for such projects as lettered signs, dovetail joints, and wooden portraits. The size of the blade used in a scroll saw determines how intricate the design aspect can be. The downfall is that since all scroll saw blades are relatively small and thin for these projects, they are easier to bend and possibly break.
Important things to keep in mind when picking the right scroll saw – most importantly blade speed. Single speed scroll saws are not as easy to manipulate as per say a multi-speed machine. Blade choice is another thing to keep in mind. The type of blade you use coincides with the project material you are working with, be it metal, wood, ivory, etc. Another important thing to consider is the distance from the blade to the support arm, or throat size, as this can be very limiting.
10 Best Scroll Saws
1. DEWALT DW788
Unlike other brands, it has reduced noise and vibration due to the design of the link arm incorporated by Dewalt. This also allows for very accurate and precise cuts made with ease and control. Looking to make intricate designs such as lettering and scenery? Then this is the product for you - its design allows the blade to pass easily anywhere with the blade remaining in a perpendicular position at all times.
On the downside, although the DEWALT DW788 does include a warranty, it is a limited 3 year warranty which includes a 1-year contract which is free and a 90-day guarantee.
Dealing with Dewalt’s customer service is also not very efficient and smooth which is unexpected considering their popularity as a brand.
- Well known brand
- Durability
- On/Off Switch
- Exclusive tool-free blade clamps
- Electronic variable speed
- Flexible dust blower
- Includes built-in blade tensioning lever
- Bevels 45 degrees to the left and right
- Meets OSHA standards
- CSA approved
- L. listed
- Comes with stand and worklight option
- Pricey
- Table alignment inaccurate and non-fixable
- Very noisy and heavy vibration, despite advertisement for low noise/vibration
- Excessive forward/backward blade movement
- Original packaging frequently missing parts/manual
- Poor customer service/product repairs
2. Delta Power Tools 40-694
The 40-694 comes equipped with a dual parallel link arm which reduces vibration and noise, which not only offers improved accuracy to the user but also delivers the high-quality cut that Delta products specialize in. The saw has electronic variable speeds that go from 400 to 1,750 SPM, allowing the user to have a wide choice of uses. The saw’s upper arm has a lift/lock function that allows the arm to work in a raised position for fretwork (perfect for blade changes and adjusting blade position).
Like all of the Delta Power Equipment Products, the warranty on the Delta Power Tools 40-694 20 In. Variable Speed Scroll Saw is a limited five-year warranty on new machines with only two years on new accessories. At the discretion of Delta Power Equipment, they will either repair or replace the product while covered under warranty, however, all transportation costs are the responsibility of the owner of the saw. Similar to other companies that sell similar products, the warranty repair/return service is less than stellar and not always efficient.
- Popular Brand
- Offers options for purchasing with or without a light and stand
- Low vibration/noise
- Comes with dust blower and lamp
- Easy blade change/storage
- Easy blade tension adjustment
- Variable electronic speeds
- Easy assembly
- Limited five year warranty
- Poor customer service responses
- Insufficient manual instructions
- Shoddy plastic knob to control angling of table
3. Shop Fox W1713
As with other brands, the saw boasts of easy blade changes while also accepting plain and pin end blades with adapters that are included as part of the package.
Since Shop Fox is a subdivision of Woodstock International, Inc., the Shop Fox warranty falls under the same one advertised by Woodstock International, Inc. They offer a two-year limited warranty from the date of original purchase by the original owner (as long as it is purchased from an authorized dealer). The warranty does not apply to defects caused by misuse or neglect. If the W1713 is determined by Woodstock International, Inc. to not be a product defect under warranty, the owner of the product becomes responsible for the cost of shoring and returning the product.
- Allows for use of both plain and pin end blades
- Includes work light
- Variable Speed Control
- Two way dust control feature
- Tilt lock cast iron table
- Mounting can be difficult
- High vibration
- Work light not very bright
4. Dremel MS20-01
Very lightweight, the kit comes in at roughly a whopping 9.5 pounds. Despite being a name that is familiar to many, Dremel offers only a limited warranty, and requires repairs to be made through the mail which can become inconvenient to the owner.
- Inexpensive
- Compact and portable
- Perfect for small projects
- Great beginner scroll saw
- Ease of changing blades
- Quiet with low vibration
- Includes sturdy carrying case
- Quick and easy setup
- Pricey
- Does not allow use of pin-less blades
- Not good for long cuts
- Easy to break blades
- Limited to cutting thin material
5. SKIL 3335-07
The SKIL 3335-07 is a low budget, durable saw with many of the features included on some of the higher end competitors. For instance, it includes an integrated dust removal system. This comes in handy for sight line when cutting, keeping the area free of debris and dust. It also comes with a built in LED work light, and includes electronic variable speed control, allowing the user to cut various types of materials.
As with many of the competition, it allows for integrated storage for keeping blades accessible while working. It also includes keyless blade change for more efficient blade changes mid-project.
It also comes with a limited three year warranty.
- Competitive pricing
- Includes LED worklight
- Perfect for novices and pros alike
- Aluminum tiltable table
- Integrated dust removal system
- Integrated blade storage
- Keyless blade changes
- Low noise/vibration
- High vibration and noise
- Pinless blades usable, but shaky
- Bolt tabs not sturdy
- Potential blade shifting
6. Craftsman 16"
The Craftsman 00921602000P can be used for a variety of projects, whether starting from scratch or cleaning up an already begun project. The Craftsman scroll saw can be used for not only soft and hardwoods, but also for plastic and soft metals. It comes with a comparable variable speed rate of 400 to 1,600 strokes per minute. As with other companies offering a similar product, the Craftsman 16" Variable Speed Scroll Saw 00921602000P also comes standard with a cast iron work table which includes a 45-degree tilt, great for bevel cuts.
While it does accept standard 5-inch pin and plain end blades, it is limited to a 2-inch maximum cutting thickness at 90 degrees, and 1-inch cutting thickness at 45 degrees. However, it does come with a throat of 16 inches. The Craftsman machine includes built-in storage for extra blades, and comes with 4 pin and blank end blades as well as a blade wrench.
The 00921602000P does require some assembly when first used, but the instruction manual is detailed and accurate. It comes with a standard Craftsman limited one year warranty on factory defects. Made out of heavy metal and limited plastic, it is unlikely you will need to activate that limited warranty in one-year time frame.
- Priced to sell
- Perfect for novices and pros alike
- Easy assembly
- Includes cutting of soft and hard wood, plastic, soft metals
- Compact size
- Cast iron tiltable table
- Good customer service
- High vibration and noise
- Blade change can be awkward
- Included allen wrench too short
- Does not include a light
7. WEN 3920
It allows the user of the saw to change the direction of their cut, and do not limit the user to only the 16-inch throat of the saw. The blades can be used in two directions – standard and 90 degrees.
- Great pricing
- Easy to manipulate
- Quick blade change
- Great for hobbyists
- Cast iron base
- Blade holder
- LED Work Work light
- Variable speeds
- Considered “bouncy” if not secured when in use, especially in high speeds
- Air pump not reliable
- Neck is easily cracked
- Blade holder not in ideal location
- Blade slippage
8. PORTER-CABLE 18
The saw includes a built in blade holder and adjustable LED light, along with a cam action blade tension adjustment feature. This enables users to efficiently change blades, both pin, and plain (5-inch maximum length).
As with similar products, Porter-Cable offers a 3-year warranty with free service for up to 1 year year.
- Great pricing
- Quick blade change
- Aluminum frame
- Cast iron base
- Integrated blade holder
- Comes with stand
- Variable speeds
- Dust port for vacuum connection
- Loose blade arm
- Poor customer service
- Unbalanced stand
- Light is too short
9. ShopSeries RK7315
Although it does not come with a stand, the saw comes with two 5 inch tungsten carbide blades, with a throat depth of 16 inches. This allows a cutting capacity of up to 2 inches at 90 degrees and 1 3/16 inches at 45 degrees.The ShopSeries scroll saw also comes with integrated storage, allowing the user to store the blades with the saw, and prevent them from getting lost or broken.
Rockwell advertises a manufacturer warranty of 2 years from the purchase date against defects in materials for the ShopSeries RK7315. The warranty can only be used if there is a dated proof of purchase sent with the tool via postage prepaid shipping to an approved service center with all contents of the original package. The warranty states if properly received, Rockwell will determine whether to replace or repair the tool.
- Comparable pricing
- Integrated storage
- Additional blades included
- Variable speeds
- Long lasting and durable
- Problems with table top inserts
- Online ordering produces results in shipments
- Uneven foot
- Blades easily breakable
10. Rikon 10-600VS
The 10-600VS includes a a built-in dust port, allowing for faster cleanup and sawdust removal. It uses both 5 inch pinned and plain end blades. Along with the dust port, the Rikon 10-600VS comes with a built in gooseneck work lamp, as well as a port for an optional high speed flex shaft for rotary cutting.
The also comes with a five-year limited warranty from the date of purchase, and only covers defects due to the manufacturer, not personal misuse. It does not cover accessories included with the tool, such as broken blades.
- Affordable
- Additional blade and holders included
- Variable speeds
- Cast iron base and aluminum table for low noise and vibration
- Easy blade replacement
- Lightweight
- Worklight bulb does not last and not easily replaceable
- Poor build quality
- Cutting guard faces down only
Criteria for Evaluation
Cost – Affordability almost always plays a key part in choosing a tool. While scroll saws can range anywhere from $70 to $500 and up, a higher cost doesn’t always mean a better product. It’s important to think about your budget, and then research the product in that price range.
Durability – Besides the cost of the saw, you want to make sure it is considered durable. Things to think about – is it made of high-quality material or cheap parts, will it last longer than a few uses, and will it hold up to the project at hand.
Performance – The speed of a scroll saw is key. Making sure your scroll saw has a good variable speed system is important when making some of those delicate and intricate cuts. Most scroll saws range between 500 and 1650 strokes per minute. Some extend even beyond this range. It is important to give this enough thought when making your final purchase.
Contents Included – Some scroll saws come with all sorts of bells and whistles. But do you need them all or can you get away with the bare minimum…something to consider while debating on which product to get. Extra blades, onboard storage, vacuum ports, stands and work lights are just a few items that sometimes are included with the scroll saws, such as the ones listed above. But not all are always included. Sometimes just one or two options. It is important to consider which ones are more going to be more useful to you.
Warranty – Sure, the old saying, you break it you bought it, negates the need for a warranty. But that doesn’t mean the scroll saw you choose won’t have a manufacturer’s defect along the way that you discover. Research the warranty before you make your purchase – you are very rarely given a lifetime warranty, and in most cases, as with the ones referenced above, the warranty is very strict and limited.
FAQs
Does the scroll saw come with a stand?
Not necessarily. Most scroll saws do not come with a stand, although they may be purchased separately depending on the brand. Stands can also be built, and this may be a more affordable option.
Do accessories typically come standard with a scroll saw?
Not always. Some come with extra blades, tools for adjustment and cases, some come with nothing. Each scroll saw will list what comes in the package. And generally – attachments and accessories are not covered by warranty.
How thick of material can you cut?
This depends solely on the saw you choose. Each saw will have a maximum cut that it can handle, as well as the material you can cut (whether it is wood, metal, plastic, etc.).
Does a cast iron base make a difference?
Absolutely! A cast iron base helps with keeping the noise and vibration down. It also helps with durability and sturdiness.
Is an integrated work light important when choosing a scroll saw?
Not always. Most integrated work lights are not bright enough to be of much help, and integrated lights usually have bulbs that are hard to find to replace. Having a separate work light is recommended by most users.
Do I need a base that tilts?
Depending on your project, a tilting base comes in very handy for intricate and delicate cuts done on a bevel. While most scroll saws incorporate this feature into their product, a few do not.
Do all scroll saws allow you to use both pin and pinless blades?
Definitely not. All scroll saws are different, and usually, specify in their description what type of blade (and length) they will support. Some allow only pinned, others pinless, while even others support both. It all comes down to the scroll saw you are looking into purchasing.
Is a dust blower/catcher or dust port preferable in a scroll saw?
A dust blower or a dust catcher will not always collect all the sawdust and debris that piles up while working on a project. A dust port allows the user to hook up a shop vacuum to the scroll saw and collect any dust or debris that builds up, allowing for a cleaner workspace and better visibility. Although a scroll saw does not produce as much debris as a normal saw, such as a jigsaw, it still produces dust. The vacuum attachment has been known to be the preferred option when purchasing a scroll saw.
Will all scroll saws allow you to cut various types of materials, not just wood?
No. Although in theory, all scroll saws should allow you to cut more than just wood, such as plastic and various metals, not all scroll saws have the capacity to do this. If using the scroll saw for something other than cutting wood is a priority for you, then it is prudent you research exactly what materials each scroll saw will accept before you make a final purchase.
Conclusion
Depending whether you are a professional woodworker gearing towards making very delicate and intricate designs using a variety of materials such as a wood, metal or plastic, or you a home DIYer with a desire to learn how to make templates out of plywood for a project – the numerous scroll saws listed above can get the job done. But research is the key to finding the perfect fit for you.
From the precision of the Dewalt DW788 scroll saw to the affordable WEN 3920, each model is available in your price range and offers many options you may or may not be looking for. The important features to look for when doing your scouting report before opening your wallet are whether or not there are variable speeds, durability, vacuum features, workspace lighting, blade changeouts, product warranty, and the base/table configuration. By looking at both the pros and cons of each model, you should be able to narrow down the perfect fit for your needs.
