As a beginner, the best scroll saw to use for your project is your priority. However, choosing one can be a daunting task due to the wide array of options available. Also, a number of factors determine if the saw is a good fit for you.
The best scroll saw for beginners is DeWalt Scroll Saw due to its durability, flexibility, and handling. It is equipped with a double parallel-arm design, which reduces its noise and vibrations, allowing you to create detailed cuts in your workpiece.
Choosing the best scroll saw is critical in ensuring you get the best outcome possible. Here, we will look at the best scroll saws and what to look for when purchasing one.
A good saw is usually the centerpiece of a workshop. We talk a lot about saws during our live workshops on Cucamonga Woodworking. You can watch our past workshops on YouTube here(Link to Cucamonga Woodworking)
Qualities of A Good, Beginner-Friendly Scroll Saw
We use scroll saws because of their superior finish, flexibility, accuracy, and ease-of-use. To achieve an intricate design on your material, you require an excellent saw.
But what makes a scroll saw beginner friendly? You will find below a list of features a scroll saw must-have.
Convenient Blade-Changing Setup
We recommend you go for a scroll saw with an easy blade changing mechanism. It is easier to change or adjust the blade of a scroll saw when no tool is needed. There are two types of blade mounts. That is;
- Tooled
- Toolless.
A scroll saw with a toolless mount is more convenient for beginners as no tool is required.
Scroll Saw Throat Length
Scroll saws have different throat sizes (the distance between the blade and the rear end of the saw). The throat depth determines the largest board you can cut.
- Scroll saws usually come with standard-size throat depths: 16-inch, 20-inch, and 30-inch
- Smaller saws can also have a minimum throat size of 12 inches (300 mm)
- Commercial saws can be as wide as 30 inches (760mm)
A 16-inch scroll saw is considered suitable for beginners, while experts commonly use the 30-inch scroll saw.
Accessible Controls Improve Safety
It is better to choose scroll saws with easy-to-reach controls. For example, some saws have their control features located at the back.
A scroll saw with a front/top-mounted switch not only makes handling easier; It improves the user’s safety as the saw can be shut down easily when a malfunction occurs.
The Table-Tilting Mechanism
The table-tilting feature makes it easier for precise angular cuts. We recommend you buy a scroll saw that tilts both to the left and right. This is made possible by the
- Motor
- Housing
- Blade.
The scroll saw also needs to have a lock to hold it in that tilt position for long. We recommend a table that is broad, smooth, and flat for smoother operation. Note that a smooth surface is required for cleaner and easier cuts.
Lesser Vibration and Noise
The least vibration and noise the scroll saw makes, the easier it becomes to create more accurate designs.
What is the Best Scroll Saw to buy?
A good scroll saw should be user-friendly and must produce a fine cut, even on thick materials. Here is a list of the best scroll saws that you can buy:
- DeWalt Scroll Saw.
- Delta Power Scroll Saw.
- Bucktool 16-inch Scroll Saw.
- Wen (3921) 16-inch Scroll Saw.
- Shop Fox (w1713) 16-inch Scroll Saw.
- Dremel Moto-Saw.
- Excalibur Scroll Saw.
Dewalt Scroll Saw
Although the DeWalt scroll saw is relatively expensive, here’s why it is a great choice for beginners:
- It is easy to use and keeps your workflow smooth.
- The unique design helps reduce vibration and noises, allowing you to make more precise cuts.
- It requires no tool to mount or dismount blades due to its flexible arm design. The arm is also easy to lift and is designed to reduce the chance of overcutting or undercutting.
- The location of the variable-speed control allows for easy adjustments.
(Check out its current price here on Amazon)
Delta Power Tools 40-694 20in. Variable Speed Scroll Saw
Delta power scroll saw is a powerful tool that provides the most desired cut. It is an ideal choice for beginners because the upper arm enables different cut angles.
It comes with
- a variable speed dial
- dust blower
- on/off switch and other controls
Those are easily accessible on the upper arm. The dust blower will help keep your workspace neat and comfortable. (Check out the current Price Here on Amazon)
Bucktool 16-inch Scroll Saw
Bucktool is a trusted brand known for superiority, and this has been reflected in their scroll saws as well. Their scroll saws are made for tool enthusiasts who adore the fineness and quality of products.
We recommend Bucktool for beginners because it is easy to use and has a sturdy construction, making it worth every penny. Also, the table enables angled cuts up to 45 degrees. Its pedal switch design makes it possible to change blades and drill holes into the blank easily.
Bucktool saw has a cutting depth of about 2-inch and a throat depth of about 16-inch. The LED light is adjustable and does not vibrate whenever the scroll saw is in use. (Check out its current price here on Amazon)
WEN (3921) 16-inch scroll saw
If you are looking to handle large projects as a beginner, the WEN scroll saw is perfect for you. It has a greater cutting capacity and can accommodate large materials. The blade holder allows for either pinned or pin-less blades and holds them in a tight grip.
The variable speed can be adjusted up to 1600 strokes per minute. The unique design makes it accessible and allows for angled cuts up to 45-degrees.
It has a thumbscrew blade adapter that makes it easier to change blades without using an additional tool. Wen saws also come with an adjustable LED light, which makes them suitable for use at any time of the day. (Check out its current price on Amazon)
Shop Fox (W1713) 16-inch scroll saw
The Shop Fox scroll saw is a great option for a beginner because it can take either standard plain or pin-end blades. Also, the blades are relatively easy to change.
The Shop Fox is an extra power tool made of cast-iron and is suitable for making deep smooth cuts. The table tilt mechanism also allows for angled cuts from 0 – 45 degrees. It has a table lock knob that prevents it from shifting during horizontal angle cuts.
It has an adjustable hold-down shoe to provide the right balance while working. (Check out its current price here on amazon)
Dremel MS-20 Moto-Saw Compact Scroll Saw
Dremel scroll saw is an excellent saw for beginners because it is
- affordable,
- versatile,
- and accurate.
It is suitable for light-duty work and has a strong short arm that limits vibration during operation.
Although it has no inbuilt dust system, there is a dust port attachment where you can connect an external vacuum. It automatically positions the blade at the right angle allowing for more accurate cuts. It will deliver excellent cuts at lower speeds, especially for low-density material like plywood. (Check out its current price on Amazon)
Excalibur 16″ Scroll Saw
Excalibur scroll saw is a power tool ideal for working with small materials due to its small throat depth. It is easy to use regardless of your experience level, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
This scroll saw is perfect for making intricate angled cuts on both the left and right sides. This is made possible by its standard head tilt that can move up to 45 degrees to both sides.
The variable speed is easy to control and can be adjusted between 400 – 1400 RPM. (Check current price on Amazon here)
Conclusion
Scroll saws are safe and easy to use. That’s not all; they produce more intricate and accurate cuts in your material. What are you waiting for? Get that scroll-saw today!