Are you in the market for the best scroll saw?
Fantastic – you are in the right place!
In this ToolsGaloreHQ.com guide you will learn
- What to look out for when purchasing
- Things to definitely avoid
- My Overall #1 pick
- And So Much More!
Image | Product | |||
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Top Pick | Top Pick | DEWALT Scroll Saw, Variable-Speed, 1.3 Amp, 20-Inch (DW788)
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| View on Amazon |
Best Budget | Best Budget | WEN 3921 16-inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw
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| View on Amazon |
Best High End | Best High End | Delta Power Tools 40-694 20 In. Variable Speed Scroll Saw
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| View on Amazon |
BILT HARD 16-inch Scroll Saw
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| View on Amazon | ||
ShopSeries RK7315 16" Scroll Saw
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| View on Amazon | ||
WEN LL2156 21-Inch 1.6-Amp Variable Speed Parallel Arm Scroll Saw
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| View on Amazon | ||
BUCKTOOL 16-inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw
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| View on Amazon |
Overall #1 Rated Pick
Updated On September 13, 2024
DEWALT Scroll Saw, Variable-Speed, 1.3 Amp, 20-Inch (DW788)
The DEWALT Scroll Saw, Variable-Speed, 1.3 Amp, 20-Inch (DW788) is a powerful option when searching for the best.
It is a real workhorse of a scroll saw and it has been designed to allow for quick and easy tool free blade changes. The double parallel link arm further decreases the vibration of the tool to ensure accurate cutting.
Ergonomically there are a lot of great features that come with this tool as well, these include an on-off switch, a dust blower and a blade tensioning lever but to name a few.
What is really impressive about the DeWALT scroll saw is the large cast iron base table. It made from material that increases scratch resistance and it can bevel 45 degrees left to right, providing for great flexibility.
Furthermore, this tools is designed and approved to meet OSHA, CSA ad U.L standards. Whilst maintaining a very high level of technical quality as well. It can operate in speed ranges from 400 to 1750 strokes per minute using a very sturdy 1.3 Amp motor.
It can deliver a variable stroke length between ¾ inch up to 2 inches. This inturn provides better cutting efficiency.
This tool is not perfect however and many buyers have raised concern that assembly is a bit more difficult than they had expected.
With that being said, you will benefit from the great 3 year product warranty, and accessories that come with the saw such as your hex wrench and blades.
If you are looking for the best scroll saw, this DeWalt tool might just the right option for you.
Best Scroll Saw (Quick Summary)
Need to rush off? Not a problem at all, I have created a list of the best options don here below, just for you. I know that not everyone has the time to be reading detailed blog posts about scroll saws.
- DEWALT Scroll Saw, Variable-Speed, 1.3 Amp, 20-Inch (DW788)
- WEN 3921 16-inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw
- Delta Power Tools 40-694 20 In. Variable Speed Scroll Saw
- BILT HARD 16-inch Scroll Saw
- ShopSeries RK7315 16" Scroll Saw
- WEN LL2156 21-Inch 1.6-Amp Variable Speed Parallel Arm Scroll Saw
- BUCKTOOL 16-inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw
If you do however want more detailed information, please keep reading. I have catered for you as well.
Why This Guide For Best Scroll Saw
We all know the beauty of creating nice and delicate wooden ornaments using a scroll saw. It is very safe to use, very quiet and can be a great addition to any woodshop especially in the case were you want to get kids involved in woodworking.
However, and I am sure you are well aware by now – finding the best scroll saw perfect for your application through the many different options available online is not as easy and as simple as it may sound.
For example – how do you know which stroke length to choose? And what is the difference between scroll saws anyway?
No need to worry, I understand your curiosity and probably frustration and hence why I created this guide. I have gone through as many scroll saws on the market, read product datasheet and product reviews to ensure that you do not have to do it on your own.
Furthermore, I keep this guide constantly updated to ensure that your purchasing decisions are that much easier.
What Are The Important Considerations For Best Scroll Saw
When looking at purchasing a scroll saw there are a couple of key and critical considerations worth considering before spending you hard earned cash.
Stroke length
This refers to the distance that the blade travels up and down whilst performing a cut. This feature is also used in jigsaws and you should expect a range of between ¾’’ to about 1’’.
In practice the longer the stroke length the faster the scroll saw should be able to cut.
Read More:>>> Find High Quality Cordless Reciprocating Saws
Bevel Capacity
Most good scroll saws are accompanied by a base table. This table is usually made from cast iron, steel or aluminum. It’s typically also dust and scratch resistant.
However one of the key features you should definitely consider is the bevel capacity of the table. At a minimum your table should be able to at least bevel 30 degrees either direction both left and right.
This will give you a whole lot more flexibility when using the tool.
Ergonomic Features
The scroll saws in this guide have been specifically selected in part due to their overall ergonomic features and not just their technical capability. What you want to see as a minimum in a modern scroll saw is and LED light, on-board blade storage and some form of tool free blade changing mechanism.
Not to forget that it would be great if your scroll saw also included a dust port to keep the work area clean.
Read More:>>> Learn Different Methods of Cutting Tiles With A Saw
What To Avoid When Buying The Best Scroll Saw
When purchasing your scroll saw be sure to avoid purchasing from an unproven manufacturer who does not provide at least a 1 year product warranty.
In developing this guide, I came across a number of really good scroll saws that did not have the adequate warranty information.
I discarded them immediately because if a manufacturer cannot provide warranty beyond a year, then why should you or anyone else trust them with your hard earned money.
All the scroll saws in the following section have adequate and above average warranties.
Deep Dive Review of the Best Scroll Saw
Option #1: DEWALT Scroll Saw, Variable-Speed, 1.3 Amp, 20-Inch (DW788)
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Stroke Length | 3/4 inches |
Strokes/Minute | 400 to 1750 SPM |
Power Source | Corded |
Product Dimensions | 29.5 x 19.5 x 12.1 inches |
Warranty | 3 year limited warranty |
Pros
- Double parallel link arms for reduced vibrations
- Cast iron table that can bevel 45 degrees
- Great ergonomic features
- Arm lift for the blade for inside cuts
- Tool free clamp, allows for blade changes in seconds
Cons
- Some buyers complained that assembly was more difficult than expected
Option #2: WEN 3921 16-inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Stroke Length | 9/16 inches |
Strokes/Minute | 550 to 1600 SPM |
Power Source | Corded |
Product Dimensions | 26.38 x 13 x 14.75 inches |
Warranty | 2 year product warranty |
Pros
- Standard and 90° angle allowing for infinite ripping capacity
- Ergonomic design (tension knob, LED light, blade storage)
- 0° to 45° table bevel
- 2 inch vertical and 16 inch throat capacity
- Variable speed 500 – 1600 strokes per minute
Cons
- It tends to vibrate quite a bit in operation
More Info
The WEN 3921 16-inch Two-Direction Variable Scroll Saw is on the best budget options on the market. What makes this tool very unique, is it’s ability to accept blades in two direction – in effect allowing for an infinite ripping capacity.
It also has a thumb screw blade adapter that allows for tool-free blade changes.
Furthermore, it is ergonomically designed to include a tension knob, air pump, base that is made from cast iron, a blade storage compartment, led light and a foot locking clamp.
Making the WEN 3921 a really versatile tool. It also has a dust port that has a 1-1/2 inch diameter and speed control allowing for variations from 550 to 1600 SPM.
The 16 x 11 inch work table is another versatile feature of this tool. It has the ability to bevel up to 45 degrees.
This tool is not perfect and many buyers have reported that it vibrates quite a bit whilst in operation.
With that being said however, it is still very capable cutting wood up to 2 inches thick with a 16 inch throat depth.
If you are in the market for a real budget scroll saw, then the WEN 3921 could be just the right tool for your consideration.
Option #3: Delta Power Tools 40-694 20 In. Variable Speed Scroll Saw
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Stroke Length | 3/4 inches |
Strokes/Minute | 400 to 1750 SPM |
Power Source | Mains supply |
Product Dimensions | 30 x 20 x 13 inches |
Warranty | 5 year limited |
Pros
- Great for cutting various materials
- Tool free blade tensioning maximizes efficiency
- 20 inch x 2-1/8 inch capacity (The Table is 24 x 16 inches)
- Dual parallel link reduces vibrations and noise
- 1.3 A Motor
Cons
- The electric motor vibrates more than expected
More Info
Typical to it’s name, the Delta Power Tools 40-694 20 In. Variable Speed Scroll Saw is another one of the really great options on the market.
It is equipped with a thick case iron base measuring 24 x 16 inches, as well as a 20 x 2-1/8 inch capacity Capacity. This is good, because it allows for working on a variety of project sizes.
This Delta power tools has variable speed that allows for between 400 to 1750 stroke/minute. It also includes a tool free blade clamp – making changing within seconds a breeze.
What really impressed me about this scroll saw are all the ergonomic features that it has. Theses include:
- An On/Off switch,
- electronic speed dial, blade tensioning lever and
- Dust port;
On top of this it has a dual parallel-link arm that operates to reduce vibration and overall noise. Ensuring that the blade is perpendicular at all times to the surface. This feature also drastically improves the ability to make precise cuts.
This tool is not perfect, and it must be stated that many buyer have complained about the 1.3 A motor overly vibrating more than was expected. The thinking and feeling is that this excessive vibration is a function of the way the motor is mounted to the rest of the assembly.
With that being said this is an absolutely fantastic tool. With one buyer even going ahead and saying that they “feel they can work on intricate projects without getting frustrated”. Which for any power tool let alone a scroll saw is really good to hear.
To cap it all off, Delta provides you with a 5 year product warranty. Further ensuring the quality of their equipment.
I must say I was thoroughly surprised upon review of this tool and in my opinion it is one of the best scroll saw on the market without a shadow of doubt.
Option #4: BILT HARD 16-inch Scroll Saw
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Stroke Length | 9/16 inches |
Strokes/Minute | 550 to 1600 SPM |
Power Source | Mains supply |
Product Dimensions | 24.6 x 10.8 x 11.8 inches |
Warranty | 1 year limited product |
Pros
- Lightweight design at about 24 lbs
- Bevel capacity between 0 and 45 degrees
- Variable speed 1.2 A motor
- Ergonomic features with dust port and blower
- LED light for improved visibility
Cons
- The light often does not stay still (affected by vibration)
More Info
The BILT HARD 16-inch Scroll Saw is another one of the options worth considering. It is extremely lightweight in it’s overall design only coming in at about 24 lbs.
This weight coupled with the tight product dimensions of 24.6 x 10.8 x 11.8 dimensions make this tool great for home DIY work spaces.
Technically it has really cool features as well, having a variable speed of 550 to 1600 strokes per minute operating off a 1.2 A motor. It is specially designed to cut really well through wood.
It achieves this due to it’s ability to cut 2 inches in two directions (both the normal and 90 degree angle).
To top it all off, it is a really tough tool having a base table made out of cast iron that greatly reduces the vibrational coefficient of the operation furthermore improving the overall efficiency of the cut.
Ergonomically it has a couple of really cool features as well, these include a dust blower and port, as well as an LED work light.
Speaking about the worklight, it must be said that many buyers had complaints stating that the work light does not remain stable during operation, which as you can imagine is an annoyance especially if you are trying to cut when the visibility is poor.
With that being said however, it must be noted the tool includes a number of pinned blades. One that has 15 teeth per inch and 2 other that have 18 teeth per inch, for finer cuts especially when working with wood.
You also get a 1 year product warranty with your purchase of this tool. Although by no means the best in the industry, it gives you overall comfort that in the event of any latent or factory faults you can return or exchange the product.
The BILT HARD 16 inch Scroll Saw is a real sturdy and dependable tool, definitely one of the best on the market.Option #5: ShopSeries RK7315 16" Scroll Saw
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Stroke Length | 3/4 inches |
Strokes/Minute | 500 to 1700 SPM |
Power Source | Mains supply |
Product Dimensions | 26 x 16 x 26 inches |
Warranty | 2 year limited |
Pros
- It has a die cast aluminum table capable of 0 to 45 degree bevel
- Great for DIYers
- Contains two durable 5’’ tungsten blades
- Built in blower and dryer
- On board blade storage compartment
Cons
- For small simple light duty jobs. Not fit for heavy duty work
More Info
When searching for a simple and basic scroll saw then the ShopSeries RK7315 16" Scroll Saw is another option worth your consideration. It has a reasonable sturdy and powerful 1.2 A motor. This motor is really good at efficiently operating at light duty jobs.
It is particularly ergonomically designed to include, a die cast aluminum table that has the capability of beveling anywhere from 0 to 45 degrees.
This flexibility makes it a great tool for DIYers and occasional weekend warriors. Furthermore the tool comes pre packed with a 5’’ tungsten blade and built in blower and dryer.
To cap it off it also has an on-board blade storage compartment, improving the overall usability of the tool.
Worth mentioning, this tool is not perfect by any stretch of the imagination – it is not designed for heavy duty work at all, the shoe that holds the stock against the table is thin and tends to shift unless screwed tightly.
When pushed it tends to vibrate quite significantly as well.
However, the product comes with a good two year warranty and it is great for use in wooden crafts. Furthermore the overall construction is simple to use and the operations are easy to understand as stated by one satisfied customer.
The ShopSeries RK7315 16" Scroll Saw is a real gem if you are looking for a light duty and occasional use scroll saw.Option #6: WEN LL2156 21-Inch 1.6-Amp Variable Speed Parallel Arm Scroll Saw
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Stroke Length | 3/4 inches |
Strokes/Minute | 550 to 1600 SPM |
Power Source | Mains supply |
Product Dimensions | 36.63 x 17.75 x 16.38 inches |
Warranty | 2 year limited |
Pros
- Dual side panel that makes blade changes extremely easy
- Flexible onboard air pump
- The adjustable hold-down clamp and tension release lever
- Table bevels 30 degrees to the left and 45 degrees to the right
- Built for tough jobs
Cons
- For the quality some buyers mentioned that it vibrates a lot more than expected
More Info
The WEN LL2156 21-Inch 1.6-Amp Variable Speed Parallel Arm Scroll Saw is a serious heavy weight in turns of ability and function, it is designed to perform and operate under the most complex jobs.
It is built out of steel and this combined with the parallel arm design greatly reduces the effects of vibration when performing you cuts. However it must be noted that there are a couple of buyers who have stated that this tool vibrates a lot more than they thought it would.
It has a very large table (25-5/8 inches x 16 inches) and it can bevel 45 degrees to the left and 30 degrees to the right.
It is ergonomically designed and this can be seen via the inclusion of features such as the flexible air pump, two 5 inch pinless blades and the dust port.
The large and very spacious steel base table has the ability to bevel both ways (45 degrees to the left and 30 degrees to the right). This range of motion is incredible because it allows for working flexibility.
The dual side panel flip is another great feature of the WEN LL2156, it allows for easy access to store and retrieve blades.
In my opinion, this is a really good option when looking for an all-round and versatile scroll saw.
Option #7: BUCKTOOL 16-inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Stroke Length | Not specified |
Strokes/Minute | 550 to 1600 SPM |
Power Source | Mains supply |
Product Dimensions | 28.4 x 15.75 x 13.25 inches |
Warranty | 2 year limited |
Pros
- Sturdy 1.2 A motor
- Vibration free LED light (no bounce)
- Side panel for easy storage
- Throat depth of 16 inches
- Cast steel table bevel capacity of 0 to 45 degrees
Cons
- Not many customer reviews
More Info
The BUCKTOOL 16-inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw is another one of those options that really surprised me, this tool is equipped with a robust 16 x 9 inch iron table that can bevel 45 degrees either way.
Furthermore it is ergonomically designed to include a vibration free LED light to illuminate the sawing area. It has an onboard tools storage and a portable foot pedal that allows for blade changes even in the case of an emergency.
One thing worth noting however is to ensure that you fully fasten the vortex saw onto the bracket before starting the machine.
BUCKTOOL although not having many online reviews provide a product that is compact and functional. They also provide a great 2 year limited product warranty, making this tool one of the best scroll saws on the market.My Overall #1 Pick: DEWALT Scroll Saw, Variable-Speed, 1.3 Amp, 20-Inch (DW788)
All the scroll saws within this guide are fantastic and incredible tools, however the DEWALT Scroll Saw, Variable-Speed, 1.3 Amp, 20-Inch (DW788) is my overall #1 pick.
It has a double parallel link arm that is designed to reduce vibrations. This is supported by a cast iron table that is capable of beveling 45 degrees in either direction (i.e. both right and left).
To top it all off it has great ergonomic features such as the LED light and blade storage, making using the tool overall that much easier. See the price on Amazon over here.
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Final Thoughts On The Best Scroll Saw
Well done, you made it to the end. I hope you learnt a few things and I hope this guide has helped make your purchasing decision easier. I had a lot of fun creating this guide. A scroll saw is a fantastic tool to any DIYer, wood working professional or the occasional weekend warriors workshop. Enjoy.