Saws are a vital piece of our workshops. Although there are many different types of saws out there, sometimes we need a very specific make to get the job done precisely and effectively. As opposed to the bigger table saws in the market for straighter cuts, sometimes we need to add some versatility to our rips and cuts. Today we took a look at the top 10 best scroll saws in the market. There are some very valuable models to check out, but which is best for you depends on a few factors that we list for you.
What is a scroll saw used for?
A scroll saw is a small electric or pedal operated saw that is useful in cutting intricate curves when a coping saw or jigsaw is not a good option. It is able to create curves that have edges. It is named according to its traditional use of making scroll work, which is a sculptural ornament that is featured on the scroll head design. Although they’re too big to include in power tool combo kits, some would call scroll saws a vital piece for any workshop.
It is similar to the band saw at a certain level, but contrary to the band saw which has a saw blade with a continuous loop, the scroll saw uses blades that are similar to the coping saw, and it works by using a reciprocating up or down motion. The popular band saw vs. scroll saw debate typically states that band saws are best for, while scroll saws the rest.
How to pick the best scroll saw
- Price point – There is a decent range when it comes to scroll saws, although the most popular budget-friendly models tend to hover around a hundred bucks or so. If you do have more cash and want to invest in a higher-quality model, we always recommend the investment when it comes to power tools (and scroll saws in particular). You can definitely get away with saving some money yet still grabbing a reliable scroll saw as well, but be sure to compare and contrast a few first.
- Size – The bigger the better isn’t necessarily a relevant phrase here; however, the overall size of the scroll saw is important to keep in mind. Most of them come in at 16″ giving you a feasible amount of work space, but others are a little bigger and may be more attractive to you.
- Additional accessories – Some are table top while others come with a stand, a few with LED lights to help guide your work, rubber feet or stabilizer bracket on the bottom for security, a miter gauge, and more. Which features do you think will catch your eye?
The top 10 best scroll saws for the money
Rockwell RK7323
This scroll saw is one of the best in the market for quite a few reasons. First of all, it comes with a traditional guard with a riving knife system and allows unlimited capacity for rip or cross cuts. It is compact and lightweight and is easy to be carried around to help with storage or if you even want to travel with the unit. It can be set up in a few seconds in order to cut aluminum, metal, plastic, tile and wood. It uses a standard t-shank jigsaw blade and has an adjustable miter gauge that starts from 0 up to 60 degrees with the angled cuts. The tool is versatile and convenient — it can work on a wide range different projects that may require the use of different saws. Lastly, the stainless steel cutting zone lets the tile move freely with added control and the rubber feet come with a stabilizer bracket, so it is going to sit on the counter and work bench securely. If you wanted an answer for the best of the best, grab the Rockwell RK7323 scroll saw and don’t look back.
WEN 3920
Up next we have a solid scroll saw by WEN. This tool gives full control over the intricate designs and allows for creativity. There is a variable speed that ranges between 400 up to 1600 strokes for each minute and it can be adjusted by the speed knob that is located at the front of the machine. There is a spacious 16 by 10 inch table bevel that goes up to 45 degrees to the left. It is easy to cut wood up to 1.9 inches and the sturdy cast iron build limits vibration for convenience and precision. It comes with holes for the attachment to a tabletop and work surface. A tension-release is located at the top of this machine and it can be accessed very easily. The air pump can clear the sawdust from a work area in order to give clear vision. We recommend going with the WEN 3920 scroll saw if you something a bit cheaper than the previous Rockwell model listed.
Dremel MS20-01
This is a multi-functional scroll saw and a coping saw built-in to one. Dremel gives us an easy and compact solution to make detailed cuts in different materials and this includes metal, laminates and plastic. This portable precision saw can be set up, stored and operated in an easy, convenient way. It also has features that include tool free mechanisms for quick blade change and an auto-tensioning feature that keeps the blade tough and ready to cut so you’re required to make less blade adjustments. It has a slim and ergonomic handle that has a comfort grip that provides control in the cutting position. The motor-saw can function like a stationary scroll saw. We’re huge fans of this brand, so take a look at the Dremel MS20-01 scroll saw if you trust them.
DeWalt DW788
This is a scroll saw that helps in creating detailed and accurate work pieces, and it has a user-friendly configuration with easy to access control. You’re getting a pretty big price hike here but for very valid reasons — It is designed to reduce vibration with the variable speed performance, features a double parallel-link arm design to achieve accurate cuts, and the arm pivots from its back to its front, which shortens the distance while the arm moves for a quieter and smoother operation. It is easy to handle and has variable speed control for the performance that is specific to specific applications. It has an on and off switch with speed control, a blade tensioning lever, and a flexible dust blower which is located in an easy to reach location at the front of the upper arm. The compact design makes the DeWalt DW788 scroll saw super portable. If you have the money, this thing is beyond the other models when it comes to quality and portability.
Delta Power Tools 40-694
This is one of the best scroll saws because it has a variable speed which may be adjusted starting from 400 up to 1,750 SPM for a wide array of cutting situations. It has a unique dual parallel link arm design, which reduces noise and vibration, and it keeps the blade perpendicular on the work surface. This reduces under or over cutting and it improves the quality and accuracy of our work. The upper arm lifts and locks in the raised position during blade changes or when adjusting the blade position for the fret work and safety for the user. Other features include the off and on switch, the electronic variable speed dial with a flexible dust blower, and the blade tension lever that is located at the front where it can be accessed much easier. Check out the Delta Power Tools 40-694 scroll saw if you want a top-of-the-line model that’s a little cheaper than the previously listed DeWalt model (it just isn’t too portable).
Shop Fox W1713
This scroll saw has variable speed control that offers extra cutting capacity with cast iron constructions that feature the most sought out features in a scroll saw. In terms of additive features, the saw has a goose-neck work light, dust port and dust blower with 45 degrees for a tilt table. It also offers easy blade changes and uses plain or pin type saw blades. The motor is capable of 1/8 HP, 120 V single phase and 1.2 Amp with 60 Hz. It has a variable speed motor with a no load speed of 550-1650 SPM. It has a maximum cutting thickness of 2 inches and a maximum cutting width of 16 inches and the blade stroke is ¾ inches and it takes both pin and plain blades with a shipping weight of 40 lbs. Take a look at the Shop Fox W1713 scroll saw for yet another great choice to keep in mind while shopping. It’s around the middle price-point.
Excalibur Scroll Saw
This scroll saw is typically listed in all best of articles around the internet. It has a unique tilting head design that offers a stable platform while cutting straight on the angle. The changing of the blade is very easy since there is no need to use any tool. Contrary to other types of saws, when it comes to cutting angled cuts, this saw can tilt up to 45 degrees both on the right and the left — this offers better control on the flat table surface to offer an accurate and safe cut. The lower and upper arms have been built parallel in a solid manner, and they do not cause any deflection, allowing for precise cuts. This is why the Excalibur scroll saw is one that everyone wants in the market although it’s definitely not cheap.
Proxxon 37090
This scroll saw makes accurate cuts and there is no need for finishing. It is perfect for making a model building, for toy repairs, or for antique restoration. It does not cause any problems even when it is used to cut acrylic, polystyrene or fiberglass. The unit has a super cutting ability while at the same time it runs using a hum. The air blower has an adjustable nozzle and it provides clear visibility for the work and for the cutting line. When it comes to the overall construct of the scroll saw, the unit machine base is made with cast iron, and it offers the stability for vibration free operation. The saw is super silent and has electronic stroke control with the speed of over 200-1400 strokes for every minute. The Proxxon 37090 scroll saw is rated very highly by users everywhere.
Ryobi SC165VS
This saw is 16 inches large with great cutting ability and an easy tool free blade change. It has a cast aluminum table tilt that starts from 0-45 inch and an integrated dust blower that keeps the cutting surface clear from debris to offer maximum visibility. The variable speed design offers flexibility when it comes to power through different applications. The throat depth lets the people achieve maximum cutting ability and the tool free blade clamp accepts pin and plain end blades. For additive features, the integrated dust blower makes the cut line clear in order to achieve the best accuracy and the integrated dust port may be combined with a dry or wet vacuum for a cleaner work area. Take a look at the Ryobi SC165VS scroll saw if you want one of the best budget-friendly models for the money that’s packed with quite a few additive features.
Rockwell RK7315
To top off our list, we have another Rockwell tools scroll saw to keep in mind. This one is a lightweight 16 inch tool with variable speeds. It is easy to move around and offers a variety of features and angle adjustment options. It is the ideal choice for woodworkers. The scroll saw offers the flexibility needed to make even more specialized cuts and you are able to turn the blade head up to 90 percent. The saw also comes with an equipped dust port and dust blower that keeps the work area safe and clean. It comes with 2 blades, an Allen key, a blade holder, a blade guard and a saw. It’s no load speed is 500-1700 SPM and it has on-board storage that prevents the blade from becoming damaged or getting lost. The variable speed control ensures tight inside cuts and the cutting depths start from 2-1/2 inch. The Rockwell RK7315 scroll saw is listed last but not for a particular reason — it’s another great option to keep in mind.