10 Versatile Scroll Saw Reviews – The Perfect Tools for Crafters (2020)

 We start off our reviews with one of the top scroll saws under 200. This is none other than the WEN 3920 Variable Speed Scroll Saw. This unit comes with almost all the features you might be looking for at more than half the price of other professional grade saws!

Firstly, the saw comes in a unique design with dual directional cutting capability, which allows for unlimited ripping capacity in both standard and 90-degree directions. This means that you can make intricate cuts faster and more precisely allowing you to complete your projects on time.

But that’s just the beginning…

The WEN 3920 supports variable speeds ranging from 400 to 1600 SPM (strokes per minute) and it can cut through materials with a thickness of up to 2 inches. In addition, the saw features a 16-by-11-inch tilting worktable that allows for 45-degree bevel cuts. This table also features a foot lock clamp that keeps the material securely in place, especially when working on larger workpieces.

Another exciting feature is the flexible LED work light that can be adjusted to illuminate workpieces in darkly-lit environments. It doesn’t end there. The saw also comes with an adjustable air pump that helps to clear the line of cut for more precise cuts.

Want to know more about its features?

Here we go.

 The DEWALT DW788 is a beast when it comes to making intricate cuts. The saw features a powerful 1.3 amp motor that can rip through a wide range of materials with relative ease. Additionally, the motor is versatile enough to deliver variable speeds ranging from 400 to 1,750 strokes per minutes.

But that’s not all…

This saw from DEWALT comes in a distinctive double parallel link arm design that significantly reduces noise and vibrations when working on heavy-duty materials. This allows you to use the saw for hours without experiencing user fatigue. Furthermore, the easy to use handle features excellent ergonomics for added comfort and optimum control.

As if that is not enough…

The saw features a tool-less hex wrench that allows for fast, easy blade replacements. You can change your blades in seconds, allowing you to complete your projects within the stipulated time. This not only increases productivity in the workshop, but also prevents the frustrations handymen go through when working on tough projects.

In addition to all these amazing features, the DW788 comes with a dust blower that clears your line of cut, subsequently improving the accuracy of your cuts.

Moreover, the sturdy, oversized cast iron base provides maximum stability when working on heavy-duty projects. Although portability is not its strongest feature, you can always rest assured that this saw will deliver a superior performance when called upon.

So how does this scroll saw stack up against its competitors?

Here are its top features.

 The Dremel MS20-01 is not only affordable, but also exceptionally flexible. It functions as a coping saw as well as a scroll saw, making it one of the most versatile units available in the market today.

Furthermore, the unit is compact, and can cut through a wide range of materials, including wood, laminates, plastic and metal. The fact that it supports variable speeds allows for optimum cutting of intricate patterns with utter precision.

Interestingly, setting up this scroll saw is very easy despite the fact that it comes with numerous auxiliary accessories. It also features a tool-less wrench that allows for fast blade replacements.

As if that is not enough…

Its auto-tensioning mechanism keeps the saw ready to cut without the need for making any adjustments to the blade.

Furthermore, this handheld scroll saw comes with a fast clamp base that provides sufficient support and stability when working on large pieces. The clamp can also attach to any type of worktable, bench or surface.

Let’s have a look at some of its top features.

 The Rockwell RK7323 Blade Runner is portable, versatile and can perform all the functions of a traditional scroll saw.

Moreover, it is very easy to set up, as it takes just a matter of seconds to assemble all the accessories. This not only increases productivity, but also saves on time and money.

The saw can cut through an array of materials ranging from wood, plastic, tile, metal and aluminum. It also features a conventional steel rip fence that allows for quick, accurate rip cuts.

Despite its heavy-duty capability, this tabletop saw is exceptionally lightweight. It comes in a compact, easy-to-carry design that allows you to use the saw from site to site with improved mobility.

And you know what else?

The unit comes with an instant, tool-less blade change mechanism that allows you to install or replace new blades in a matter of seconds. Furthermore, the saw is compatible with a wide selection of 4-inch T-shank jigsaw blades.

Another important feature is the integrated dust port that allows you to connect a vacuum hose to the machine for easy cleanups.

Let’s recap on some of the features.

 The Delta brand is not a new name as far as power tools are concerned. Bearing this in mind, it is not surprising that the Delta Power Tools 40-694 is among the most popular scroll saws today.

This scroll saw features a 1.3-amp motor supports variable speeds ranging from 400 to 1750 strokes per minute. This makes it ideal for cutting a wide array of materials with relative ease and utter accuracy. The saw also comes in a dual parallel link arm design that is tailored to reduce vibrations while enhancing precision and the quality of cuts.

What’s even better?

Replacing blades is a breeze as the upper arm lifts conveniently, allowing you to make changes quickly for enhanced productivity. Furthermore, you can lock the raised arm, allowing you to maintain a perfect blade position for fretting projects.

What’s more amazing is that the saw comes with a tilting table that can be adjusted easily to accommodate large workpieces. You can also tilt the table to achieve the perfect angle for bevel cuts with positive stops at 0 and 45 degrees.

Want to learn more?

We bet you do! Check out these features.

 Are you looking for a unique scroll saw that offers alternative options as far as scrolling is concerned?

Then consider acquiring the Shop Fox W1713.

This saw from Shop Fox might not be the most popular in the market, but it delivers far much better results compared to well-established brands. The saw features a powerful 1/8HP, 1.2 amp motor that supports no-load speeds ranging from 550 to 1700 strokes per minute.

But that’s not even the best part…

The W1713 is compatible with a variety of blades ranging from pin end to plain brands. Furthermore, the process of installing or replacing new blades is swift and seamless, thanks to the innovative wrench adapter included in the package.

This saw also comes with an adjustable hold down clamp that secures your workpiece in place while proving the much-needed support required for heavy-duty projects. In addition, this unit from Shop Fox features a cast iron tilt table that not only provides sufficient stability, but also provides support for larger materials.

Another interesting feature is the gooseneck work light that allows you to work on your projects in darkly-lit environments. You can also use the work light to illuminate your line of cut for more precision.

Is that all?

Of course not, check out these features.

 Does the name Porter-Cable sound familiar?

Well, to many contractors, this brand does not require any introduction. Porter Cable has proved to be a reliable company for more than a century and the PCB375SS is just but one of the brand’s top-rated products.

This scroll saw comes equipped with a wide range of auxiliary features that are sure to capture your attention. Firstly, the saw consists of a large, die-cast aluminum worktable that provides sufficient space for any type of workpiece. Additionally, the table can tilt up to 45 degrees to the right and 15 degrees to left, for smooth and precise bevel cuts.

But that’s not all…

The saw features a powerful motor that supports variable speeds ranging from 500 to 1,500 strokes per minute. This essentially means that the saw is capable of cutting a variety of materials such as plastic, wood, and aluminum metal. Furthermore, this package features a resilient steel stand that offers optimum stability and support required for heavy-duty projects.

Another exciting aspect is that changing blades on this unit is very easy. The saw features with a quick tool-less blade mechanism for swift and easy replacements. In addition, the PCB375SS also comes with an adjustable LED work light that you can use to illuminate your workpiece in dark environments.

Let’s dig deeper into some of this unit’s top features.

 Good news for all budget-conscious DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors. You can now acquire the Rockwell ShopSeries RK7315 scroll saw at less than a 100!

This saw is not only affordable, but also highly dependable. The RK7315 was designed for power and performance as it features a dominant 1.2 amp motor that is capable of tackling a wide range of woodworking projects. In addition, the powerful motor supports no-load speeds ranging from 500 to 1,700 strokes per minute, allowing the saw to cut through a variety of materials.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg…

The RK7315 uses 5-inch tungsten carbide blades with a cutting depth of 2-1/2-inches and a throat depth of 16 inches. In addition, the saw is attached to a die-cast aluminum table that offers ample space for larger workpieces. Moreover, the adjustable table allows for smooth, accurate bevel cuts from 0 to 45 degrees.

As if that is not enough…

This scroll saw comes with an allen key that you can use to make quick blade replacements. Furthermore, this unit is equipped with a blade guard and a blade holder that provide extra safety and convenient storage, respectively.

Want to know more about this unit’s top features?

Here we go.

 The Excalibur Ex-16 is one of the most expensive scroll saws in our product reviews.

This begs the question, is it the ultimate scroll saw available in the market today?

Let’s find out.

From the very onset, it is easy to tell that the Excalibur Ex-16 is a professional grade scroll saw. This scrolling unit is equipped with a distinctive head that is capable of tilting 30 degrees left and 45 degrees, keeping your workpiece at the desired level for optimum control and more precise cuts.

In addition, the saw consists of a dual blade guard assemble that efficiently works to prevent unintentional contact with the blade. Moreover, it comes with a safety switch that prevents accidental start-ups.

It doesn’t stop there…

When it comes to performance, the Excalibur Ex-16 consists of a permanent magnet motor that supports variable speeds ranging from 400 to 1400 strokes per minute. The tension controls are conveniently located near the handle for easy access.

Impressively, this scroll saw comes with an adjustable built-in dust blower that you can use to clear your workpiece. In addition, you may also use the dust extraction hook-up to connect to your vacuum cleaner hose for easy cleanups when you are done working on your projects.

What makes this unit so special?

Check out these features.

 We wind up our reviews with yet another high end, professional grade scroll saw. This time it’s the Hegner 18-inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw.

The Hegner brand might not be as familiar as other power tool manufacturers. However, we must admit that this saw lives up to its billing. It comes in a bulky design that showcases its ability to deliver sheer power. In addition, the saw features a dominant electronic variable speed induction motor that can tackle any type of scrolling project with relative ease

But that’s just the start…

This scroll saw from Hegner can cut through any type of material, ranging from heavy wood to acrylic pieces. It consists of a double-quick lock tensioning system that ensures the blade is safely in place for smooth, accurate cuts. Furthermore, installing new blades is a breeze thanks to its tool-less blade change mechanism.

Importantly, the saw comes attached to a sturdy metal stand that you have to buy separately if you want to enjoy extra stability. You have the option of using the saw without the stand, but we highly recommend that you invest in the entire set for optimum performance and versatility.

Here are additional features that might interest you.

Scroll saws come with two types of arm designs, including the parallel link arm and the holding down arm designs. The type of arm design that you choose plays a crucial role in reducing vibrations and holding your workpiece securely in place. The parallel link arm is more superior to the holding down arm considering the fact that it is adjustable and it can hold larger workpieces.

The throat depth is another important factor that you should consider when shopping for a scroll saw. It is calculated as the distance between the front and the back of the saw’s frame. This depth determines your saw’s ability to tackle large workpieces.

The perfect scroll saw for crafters should come with a variable speed motor. This allows you to adjust to a variety of cuts depending on the material you are working on. You will be able to modify your settings by slowing down or increasing the speed of the saw to meet the requirements of your project.

 The size of a scroll saw is defined by the depth of the throat, which is the distance from the rear frame to the blade. Larger, heavy duty scroll saws have a throat depth of up to 30 inches while smaller saws have a depth of 12 inches.

 Want to know the difference between scroll saws and jigsaws?

Scroll saws and jigsaws share striking similarities. Firstly, they are both used for cutting non-straight lines (scrolls). Secondly, they use the same type of blades.

The differences between these two types of saws lie in their functionality and design. Scroll saws are much bigger than jigsaws and they have a more powerful motor. On the other hand, jigsaws are handheld tools that are lightweight and extremely portable. When using a jigsaw, you have to bring the saw to the workpiece rather than the piece to the saw.

When it comes to performance, scroll saws are more efficient and quieter than jigsaws. Furthermore, they do not produce a lot of dust compared to their handheld counterparts.

 If you have been neglecting your scroll saw, you will have yourself to blame when things go awry. Care and maintenance are very important if you want to make the most out of your tools. Below are a few tips on how to take care of your scroll saw.

1. Unplug your scroll saw before carrying out any maintenance
2. Always clean your saw after use
3. Remove debris, sawdust and other elements when cleaning your saw
4. Clean the blade regularly with liquid rust remover
5. Apply wax to the worktable after use to prevent corrosion and keep it polished
6. Replace any damaged parts including blades as soon as possible
7. Always check the screws, bolts and nuts and tighten loose parts
8. Check the power cord for any breakages
9. Always follow the user manual for troubleshooting
10. Consult a technician in case of any technical problems