The Best Scroll Saws for Precise Cuts and Lines

If you have a mechanical background or any interest in woodworking, then there is a great chance that you have seen a scroll saw. Scroll saws are one of the essential tools for complex detailed woodworking. Modern scroll saws are very easy to use and produce less vibration and noise than older models.

If you need precision cutting complex designs into wood, you should get a scroll saw without any delay. Not aware of the essential elements and features to look at when buying it? Don’t worry; read out buying guide to learn.

Picking The Right Type of Scroll Saw

Let’s start off by discussing what type of scroll saw you should pick. The type of scroll saw is determined by its arm, and each type has its pros and cons. Irrespective of perks or disadvantages, each scroll saw is corded and needs a power outlet.

Rigid arm

Rigid arms are not too common on the market today, but they are still used in some shops and sold secondhand. This device is an extension of the jigsaw design, which was popular in the 1930s. Rigid arm scroll saws have a frame made from a single piece of cast iron. This saw includes an arm that moves through a spring-loaded mounting point. Unfortunately, due to low blade tension, this saw has problems with clean and straight cuts.

Parallel arm

The most popular type of scroll saw on the market is the parallel arm scroll saw. It works by quickly moving a blade vertically and synchronizing the upper and lower positions. This reduces vibration while making clean and controlled cuts. 

The majority of these saws possess a variable-speed motor which allows for smarter cutting for various materials. Some models have a connecting arm that you have to set its tension with your hands. In other models, a link sets the tension automatically.

Parallel link

This device improves upon the parallel arm system by adding a horizontal link. This link attaches the arm to a pivoting beam on the back of the blade. This system allows the motor (usually a variable speed) to move parallel arms back and forth quickly and accurately. Afterward, motion passes to the horizontal link, which will convert the vertical signal at the tip of the arms.

An additional moving part adds more potential failure points to the machine but allows manufacturers to make scroll saws with shorter arms. This, in turn, leads to less vibration and more consistent, straighter movement. If I were focused on as much precision as possible, this is the type of scroll saw I would select. For example, If I were making wooden artwork of a forest, I would want a parallel link scroll saw.

C-arm 

This model is different from the parallel arm model as it features a single C-shaped arm. Essentially, this scroll saw features a C-shaped arm with a vertical blade at the very end. It then pivots up and down from a single point on the C-arm resulting in an arching cut. Since the blade oscillates from one point, it allows you to cut more material faster. Unfortunately, this comes at the cost of accuracy. If I had a large shop and needed to go through would quickly, the C-arm would be my choice.

What Are the Different Blades Available for Scroll Saws?

Generally, there are two main blades used by scroll saws. The first is pin-end blades, and the second is plain-end blades. Your saw’s mounting system determines which blade you need.

Pin-end blades

Like traditional blades, pin-end blades are thin and feature one sharp side for cutting. Unlike most other blades, they are held in place by using a pin that attaches to the arms of a scrolling saw. These pins can decrease a scroll saw’s accuracy, and unfortunately, the selection of pin blades is fairly limited.

Plain-end blades

Plain-end blades speak for themselves. They are simple blades that attach to scroll saws through a clamping mechanism. Plain-end blades are very fine and accurate. They also come in more varieties than pin-end blades.

Scroll Saw Features to Look For

Scroll saws are straightforward machines, and due to new technology, they are becoming easier to use. Let’s review the great features of modern scroll saws you want to understand before buying your new machine.

Variable speed control

The speed of your scroll saw is determined by its motor and dictates how fast a blade moves up and down. A saw with variable speed control can change how fast a blade will move and, by extension, how it will cut. Since some woods work better at slower speeds and some cutting requires different speeds to execute, a scroll saw with variable speed control is a great idea. I personally enjoy having as much control as possible over my power tools, and this is exactly the feature that I love.

Table tilt or blade tilt

Table and blade tilting explain themselves; either the table on which you are cutting or the blade with which you are cutting is angled to change the direction that your cuts take. Such angled cuts are essential for things like parquet projects. A tilt system that places the blade at an angle is preferable since it keeps the horizontal table fixed and stable. If your machine uses a table tilt mechanism, don’t be concerned, though. It will also be safe and effective.

Stable base with clamp system

Some scroll saws securely clamp onto heavy benches, which provides a good stable base. An effective clamp will keep you safe and reduce noise and vibration.

Levers, knobs, and cams

Scroll blades have various ways to alter the tension of the blade they are holding. Some saws use levers, while others use cams. Unlike with a power saw, you can tense your blade whenever you need to, for example, when you need precise cuts. It doesn’t really matter which blade tension mechanism your saw uses; just pick a durable system built from quality materials.

Dust blower

Dust blowers are very nice features that will help you keep your working area clean. The majority of the saws also have flexible blow tubes that will keep the dust and debris away. Dust blowers are a must-have for me. I hate working and not being able to see all that I am doing. With a sawdust blower, I will have a better notion of what where my cuts and how deep.

Integrated LED

Integrated LED lights are great for cutting since they illuminate your workspace. When working with wood and cutting tools, you need to be able to see where you are cutting, how far, and how deep. An LED light will help you do just that.

What Is The Price Range For Scrolls Saws?

You should always purchase a product that lies within your budget. Also, never go for a low-quality product to save your money because it will create problems for you down the line. When buying scroll saws, you should expect to pay between $100 to $2000 (we know that is a large price range). The higher-priced models come with extra features that jack their prices up significantly. Obviously, they are very expense, but consider that high-quality machines can be relied on for years!