Scroll Saws: What To Look For When Buying One – Part 2

In Part 1 of Scroll Saws: What To Look For When Buying One we discussed several features of a scroll saw that one must consider when looking to buy a scroll saw, such as the DW788. I discussed things such as blade holders and feeding method.  In this post, we carry looking at some of the important factors to consider when buying a scroll saw.

Let’s get into it……………

Saw Size

There are different sizes of throats and tables that are available on scroll saws. Larger projects can be support with larger tables. Additional tables can be attached to provide more space for larger projects.  How thick a piece can be cut will be determined by the distance between the table and arm at its lowest point.  This depth is quite important to those that cut boxes and compound cut objects. Throat depth will determine the size of the project when using traditional flat tables.

Tilting table

Most scroll tables have the ability to tilt. This feature enables one to be able to adjust the table so that it is square to the blade or tilt to make angled cuts. There are scroll saw table that can tilt in both directions. On majority of projects cuts will be made with the blade square to the table. It will be very important in the case of intarsia and puzzles cuts that the table be square. Most angle cuts, as in the case of inlay and relief cutting, the angle will be less that 10 degrees. Whether the table is tilted left or right, the same result can be attained. Some designs, such as the Excalibur, have a tilting arm instead of table. This can make working with angled cuts easier as one does need to hold the work piece against the tilted table.

Speed and control

The speed at which a blade travels up and down can be controlled on most saw models. The speed is varied by scroller depending on the type of material they are using and the complexity of the cut. While on the other hand, other sewers maintain a constant speed. If the adjustment of the speed is something one does often, then the location of the speed controls will be an important factor. The most suitable positioning of the speed control will be toward the front to of the saw. Most models have the speed control located close to the on/off switch. If one is left-handed, this will be an important feature to consider.  Some saws operate on an electronic speed control while other saw models require you to adjust the speed by moving the belt to a different pulley.

Vibration

A scroll saw which runs smoothly is one which will be a pleasure to work with. A saw which vibrates a lot will require more pressure so that the blank is kept flat which will result in tiredness. A lot of people that are new to scrolling give it up because the machine they purchased vibrates so much it is difficult to use. There are some of ways of lowering the vibration of a machine but they can only do so much. The amount of vibration a saw produces is a major factor when deciding on your purchase. One way to test the vibration of a scroll saw is to place a glass of water on the saw table. While the machine is on, on will be bale to examine the amount of vibration that is produced by looking the amount of turbulence in the water.

Slotted table and inserts

On scroll tables there is an opening which allows the blade to pass through the table into the blade holder. A removable disc or slotted table can be found on most scroll saws. This slot surrounds the blade. Over time, as you cut, the blade can bow and cause grooves in the table. A removable insert can be replaced to avoid these grooves from occurring.  One may want to find a way to support delicate fretwork near the table, if the project requires it. This can help keep small pieces from falling through the saw table. A small hole is drilled into a zero clearance insert or auxiliary table, which has just enough room to fit the blade. Some models provide zero-clearance inserts.

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