The Best Scroll Saws for Every Type of DIY

6 / 7

The design features on the Jet JWSS-22B Scroll Saw, combined with its large work surface and three-quarter-inch cutting stroke, make it a great home shop saw. Jet’s blade change mechanism allows you to clamp and tension the blade in one step without any tools. The upper spring-loaded arm moves up out of the way for blade changes and ease of situating your work. All the features you’d expect are part of this saw, from a foot pedal switch to LED work light to handy blade storage. Though loaded with big saw features, the footprint of this saw is small and won’t eat up space in your shop. And Jet backs up its tools with a five-year warranty.

Throat Size: 22.375 inches
Vertical Capacity: 2 inches
Table Size: 23 by 12.875 inches
Weight: 68.2 lbs.

Pros

• High quality materials and make
• Tons of helpful features to make using the saw easy
• Included foot switch
• Five-year warranty

Cons

• The quality means a high price tag
• The blade is very close to the table’s front edge

7 / 7

The Hegner 18-inch variable speed scroll saw is a professional grade scroll saw with a powerful yet quiet motor capable of scrolling smoothly through any material. Even with the variable speed topped out at 1700 rpm, there is no detectable vibration in the blade. This is testimony to the quality build of this machine that includes a unique dust management system with three options to eliminate most of the dust produced during operation. Hegner also designed this saw with a quick-lock tension system including a quick release for ease in changing blades.

Every feature you could ask for is smartly and solidly built into this saw. If you’re running a woodworking business and want a reliable tool that gives consistent quality results, all day, every day, this saw is worth every penny.

Throat Size: 18 inches
Vertical Capacity: 2.625 inches
Table Size: 17 by 9 inches
Weight: 50 lbs.

Pros

• Widest capability of saws on the market
• Powerful
• Incredibly smooth cutting
• Includes 76 assorted blades
• Quiet

Cons

• Very expensive
• Blade change system is finicky
• Base is not included

Types of Scroll Saws

• C-type: “A C-Scroll model is an arm shaped like the letter C with a blade attached to the end of the letter. This design only has one pivot point and does not shut off when the blade breaks, making it better suited for professionals,” explains McCoy.
• Parallel: “This design features two parallel-running arms with two pivot points, and the blade moves in an up-and-down motion,” says McCoy. This is an excellent option for beginners because of its safety features. “When the blade breaks, the saw stops immediately and automatically,” he notes.
• Double-parallel: “A double-parallel link arm is the most cutting-edge model, making it great for seasoned users,” says McCoy. This design relies on two parallel arms that move back and forth, converting this motion at the tips of each arm into a precise up-and-down blade movement, explains Palla.

What to Consider When Buying a Scroll Saw

• Throat size: A saw’s throat size refers to the distance between the blade and the back of its arm. Most scroll saws have throat capacities between 15 and 20 inches, but some reach as high as 30 inches. The need for a 30-inch scroll saw is rare. I consider 20-inch saws to be more than adequate.
• Vertical capacity: Vertical capacity refers to the thickness of the material you are attempting to cut. Be aware that just because a saw has a large vertical capacity does not mean it has the power to slice through it. When cutting multiple stacked parts from a template, vertical capacity is most crucial.
• Table size: The table must be large enough to support the work the throat will accept. The table size varies, but generally, the larger the better. It should be machined flat, preferably tilting both ways.
• Weight: Portability is important, notes Palla. The weight of a scroll saw goes beyond simply lugging it around the shop. Lightweight saws often produce more vibration unless mounted on a stand or bench. If your scroll saw vibrates excessively, achieving clean results becomes nearly impossible.
• Variable speed: A variable speed motor enhances control over various cuts, with speed ranges typically spanning from 400 to 1750 rpm. Most saws, including all listed here, offer variable speed. But if you plan to purchase an older model from an online marketplace, remember to keep this feature in mind.
• Dust removal: As with any saw, scroll saw cutting produces dust, which you don’t want to build up on your project or underneath it. At a minimum, purchase a scroll saw with a dust collection port. A dust blower is better.
• Blade change systems: In the past, changing blades on scroll saws required tools. These days, many scroll saws offer a tool-free blade change system. However, it’s important to confirm this feature before purchasing. Searching for tools each time you need to change the saw blade can quickly become a hassle.
• Noise: Noise output is an important factor. Quieter power tools are beneficial for your hearing and usually result in less saw vibrations.

Why You Should Trust Us

As an associate editor at Family Handyman and a licensed contractor for more than 20 years, I am well-versed in the world of DIY and woodworking. I love improving homes by taking out walls and creating custom woodwork. With a passion for testing tools, gear and products in the DIY space, I bring a wealth of experience to evaluating the best scroll saws.

To ensure the most informed recommendations, we also sought input from industry professionals, including Gary McCoy, a Lowe’s store manager and power tool expert in the Charlotte area. With decades of experience in the home improvement industry, McCoy possesses first-hand knowledge of sales trends and customer needs.

We also consulted Jeff Palla, the President of Mr. Handyman, a Neighborly company that offers home maintenance and repair services. Mr. Handyman, which has served nearly one million customers across North America, employs highly skilled craftsmen with an average of 10 years of experience in the trades.

How We Found the Best Scroll Saw

Selecting the best scroll saw is essential for woodworkers seeking precision and versatility in their projects. Our process involved an in-depth analysis of top-selling models, focusing on basic specs such as vertical capacity, blade speed, throat and table size and ease of use. We also considered extra features like blowers, lights and foot pedals. Additionally, we consulted woodworking experts to evaluate performance, reliability and value for money. And finally, we researched user reviews to gain insights into real-world performance and customer satisfaction.

FAQ

What is the best scroll saw?

The best scroll saw depends on your experience level, the materials you’re cutting and the scope of your woodworking project. “Weight, portability, speed control, blade compatibility, the ease of blade changing ability and bevel capacity are all factors to consider when determining which scroll saw is best for you,” says Palla.

What should I look for when buying a scroll saw?

“Features to look for include dust blowers for ease of cleanup, an adjustable shoe, whether a hold-down foot is included, the blade type and the saw’s speed range. Needs vary based on project type,” says McCoy.

What is the difference between a scroll saw and a band saw?

A scroll saw uses a small, straight blade that moves up and down for intricate, detailed cuts in thin materials. A band saw uses a larger, continuous loop blade that rotates around two wheels, making it better suited for cutting thicker materials and making straight or curved cuts. Scroll saws are more maneuverable and better for intricate work, while band saws are more versatile and suitable for a wider range of cutting tasks.

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