I need help picking a Scroll Saw and the mandatory features

[mkmmatt1]

Hi,

I am new to woodworking and would like to add a scroll saw. I would like to know what the features are that are a must, so that I don't regret my purchase later. Also, if anyone has any recommendations for a scroll saw in the $200 range or less I would appreciate it. Thanks very much for the assistance.

[MikeDingas]

I use a Craftsman 16" Variable speed saw. Desireable Features: accepts both pin/pinless blades, Table tilts (both directions is better than one), Adjustable table leveling (my saw doesn't have this, had to shim mine), quick change of blades, minimal vibration, dust blower (away from the sawer is best), Light.

[Dragon]

Welcome to the best scrolling forum. I am sure someone will recommend something within that price range. I have a nice DeWalt 788 but of course it is more than $200. I started with a cheaper one and would not go back.
Diane

[Jim Rodman]

Hi mkmmatt1
mkmmatt1

Welcome to the family of Scrollers, this forum has a great bunch of people.
They have very good advice, years of experience and are more than willing to share with everyone.
I am new to this forum last year and I have had a ton of advice that has help greatly.

But down to the question at hand, what to look for in a scroll saw and the features that you should have.
Things to look for are
-Variable speed
-A easy to us quick release blade clamp system.
-The feature of using pin or pin less blades.
-A adjustable lever blade tension
-A dust port that you can hook a vacuum to
-A work light
-A adjustable blower tub
-A tilting table ( left and right would be nice )
-Ports to access all the moving parts with an oil can.
Just take your time and look at all the machines before you purchase.
There are many others that will have more ideas so listen to all.
Good luck with your search.
Jim form Ontario

[mkmmatt1]

Thanks so much!!! This gives me a good idea of what to look for. I really appreciate all of your help

[Little flower]

All I can add to what's been said is buy the best you can afford because 'as sure as God made little apples' you'll find something better later on! And as a side comment, I don't believe there is any such thing as an beginner / entry level machine. A beginner needs to start on as good a machine as one can afford just like an experienced scroller finds they need. The delta has a very good one in your price bracket.

[Rolf]

I agree totaly with Teresa. Out of curiosity how many people that have saws that use both pinned and pinnless ever use pinned blades? If you do why?

[Jediscroller]

Originally Posted by Rolf

I agree totaly with Teresa. Out of curiosity how many people that have saws that use both pinned and pinnless ever use pinned blades? If you do why?

I use the pinned scrollsanders on either my craftsman or one of my dremels. The plastic (on the non-pinned type) just doesn't hold up in the clamps. This is one of the main reasons I've held onto the older saws.

As far as the original question, I was very happy with my Dremel 1680 for the price. The Craftsman 16" VS is also quite good for the money. Both of these all into your price range.

[knothead]

I would stay away from the delta. As Rolf and I have found out, the front and back movement of the blade is unacceptable. I can guarantee that if you settle for the less expensive machine, it will end up as your back-up and you will upgrade to a better saw.
Tom

[Dragon]

Yep, how true. I started with a cheaper saw and changed it a year later. I now have a DeWalt 788 and I'm very happy with it. I noticed the difference the first time I used it.
Diane