Guide to Buying the Best Scroll Saw

The initial scroll saws featured a treadle mechanism and were operated by foot. Ideally, they were large machines that were meant for veneer cutting and decorative molding at commercial levels. However, with advancements in technology, these saws have greatly changed. They are now simple and safer to use.

You will find the scroll saw to be a great tool for cutting complex shapes in a range of materials. In this way, you can make beautiful craft projects. However, you need to get the best scroll saw for your application. There are many instances where you can use a scroll saw. The following are the important things you ought to consider.

Variable Speed

In the past, single-speed machines were the only ones. Fortunately, there are now variable-speed motors. You should note that the variable speed is quite important as it ensures its work is done at high speeds. It allows you to control the speed and reduces wastage of material and errors. Moreover, you can change the speed to suit the material you are working on. You can find scroll saws with a speed range of 400 to 1600 SPM.

Arm Type

The arm is meant to control the movement of the blade. Others have a feature that raises the upper arm. You will find this to be useful when changing the blades. The following are the arms you can find:

AC Arm

This type of arm has a pivot point and helps you to cut aggressively. Modern scroll saws do not have this type of arm.

Parallel Arm

This arm is quite rare. It comprises two arms that provide vertical cutting action. You will find it to be safe as the saw stops running when the blade breaks.

Table

You need a scroll saw with a sizeable table to provide an adequate working surface. This is the case if you want to carry out large projects. Aluminum and steel tables are an option. The tables have a slope and can tilt up to 45 degrees. Moreover, they have a scale for setting the angles correctly.

Cut Capacity

There is a need to consider the thickness and depth of the cut as they determine the cut capacity. Professional scroll saws have a throat that ranges from 18 to 30 inches. You will find this great for cutting large pieces.

Blade Clamping

Most scroll saws have pinned blades and plain-end blades. If you are a beginner, you should get pinned blades as they are easy to locate. Professionals can use plain-end blades.