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Best Scroll Saw Reviews & Ratings 2018

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  1. Top 10 Best Scroll Saw Comparison
  2. Best Compact Scroll Saw Reviews
  3. Dewalt DW788 20" Variable Speed Scroll Saw
  4. Delta 40-694 20" Variable Speed Scroll Saw
  5. Central Machinery Variable Speed Scroll Saw
  6. Proxxon 37088 Scroll Saw
  7. Rockwell RK7315 16" Scroll Saw
  8. Dremel MS20-01 Scroll Saw
  9. Proxxon 37090 DSH/E Scroll Saw
  10. Shop Fox W1713 16" Variable Speed Scroll Saw
  11. Hegner 18" Variable Speed Scroll Saw
  12. General Intl. 16" Scroll Saw Excalibur
  13. Scroll Saw Buyer's Guide
When working with wood nothing seems to stand out more than the beautiful intricate designs created by the use of a scroll saw. The smooth curves, painstaking details can transform an ordinary woodwork project into an extraordinary masterpiece. There are a plethora of tools on the market, but only a few can achieve the ideal results.

In our scroll saw buyer’s guide we will do our best to help break down each top brand of scroll saws to help you find the one that is just right for your next projects.

Top 10 Best Scroll Saw Comparison

Dewalt DW788
 Delta 40-694 Central Machinery Variable Speed
 Proxxon 37088
 Rockwell RK7315
Dewalt DW788 1.3 Amp scroll saw Delta 40-694 20" scroll saw 16-in-Variable-Speed-Scroll-Saw review Proxxon 37088 scroll saw Rockwell-RK7315-scroll saw
110v 110v 110v 110v 110v
1.3 amp
 1.3 amp 1.3 amp
 1.3 amp 1.3 amp
3 Year Warranty 5 Year 90 Day 2 Year 2 year
20″ Throat 20″ Throat 16″ Throat 12″ throat 16″ Throat
65.6 lb 60 lb 23 lb 27.2 lb 28.9 lb
$$ $$ $$ $$ $$$
(Editors Choice)

Ratings: 4.6

 Ratings: 4.3 (Great Value)

Ratings: 4.4

 Ratings: 3.7 Ratings: 4.1
. . . . .

Best Compact Scroll Saw Reviews

Dremel MS20-01
 Proxxon 37090 DSH/E
 Shop Fox W1713
 Hegner 18″ Variable Speed
 GENERAL INTL 16In Scroll Saw
Dremel MS20-01 portable scroll saw review Proxxon 37090 DSH_E 16" scroll saw review Shop Fox W1713 scroll saw review Hegner 18" Variable Speed scroll saw GENERAL INTL 16In Scroll Saw
110v 110v 110v 110v 120v
1.3 amp
 1.3 amp 1.3 amp
 1.3 amp
 1.2 amp
2 Year Warranty 2 Year 90 Days 5 Year Limited 2 Year
14.5″ Throat 16″ Throat 16″ Throat 18″ Throat 16″ Throat
4.7 lb 38.5 lb 35.3 lb 50 lb 40.6 lb
$ $$ $$ $$$$ $$
(Best Value)

Ratings: 4.6

 Ratings: 4.4 Ratings: 4.5 Ratings: 4.3 (Editors Pick)

Ratings: 4.7
. . . . .

Dewalt DW788 20″ Variable Speed Scroll Saw

Dewalt DW788 1.3 Amp scroll sawHere is the DEWALT 20 in. Variable-Speed Scroll Saw that works wonderfully in achieving accurate and detailed workpieces. The user-friendly configuration works well with the easy controls, and the reduced vibration design with variable speed delivers top performance. Includes a Double parallel-link arm ideal for the accurate cuts and the arm pivots from front to back allowing shorter distance needs to move for a smoother operation.

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Pros Cons
  • A Double parallel-link arm reduces vibration and noise for accurate cuts.
  • Tool-free blade clamps for blade changes in seconds for less downtime.
  • On/off switch, an electronic variable speed, a flexible dust blower, and blade-tensioning lever on the front upper arm for easy access.
  • Arm design pivots from the front of the saw to the back, shortening the arm movement for smoother, quieter operation.
  • Arm lifts so the blade can be threaded through the material easily for inside cuts.
  • Special arm design keeps the blade perpendicular to work, minimalizing over or under cutting.
  • A Cast-iron table that is oversized offers excellent material support and bevels 45 Degree left and right.
  • Includes 20″Variable-Speed Scroll saw, hex wrench and blades.
  • You can’t lock the arm up for blade changes.

Top Dewalt Scroll Saw Questions & Answers

Q – What is the largest piece of wood this saw can cut?
A – 2″.
Q – Can the scroll saw be used on a benchtop or is a stand necessary?
A – You can use the saw on a benchtop as long as it’s fastened securely, but it’s still better to use a stand as it is the correct height and it allows the user to move around the saw.
Q – Can the scroll saw work with a foot pedal (switch)?
A – Yes!
Q – Is there a dust collector nozzle?
A – No. It does have an air nozzle that pushes the dust out.

Delta 40-694 20″ Variable Speed Scroll Saw

Delta 40-694 20" scroll sawHere is the Delta 1.3 Amp 20 in. Variable Speed Scroll Saw ideal for the many woodworking projects that center around beautiful intricate designs, and it comes with an on-tool blade storage for an organized workspace and protection for the scroll saw blades. The Delta 20″ 1.3 Amp can operate on 400-1750 RPM variable speeds.

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Pros Cons
  • On/off switch, an electronic variable-speed dial, a flexible dust blower, and blade-tensioning lever are up front on the arm for easy access
  • Tool-free blade clamp provides for fast, and easy blade changes.
  • Single lever, tool-free blade tensioning provides users to quickly adjust the blade to the proper tension which prolongs the blade life and the accuracy
  • Cast-iron table offers an excellent material support and bevels 0 degree – 45 degree left and right
  • Lockout power switch
  • Nothing found yet. 🙂

Top Delta Scroll Saw Questions & Answers

Q – Does the Scroll Saw include a LED light to illuminate work areas?
A – No. It can be purchased separately.
Q – Is there a stand included?
A – No.
Q – Can I use pin blades?
A – No, pinless blades only.

Central Machinery Variable Speed Scroll Saw

16-in-Variable-Speed-Scroll-Saw reviewHere is the Central Machinery Variable Speed Scroll Saw that provides users with incredible cutting for the intricate curves and designs that are made quickly and more precise. It utilizes a tilting table for accurate bevel cuts with a built-in air pump to keep the line of sight free of sawdust. The scroll saw base designed of cast iron for much less vibration with variable speed control for a range of different materials.

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Pros Cons
  • Variable speed for working with an extensive variety of materials
  • 10″ inch X 16″ inch table tilts 45 deg. left for bevel cuts
  • Cuts wood up to 2″ inch thick
  • 16″ inch throat
  • Cast iron base for significantly reduced vibration
  • Predrilled base holes for quick and easy bench mounting
  • Some reports of table wobbling

Top HF Central Machinery Questions & Answers

Q – Can it cut through Plastic?
A – With the proper blade.
Q – What are the length of the blades?
A – 5 Inches.
Q – Can this model hook up to a shop vac?
A – Yes with the right adaptor.

Proxxon 37088 Scroll Saw

Proxxon 37088 scroll sawHere is the Proxxon 37088 Scroll Saw that comes with an integrated blower, a height-adjustable head part for three positions. The scroll saw delivers approximately 150 – 2500 strokes per min that are electronically controllable. The ABS plastic body gives a sliding door on the housing for the easy removal of saw dust.

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Pros Cons
  • Patented head-part has three positions due to being height-adjustable provides plenty advantages.
  • Lifetime of saw blade gets multiplied after shortening it twice
  • Blade guide equipped with integrated blower.
  • The machine provides an electronically controllable stroke rate from approximately 150 – 2500 strokes per min.
  • The blade is somewhat difficult to put on.
  • The body isn’t as durable as comparable scroll saws.

Top Proxxon Scroll Saw Questions & Answers

Q – Can this scroll saw cut through 1/2″ thick hardwood or baltic birch plywood?
A – It could cut such wood with this scroll saw, but it would be slow and not my first choice of a tool for this. This Proxxon is designed to cut thinner and softer woods such as you need for making architectural models or for regular hobby uses such as cutting inlays, etc.
Q – What are the blade sizes?
A – 5″ inches.
Q – Are the blades pinned or pinless?
A – Pinless.

Rockwell RK7315 16″ Scroll Saw

Rockwell-RK7315-scroll sawHere is the Rockwell RK7315 16″ Scroll Saw Variable Speed Saw that maneuvers easily with every intricate stroke it makes while adjusting to a variety of angle options which is ideal for the woodworkers out there. The variable speed and the 4/5″ inch stroke makes certain that the cuts are clean and accurate. The flexibility of the 0 degrees to 45 degrees bevel makes for specialized cuts.

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Pros Cons
  • Dust port with dust blower for keeping work area clean
  • 1.2-Amp motor with 500-1700 Strokes Per Minute and no-load speed
  • Onboard storage prevents blades from getting lost or damaged
  • Variable speed control for tight inside cuts
  • Cutting depth is 2-1/2″ inches.
  • Air pump needs improvement as it’s not as durable.
  • Adjustable foot seems flimsy.

Top Rockwell Scroll Saw Questions & Answers

Q – What comes with the scroll saw?
A – A saw, blade guard, blade holder, allen key and 2 blades.
Q – Does it have pinned blades?
A – Yes! The unit will offers (2) 5″ pinned blades.
Q – Can I use this scroll saw to cut sheets of metal?
A – The scroll saw is meant for woodworking unless it was a thin and soft sheet of metal then there are blades you can purchase for that material.

Dremel MS20-01 Scroll Saw

Dremel MS20-01 portable scroll saw reviewHere is the Dremel MS20-01 Scroll Saw is a compact tool for intricate cuts on a variety of materials such as plastic, wood, laminates, and metal. It is easy to store and setup making it highly portable. Also, features an automatic tensioning to keep the blades taut and ready for woodworking. The scroll saw is stationary, but the saw can be removed from its base for increased productivity in shared workspaces.

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Pros Cons
  • Precisely cut through a variety of materials: wood, laminate, plastic and thin metal.
  • Portable, precise, and easy to operate.
  • Two tools in 1: bench-top and handheld capability.
  • Detachable coping function for handheld use to take the tool to the workplace.
  • Variable speed control for optimal cutting in a variety of materials.
  • Fast clamp base attaches to various tables, benches, and surfaces.
  • Dust port adapter keeps the line of sight clear and work space clean.
  • A little on the noisy side.
  • The on/of switch is somewhat difficult to move at times.

Top Dremel Scroll Saw Questions & Answers

Q – Where does the scroll saw mount to?
A – Any work surface and can be used free-handed, too!
Q – Are there blades included with the saw purchase?
A – Yes. However, the quantity given of the blades seem to change with different consumers.
Q – Would this model be ideal for a beginner?
A – Yes! It is easy to use and a good quality scroll saw.

Proxxon 37090 DSH/E Scroll Saw

Proxxon 37090 DSH_E 16" scroll saw reviewHere is the Proxxon 37090 DSH/E Scroll Saw that is so easy to the ears as it only emits insignificant humming sounds while simultaneously cutting wood up to 1-1/2″ inches. It will cut through Plexiglas, fiberglass, foam, cork, and leather effortlessly. The free-swinging saw blade holder works with standard saw blades that are pinned and when clamping securely with a toggle screw users can switch to pinned blades.

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Pros Cons
  • Practical tension release lever.
  • Equipped with a vacuum adapter for keeping workspace clean.
  • Machine base made of solid cast iron with rubber feet minimizing vibrations.
  • Includes five coarse and five fine saw blades each
  • Equipped with vacuum adapter for clean and dust-free workspace.
  • Quick tension release lever for frequent inside cuts.
  • Not as durable.

Top Proxxon Scroll Saw Questions & Answers

Q – Will this model accept both pinless and pinned blades?
A – Proxxon 37090 will accept both saw blade types, so yes!
Q – Will it take spiral blades?
A – Yes, Proxxon spiral blades will work great!
Q – What’s the difference between this model (the 370900) and the 37088?
A – This model (37090) can take wood that is thicker and handles different metals because of the motor being more powerful. The table gives a larger workspace and tilts at a 45-degree angle for miter cuts. It can also you the pinless blades as it can use both.

Shop Fox W1713 16″ Variable Speed Scroll Saw

Shop Fox W1713 scroll saw reviewHere is the Shop Fox W1713 16″ Variable Speed Scroll Saw with an extra cutting capacity and a cast-iron construction. It comes with a handy gooseneck work light for working in dark workshops and includes a dust port with a blower. The saw sits on a large table at a 45-degree tilt and blade changes are easy.

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Pros Cons
  • Plain and Pin-End Blade Compatible.
  • Table Tilt  0 to 45-degrees.
  • Variable speed motor.
  • Cast iron table for durable construction.
  • Gooseneck work light.
  • Dust blower and 1-1/4″ inch dust port.
  • Although the manufacturer states the blades are easy to change a few consumers say it’s difficult.

Top Shop Fox Scroll Saw Questions & Answers

Q – Is there a dust collector bag for this model?
A – No, but there is a port to attach an adapter for vacuum.
Q – Does the scroll saw include blades?
A – It comes with a starter pack of two pinned blades. It also comes with adapters for plain end blades if you decide to purchase those yourself.
Q – I live in an apartment is the scroll saw very loud?
A  No, it’s relatively quiet for a power tool.

Hegner 18″ Variable Speed Scroll Saw

Hegner 18" Variable Speed scroll sawHere is the HEGNER 18″ Variable Speed Saw that is quiet, versatile, compact and most importantly, precise in its cutting of intricate designs. The Hegner brand is well-known for delivering tools with long blade life, excellent cutting control with a quiet and smooth operation. The saw will cut smooth edges, accurate sawing without the need of sanding. Highly reliable, and it should be for the ticket price.

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Pros Cons
  • Double-Quicklock Tensioning System
  • Electronic Variable Speed Induction Motor
  • Highly Precise and Reliable
  • 7 Year Manufacturer’s Warranty against any tool defects
  • Delivers intricate designs with less noise than many comparable units
  • Easy blade installation
  • No vibrations
  • None found – aside from the price.

Top Hegner Scroll Saw Questions & Answer

Q – How is the tension control on it?
A – The tension is set with the tension rod at the rear of the machine, and the quick front release allows the pressure to be released and reset for quick blade changes.
Q – How can you justify the high price compared to low costly scroll saws?
A – This saw allows complete control and speed of cuts and changing of blades. Cheaper saws make your entire body feel vibration whereas this saw is smooth and a lot quieter. It’s night and day. Worth the price if you’re in it for more than a weekend warrior, small hobby.

General Intl. 16″ Scroll Saw Excalibur

GENERAL INTL 16In Scroll SawHere is the General International EX-30K 30″ Scroll Saw that is ready for action with its tilting head that will move blades 45-degrees right and left. The table it sits on stays level that will give the user better control over their work piece by delivering precise, and accurate cuts. Just because it’s a large table scroll saw doesn’t mean small projects can’t be done as it does it all. The saw features quick blade changes with finger operated blade clamps.

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Pros Cons
  • Blade storage on base for convenient organization
  • Blade tilt range of 0 – 45-degree angle
  • Onboard dust blower
  • Better control and precision
  • 30″ throat capacity
  • 2″ cutting thickness capacity
  • None

Top General International Scroll Saw Questions & Answers

Q – What is the cord length?
A – 6ft.
Q – What are the size of the blades?
A – 6″ inches.
Q – What are the variable speeds?
A – 400 to 1,550 strokes per minute.

Scroll Saw Buyer’s Guide

When it comes to buying the best scroll saw one needs to look at the unique features a saw will have to see if it will be the right fit for their projects. Check out some common features below.
Skip Tooth:  A skip tooth blade has a tooth, a gap, and then another tooth.  This design is continuous throughout the length of the blade.

Double Skip Tooth: Built like a skip tooth with the exception that it has two teeth for every gap hence the name skip tooth.

Crown: Built with teeth facing both down and up for the blade to cut on both strokes instead of only cutting the down stroke.

Spiral: Regular flat blade, the spiral blade is twisted so that blades will be able to face all sides.

Metal Cutting: Built of hardened steel for cutting through metal.
Diamond Blades: Diamond blades are the wires that are coated with diamond fragments and for cutting glass.

Reverse Tooth: Reverse tooth blades are designed with the bottom teeth are pointing up to help reduce splintering on the lower part of the cuts.

Ultra Reverse: Built with four to five teeth pointing down and then just one pointing up.  This design is intended to clear sawdust from the cut and still leave a cleaner cut on the bottom, too.

Benefits to Using a Scroll Saw

Unlike a band saw that has a blade that runs in a loop that is continuous, scroll saws have a shorter blade that can be placed through a starter hole in the material allowing for intricate work to be completed without the need for an entry cut.  Just make a starter hole, attach the blade, and you’re all set to make your next wooden masterpiece.

A coping saw can make intricate designs; it is very time-consuming.  A benefit over the coping saw is that a scroll saw is a power tool, which means you can finish those delicate cuts in at a much quicker timeframe productivity and reducing downtime.  No matter if you’re an advanced scroller it will make the craft easier than a coping saw would plus a scroll saw is incredibly safe. Children can use a scroll saw with adult supervision.

Things to Keep In Mind Before Buying

Before you make that important purchase, there are still a few more things to keep in mind.

Design: Scroll saws are built in different models.  While any of the available models have no significant flaws that would detract from their quality, there may be a particular design that best fits your needs.

Throat: The throat of a scroll saw is the distance from the rear frame of the saw to the blade.  Throat size will determine how the saw is classified.  The throat can be as small as 12″ or as deep as 30″ on industrial sized saws.

The larger the wood, the deeper the throat. If you’re planning on only making smaller projects, a small throat will work great.  If large projects the primary then a deep throat is needed.

Blade: Some models can only use specific blades whereas other models can use a broad range of blades.

Price: They can range in price from under $100 to nearly $2,000.  The higher priced scroll saws have much less vibration and are a lot quieter.

Dust Removal: Is there an under table vacuum port or an arm that shoots air to the blade to keep dust clear of your design patterns? Is it powerful enough to sit positioned high above the wood to avoid interfering with your line of sight? Things to look into when buying your new scroll saw.

Floor Stand: Many scroll saws come with a stand, or one can be purchased separately. Some scrollers just fasten their saw to a workbench. However, stands are created to absorb the vibration of the saw so if you’re using a workbench this may not help.