The choice of a scroll saw cannot be taken casually. Apart from the characteristics such as robustness and solidity, the choice must be based first of all on the use one wants to make of it. For occasional uses that do not require too much precision, one can opt for a manual model. However, when the volume of work and the need for a precision increase, it would be more advisable to opt for a mechanical jigsaw.
The scroll saw is a major machine in a workshop working wood. The market offers a lot of different models, features and manufacturing quality. Let’s take a look at the features of the scroll saw review, in order to make the best choice for your needs.
- The machine frame
The structure of the building is important. It determines the working capacity and cutting quality which is very sensitive to vibrations. Cast iron frames are nowadays little used (except for very large machines) in favor of mechanically welded structures.
- The gooseneck
This is the major dimensional feature. It corresponds to the distance between the saw blade and the frame, determining the maximum sawing width possible.
- Cutting height
Gooseneck function and engine power. The cutting height determines the maximum sawing thickness.
- The number of ruffles
2-wheel saws are by far the most common. In this case, the diameter of the flywheels corresponds to the size of the gooseneck thus the cutting width. 3-flute saws are much less common. Their design allows to obtain a large sawing width with a reduced diameter of wheels and therefore a smaller outer frame. On the other hand, the saw blade undergoes a curvature when the flywheels pass, which results in a faster wear and a certain tendency to vibration.
- The blade guides
Their role is to guide the blade laterally and hold it in position during cutting. Side guides are often made of synthetic resin on small machines and mounted on bearings for larger ones.
- The cutting table
The size of the table determines the working comfort and contributes to the precision of the sawing. The wider the table, the better the room is maintained. It can be fixed or adjustable, from 0° to 45°, or from 0° to -15° for negative cuts. It is always equipped with a parallel sawing guide and a groove for the miter cutting guide. Cast iron is preferable to aluminum. More resistant, it is also more rigid and the glide is better.
- The number of speeds
Most scroll saws have only one blade speed. Calculated taking into account the diameter of the steering wheels, it is between 800 and 1000 m/min.
- The power of the engine
The scroll saw requires quite a lot of power. To be convinced, simply saw a wooden tray with a hand saw. The cuts in fretwork are also greedy in power.
In conclusion
Do not choose just too much! If this is your first purchase, think that the scroll saw will quickly become the essential machine of your workshop. A gooseneck too small or too limited cutting capacity will soon be handicapped.
