Scroll Saw

[JSwaff19]

I'm not the handiest person around here, but I've recently had an itch to start learning how to use a scroll saw.

As an obvious beginner...
- What do I need to know about them?
- What features should I look for when purchasing one?
- What is the best scroll saw out there for a rookie?

I have done a little research over the last few days but always know that I can count on everyone here for some in depth details and real life experiences. I know there are attachments available for certain saws also. If you have a picture, share your scroll saw set up and let me know what I need to get started.

 

[mbatarga]

What is your budget? What type of projects are you interested in?

Typically - the more expensive models vibrate less - likely have variable speed and other features that are nice to have. The cheapest saws typically require blades that are Pin mounting style - which requires a larger starting hole for captured cutting. More expensive saws hold the blade with a clamping force - and therefore allow VERY small blades. Those small blades allow very precise cuts and small/intricate projects.

Dewalt has a model that runs about $400. The stand and light accessories, etc. -can add another $100-200.

 

[nanofrog]

More expensive saws hold the blade with a clamping force - and therefore allow VERY small blades. Those small blades allow very precise cuts and small/intricate projects.

I've a Delta of this type I bought it new in ~'86, and wouldn't trade it for the world.

In fact, this thread has reminded me I need to buy more blades.

 

[bfm336]

I'm not the handiest person around here, but I've recently had an itch to start learning how to use a scroll saw.



As an obvious beginner...

- What do I need to know about them?

- What features should I look for when purchasing one?

- What is the best scroll saw out there for a rookie?



I have done a little research over the last few days but always know that I can count on everyone here for some in depth details and real life experiences. I know there are attachments available for certain saws also. If you have a picture, share your scroll saw set up and let me know what I need to get started.

Early 90s deltas - $30-60 at yard sales or pawn shops. Usually come in single or dual speed, the latter is nice if you find one.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Git]

I've a Delta of this type I bought it new in ~'86, and wouldn't trade it for the world.

In fact, this thread has reminded me I need to buy more blades.

Sounds like my Delta 40-601. I also bought one brand new from around that time period, although it has not seen much use lately. If you come across a used one, they have been known to have problems with the electronic speed control.

Here is a pic of what they look like (this isn't mine). Another great saw from that time period was made by Hegner. Here is a great example of one currently on eBay. The Delta and the Hegner were easily $1,000 brand new
http://www.ebay.com/itm/HEGNER-Mult...144739?hash=item2112baad63:g:x-YAAOSwkl5XfoeN

 

[nanofrog]

Sounds like my Delta 40-601. I also bought one brand new from around that time period, although it has not seen much use lately. If you come across a used one, they have been known to have problems with the electronic speed control.

Here is a pic of what they look like (this isn't mine). Another great saw from that time period was made by Hegner. Here is a great example of one currently on eBay. The Delta and the Hegner were easily $1,000 brand new
http://www.ebay.com/itm/HEGNER-Mult...144739?hash=item2112baad63:g:x-YAAOSwkl5XfoeN

Mine's only a 40 560, so not that sophisticated. Does what I've needed it for though (cutting thin plywood, plastic, and FR4 PCB material), and still going strong. Spare parts are still available too.

Not my image either ^.

 

[Maui]

A vintage Delta Milwaukee from the early 1950s with a 24" throat is an excellent choice if you run across one. They are built like tanks. The cast iron they are made from coupled with the geometry results in a machine that does a great job of minimizing vibration. I own two.

Maui

 

[JSwaff19]

After searching everywhere I could over the last week (prior to this original post), this morning I stumbled upon a Dewalt DW788 on a facebook resale group. The guy was asking $250 for it but it had been posted since March with no bites. I sent him a message and offered $200. He met me half way at $225. I picked it up this evening. He had two of them and needed to downsize so he parted ways with one. It appears to be in excellent shape!