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Expert advice for scrollsaws

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Comments (5)

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• Scrollsawing tips
• Stay safe
• Buying advice

Buying advice

Vibration and noise. A machine that runs smoothly helps you do better work and makes it easier to work for long stretches. Test variable-speed models at the same speed.
Location of the controls. You'll use the on/off switch and the tension control a lot. Are they in convenient and safe spots?
Blade-changing. Different manufacturers have developed very different systems. Change the blade a couple of times to get a feel for it, and decide which system works best for youu.
The blower. Does it truly get the dust out of your way? Look for a good-sized bellows and a nozzle that you can position as needed.
Cutting action. You'll find three arm types: C-arm, pararllel arm, and parellel-link. Rick prefers the C-arm for its aggressive cutting action, but a casual user won't be as concerned with speed.

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Comments (5)

fasfixit4u wrote:

I've had at least four machines in my time. But I've found that the most high priced machines are not alwasy the best, I've had a few as I said, but the best machine I've ever owned is a old craftsman 16" w/ 2" cut. and trust me I've had the high priced machine. ( my wife still reminds me all the time ) but the best machine is the one you feel good with.

5/13/2010 10:46:17 AM Report Abuse

denis_muras wrote:

What I suggest to people who ask, start with the medium priced saws. A number of my scrollsaw friends and I started with the low-end saws and were frustrated more that hooked. Even a minor upgrade to a better saw and blades changed our scrollsaw session from frustration to enjoyment.

5/13/2010 10:37:54 AM Report Abuse

rodneye wrote:

My advice to beginners is to "TAKE YOUR TIME" !! Start out with an affordable machine, then, if you're hooked, after a while move up to a nicer more precise machine !

2/20/2010 08:57:55 PM Report Abuse

217green wrote:

The advice is great, however, what scroll saws would you look at.

2/20/2010 11:46:38 AM Report Abuse

philmariotti1 wrote:

As a beginner with a scroll saw, any advice is good to have. Thank you.

2/18/2010 04:04:36 PM Report Abuse