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A scroll saw is a benchtop woodworking machine for cutting intricate curves and patterns in relatively thin stock. Its narrow blade moves rapidly up and down through the table while you guide the workpiece. It is useful for detailed work, not general-purpose ripping.
What a scroll saw is used for
Scroll saws are designed for precision-cutting intricate curves and patterns on thin stock, as OSHA explains in its scroll saw safety guidance. The thin blade and guided workpiece make the tool suited to shaped details that would be difficult to produce with a straight-cutting setup.
A scroll saw is not a substitute for a general-purpose saw when the job is ripping stock or making long straight cuts. Choose the machine for the detail work you expect to do, and check its rated capacity against your material.
How to compare scroll saw specifications
Specifications vary by model. Manufacturer listings are useful for checking dimensions and features, but they are not independent performance tests.
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- Unique side panel flips open for easy-access blade changes
- Variable speed goes from 550 to 1600 strokes per minute
- Spacious 16-by-10-inch table bevels up to 45 degrees for angled cuts
- Cuts wood up to 2 inches thick with a 16-inch throat depth
- Features a thumb screw blade adapter for tool-free blade changes, a cast iron base, an air pump, a dust port, a foot lock clamp, and three 5-inch blades
| Model and source | Throat capacity | Cutting capacity | Blade compatibility | Other listed features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SKIL SS9503-00 — SKIL product page | 16 inches | Not stated on the cited product page | Pinless blades | 550–1,650 strokes per minute; table tilts 0–45 degrees; work light; integrated dust removal; keyless blade change |
| Grizzly G0735 — Grizzly product page | 16 inches | 2 inches at 0 degrees; 25/32 inch at 45 degrees | 5-inch pinned or pinless blades | 550–1,600 strokes per minute |
| WEN 3922 — WEN product page | 16 inches | Up to 2 inches in wood | Holder accepts pinned, pinless, and spiral blades | 550–1,600 strokes per minute |
Throat capacity and cutting depth are different
Throat capacity describes the working reach from the blade toward the frame. It is not the maximum thickness the saw can cut. Compare throat and cutting depth separately, and check whether the depth changes when the table is tilted.
Blade length and holder compatibility
Blade compatibility is not universal. The cited models include 5-inch blades, but their holders differ in the blade types they accept. Check the saw manual and blade holder before buying replacements; match blade length and pinned, pinless, or other specified ends to the machine.
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- INTEGRATED LED WORKLIGHT—Allows greater visibility at a variety of angles
- INTEGRATED DUST REMOVAL SYSTEM—Keeps cut line free of debris for accurate cuts
- ELECTRONIC VARIABLE SPEED CONTROL—Provides greater cutting control with a variety of materials
- TILTING 16 IN. X 10 IN. WORK TABLE—Tilts 0–45 degrees for precise cuts
- ON-TOOL BLADE STORAGE—Easily access additional blades
Features to weigh against your work
- Speed control: Variable stroke speed is listed on these examples, but the useful range depends on your material and project.
- Table tilt: Check the tilt range and how it affects usable cutting depth if you expect to make angled cuts.
- Blade-change access: A keyless or otherwise accessible holder can matter when your work requires frequent blade changes.
- Dust clearing and lighting: Integrated dust removal or a work light may help visibility and setup, but the cited specifications do not establish comparative effectiveness.
- Stability and parts support: Consider how the saw will be secured and whether compatible blades and replacement parts are available for the model.
Using a scroll saw safely
The moving blade presents a contact hazard at the point of operation, and contact can also happen below the table. OSHA recommends guarding the blade above and below the table and following safe operating practices.
- Use suitable blades and follow the saw’s model-specific manual.
- Make turns slowly rather than forcing the workpiece around the blade.
- Wear appropriate eye and face protection.
- Keep loose clothing and long hair away from the cutting area.
- Use required guards above and below the table, and follow applicable workplace requirements.
Choosing a saw for your projects
Start with the material dimensions and the type of detail work you plan to do. Then compare throat capacity, maximum cut depth, blade and holder compatibility, speed adjustment, table tilt, blade-change access, dust clearing, lighting, and the availability of compatible parts. Manufacturer specifications help narrow the options, but they do not establish which saw performs best in practice.
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- 20 in. Variable-Speed Scroll Saw
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- Dust port adapter keeps line-of-sight clear and work space clean
- Auto tensioning quick-change mechanism for easy accessory change and optimal blade tensioning
- Detachable coping function for handheld use to take the tool to the work piece
- Variable-speed control for optimal cutting in a variety of materials
- Fast-clamp base attaches to various tables, benches and surfaces
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
