Delta Power Tools 40-694 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw
Last updated date: September 22, 2020
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We looked at the top Scroll Saws and dug through the reviews from some of the most popular review sites. Through this analysis, we've determined the best Scroll Saw you should buy.
Editor's Note October 19, 2020:
Checkout The Best Scroll Saw for a detailed review of all the top scroll saws.
Overall Take
In our analysis of 15 expert reviews, the Delta Power Tools Delta Power Tools 40-694 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw placed 8th when we looked at the top 9 products in the category. For the full ranking, see below.
From The Manufacturer
After nearly 90 years of expertise in the woodworking business, DELTA Power Equipment Corporation (DELTA PEC) has become one of the most revered brands in woodworking tools today. DELTA Power Equipment Corporation focuses on innovations to help the woodworker create masterpieces easier and with more precision. The company designs, manufactures and distributes a variety of stationary woodworking tools including electric table saws, band saws, radial arm saws, scroll saws, drilling machines, jointers, planers, mortisers, lathes, grinders and dust collectors for the professional and advanced woodworking markets. Motor: 1.3 Amp. Speeds: 400-1,750 SPM. Capacity: 20 in. Stroke Length: 3/4 in. Table Size: 16 in. x 24 in. Table Tilt: 0°-45°, Left and Right. Cutting Capacities: at 90°: 2 1/8 in. at 45°: 1 5/8 in. Assembled Depth: 39 in. Assembled Width: 16 in.
Expert Reviews
Expert Summarized Score
User Summarized Score
What experts liked
What experts didn't like
Overall Product Rankings
1. DEWALT DW788 20-Inch Variable-Speed Scroll Saw, 1.3 Amp
2. TACKLIFE TLSS01A Variable Speed Scroll Saw
3. WEN 3921 16-Inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw
4. General International 1.2 Amp 16-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw
5. BUCKTOOL 16-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw
6. RYOBI 1.2 Amp Corded 16-Inch Scroll Saw
7. Jet 22-Inch Scroll Saw With Stand
8. Delta Power Tools 40-694 20-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw
9. SKIL 3335-07 16-Inch Scroll Saw With Light
An Overview On Scroll Saws
Scroll saws are a type of power tool consisting of a table, arm and a vertically-oriented thin blade intended to work on detailed or intricate pieces. Scroll saws and scroll saw blades are designed for precision rather than power, so they tend to be lower-amperage than other saws. The blade moves up and down through a hole in the table, and it can be threaded through a workpiece to make interior cuts.
Key considerations when purchasing a scroll saw include arm type, throat size, table material and bevel and blade type. The arm of the scroll saw arches over the table and holds the saw blade, and there are three types of arm configurations.
C-type arms contain one pivot point, allowing the blade to mode in an up and down position. However, because there is one pivot point, the blade moves in a slight arc. These arms provide a faster cut, but they can cause a lot of vibration and noise, and generally require more skill to operate.
Parallel type arms contain two arms which meet each other in the middle and contain a pivot point in each arm, allowing the arms to travel simultaneously and allowing the blade to move in a reciprocating motion, upwards and forwards.
Finally, parallel-linked arms, the newest style of scroll saw, greatly reduce noise and vibration, allowing for greater accuracy and precision. The arms on these saws are much shorter than on a C or parallel arm, and they pivot, allowing the blade to reciprocate the motion.
After arm type, throat size is often the next-biggest consideration. The throat is the distance between the blade and the back of the tool where the arms meet, and this determines the size of the work piece that can be maneuvered around the blade.
The most common throat sizes range from 16 inches to 20 inches. A sturdy table material is also a must. Tables are commonly made from aluminum, steel or cast iron. Finally, many scroll saws include amenities such as work lights, dust blowers and dust ports to keep the cut line clearly visible. Blades also impact the type of work that can be done, but they are sold separately, and most scroll saws accept every type of blade.
The Scroll Saw Buying Guide
- Carefully assess your skill level before purchasing a scroll saw. While some scroll saws give a faster cut, they often require more skill to operate. A slower but steadier scroll saw can be a better choice for a beginner.
- It’s also essential to order work gloves, safety goggles and a dust mask when you purchase your scroll saw. In addition to long-sleeve shirts, long pants and steel-toed shoes, these pieces of safety gear are essential for work with power tools.
- Check the bevel capabilities of the table. While many scroll saw tables cannot bevel (tilt to allow angled cuts), many can do so for up to 45 degrees to the left, right or both. Not all projects or craftspeople require this capability, but it can be the deciding factor between two otherwise comparable scroll saws.
- The type of blade in the scroll saw greatly impacts the work that can be done and the skill level required to do it. Some types of blades, like reverse-tooth blades, are particularly suitable to materials like plywood that can chip when cut.
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