It can sometimes be hard to decide which specialty saw to buy when it comes to scroll saws or band saws. Why do I need a scroll saw? Why do I need a band saw? What are they used for? We will show you exactly what tool will perform the best based on your woodworking project your working on.
What is the difference between a band saw and a scroll saw? What’s the difference?
Well, good thing you came to. These questions will be answered and hopefully, with some education, you’ll feel more confident when shopping for your next purchase.
However, we try to stay mindful of your budget as much as possible, so our recommendations will focus on quality and economy.
The Difference
Both band and scroll saws can be used for a variety of purposes. If you require precise cuts, scroll saws are more suitable than band saws. A scroll saw is the best choice if you are working on a precise project. Band saws are ideal for creating gentle curved cuts in furniture or prepping your wood for forming dishes. They create intricate curves, enough of a curve to form a circle but not so much that it creates an angle that causes you to have to spend a lot of time sanding. A scroll saw is the best choice if you need tight curves.
Accuracy And Speed
Both power saws can be used with equal speed and accuracy. However, scroll saws do have a slightly higher level of accuracy and precision simply because you can use it with both hands. The band saw, on the other hand is more precise and can be used with both hands to cut thicker material faster than a scroll saw.
When To Use A Scroll Saw
A scroll saw would be considered a specialty saw to me more than a bandsaw. The scroll saw has a wide range of capabilities, but where this saw really shines is with clean and intricate cuts.
Scroll saws are common in serious woodworker workshops. If you have ever taken a woodshop class, chances are you’ve used one.
Many times a scroll saw is what is used to create those cool jigsaw puzzles, and small sculptures you see in craft stores. Scroll saws aren’t just for intricate crafts.
Scroll saws are handy enough to allow you to make any precise cut with extreme accuracy. And the great thing about how scroll saws cut, is you rarely have to sand because the cut is so clean.
Many scroll saws have the ability to use a scroll saw foot pedal to operate the motor, allowing your hands to freely handle the material. This is particularly important for small cuts that require precision accuracy.
When To Use A Band Saw
Band saws, another specialty saw, are usually purchased by serious woodworkers or hobbyists.
Band saws are extremely versatile, and can handle most common and special cuts. Because band saws are vertically adjustable, you have the option to cut much larger materials than you do with typical saws.
The band saw is not as precise as a scroll saw in cutting intricate patterns but it does have a wide range of widths and tooth styles that allow for some variation.
The greatest advantage of a band saw is the speed and accuracy at which you can cut materials. The band saw is ideal for cutting large quantities of material at irregular angles or in specific patterns.
A jigsaw can be used to cut angles or patterns in wood. However, a bandsaw allows you to use your hands for more control and precision.
Showdown: Scroll Saw Vs Band Saw
DEWALT DW788 1.3 Amp 51 Cm Variable-Speed Scroll Saw
You rarely go wrong with a DeWalt tool. The DW788 20in Variable-Speed Scroll Saw is certainly no exception.
This scroll saw is ideal for both beginners and professionals. It can be used to create unique trim pieces or custom jigsaw puzzles.
Check out some of the key features below.
- Double parallel-link arm design significantly reduces vibration and noise to ensure precise cuts
- Exclusive scroll saw blades clamps allow blade changes in seconds
- Front upper arm has an on-off switch, an electronic variable speed, flexible and dust blower, as well as a blade-tensioning lever
- Arm design pivots from back of the saw to front, shortening the arm movement for smoother, quieter operation
- Arm lifts allow for easy threading of the blade through the material to make inside cuts
Shop Fox W1706 36 Cm Bandsaw With Cast Iron Wheels
Shop Fox offers a wide range of tools that can be used for all kinds of applications. Shop Fox is an excellent option for people who don’t have unlimited funds (I know I don’t).
The Shop Fox W1706 36 cm Bandsaw features a powerful 1-horsepower, single-phase motor that operates at 1,725 revolutions per minute (RPM).
Cast iron is used for the frame, wheels, and table. The cabinet can also be used as storage. Believe that cleanliness is next to Godliness, the 10 cm dust port can be connected to a dust collection system to help keep your workshop clean.
Below are some technical specifications.
- Motor: 1 HP, TEFC, 110V/220V, single-phase, 1,725 RPM, Amps: 14 @ 110V, 7 @ 220V
- Blade size: 93-
- Cutting capacity (throat): 13-
- Cast iron blade wheels, frame and table.
Scroll Saw Vs Band Saw On A Budget
Shop Fox W1713 41 Cm Variable Speed Scroll Saw
Are you looking for a scrollsaw on a tight budget? Shop Fox comes through again with a scroll saw that is heavy on performance, and light on the wallet.
Although the Shop Fox scroll saw is economic, it has many of the most sought after features such as, variable speed control, extra cutting capacity and cast iron construction.
- Variable speed motor
- Cast iron table
- Gooseneck worklight
- Dust blower and 1-1/10 cm dust port
- Shop Fox Scroll Saw allows you to cut angles of 0-45 degrees with the table tilt mechanism.
- The table lock knob and tilt scale are used to tilt the table for horizontal angle cuts.
Ryobi 2.5-Amp Band Saw
It is extremely difficult to find a band saw on a budget. However, the Ryobi 2.5-Amp Band Saw may just be the solution for the economic band saw buyer.
The Ryobi 2.5 Amp Band Saw is designed for a variety of woodworking applications. The blade tracking window, rack and pinion blade support adjustment mechanism are included. Ryobi Bandsaws are equipped with a dust collection port and lower vibration than other bandsaws.
These are the key features that you get with the Ryobi economic band saw.
- Induction motor with 2.5 amp power
- 9 in. throat capacity and 3-1/2 in. Cutting capacity height to allow for versatility
- RapidSet blade tensioning system
- Blade-tracking sight window for greater accuracy
- Cabinet access is possible without the use of tools
Summary: Scroll Saw vs Band Saw
- Scroll saws are ideal for small and intricate woodworking projects.
- Band saws will increase productivity as theyre designed to give the user full control of the materials.
- Scroll saws can be very affordable and are a great tool to craft.
- Band saws can be expensive, but if you shop smartly enough, you will always find a great deal.
