Reply by Planeman40

For a “sometimes need” one of the low priced ones should do. The only things I would warn about are:

1. Select one with the parallel arms to hold the blade taught. There is another type that has a spring tensioner for the blade and I have found that type doesn’t hold the blade tight enough and allows for the blade to bend in the cut much easier.

2. Be sure to get a variable speed with a wide range, particularly toward the low speed. This helps with delicate work.

3. Be sure to bolt the saw down to the bench. The reciprocal motion makes scroll saws vibrate a LOT! Controlling vibration makes for much more accurate cutting and make working more enjoyable.

4. If you can, get a saw that takes both pin-type blades and non-pin blades. And remember, pins can be easily removed from a pin-type blade if necessary.

Planeman

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