Scroll Saws and Bandsaws

When it comes to scroll saws and bandsaws many want to know how they’re different and do you need to own both, or just one of these saws?

Firstly a scroll saw is different to a bandsaw.

A powered scroll saw uses a narrow blade – usually less than a quarter inch in width.  A scroll saw works by a reciprocating, thin blade which is mounted from top to bottom.  Scroll saws are perfect if you need to make detailed, circular or curves cuts as you can move the material around as the saw is fixed.

Bandsaws are a bit different.

The blades used in bandsaws have a circular shape that are flexible.  These blades move in a continuous downward motion whereas with scroll saws, the blade oscillates up and down.

Also, unlike a scroll saw, a bandsaw blade is open to the front and rear.  This means you can easily use long pieces of material.

As a general rule, scroll saws are better for designing detailed work while bandsaws are used for much bigger cutting.  Bandsaws can cut curves, but not ones that are sharp, tight and complex.

Also, bandsaws have a lot more power.  They generally have more torque with a stronger motor.  Many contractors use them to cut curves and irregular cuts (as well as uniform ones).  And although a scroll saw can make irregular cuts too (they both have tables that tilt), a scroll saw is portable and lighter, making it more ideal for detailed work.

The scroll saw is a bit like a double-ended jigsaw that you operate by using its paddle (it’s action reminds me of a sewing machine).

For detailed designs, use a scroll saw

If you’re wanting to do a bit of woodworking, then I’d highly recommend a scroll saw.  There’s just so much stuff you can make with it.  Anything that needs a tight corner.  Like a Christmas ornament or a jigsaw puzzle.

You can make detailed designs due to the variable speed feature (controlled by a foot pedal or a knob) and you can tilt it plus it uses really fine blades.  When in operation, you’re not hunched over the machine like you are when you use a powered jigsaw (which is more portable as you take the saw to the work rather than bringing the material to the saw – like you do with scroll saws).

Related: What to Use a Jigsaw For?

The downside of scroll saws?

If you use it a lot, the blade won’t take long to get dull.  Maybe even a few months.  This is because a very small portion of the blade is used for cutting (so a lot of wear and tear).  A bandsaw is the opposite and will last longer as the blades are much bigger and subject to less wear and tear.

All tools have their uses and it depends on what you plan on using it for on a regular basis.

Powered tools aren’t cheap, so it’s best to consider what you’ll get the most out of.  You can always build up your tool collection over time.

Cutting timber with a bandsaw

Bandsaws are useful when you need to cut thicker material (up to 12 inches).  I would say a scroll saw would be a maximum of 2 inches.

Bandsaws are not easy to move around (they’re heavier), but the saw comes with an in-built belt of a very specific length (1 big loop basically).  A scroll saw uses a pin-end blade.

Another advantage to bandsaws are the longevity of the blades.  With bandsaws the blade will last a fair while as a large portion of the blade is used due to the big blade loop (this gives it less wear and tear during operation).

Related: Top Rated Table Saws

The downside of bandsaws?

The cost.  They’re not cheap.  Pretty noisy too.

When should I use a Bandsaw?

• You want to cut thick bits of timber – up to 12 inches
• You want to make furniture
• You’re a professional contractor

When Should I use Scroll Saw?

• You plan on cutting curves for hours and need a comfortable position (and don’t find using powered jigsaws that comfortable)
• You’re good at scroll saw projects that require detailed, complex, intricate, tight and sharp cuts and dovetail joints
• You’re after a ‘safer’ power saw that you can even teach older kids to use