Scroll saw advice please

[GBMAPCO]

Hi
I am a new member and am also a new scroller.
I want some advice which may seem very basic to you experts out there.
I have been producing jigsaws from 3mm ply and using a hand held saw using Bahco blades 302-51w-12p for best results.
I am now looking for a basic scroll saw and want to achieve the same results that I have achieved by hand.
What would you recommend at an entry level, both machine and blades.
In anticipation of being overwhelmed with advice Thank you
John (GBMAPCO)
:?:

 

[Gill]

Hi John

Welcome to the forum .

I would suggest you pay a visit to the Flying Dutchman website and consider its Puzzle Blades. Alternatively, depending on how far you are from the Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham, it might be worthwhile popping into a jewellery supplier and buying some jewellers blades there. A word of warning - these fine blades break very easily until you become familiar with your saw, so even though you are experienced at cutting by hand it might be a good idea to start off with some sturdier blades. If you're cutting plywood, tear-out can be a problem on the underside of the workpiece so it would probably be a good idea to opt for a blade with reverse teeth, such as the FD Scroll Reverse.

It is difficult to know what to suggest as an entry level saw. Since you already like making jigsaws, I think it would be a false economy to buy a cheap saw because you would be very likely to consider upgrading. Something like the AWFS (supplemented with a Quick Release clamp from Hegner ) would probably keep you happy, or possibly a Fox 16" which is slightly cheaper. At the bottom end of the market is the SIP 16" saw which has elicited favourable comments.

Gill

 

[GBMAPCO]

Hi Gill
Thank you for your advice, and yes I am local to Birmingham and will visit the jewry quarter and leave my wife at home
John GBMAPCO