Welcome to our review of the Craftsman 16 Scroll Saw! Before we get into the features, pros and cons of this scroll saw, let’s first discuss why you might consider purchasing it in the first place.
Craftsman 16 Scroll Saw – Introduction
Scroll saws are must have for woodworking. From cutting to intricately curving wood, a scroll saw is used at every step.
In the recent times, the scroll saw has replaced the power jigsaw because of its added benefits.
Scroll saws are easier to handle than a hand saw and the electric cutting is another advantage. The quality of the curving is maintained.
However, not every scroll saw is same. Some are less efficient than others. A lot of factors govern the quality of a scroll saw.
There are lot of brands available in the market like Ryobi, Dewalt, Delta, Black and Decker, Dremel and Skil.
All of these cost-effective scroll saws are 16 inches and provide a tough competition to Craftsman.
Nevertheless, budget scroll saws do not have the best quality.
They do not provide the intricate wood cutting like the branded ones.
Secondly, there is no guarantee either. Woodworking requires an accuracy which is definitely not provided by them.
Craftsman scroll saw is also available at fairly good prices. Let us have a look at it, and see what millworkguide team has to say.
- can be connected to external vacuum
- The device can be tilted up to 45 degrees
- Brilliant stability
- not efficient for smaller cuts
- Spiral scroll blades cannot be used
Craftsman 16 Scroll Saw Features
Weight: 41.3 pounds.
Dimensions: 12.8x25x14.8 inches.
Power Source: Corded electric.
Maximum Speed: 1600 rpm.
Voltage: 120 volts.
The depth of throat: 16 inches.
Craftsman 16 Scroll Saw Review
User friendly
The tabletop craftsman scroll saw is highly user friendly. The tabletop feature renders it easier to use than others.
The angular cuts of the device are much fine due to the very feature.
Often the speed of the scroll saw is needed to be controlled. It seems difficult to change when you are completely into work.
Craftsman scroll saw resolves this issue by producing variable speed control knob right at the front.
You can easily change the speed while on work. Another great feature with this device is that it provides connectivity to external vacuum.
You can connect the device to vacuum and get rid of the sawdust that hinders your work. A detailed manual is provided along with the device for beginners.
Precision
A scroll saw asks for accuracy and precision. An under accurate scroll saw is of no use.
The best part about Craftsman is that it provides a cast iron work table which helps in giving you a tough support to carry your work.
It absorbs most of the vibration caused by the saw. As low as 400 rpm speed to 1600 there is no vibration felt as well as low noise.
The table can be tilted to 45 degrees for you to perform more accurately. You can easily place the wood on the iron top and tilt to any angle easily for fine work.
Also, the 5 inch pin and pin blade offer more versatility to the device.
Capacity
Being a budget friendly product craftsman offer a 1.6 amp inductive motor.
A 1.6 amp motor is ideal for variety of materials from light to heavier ones. No kickbacks or stalling is observed.
It is a fair deal as compared to other scroll saws. The throat depth of 16 offers the maximum accuracy.
It is well suited for woodwork for beginners as well as professionals.
The speed control of the device can be controlled from 400 to 1600 rpm.
It is one of the best features at this price as the lower speed is only provided by professional scroll saws.
It can cut with higher precision than others.
Price
As mentioned earlier that cheap scroll saws do not work well but same is not the case with Craftsman.
It is an efficient device at this price and outperforms most of the devices available in the market.
The cheaper brands like Ryobi or Wen are lighter than Craftsman but offer aluminum work table which does not absorb vibrations.
Craftsman is indeed heavier but it does not hinder in the quality of your work.
Secondly, the cheaper brands do not offer a speed up to 400 rpm. It is the only scroll saw to provide a variable range at lower price.
This is a highly efficient scroll saw with features resembling the professional ones. It performs excellently at such price range.
Stability
As mentioned earlier the cast iron work table provides a strong support to the device.
It also helps in maintain stability. The dimensions of the work table are 17-1/8” x 10-1/4” which is optimal for most of the woodwork.
It does not cause any vibration even at the speed of 1600 rpm. It is one of the best devices you can get at reasonable price.
Durability
The device is made up of soft metal alloys and cast iron working table.
Mostly the budget scroll saws are made up of plastic but it is the only budget scroll saw to be made up of a metal.
The metallic construction gives it a strong build and helps in giving a tough support. It renders the device durable than others.
Craftsman 16 Scroll Saw Pros
- It can be connected to external vacuum.
- It has an onboard blade storage compartment for storage of blades.
- Metal construction makes it durable.
- Variable speed control makes it suitable for both lighter and heavier woods.
- Cast iron work table absorbs vibration and noise.
- The device can be tilted up to 45 degrees.
- 6 amp inductive motor performs most of the functions.
- Brilliant stability.
Craftsman 16 Scroll Saw Cons
- The table can only be tilted to the left for angular cuts.
- It is not efficient for smaller cuts.
- Spiral scroll blades cannot be used with the device.
Conclusion
The Craftsman 16 inch scroll saw is a great device as it offers professional features at such an affordable price.
The angular tilt and cast iron work table render it unique than the other budget-friendly scroll saws available in the market.
The vibrations are not felt during the work which is required for intricate cutting.
The variable speed control is another plus point at the same time.
It is suitable for beginners and the ones searching for an efficient budget friendly scroll saw.
It is a great value added product and does not compromise with accuracy, quality, durability, and stability.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this review of the Craftsman 16 scroll saw!
Here are some more articles that you may also enjoy:
Best Scroll Saw Buying Guide and Reviews
Ultimate Guide to Nail Gun Types and Sizes
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About The Author: Hi There! I’m Dave. I’m a certified millworker and carpenter, and have been working in the industry for over 10 years. I created this website to pass on my knowledge so that other enthusiasts, no matter what their skill level, can enjoy the craft as much as I do. I hope you enjoy!
