This post will specifically review the Delta Scroll Saw, Delta 40-690.
To see reviews of other models click the links below.
Craftsman scroll saw, Excalibur Scroll Saw, Dewalt Scroll Saw
To see our overview on Scroll Saw click Scroll Saw Reviews
When I wanted to buy a scroll saw recently, I couldn’t find the info I wanted so I created this blog. I thought it was important to know which brand was best for me, what features did I need, was it really worth it?
I have been woodworking for a couple of decades now and consider myself a capable and experienced woodworker. I will try and share some of my experiences and what I found out about these saws.
If you’re simply looking for the best place to purchase, I have found that Amazon has the best prices and usually includes free shipping on their scroll saws.
==>Click Here to See the Best Deals on a Delta 40-690<==
Delta Scroll Saw, Delta 40-690
Is this the right saw for you?
There are probably very few of us who haven’t watched Norm on TV and ended up buying at least one delta or porter cable tool. I’m certainly no exception. Add this tool to that list.
I think this saw is actually one of Delta’s best tools. It compares very favorable to Dewalt’s dw788 20 inch scroll saw. The saws have almost identical features.
To me the biggest difference is that with this saw, the table stand is included. With the Dewalt, it’s extra. Apples to apples the Dewalt with the stand will be about 50 bucks more.
Depending on where you plan to cut, the stand may not be important. For me, I like sit down and put my legs around the saw. I think it gives me better control. Also, I think the stand helps reduce vibration.
If you only do the occasional project a couple of times a year, this is an excellent saw, especially if you think you’ll grow into it. I have seen professionals use this saw as well. For a typical home user, I would expect this saw to last a lifetime.
Vibration
Vibration is the great separator between quality and inexpensive saws. The delta scroll saw has very little vibration. This means a smoother cut and less wear for the user. I cut on a very inexpensive saw for a while and didn’t know what I was missing until I finally tried a decent saw.
I understand quality saws are more expensive and if budget is a concern, buy the best saw you can. But if there’s any way you can get a saw like this, you’ll understand what a difference a few dollars makes.
How easy is it to use?
Just like the Dewalt, the controls are easy to reach and use. I’ve seen saws where some of the controls are under the saw. Please don’t buy a saw like this. You’ll use it once, get frustrated with it and never use it again.
Blade changes, tension controls and speed are very easy to use here. There are lots of little things like this that make this saw so usable.
As with any tool, the easier it is to use, the more you will use it.
How does it saw?
When you use a 20 inch table you will appreciate the extra space to place the wood. The extra room allows for more control of the wood. If you can control the wood, you will cut straighter and cleaner.
The variable speed feature also is nice. Since you are cutting curves it helps to be able to use it like a gas pedal or brake. Just like when you’re driving and have to slow down going around a corner, you sometimes use the variable speed the same way.
But overall, it does what it’s supposed to do which is cut curves and it does it well.
Concerns
I have two concerns. One is the price. Yes, I know this saw is more expensive than the saws in the $100-$150 range. But if you buy the $150 dollar saw, you’ll regret it and eventually buy a saw like this anyway.
I think there is a much bigger difference between quality scroll saws and low price saw. Much more than saw with, say a table saw. It’s not the power difference, it’s the ability to cut smooth curves with finesse. There’s no middle ground here. A scroll saw cuts well or it doesn’t.
The other concern as with any scroll saw is it’s not the easiest tool to use. But don’t worry, the learning curve is small and you’ll be cutting perfect curves in no time.
Conclusion
For this price range, I don’t think you can go wrong with this saw or the Dewalt. Both have low vibration and are easy to use. Both will last for many years. Both are excellent saws.
So unless you like a particular color or have a coin to flip, pick the one you like. Either way, you can’t lose!
Best Deals
I hope this review on the Delta scroll saw has been beneficial. If you would like to read more reviews or purchase this saw, click the link below. I have found that Amazon has the best prices, free shipping on this saw, and in most cases no sales tax.
