New scrollsaw

[NCPAPAOF2]

I found a Wen 3921 scrollsaw on Ebay, new in box, from a 99.5 reputation seller. $69.95 plus tax and free shipping. Took a chance as I sent my old saw to Nicaragua with the guys from Stated Woods a few years back. I know it's not what serious strollers would buy but for the price and my estimated limited use it will do. Now for my questions. I plan to build a stand to use while seated as standing for long periods is not an option. I need table height relative to my elbows, and thoughts on tilting and if so how much? I know a few of you are serious scrollers and I value your opinions. Also does anyone use a foot switch.
Thanks
Curtis

 

[Berta]

My saw is raised about 3” inches in the back. I do use a foot switch. It turns on when pressed and off when released. If a blade breaks, I jump! It stops. I use a drafting chair that has casters and is height adjustable. Your speed is controlled at the saw.

 

[ScottM]

Everyone’s comfort zone is different. Personally I prefer a flat table. I don’t like all that sawdust falling in my lap. I do use a drafting chair or a tall stool. I kinda half stand half sit. I always use a deadman type foot switch. One of the most overlooked but most important part of my setup is a good magnifying light. These old eyes need all the help they can get.

 

[LeftyTom]

My scrollsaw has a piece of wood at the back, tilting it forward about 3”. Like Berta, I use a foot switch; power is on only when I press the switch down. The foot switch is a HF item.

 

[Darl Bundren]

I got the HF foot switch, too, and it was a good investment. My saw is not tilted, but I stand and can lean over if need be. Good lighting is important

 

[ScottM]

One more thing. Don't cheap out on the blades. Afterall that is where the rubber meets the road. My personal favorite are Pegas Modified Geometer reverse tooth blades. I use mostly sized #1 and #3. Flying Dutchman also makes a quality blade called the Ultra Reverse.

 

[Artisan Pirate]

Solid feedback from everyone here, love that.
My advice to any new scroller is to "Take your time and let the blade do the work"

 

[whitecrane8]

One more thing. Don't cheap out on the blades. Afterall that is where the rubber meets the road. My personal favorite are Pegas Modified Geometer reverse tooth blades. I use mostly sized #1 and #3. Flying Dutchman also makes a quality blade called the Ultra Reverse.

Second the MGTs. #5 (I do not do fretwork) I buy mine at Klingspor

 

[NCPAPAOF2]

Got my stand done. 12 degree slope, 34" floor to throat plate at blade. Made to use with my antique shop stool.

 

[whitecrane8]

Got my stand done. 12 degree slope, 34" floor to throat plate at blade. Made to use with my antique shop stool.

Looks great!

 

[NCPAPAOF2]

Hardwired a foot switch. Bought from Amazon for $9. Looks just like my Wen without the plug. Wire was a little thin, maybe 20 ga even though it was rated for 10 amps. Replaced it with 16ga. Hardwired to the circuit board so light stays on if switch is on but foot switch is not activated. Works great.

 

[whitecrane8]

Hardwired a foot switch. Bought from Amazon for $9. Looks just like my Wen without the plug. Wire was a little thin, maybe 20 ga even though it was rated for 10 amps. Replaced it with 16ga. Hardwired to the circuit board so light stays on if switch is on but foot switch is not activated. Works great.

Hahaha! Lot of work when a new 15A Wen foot switch, with plug, is only $12 at HD. But glad it works!

 

[NCPAPAOF2]

I have a Wen. I wanted a hardwired switch. Some of theclones of this saw have them, or you can select saw on continuously or switcth controlled. May work on that but for now I'll use the foor switch.