creating scales

[Hunter Bock]

When crafting scales from blanks (1/8 - 3/8) which is the preferred saw for shaping: band or scroll? I know the band saw has more power but I'm interested in the pros and cons of each.

Thanks everyone.

 

[Lewy1]

Im using hand hair saw.

 

[5whiskey]

A scroll saw is both generally less expensive and more precise than a band saw. A band saw is powerful and is often used to cut much thicker wood, but it also has a more difficult time cutting very sharp curves. Band saws are for broad curves in thick wood or for re-sawing lumber imo. Scroll saws are perfect for smaller items like pistol grips, knife and razor scales, and other items that remain under 3/8ths. They can also usually be found used on Craigslist or Facebook for next to nothing. I paid 50 bucks for a porter cable that I’ve probably used for 50 cutting hours, and it is in as good of shape as it was when I bought it.

 

[Legion]

either will work fine, but I generally used a band saw because it is faster, and I am going to need to do some final sanding and shaping anyway.

 

[5whiskey]

Despite my affection for the scroll saw for it’s cheap entry price if you want to get into making scales, the band saw also does have an added benefit. With a rip fence you can resaw thicker lumber into suitable blanks easily with one. A scroll saw won’t do that accurately.