Review: Shop Fox 16-Inch Scroll Saw – Quality Tested for 2026

Precision woodworking demands tools that can translate intricate visions into tangible creations. For enthusiasts and aspiring professionals alike, a reliable scroll saw is often the centerpiece of their workshop. This year, the Shop Fox W1713 16-inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw continues to hold its ground as a notable contender in the benchtop scroll saw market. Renowned for balancing robust features with an accessible price point, it promises to be a workhorse for a variety of detailed projects.

This comprehensive review delves into the Shop Fox W1713’s capabilities, assessing its performance, features, build quality, and overall value in 2026. Whether you are a seasoned scroll saw user or just beginning your journey into the world of delicate cuts and intricate designs, understanding this machine’s strengths and limitations is key to making an informed decision. Join us as we explore what makes the Shop Fox W1713 a compelling choice for your workshop.

What is a Scroll Saw? (Definition and Applications)

A scroll saw is a specialized power tool characterized by a small, reciprocating blade that moves rapidly up and down to create intricate cuts in various materials. Unlike a band saw, which makes continuous cuts, a scroll saw’s fine blade allows for extremely tight turns and delicate fretwork that would be impossible with larger tools. Its precision makes it indispensable for detailed artistic projects.

The applications of a scroll saw are incredibly diverse, extending far beyond simple woodworking. Crafters use them for creating elaborate wooden puzzles, decorative inlays, and custom signs. Model makers rely on their accuracy for small components, while artisans produce intricate jewelry boxes and detailed wall art. Beyond wood, a scroll saw can also handle soft metals, plastics, and even bone, making it a versatile addition to any creative workspace. Its ability to perform internal cuts without breaking the outside perimeter of a workpiece is a distinct advantage, achieved by drilling a pilot hole and inserting the blade through it.

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Types of Scroll Saws

The scroll saw landscape offers a few distinct designs, each with unique characteristics that appeal to different user needs and project types. Understanding these variations helps in appreciating the specific design choices made for models like the Shop Fox W1713.

Benchtop Scroll Saws

Benchtop scroll saws represent the most common category, including the Shop Fox W1713. These machines are designed to be mounted on a workbench, offering a balance of power, precision, and portability for hobbyists and light-duty professional work. Key features often include variable speed control, a tilting table, and integrated dust management, making them versatile for a range of intricate cutting tasks. Their relatively compact size allows them to fit into smaller workshops without sacrificing significant cutting capacity.

Parallel Arm Scroll Saws

The parallel arm design is a prevalent mechanism found in many high-quality scroll saws, including the Shop Fox W1713. This design features two arms that run parallel to each other, with the blade attached at the ends of each arm. This mechanism minimizes vibration and ensures a nearly true up-and-down blade motion, which is crucial for achieving smooth, accurate cuts. The reduced vibration also contributes to user comfort and control, especially during extended periods of intricate work.

C-Arm Scroll Saws

Less common than parallel arm designs, C-arm scroll saws feature a single arm shaped like a “C” with the blade attached to its ends. This design typically has only one pivot point. While C-arm saws can be more compact, they often exhibit higher levels of vibration compared to their parallel arm counterparts. They are generally considered entry-level options due to their simpler construction and potentially less precise cutting action, though advancements in design can mitigate some of these issues.

Shop Fox W1713 16-Inch Scroll Saw: Features and Specifications

The Shop Fox W1713 16-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw is engineered to provide a robust and versatile platform for intricate cutting tasks. It comes equipped with a set of features that make it a compelling choice for both novice and experienced woodworkers.

At its core, the W1713 is powered by a 1/8 HP, 1.2 Amp, 110V motor, offering sufficient power for cutting a variety of materials with precision. A key highlight is its variable speed control, allowing users to adjust blade speeds from 550 to 1700 Strokes Per Minute (SPM). This flexibility is critical for optimizing cuts across different wood types, plastics, and even thin metals, ensuring clean edges and preventing material burning.

Shop Fox W1713 16-inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw with key features highlighted

The saw boasts a 16-inch throat depth, which is a generous capacity for a benchtop model, enabling users to maneuver larger workpieces and tackle a wide range of projects, from small crafts to larger decorative pieces. It can handle a maximum cutting thickness of 2 inches at 90 degrees. The cast-iron table, measuring 10″ x 16-1/4″, provides a stable and durable work surface. This table also features a 0-45 degree tilt function to the left, essential for creating angled and bevel cuts.

Blade compatibility is a significant advantage of the W1713, as it readily accepts both plain (pinless) and pin-end blades. This versatility allows users to choose the ideal blade for specific tasks – pin-end blades for quicker changes, and pinless blades for finer, more intricate details. Blade changes are facilitated by tool-less thumb screw blade adapters, simplifying setup.

For enhanced user experience, the saw includes a gooseneck work light to illuminate the cutting area, improving visibility for precision work. A dust blower keeps the cut line clear of sawdust, and a 1-1/4″ dust port allows for connection to a shop vacuum for more comprehensive dust extraction, maintaining a cleaner workspace. An adjustable hold-down shoe further prevents the workpiece from lifting during the blade’s upward stroke, contributing to cut accuracy and safety. The robust cast-iron construction of the saw contributes significantly to its overall stability and helps in minimizing vibration, which is crucial for intricate cuts. Furthermore, the Shop Fox W1713 is typically backed by a limited two-year warranty, providing peace of mind for buyers.

Performance and Quality Testing of the Shop Fox W1713 (2026)

In evaluating the Shop Fox W1713 for 2026, performance and quality are paramount. This model consistently earns praise for its capability, especially when considering its price point and target audience of hobbyists and serious beginners. When properly set up, the W1713 demonstrates reliable precision for intricate cutting tasks, allowing users to achieve the delicate fretwork and tight curves that scroll saws are designed for.

One of the most critical aspects of scroll saw performance is vibration. The W1713’s heavy-duty cast-iron construction plays a vital role in dampening vibrations, providing a relatively stable cutting platform. While it may not match the near-silent, vibration-free operation of top-tier professional machines like the DeWalt DW788, users often find the Shop Fox’s vibration levels perfectly acceptable, particularly when the saw is securely mounted to a sturdy workbench. For those seeking to further minimize vibration, a custom-built, heavy stand can make a noticeable difference.

Ease of use is another strong suit. The variable speed control is intuitive, allowing for quick adjustments to match different materials and cutting complexities. Blade changes, which can often be a cumbersome process on other saws, are made simpler with the included tool-less thumb screw adapters, accommodating both pinned and pinless blades. The adjustable hold-down shoe effectively secures the workpiece, contributing to accuracy and safety.

The included gooseneck work light and dust blower significantly enhance the user experience. The light provides clear illumination of the cut line, while the blower consistently clears sawdust, ensuring optimal visibility. Connecting a shop vacuum to the integrated dust port further improves air quality and reduces cleanup time. The 16-inch throat depth and 2-inch maximum cutting thickness offer ample capacity for the majority of projects hobbyists undertake, and the 0-45 degree tilting table adds versatility for angled cuts. Overall, the Shop Fox W1713 provides a quality cutting experience that, for its segment, delivers consistent results and a good balance of features and performance.

Pros and Cons of the Shop Fox W1713

Like any power tool, the Shop Fox W1713 16-inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these can help you determine if it’s the right fit for your workshop needs.

Pros:

• Excellent Value: The Shop Fox W1713 is frequently cited as a great option for its price, offering a comprehensive feature set without a premium cost. This makes it an attractive entry-level or intermediate option.
• Variable Speed Control: The ability to adjust speeds from 550 to 1700 SPM provides crucial flexibility for cutting various materials with precision and preventing burning.
• Robust Cast-Iron Construction: The heavy-duty cast-iron table and base contribute significantly to the saw’s stability, reducing vibration and enhancing durability for long-term use.
• Versatile Blade Compatibility: It accepts both plain (pinless) and pin-end blades, giving users more options for different cutting styles and levels of detail.
• Integrated Conveniences: Features like the gooseneck work light, dust blower, and dust port (for shop vacuum connection) greatly improve visibility and maintain a cleaner workspace.
• Tilting Table: The table tilts up to 45 degrees to the left, enabling accurate bevel cuts for more complex designs.
• User-Friendly for Beginners: Its straightforward operation and useful features make it a welcoming tool for those new to scroll sawing.
• Two-Year Warranty: Many retailers offer a limited two-year warranty, providing a level of assurance for your investment.

Cons:

• Blade Change Mechanism: While it has tool-less adapters, some users find the blade changing process, particularly for interior cuts, to be “a huge pain” or somewhat awkward compared to higher-end models that offer easier access.
• Vibration Levels: Although the cast-iron construction helps, some users report that it can vibrate more than premium saws, which might affect very fine detail work or user comfort over long periods.
• Mounting Challenges: There have been comments that the mounting holes can be difficult to mark, and a template is not always included, potentially complicating initial setup if not bolted down properly.
• Table Tilt Direction: The table only tilts to the left (0-45 degrees), unlike some advanced models that offer dual-direction tilt for greater flexibility in cutting angles.
• Blade Tension Release: Older reviews occasionally mention that the blade tension release mechanism could be better, potentially leading to more blade breakages if not carefully managed.
• Not for Heavy Professional Use: While durable for hobbyist work, it may not withstand the continuous, heavy-duty demands of a professional production shop as well as more industrial-grade machines.

Comparing the Shop Fox W1713 to Other Popular 16-Inch Scroll Saws

The scroll saw market offers a range of options, and understanding how the Shop Fox W1713 stacks up against its competitors is crucial for a purchase decision. While the W1713 excels as a feature-rich, affordable choice, it occupies a distinct niche when compared to other popular models.

For instance, the WEN 3921 16-inch Two-Direction Variable Speed Scroll Saw is often highlighted as a top budget-friendly option. It shares a similar 16-inch throat capacity and variable speed but distinguishes itself with a unique design that accepts blades in two directions, theoretically offering infinite ripping capacity. The WEN is praised for its value and versatility, though some users might find its build less robust than the Shop Fox’s cast-iron base. The Shop Fox W1713 generally provides a slightly more stable platform due to its heavier construction.

Another strong contender in the value category is the SKIL SS9503-00 16-Inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw. Like the Shop Fox, it offers variable speed and an integrated LED work light. The SKIL often comes with a foot pedal control for hands-free speed adjustment, a feature that can enhance control and safety. While both offer excellent value, the Shop Fox’s heavier cast-iron table might offer a marginal advantage in vibration dampening over some lighter-built competitors.

At the higher end of the spectrum, the DEWALT DW788 20-inch Variable-Speed Scroll Saw stands out as a professional-grade machine. While it has a larger 20-inch throat and a higher price point, it’s often used as the benchmark for comparison due to its extremely low vibration, precision, and tool-free blade change mechanism. The DeWalt’s parallel arm design is engineered for superior smoothness, which is a significant step up from the Shop Fox. The Shop Fox W1713, with its 16-inch throat and more noticeable, though manageable, vibration, is positioned as an excellent choice for hobbyists and intermediate users who may not require the ultimate precision and continuous heavy use that a premium DeWalt offers.

The Shop Fox W1713 effectively bridges the gap between ultra-budget saws and high-end professional models. It offers a solid blend of essential features, durable construction, and satisfactory performance that makes it a highly competitive option for those seeking a reliable scroll saw without breaking the bank. It’s often seen as a significant upgrade from entry-level plastic-heavy machines and a viable alternative for users who don’t need the extensive features or higher cost of top-tier professional tools.

Scroll Saw Buying Guide: Is the Shop Fox W1713 Right for You?

Choosing the right scroll saw involves aligning its capabilities with your specific woodworking aspirations and practical considerations. The Shop Fox W1713 16-inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw presents a compelling option, but whether it’s the right choice depends on a few key factors.

Scroll Saw for Beginners

For newcomers to the intricate world of scroll sawing, the Shop Fox W1713 is an excellent starting point. Its intuitive variable speed control, clear work light, and efficient dust blower simplify the learning process. The ability to use both pinned and pinless blades provides flexibility as you experiment with different projects. While mounting the machine might require a bit of planning, its overall ease of use and forgiving nature make it ideal for developing fundamental scroll sawing skills without being overwhelmed by overly complex features or a steep learning curve.

Scroll Saw for Professional Use (Hobbyist/Intermediate)

If your “professional” needs lean more towards high-volume, continuous industrial production, the Shop Fox W1713 might fall short compared to higher-tier industrial machines. However, for serious hobbyists, craft business owners, or those who occasionally take on client projects requiring precision, the W1713 offers substantial capabilities. Its cast-iron construction ensures durability, and its 16-inch throat depth, coupled with a 2-inch cutting capacity, is sufficient for most intricate work. The variable speed allows for fine-tuning based on material density, making it a reliable tool for consistent quality in a non-industrial setting.

Ultimately, the Shop Fox W1713 shines for hobbyists and intermediate users seeking a dependable, feature-rich scroll saw that delivers solid performance without the premium price tag of professional-grade tools. It’s a smart investment for anyone looking to delve deeper into detailed woodworking projects.

Usage and Maintenance Tips for Your Scroll Saw

To maximize the performance and lifespan of your Shop Fox W1713, understanding proper usage and consistent maintenance is crucial. These practices not only enhance your work quality but also ensure your safety.

Getting Started Before Using Your Scroll Saw

Before making your first cut, a few preparatory steps are essential. First, ensure your scroll saw is securely mounted to a stable workbench. This minimizes vibration and prevents the saw from “walking” during operation. Next, select the appropriate blade for your material and project. Pin-end blades are generally easier and quicker to change, making them suitable for beginners or projects with fewer internal cuts. Pinless blades, though slightly more involved to install, offer a wider variety of sizes for finer detail and tighter turns.

Proper blade tension is paramount. You can test tension by gently plucking the blade like a guitar string; it should produce a clear “ping” sound, indicating it’s firm but not overly tight. An adjustable hold-down shoe should be set to gently rest on your workpiece, preventing it from lifting with the blade’s reciprocating motion. Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.

Basic and Advanced Cutting Techniques with a Scroll Saw

When operating your scroll saw, the golden rule is to let the blade do the work. Avoid forcing the workpiece through the blade, as this can lead to blade deflection, breakage, and rough cuts. Instead, maintain a steady, light feed rate, guiding the material smoothly. The variable speed control on your Shop Fox W1713 is a powerful asset; use slower speeds for intricate curves and harder materials to prevent burning, and higher speeds for straight cuts in softer woods. For internal cuts, remember to drill a pilot hole and thread the blade through before clamping. Advanced techniques, such as stack cutting (cutting multiple identical pieces simultaneously) or bevel cutting (using the tilting table for angled edges), require practice but expand your creative possibilities significantly.

Safety Measures When Using a Scroll Saw

Safety should always be your top priority. In addition to wearing safety glasses, keep your fingers well clear of the blade at all times, using a push stick or hold-down device for smaller pieces. Ensure the dust blower is functioning to maintain a clear line of sight, and consider connecting a shop vacuum to the dust port for better air quality. Never operate the saw if you are tired or distracted. Always disconnect the power before performing blade changes, adjustments, or maintenance.

Maintaining and Cleaning Your Scroll Saw for Longevity

Regular maintenance will extend the life of your Shop Fox W1713. After each use, clean the saw thoroughly, removing sawdust and debris from the table, blade area, and motor vents. The dust blower and dust port are your first line of defense, but a brush or compressed air can help with stubborn dust. Periodically check and replace dull or damaged blades, as a sharp blade is essential for clean cuts and reduces strain on the motor. Consult your user manual for lubrication points and recommended schedules. Store your scroll saw in a clean, dry environment, and consider covering it to protect against dust and moisture when not in use.

A person performing routine maintenance on a scroll saw, wiping down the table and checking blade tension.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting When Using a Scroll Saw

Even with a reliable machine like the Shop Fox W1713, users may encounter common issues. Knowing how to diagnose and troubleshoot these problems can save time and frustration, allowing you to get back to your projects quickly.

Blade Breakage: This is perhaps the most common complaint.

• Possible Causes: Improper tension (too loose or too tight), excessive pressure on the workpiece, a dull blade, or misalignment.
• Solutions: Adjust blade tension until it produces a clear “ping” sound when plucked. Let the blade cut at its own pace without forcing. Replace dull blades promptly. Ensure the blade is perfectly straight and properly seated in the clamps before starting.

Cuts Are Not Perpendicular: If your cuts are consistently angled rather than straight.

• Possible Causes: The blade may not be square to the table, you might be pushing the blade sideways, or the blade could be under-tensioned.
• Solutions: Use a square to check if the blade is truly 90 degrees to the table and adjust if necessary. Avoid side pressure on the blade. Increase blade tension slightly.

Excessive Vibration: While some vibration is normal, excessive shaking can impact accuracy and comfort.

• Possible Causes: The saw is not securely mounted to the workbench, using a lightweight or unstable stand, or worn internal components.
• Solutions: Always bolt your scroll saw firmly to a sturdy work surface. If using a stand, ensure it is heavy and stable. If the issue persists, inspect for loose parts or consult the manual for further checks.

Blade Does Not Follow the Line: When the blade seems to wander off your drawn pattern.

• Possible Causes: The blade is under-tensioned, it’s dull, or you’re forcing the workpiece too quickly.
• Solutions: Increase blade tension. Change to a new, sharp blade. Reduce your feed rate and allow the blade to cut at its own speed.

Burning Wood: Noticeable scorch marks on your workpiece, particularly with thicker or denser woods.

• Possible Causes: Using the wrong blade type or size for the material, cutting at too fast a speed, or sawdust accumulating in the cut.
• Solutions: Use a blade with an appropriate tooth count and size for the material (e.g., skip-tooth blades for thicker wood to aid in sawdust clearance). Reduce the blade speed. Ensure the dust blower is effective, and consider applying painter’s tape to the wood surface as a lubricant.

For more complex issues, or if simple troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the problem, it’s advisable to consult the Shop Fox W1713 user manual or contact customer support for guidance.

Conclusion

The Shop Fox W1713 16-inch Variable Speed Scroll Saw stands as a formidable choice for anyone looking to delve into the satisfying world of intricate woodworking or upgrade from a basic entry-level model. Throughout 2026, it continues to offer a compelling blend of features, performance, and durability that belies its accessible price point. Its robust cast-iron construction, versatile blade compatibility, and user-friendly amenities like the integrated work light and dust management system make it a reliable partner for countless projects.

While it may not boast the near-zero vibration or effortless blade changes of ultra-premium machines, the W1713 delivers exceptional value for hobbyists and intermediate woodworkers. It’s a tool designed to grow with your skills, capable of handling everything from delicate fretwork to intricate puzzles with commendable precision. For those prioritizing a solid feature set and dependable performance without a professional-grade budget, the Shop Fox W1713 is an investment that truly pays off in creative potential and lasting satisfaction. What intricate masterpiece will you create with your new Shop Fox scroll saw?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Shop Fox W1713 suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Shop Fox W1713 is highly suitable for beginners. Its variable speed control, clear visibility from the work light and dust blower, and relatively stable operation make it easy to learn on. It provides a great platform for developing essential scroll sawing skills.

Can the Shop Fox W1713 cut metals?

The Shop Fox W1713 can cut thin, soft metals like brass, copper, and aluminum with the correct type of scroll saw blade designed for metal. However, it is primarily designed for wood and plastic. Always use appropriate blades and slower speeds for metal cutting.

What types of blades does the Shop Fox W1713 use?

The Shop Fox W1713 is versatile, accepting both plain (pinless) and pin-end scroll saw blades. This flexibility allows users to choose the best blade type for their specific project, with pinless blades offering more options for intricate detail work.

How important is variable speed on a scroll saw?

Variable speed control is crucial on a scroll saw. It allows you to adjust the blade’s strokes per minute to match the material’s hardness and thickness. Slower speeds prevent burning on delicate or dense materials, while faster speeds are efficient for softer woods and straight cuts.

How do I reduce vibration on my Shop Fox W1713?

To reduce vibration, ensure your Shop Fox W1713 is securely mounted to a sturdy, heavy workbench. A lightweight or unstable stand can increase vibration. If excessive vibration persists, check for loose parts or consult the manual for troubleshooting.