Scroll Saw Beast: DEWALT (DW788) 20-Inch Review

This scroll saw is a pleasure to use and can handle both big and small projects– an essential for making quality wooden toys.

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The DEWALT DW788 Scroll Saw is a versatile and precision tool designed for woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts. It features a 1.3 Amp motor and offers variable-speed control, allowing users to adjust the blade speed for optimal performance based on the material being cut. The saw is known for its smooth operation and accuracy, thanks to its unique parallel-link arm design, which reduces vibration and noise.

The DW788 also boasts tool-free blade changes, making it convenient to switch between different cutting tasks. With its user-friendly design and durable construction, the DEWALT DW788 Scroll Saw is a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient scroll saw for their woodworking projects.

I’ve been using this saw since 2023 and in this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into every aspect of this tool, from its notable features and performance to its build quality and usability. Let’s get into it!

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Table of Contents:

1. Key Features
2. Specifications
3. Setup and Assembly
4. Performance
5. Safety Features
6. Portability and Mobility
7. Dust Collection
8. Durability and Build Quality
9. Price and Value
10. Pros and Cons
11. Conclusion

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Key Features

• Precision and Accuracy: The DW788 is known for its ability to make precise and accurate cuts, allowing users to create intricate designs and shapes with ease. The saw’s parallel-link arm design minimizes vibration, resulting in smoother cuts and finer details.
• Variable Speed Control: With its variable-speed control feature, the DW788 offers flexibility in cutting different materials and thicknesses. Users can adjust the blade speed to match the requirements of the material being cut (i.e. hardwoods vs soft), resulting in cleaner cuts and better control.
• User-Friendly Design: The DW788 is designed with the user in mind, featuring tool-free blade changes and easy-to-adjust controls. This makes it convenient to use, especially for beginners or those who frequently switch between cutting tasks.
• Durability and Reliability: DEWALT is known for producing high-quality, durable tools, and the DW788 is no exception. The base construction is solid with mounting holes to bolt to a workbench, while the large cast iron top table is sturdy and wide enough to support large work pieces.
• Quiet Operation: Despite its powerful motor, the DW788 operates relatively quietly compared to other scroll saws on the market. This is attributed to its parallel-link arm design, which helps reduce noise and vibration during operation.
• Support and Warranty: DEWALT provides excellent customer support and offers a 3 Year Limited Warranty, 1 Year Free Service, 90 Days Satisfaction Guarantee on the DW788 Scroll Saw, giving users peace of mind knowing that their investment is protected.

Specifications

• Motor Power: 1.3 Amp
• Blade Size: 5″ plain end scroll saw blades
• Bevel Angle: 0° to 45°
• Variable Speed Range: 400 – 1750 strokes per minute
• Depth of Cut: Up to 2 inches
• Throat Depth: 20 inches
• Table Size: 16 inches x 23-3/4 inches
• Weight: Approximately 56 pounds
• Voltage: 120 volts
• Warranty: Manufacturer’s three-year limited warranty
• More details: Link to the Owner’s Manual

Setup and Assembly

Assembly is super easy and intuitive, but as always, I would highly recommend to READ THE MANUAL before attempting the assembly. Take 5 minutes and read the safety information.

Note one important point: DO NOT LIFT THE SAW BY THE TOP ARM — It is not meant to carry the weight of the saw!

The saw comes fully assembled except for the table and blade. To finish the assembly:

1. Install the table by aligning the back of the table into the pin and attaching the hex bolt to the bevel lever.
2. Install the blade (included). Move the blade tension lever fully to the right (so it’s fully loose). Then use the thumb screws to lock the top and bottom of the blade in place.
3. Adjust the blade tension lever to hold down the

Note on the blade: The teeth should be pointing toward the front and down. (Scroll saws cut on the downward stroke.)

Adjustments

It’s important to check a couple key adjustments to make sure the saw will cut accurately:

1. The table is level. Use a level and zero out the bevel knob.
2. The table and blade should be 90 degrees. A machinist square can be helpful here. Or, make a test cut with a large work piece and then flip it around and ensure it slides into the cut.

Performance

I have been using this saw on hardwood, softwood and plywood and have been very pleased with the performance. Since it’s a heavy machine, the vibration is minimal and having a variable speed control helps to dial in the accuracy. One is the minimum speed, 8 is the maximum speed. Slower speeds are recommended for metals, plastics, harder woods and very thin materials.

Be warned: you’ll need to go slow when cutting through hard woods such as maple!

Safety Features

Obviously it’s important to follow the operating manual and follow the correct operating guidelines. The large on/off start and stop button on the top makes it easy to shut off when needed. There is also an open base which makes it easy to see if anything is possibly obstructing the bottom of the blade.

Portability and Mobility

It’s probably best to mount the saw to a workbench or a stand. But with a weight of almost 60 pounds, it is feasible to move in and out of storage if needed.

Dust Collection

The included blower helps to keep the blade free of dust so you can see what you’re cutting. However, having a vacuum attachment would be a nice addition, but you’ll need to fabricate your own collection system.

Durability and Build Quality

Overall, the scroll saw delivers in terms of capacity and accuracy. The base and table are solid and heavy, ensuring quality cutting. The only knock I would point out is the material hold down. It’s held in place by a hex bolt which tends to wobble and the forks do not always align on top of the work piece.

Price and Value

This saw is on the high-end in terms of price, alongside the Excalibur EX-21, Shop Fox W1713, and Delta 40-694. I went with this model due to the solid construction and large throat so I could work with large pieces if needed. There are also cheaper manufactures available, but you will sacrifice durability and size constraints.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Solid Construction
• Variable Speed
• Large throat capacity
• Easy to change blades

Cons:

• Expensive
• Material hold down is a bit flimsy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the DEWALT DW788 Scroll Saw isn’t just a tool; it’s a woodworker’s best friend, a DIY enthusiast’s secret weapon, and quite possibly the missing piece to your woodworking puzzle. With its precision cutting, variable speed control, and user-friendly design, this yellow beast is more than just a pretty face – it’s a powerhouse of productivity.

But let’s not forget the fun factor. Woodworking shouldn’t feel like a serious business, and with the DW788 by your side, you’ll be carving through projects with the finesse of a master craftsman and the enthusiasm of a kid in a candy store. So go ahead, unleash your inner lumberjack, embrace the sawdust, and let the DW788 take you on a scroll-sawing adventure like no other.

Happy Scrolling!