Testing Scroll Saw Blades For Cutting 2x Construction Lumber

 

12 Wooden Truck Bodies Cut From 2x Construction Lumber
12 Wooden Truck Bodies Cut From 2x Construction Lumber
 

Custom Orders Available Here

I am working on a custom order for a batch of toy trucks that I cut from 2x construction lumber. I usually only make things from construction lumber one at a time. Still, this time, I am making twelve trucks all the same, and this was an excellent opportunity to experiment.

If you have ever cut 2x construction lumber on a scroll saw, you know this stuff can be a pain to work with. Hard and soft grain, hidden knots, pitch pockets, and other defects are common. It is a challenging wood to scroll. I could use a band saw for this, but I prefer to cut slower and get a smoother cut. Less sanding is the goal.

I have been scrolling for years and acquired a considerable collection of blades, including Olson, Flying Dutchman, Pagas, and several others whose sources I no longer know are in my blade collection. I used a variety of these blades in the test. I started with Pegas #3MGT because that was already in the saw. I tried #5, #7, and #12 blades from each of the brands I have on hand and included one Olson Thick Wood Hook Tooth blade designed for cutting thick wood. Some blades had reverse teeth, and some didn't.

All of the blades worked, but the difference between cutting 2x construction lumber was dramatic. Olson, Flying Dutchman, and the unknown blades cut poorly and were only suitable for cutting one truck body before they were dull. There was considerable jumping, which I assume is caused by the blade failing to clear the sawdust well. Each time there was a jump, a mark was left on the wood that must be sanded out. A couple of the blades left some burn marks on the not-so-sharp turns.

The Pegas blades dramatically outperformed the others, so much so that it was not even a contest. The used Pegas #3MGT cut slowly, but there was no burning or jumping, and the cuts were smooth and square. I cut the last two trucks with a Pegas #12MGT. The results were surprising: not only did it cut very well, but it cut even faster than the Olsen Thick Wood blades. There was no burning, no jumping, and after cutting two truck bodies, it was still cutting well enough to cut one or two more trucks. The difference was so dramatic that when I left the shop, I thought that I should get rid of all my non-Pegas blades.

Only one of the blades broke: the Olson Thick Wood Hook Tooth blade broke while cutting one of the straight sections. This seems a little odd since it is by far the largest blade I have, larger than 1/16 inch.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Handmade Wooden Dinosaur Pterodactyl Figurine Handmade and Finished From My Buddies Dinos Collection - 655979018

Image
Buy This Dinosaur Today My Buddies Dinosaur Collection All My Dinosaurs Welcome to my shop, where I handcrafted this unique Pterodactyl dinosaur figurine from carefully selected hardwoods using traditional woodworking tools. Approximate Dimensions: Length: 6-5/8 inches Height: 4 inches I use a custom blend of mineral oil, beeswax, and carnauba wax to give each figurine a smooth, durable, renewable, and natural finish that enhances the beauty of the wood. Because working with natural wood is unique, every dinosaur I create is one-of-a-kind. The item you receive may vary slightly from the one pictured in the photos, but that's the beauty of it. The natural variations in wood grain, color, and knots add to the character and charm of each piece, making it truly special. I take great pride in creating these handmade treasures in Tallahassee, Florida, USA. Don't hesitate to contact me if you have a specific wood preference or want a custom order. I'll do my best to accommodate yo
Read more

Wooden Toy Lorry Truck My First Version Made For My Grandson - 705872553

Image
  Handmade Wooden Toy Lorry Truck From The Quick N Easy 5 Truck Fleet - Left Side Front View Buy This Truck Now  My Easy 5 Truck Fleet My Toy Truck Collection I created a fleet of toy trucks for my grandson almost a year ago. Unfortunately, he started playing with them before I had the chance to take photos. All the parts for the truck, except for the wheels, can be made from wood purchased at a big box store. I used a scroll saw to cut the body from a 2x4 section, but a piece of 2x6 would be easier. I had to reduce the body size to avoid the rounded corners on the 2x4. I also had to adjust the sides of the bed to clear the wheels. The toy truck is not detailed, but the simple design makes it easier to create than more complex toys. Plus, there are fewer bits and pieces to make, which reduces the likelihood of breakage. I've considered adding fenders to the design. I used pine to make the toy truck because it's lighter than other options, and I prefer to keep the weight of
Read more

Wooden Toy Lorry Truck Handmade And Painted In Your Choice Of Colors, From My Easy 5 Truck Fleet Collection - Made To Order - 705872553

Image
  Wooden Toy Lorry Truck, Handmade and Painted in Your Choice of Colors and Amber Shellac, from Easy 5 Truck Fleet Collection, Made To Order Order This Truck Today Easy 5 Truck Fleet Collection This handmade wooden Lorry Truck can be customized to your preferences. The truck is made of natural wood and wood products. The truck's body is painted with acrylic paint, while the bed and wheels are finished with Amber Shellac. You can choose from various colors and finishes, including oils or no finish.  The toy is one of five types of trucks in the collection, including dump trucks, lorry trucks, box trucks, flatbed lumber trucks, and tow trucks. The tow truck can tow any other trucks in the collection using a hook under the front of each truck. All of these trucks are currently available for purchase in the shop. You can place a custom order if you're interested in custom colors, sizes, or quantities. Remember that as each piece is unique, there may be slight variati
Read more