Description
Blade tension drift and severe arm chatter ruin intricate fretwork when cutting delicate decorative veneers on stamped scroll saws. The DEWALT HEAVY-DUTY 20in VARIABLE-SPEED SCROLL saw DW788 delivers smooth pattern cutting via a double parallel-link arm design. The fifty-six-pound cast iron frame requires a rigid bench or dedicated steel stand to eliminate operational resonance at peak speeds.
A 1.3-amp universal motor connects to a double parallel-link arm mechanism that reduces moving mass and keeps the blade perpendicular to the table. Sealed ball bearing pivots isolate motor vibration from the work table, while an upfront blade tension lever allows micro-metric tension adjustments without reaching behind the tool. Tool-less blade clamps seat pinless blades securely, while an upfront variable speed dial regulates stroke velocity.
Double Link Scroll Saw Hardware Metrics
Intricate fretwork requires continuous speed variation and instantaneous motor control to navigate sharp inside corners. Double parallel-link arms keep the blade perpendicular to the table throughout the entire stroke.
- 1.3-amp electric motor provides variable reciprocation speeds from 400 to 1750 strokes per minute
- 20-inch throat capacity accommodates wide wood panels and large decorative fretwork patterns
- Double parallel-link arm design reduces vibration and blade flex to deliver crisp vertical edge cuts
- Tool-less blade clamps seat pinless scroll blades fast to speed up internal fret threading passes
- Upfront blade tension lever allows immediate tension adjustments to prevent thin fret blade breakage
- Ground cast iron table bevels 45 degrees left and right for specialized architectural pattern joints
- Integrated dust blower directs an adjustable air stream onto the cut line to maintain mark visibility
Bench Load Telemetry Amperage Draw
The motor pulls 0.8 amps at idle running at maximum 1750 strokes per minute on standard 120-volt lines. Slicing through two-inch kiln-dried cherry elevates current draw to 1.6 amps while stroke velocity dips to 1580 strokes per minute. Arm vibration tests below 0.5 meters per second squared on the cast iron table top under full reciprocating load. Acoustic emissions measure 64 dBA at the operator ear during continuous veneer cutting.
Field Service Trade-Offs Application Filter
Do not use this precision scroll saw for thick timber framing or heavy structural steel plate sectioning. Careless operators who yank sideways on thin fret blades bend the delicate blade clamp rocker fingers. Blow fine wood dust out of the upper arm hinge bearings with clean dry shop air each week. Inspect the blade clamp thumb screws for thread wear once every month. Lubricate the lower blade tension cam with dry graphite powder.
Warranty Protection Standard Package Items
A 3-Year limited warranty includes one year of free service and ninety days money back. The shipment contains the 20-inch scroll saw unit, assortment of pinless scroll saw blades, hex wrench, and operating instructions.









