Inexpensive scroll saw

[OldNineFingers]

I am toying with the idea of a small, inexpensive scroll saw so I don't have to use a coping saw on my cutouts. I am traveling in an RV so I must keep things small and lightweight. I found a Ryobi 16" factory recon for $75 and free shipping. Anybody have any experience with this saw?
I would appreciate any feedback on this saw or any other that you folks might suggest. Thanks,
Ray

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

I avoid ryobi like the plague! Bought the bandsaw (table model) when they first came out....a piece of junk, couldn't take it back fast enough...the guy at home depot didn't even ask why? I said don't you want to know why I am bringing it back? He said "I know why" lol......you can get a Delta cheap or a Dremel even.....imho

[Eddy-Smiles]

Ray... For $25.00 more you can widen your selection to the models Hi-Ho suggested and then some at any Lowes or Home Depot.

I have a antique Craftsman that's like the old Timex advertisement...takes a licken and keeps on ticken! And I have a $89.00 Black and Decker that I picked up on sale at one of their outlet stores. For as good as I am and for what I use it for , both serve me well!

[big dave]

me to eddy i have a craftmans and if it will fit in it it will cut it i use it almost as much as i do my jet bandsaw. i don't know how good the new ones are but my old 20+ year old is TUFF

[mateo]

Thanks, Hi ho for the laugh. And yes big Dave what was made 20 yrs ago will work longer than what was made 1 yr ago. Of course.
Matt

[catbird]

I have a Craftsman that is 20+ yrs. old too. I'd love to have a new one (just because) but as someone said, no more than I need to use it, I'm happy with my Craftsman.

[OldNineFingers]

I just want it to cut out roughouts. No detail work. It would have to take the place of a bandsaw. Anymore brands, models, suggestions. I don't mind spending a little more. I just really am concerned with size and weight. Thanks to all,
Ray

[Ron T]

Hi Ray,

I would suggest you check craigslist. I saw one for $25 hardly used. People are trying to find extra cash and are selling things they don't use.

[Kenny_S]

I still use my 79 dollar Delta 16 " scroll saw for small roughing outs. As for the Craftman scroll, the newer ones aren't built like the older ones were. Don't ask me how I know. But for serious fret work, I use the RBI HAWK 220. But that one is a little more expensive. LOL

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

Originally Posted by OldNineFingers

I just want it to cut out roughouts. No detail work. It would have to take the place of a bandsaw. Anymore brands, models, suggestions. I don't mind spending a little more. I just really am concerned with size and weight. Thanks to all,
Ray

It really won't take the place of a bandsaw..and will only cut comfortably about an inch and a half with the right blade....I use both all the time, the bandsaw and scrollsaw.