blade selection

[shutterbugdm]

Hello all, I am a novice with the scroll saw. I have a Dremel model 1800 variable speed saw. I have tried to make several projects so far with fair success. However, I still am unsure as to what blade is best to use for which wood-vs-thickness (Aspen 3/4") with fine cuts. Also, when using a "Spiral" blade I have a hard time in getting the blade wing-nuts (especially the top) to hold the
blade (keeps coming out). Tension adjustment?
Any help appreciated.

[towdude3]

I also have a dremel but I could not master the spirals. I found that #2 and #3's work better for me. I kept breaking the spirals trying to get good tension on them. I use mostly #3 flying dragons.

[shutterbugdm]

is the dragon a brand?

[yyyyyguy]

I also have a Dremel, I have had similar problems with spirals and I have had luck where I insert the blade to the bottom then raise it about 1/4", then when I tighten it down I don't get that "hockey stick" effect and break the blade I think the problem is that the bottom feed clamp is a bit too large and you get the flat end and part of the beginning spiral in the clamp, hope that helps.

Pete

[julief]

My first saw was a Dremel 1800.  The spiral blades are problematic, regardless of the brand of your saw.  There are a couple of things you can do.  You can tap them flat on the ends so you can get a better "grip" with your blade clamps.  Don't pound them - you will thin the metal and change the temper of the steel.  Just tap them on your vise until the twist is flat enough for the clamps to take hold.  There are spiral blades available listed as "flat end spirals".  I think Flying Dutchman and Olson have such a blade.  I'm not at home, so I can't grab my catalogs and check.

As far as knowing what blade to use,  Both Olson and Flying dutchman have a very handy chart to guide you.  You can download both of them.  It's not carved in stone as to what blade to use.  You will get the feel for what you are using and find that you have favorite blades that you go back to again and again - regardless of what the chart recommends.

[Dan]

I have a Dewalt 788, and have found if I pay attention when I clamp the blade on the clamp, I have better results. As for spirals, I don't use them.

Dan

[GrayBeard]

Simple solution!

Call Mike! < 605 582-6732 >

He will give you more information than you can get anywhere else except here!

He is our resident authority on BLADES!

~~~GB~~~

[shutterbugdm]

does anyone have "mike's workshop" email address. I saw on his web that he will send a sample of 2 flying dutchman blades if you notify him of what you think you will use the most. but need the email to do this.

[dgman]

Try this conollymike@yahoo.com

[Sawdust Dave]

mike@mikesworkshop.com is the email address I use

[Russ C]

I agree. Talk to Mike at http://www.mikesworkshop.com/. He will help you with making the right selection.