how do you cut metal?

[rendermandan]

I noticed most of you use a dremel and cut off wheel to cut most of your stuff up. But has anyone tired to use a scroll saw? If they have, how did it turn out, or did it not work that well? Thanks.

[Airbozo]

I noticed most of you use a dremel and cut off wheel to cut most of your stuff up. But has anyone tired to use a scroll saw? If they have, how did it turn out, or did it not work that well? Thanks.

I use my skill saw most of the time and the dremel for detail or finish work. The Skill saw (sometimes called a jigsaw) works really fast, but depending on the thickness of the metal, it may warp it.

If this;
http://www.mytoolstore.com/dremel/1680.jpg
is what you are talking about I have had limited success with my in-laws saw. It had a thin blade in it for detail work and I kept breaking it. If you go slow the scroll saw is great for detail and designs with lots of turns and twists.

[rendermandan]

Yep, thats what I'm referring to. I have an old Delta model that I used to use when I made toys out of wood. But I haven't used it in a while. I was just thinking it would be quicker to cut stuff rather than plunging with a cutoff tool. I haven't tried it yet, Its over at my dad's shop and I don't know how he will like me taking it home. Although it is mine! LOL

[CanaBalistic]

Problems might arise when you need to cut a fan hole or somthing like that. How would you run that solid blade through a pilot hole?

A jig saw is probly best.

Skill saw's or "circular saw's" as they are refered to, only cut straight lines. Maybe you're thinking of a scroll saw?

[tybrenis]

For cutting rod, tube, bar, etc., I have a horizontal bandsaw. For sheet metal I use a foot sheer and for details I either use a bandsaw, scroll saw (like you mentioned) or a jigsaw, all with fine tooth metal blades, of course. Dremels are all right, but you have to be a true master of one to make stuff really come out as it should. Some people can make practically anything with a couple of cut off disks and 5 hours of slaving.

[Bucko]

Problems might arise when you need to cut a fan hole or somthing like that. How would you run that solid blade through a pilot hole?

Actually quite easily.
You remove the blade from the saw, place the object you intend to cut in place, the put the blade back in the saw through the hole and off you go.