Updated 9/14/2023
When you think of the best scroll saws, think Hegner! The brand is synonymous with compatibility, quality, durability, sturdiness, and much more.
One particular model of Hegner series of scroll saws is the Hegner 18″ Variable Speed scroll saw.
This model has been the clear winner in the range of scrolling saws, with a complete package of features to suit everyone.
Let’s find out about the features that make the Hegner 18″ scroll saw stand out!
Where are HEGNER saws made?
HEGNER, a brand that epitomizes quality in the scroll saw industry, has its roots firmly planted in Germany.
The company has been at the forefront of producing high-precision scroll saws that are a favorite among craftsmen and hobbyists alike.
The journey of HEGNER is a testament to German engineering, which is renowned for its meticulous attention to detail and relentless pursuit of perfection.
Here’s what makes the Hegner difference:
Engineering Excellence:
When you think of HEGNER, you think of precision and reliability. The brand has carved out a niche for itself by offering machines that are not only robust but also incredibly accurate. This level of precision is a hallmark of German engineering, a field where there is no room for error and where excellence is the norm, not the exception.
Innovation and Technology:
HEGNER has been a pioneer in incorporating innovative technology into their saws. Their machines often feature advanced functionalities that make the process of sawing smoother and more efficient. This commitment to innovation is reflected in the sophisticated designs of their saws, which prioritize user-friendliness without compromising on performance.
Global Recognition:
HEGNER’s commitment to quality has not gone unnoticed. The brand enjoys a stellar reputation globally, with artisans and hobbyists around the world swearing by the durability and precision of HEGNER saws. This global recognition is a testament to the brand’s consistency in delivering products that meet and exceed customer expectations.
Environmental Responsibility:
In line with Germany’s strong emphasis on environmental sustainability, HEGNER also focuses on producing machines that are environmentally friendly. The company adheres to strict environmental standards, ensuring that their manufacturing processes have a minimal impact on the environment.
Hegner Scroll Saw Features
- Double Quicklock Tensioning System
- Electronic Variable Speed Induction Motor
- Highly Precise and Reliable
- 7 Year Manufacturer’s Warranty against defects
- Recommended Stand sold separately on this site
1. Capacity
Powered by a mammoth 2.83-Amp induction motor, the Hegner 18-inch has one of the largest motors of all the scroll saws in its class.
It beats its competitor scroll saws, namely the DEWALT DW788 and the Craftsman 16″ by a wide margin.
Raw power is one of the most important elements in scroll saws, and it is just the best in that. The Hegner 18″ can cut through any high or low-density materials.
The Hegner 18″ features a throat depth of 18 inches, which is the ideal length for scroll saws.
The throat is large enough to easily fit any material, making your workbench less time-consuming and more comfortable.
The power and throat depth of the scroll saw increase its productivity.
The Hegner scroll saw can cut depths varying from 2″ to ⅝,” and that’s a range more than sufficient while dealing with any work material, plastic boards, sun boards, EVA foam, metal sheets, and others.
One absolute stunner here is the weight of the machine!
Even with such a power-packed engine, it weighs just 43 lbs and is designed with a compact form factor, making it easy to handle and carry.
Another standard feature of the Hegner scroll saw is the dynamic speed range of 400 to 1,700 SPM, which is useful when working with materials of varying densities.
The speed can be easily changed by turning the speed knob to the desired speed.
2. Accuracy
The Hegner 18-inch scroll saw has stellar capacity and excellent scrolling accuracy.
The well-figured design of this powerful tool, with a cast-iron table, blade holders, and arm, is kept in calibration to limit excessive vibrations and boost accuracy.
Not only does the scroll saw cut accurately, but the blades have a strong build and finish.
3. Durability
This model is designed to last a lifetime with minimal service requirements and blade maintenance.
The outer material used in the saw is exclusively cast iron, and only the drop foot knob comes out of a material combination of metal and plastic parts on the inside.
The build gives the speed scroll saw a flawless premium finish for a long time.
4. Stability
Stability is another essential concern related to scrolling saws. While on the workbench, the machine should be stable enough and avoid any vibrations.
With the Hegner 18-inch scroll saw, you would get the most comfortable and stable work experience.
The scroll table on which it is built is machined-engineered and quickly combats all external slips, the sliding friction of the scroll table being sufficiently significant.
The table, the base, and the arm are made of thick cast-iron plates that can easily absorb all vibrations, thus eliminating any stability concerns.
The base also features configurable mounts that can easily affix the scroll saw to your workbench or scroll saw stand.
5. User-Friendly
One standout feature of the Hegner 18″ variable speed scroll saw is the quick lock tension release mechanism that makes it easy to change blades as and when required.
And yes, worth mentioning is that it only takes a minute or less to do so. Hegner’s design has considered inside scrolling too.
You need to push the blade from the blade guard, position your blade inside the material, and turn the lock on. As simple as that can be.
6. Easy Dust Removal
To make the cleanup process even easier, the Hegner 18-inch scroll saw supports a dust port that can be attached to an external vacuum to pull the dust away from the work area.
7. Incline Support
The saw table can be easily inclined to make angular-designed cuts. The parts comprising the scroll saw can easily be easily changed by the user and are readily available from the manufacturer, Hegner.
Even the clamp holding the blade can be replaced. And the main highlight here is the solid seven-year manufacturer warranty that comes with it.
Considering the exceptional quality of the machine and its capability to run for a lifetime with minimal maintenance, it is surely a once-in-a-lifetime investment.
The sturdy design makes it reliable and keeps it running for long years. So, if the price is within your budget, get the deal right away!
What We Like
- The most powerful inductive motor of 2.83-Amp in the price range makes it the most powerful scroll saw that can cut through anything and everything!
- A workable scroll saw that is generously easy to use and comes with lots of handy features.
- Large throat size of 18 inches that can easily cut intricate details into larger material sizes on your workbench.
- Ability to cut with a range of depths from 2 to 5/8 inches, making it easy to work with almost all commercial products.
- Durable design made out of thick cast iron that can last a lifetime.
- The cast iron dampens machine vibrations, making it quite stable.
- Wide range of tunable speeds from 400 to 1,700 SPM. Easily adjustable using the tune button.
- It comes with a standard Hegner 7-year warranty.
What We Don’t Like
The price is a bit on the higher side. More expensive than most other professional scroll saw machines from different brands.
But considering the quality, a case can be made argued that it is once in a lifetime investment.
Overall, we rate it more than worth it for those looking for unparalleled long-term reliability.
Wrapping it Up
With everything nowadays being manufactured overseas and specifically designed to break down over a few years, so you’ll be forced to buy the next model, the Hegner 18″ scroll saw is a pleasant departure from this.
It actually reminds us a lot of the good old American-made products from our childhood, like those General Electric refrigerators our grandparents had that will keep on trucking long after we’re gone.
These products were built to last and built with pride.
The Hegner scroll saws might have been made in Germany, but it replicates the quality and craftsmanship of American-made products from back in the day like no other scroll saw we’ve ever seen.
Its legacy, built on German engineering’s bedrock, is a testament to the brand’s commitment to excellence and innovation.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a budding enthusiast, with a HEGNER in your workshop, you’re not just cutting wood; you’re crafting history.
Hegner has always brought the woodworking standards to higher levels, and we do not doubt that owning a Hegner scroll saw will bring you along with it!
