Did you know that a Pinewood Derby car can reach speeds of over 20 miles per hour? That’s pretty fast for a tiny wooden car! But to build a winner, you need more than just a cool design. Choosing the right tools, especially the saw, is super important. The saw is the first step in shaping your car. It determines the car’s basic form and its potential for speed.
Picking the best saw can be tricky. There are lots of different types! You might feel confused and overwhelmed. Do you need a band saw, a scroll saw, or something else? Each saw cuts wood differently, and some are better for beginners than others. Choosing the wrong saw can lead to mistakes and slow you down. You could even ruin your car before you start.
This post will help you. We’ll break down the best saws for Pinewood Derby cars. You’ll learn what to look for, what to avoid, and how to make the right choice for your project. By the end, you’ll be ready to start building your winning car. Let’s get cutting!
Our Top 5 Saw To Cut Pinewood Derby Car Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Saw To Cut Pinewood Derby Car Detailed Reviews
1. Pinewood Pro Stick-On Flexible Weight for Derby Cars
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready to win your Pinewood Derby race with the Pinewood Pro Stick-On Flexible Weight! These weights are easy to use and help you customize your car. They come in a 3 oz strip. You can easily cut and shape them with scissors. They are perfect for helping your car go fast!
What We Like:
- Quick and Easy: Applying these weights is super simple. Just cut, peel, and stick!
- Non-Toxic: The weights are safe for kids. You don’t need to worry about harmful stuff.
- Customizable: You can change the weights. Cut them, paint them, or add stickers.
- Super Strong: The weights stick really well with 3M adhesive. They won’t fall off!
- Trustworthy Density: They have a good density. They help your car go fast.
What Could Be Improved:
- None
These stick-on weights are a great way to make your Pinewood Derby car faster. They are easy to use, safe, and fun to customize. Get ready to win!
2. Pinewood Pro PRO Driller Tool for use in Derby Cars
Rating: 9.2/10
The Pinewood Pro PRO Driller Tool is a must-have for any pinewood derby enthusiast! This tool helps you build a super-fast car. You can drill perfect axle holes and make your car the best. It is designed to create straight axle holes, 2.5-degree angled axle holes, and even raised wheel holes. This tool will help you save time and win races!
What We Like:
- Patented and Precise: The design is clever. It helps you drill straight or angled holes.
- Excellent Visibility: You can see what you’re doing. The View Port makes it easy to align everything.
- Speed Advantages: Angle the axles! This can help your car go faster.
- Stability Improvements: You can make your car more stable. This will help it win!
- Adaptable: It fits any derby car block. The tool comes with instructions and a drill bit.
What Could Be Improved:
- It would be great if the tool included more drill bits of different sizes.
Overall, the Pinewood Pro PRO Driller Tool is a great way to build a winning pinewood derby car. This tool will help you get an edge on race day!
3. Pinewood Derby Speed Secrets: Design and Build the Ultimate Car (Fox Chapel Publishing) 7 Ready-to-Cut Patterns; Illustrated
Rating: 8.9/10
Ready to win your Pinewood Derby? “Pinewood Derby Speed Secrets” from Fox Chapel Publishing is the book you need! It helps you design and build a super-fast car. The book includes seven ready-to-cut patterns. It also has pictures and easy instructions. Learn tips and tricks to build three different levels of cars. This book is your secret weapon for the race!
What We Like:
- Clear, step-by-step instructions make building a car simple.
- Ready-to-cut patterns save you time and effort.
- The book teaches you how to build different levels of cars, from beginner to advanced.
- Lots of illustrations help you understand the building process.
- It’s a great resource for parents and kids to work together.
What Could Be Improved:
- The book is printed in China.
This book is a fantastic tool for anyone wanting to build a winning Pinewood Derby car. With its helpful instructions and patterns, you can be on your way to the winner’s circle!
4. Cinnvoice 6 Pieces Derby Car Body Compatible with Pinewood Cars Pre-Cut Cars Body Pre-drilled Axle Holes Derby Car Kit for DIY Cut Shape Cars to Race (Wheels and Axles Not Included)
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready to race with the Cinnvoice 6 Pieces Derby Car Body Kit! This kit provides everything you need to build your own pinewood derby car. You get six pre-cut wooden car bodies. They have pre-drilled axle holes. The kit lets you design and create a unique car for racing. Remember, wheels and axles are not included. The size of each car body is 17.8 x 4.4 x 3.2 cm (7 x 1.8 x 1.3 inches).
What We Like:
- The kit includes six car bodies, so you have plenty to work with.
- The wood is smooth and easy to shape. You can cut, chisel, or paint the wood.
- It’s a fun DIY project for families and groups. You can learn about building things.
- It’s a great activity for scouting or friendly competitions.
- You can customize your car with paint, decals, and decorations.
- It makes a good gift.
What Could Be Improved:
- Wheels and axles are not included. You have to buy those separately.
This Cinnvoice car kit is a fun way to create your own race car. It’s a good choice for anyone who enjoys crafting and competition.
5. Pinewood Pro Corvette-Style Pre-Cut Derby Car Body
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready to race with the Pinewood Pro Corvette-Style Pre-Cut Derby Car Body! This car body is designed to look like a classic Chevrolet Corvette. It’s pre-cut and ready to go, so you can spend less time building and more time winning. The body is made from the official BSA car block. It also has pre-drilled holes for axles and weights, making it easy to assemble. This car is aerodynamic and ready to fly down the track. Get creative and customize it to make it your own!
What We Like:
- Compliant with all pinewood derby race rules. You can race with confidence!
- Has pre-drilled holes for weights. It’s easy to add weight.
- It’s aerodynamic. This helps the car go fast.
- It has a cool Corvette design. It looks great!
- Easy to customize. You can paint and decorate it how you want.
What Could Be Improved:
- You still need to add wheels, axles, and weights.
The Pinewood Pro Corvette-Style Derby Car Body is a great choice for any racer. It’s easy to use and ready to win. You can start building your champion car today!
Pinewood Derby Saw Buying Guide: Get Ready to Race!
Building a Pinewood Derby car is fun! You need a good saw to cut the wood. This guide helps you find the best saw for the job. We’ll cover what to look for and how to use them.
1. Key Features to Look For
You want a saw that works well and is safe. Here are some important things to consider:
- **Type of Saw:** There are a few types of saws you can use.
- **Coping Saw:** This is a good starter saw. It has a thin blade and a handle. You can easily turn the blade to cut curves.
- **Scroll Saw:** This saw is electric! It has a small blade that moves up and down. It’s great for detailed cuts.
- **Band Saw:** This is another electric saw. It has a long, continuous blade. It’s good for straight cuts and curves.
- **Hand Saw:** A simple hand saw can work. It’s good for straight cuts.
- **Blade Quality:** The blade cuts the wood. Look for blades made of strong steel. They need to be sharp. A dull blade is hard to use.
- **Safety Features:** Safety is important! Look for saws with blade guards. These protect your fingers. Electric saws should have an on/off switch that is easy to find.
- **Ease of Use:** A good saw is easy to control. The handle should feel comfortable in your hand. Electric saws should be easy to turn on and off.
2. Important Materials
The saw’s materials make a difference.
- Blade Material: Blades are usually made of steel. High-carbon steel is strong and lasts longer.
- Frame Material: The frame holds the blade. It can be made of metal or strong plastic. Metal frames tend to be more durable.
- Handle Material: Handles are often made of wood or plastic. Make sure it feels good in your hand.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a saw better or worse.
- Sharpness: A sharp blade cuts cleanly. Dull blades make rough cuts. They are also more dangerous.
- Blade Tension: The blade needs to be tight. If the blade is loose, it won’t cut straight.
- Motor Power (for electric saws): More power means the saw can cut through wood faster. It’s good to have enough power.
- Build Quality: A well-made saw lasts longer. Look for saws that are put together well.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making good tools. Research the brand before you buy.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How easy is it to use the saw?
- Coping saws are great for beginners. You can easily cut curves and shapes.
- Scroll saws are good for detailed work. They are used to make intricate designs.
- Band saws are good for cutting straight lines and curves.
- Hand saws are simple to use but require more effort.
The best saw depends on your needs. If you are making a simple car, a coping saw might be enough. If you want to make a fancy car, a scroll saw or band saw might be better.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What’s the best saw for beginners?
A: A coping saw is a great choice for beginners. It is easy to learn to use.
Q: Is a scroll saw safe?
A: Scroll saws can be safe. Always use the blade guard and wear safety glasses. Follow all safety instructions.
Q: Can I use a regular hand saw?
A: Yes, you can use a hand saw. It is good for straight cuts.
Q: How do I change the blade on a coping saw?
A: Loosen the blade clamps. Remove the old blade. Put in the new blade and tighten the clamps.
Q: What kind of blade should I use?
A: Use a blade made for wood. Choose a blade that is the right size for your saw.
Q: How do I cut a straight line?
A: Use a guide. A ruler or a straight edge will help you cut straight.
Q: What are the safety tips for using a saw?
A: Always wear safety glasses. Keep your fingers away from the blade. Turn off the saw when you are done.
Q: Can I cut any shape with a coping saw?
A: You can cut many shapes with a coping saw. It is good for curves and angles.
Q: Where can I buy a Pinewood Derby saw?
A: You can buy a saw at a hardware store or online. Amazon is a great place to look.
Q: How much does a good saw cost?
A: Prices vary. You can find a basic coping saw for a low price. Electric saws cost more.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!