StewMac Fret Slotting Saw with Depth Stop

This thing is pretty awesome. I've started laying out the frets and the board using a laser cutter (cut the outline and etch the fret slots), then use this to cut the slots to depth. THEN I'll sand the FB down. The shallowest cut is kind of deep for the medium fret wire I am using. So after cutting the fret slots with this (and the etch slots make that a dream), I will sand the board down so that the slots are a bit closer to the tang depth. Fretting is so much better with my new process and this great saw.

I purchased this saw for cutting small kerf style cuts in wood models that I make and I really like how I can set the depth of the cut and it only allows it to go that deep. I have used it on maple and it performs very well.

I build cigar box guitars as a side-hustle. Although this saw seems a little pricey, it has saved me a ton of time by cutting fret slots to a consistent depth.

I wish the manufacture had mad the depth slide that attaches to the side of the saw a little more adjustable. The cut into the fret board, is a little too deep. The tangs of the frets do not reach the bottom of the cuts in the fret board. For that reason, I can only give this product a 3 star rating.

Arrived in a timely manor, always happy with their respectful shipping. I've heard some complain on other sites that the depth stop did not go low enough. StewMac either fixed the issue or those people had the stopper on upside down. The saw is decent quality, but I'm not all 'wow' about it. There was lacquer or varnish on the end of both sides of the saw blade. I had to use stripper and a razor blade to get it off so the blade thickness could be consistent. Looking down the teeth, as you would to check a knife's edge. I could see that the saw blade had a gentle roll or curve down the length of it. I spent some time very delicately messaging it straight. Blades like this typically come in rolls before they're manufactured. It just wasn't counter rolled quite enough, no biggie. I was able to get it straight using a mechanics straight edge to get it spot on. It takes so little pressure to work the metal, because it's thin. So if you need to do the same just go slow, even and easy. For that reason, I will definitely be making a case for it or hanging it up for sure - it does have a hanging hole. For $68.00 for what is essentially a thin fine carpenter's or molding saw - which are built as good or better at half cost for the top end models - this saw's spendy. But if holds up, I'll forget about that later.. Just don't toss it in a drawer, on your work table or drop it and you'll be fine. It all really depends on how exact your work has to be, I guess. Perhaps hang it when your not using it. Even if you're not worried about the curve, protect those teeth all the same. Only takes one bent tooth to ruin things as they're very tiny. Long story short, it's overpriced IMO but after some TLC it cuts very nice. They may not all be that way, but check it and get it dead on before you use it, if it is. I really like StewMAc and their exceptional customer service / relations. So, it's not a deal breaker. :-)

This is the best fret saw I've had. The teeth are properly set and sharp and the depth guide is accurate. It's a joy to use. I'd recommend it to anyone.

Works great!!!!

Used the saw to cut fret slots and installed the small frets. It worked. Glad I sprung for the saw with the depth guide. Makes the job much easier.