Is there a Hegner in my future?

[Gonzo]

I’ve been scrolling for about 10 years and I may be in the market for a new saw. Im not asking which brand of saw I should get, at this time and moment I am interested in only the Hegner. I have the Excaliburs and Dewalt788. 
I am a bottom feeder. For the life of me I can’t get the hang of top feeding. 
Fretwork, compound cutting, and intarsia are mainly what I do. I’d like to get into in-lay 
That all being said, I do have 3 questions:

II am asking the Hegner owners if they are worth the price? (Twice the price of the others)
Does anyone have one for sale?
Is there a retail store where a person can do a test drive?
I live in Twin Cites in Minnesota, is there anyone that has a saw that I can come try?
 

Thanks

 

[stoney]

Well the one thing I can tell you from experience is my Hegner multi-max 22v is still going strong.  I bought it new in 2008 and it has been a very reliable saw.  I can't tell you where you could see one unless you could find someone in your area.  I believe Advanced Machinery is the only source in the USA.  Hegner makes very good scroll saws but they are very pricey.

[kmmcrafts]

I agree with Stoney, while I do not have a Hegner, I do have a Hawk and the quality of these machines are over the top compared to the others and the price reflects that.. BUT, either people love them or hate them, they do have a totally different style of cutting experience and the blade clamping / tensioning is not as forgiving as those short parallel link arm saws like the DeWalt & Ex type saws.. I've seen people bash both the Hawk and Hegners on the FB forums because their experience is they can't get used to them.. well they just don't give themselves the time to "learn" them... 

My first Hawk I bought for $100 and I was so excited because the reputation is they are one of the best saws out there.. which they are so long as you have the patients to learn them.. I hated the thing at first.. but I knew it was more of a user error ( had to be with all the positive reviews of these ).. I kept my old DeWalt for "in a rush orders" but used the Hawk as much as I could to get used to and learn the machine.. the learning curve can be slow figuring out why I couldn't get blades from not breaking or get the right tension etc.. and they do cut a little less aggressive so it seems like it cut slower.. not sure it really does.. I find I'm way more relaxed using the Hawks than the Excalibur.. but I still go to the Excalibur if I'm just wanting to get something finished because I spend years running this style saw.. and muscle memory just makes it seem to get the job done faster.. In all honesty I don't think it's any slower considering you don't have to lift the arm up out of the way to change to the next hole as the arms on these are spring loaded.. if you break a blade or once you loosen the blade the arm just pops up out of the way.. 

My suggestion is.. first off.. I don't think you're going to really be able to dig in and get to know the saw with just trying one for a day... It took me weeks / months to really get the hang of the long arm saw and as I said.. I still today will go cut on the Excalibur when I feel rushed to get something done.. I suggest rather than buying a new one at nearly double the cost of the other saws.. I suggest getting a used saw.. the resale value on new saws is not there to justify buying it and if you don't like it you're going to loose about $1000 in value.. I've seen people struggle to sell new never used ones even at that $1000 price.. If you can find a used one for $800 or less you're more likely going to loose less money IF you can't seem to get the hang of it and have to sell it.. You may still loose.. but you're not going from $1700 down to $700 -800 ish.. These saws are built like tanks.. and rarely anything drastic happens and in most cases the parts are readily available so I wouldn't be scared to buy a used saw to try and learn on.. If you're adamant about getting new then try the used one for a year and then get a new one.. JMO.. If you have money to toss around then get the new one first and hope you like it..   

[Sycamore67]

I bought a Hegner a couple years ago.  They are a very sturdy machine with almost no mechanical issues. The design has not changed much and parts for older ones still available.  You will not hear issues of weird noises, bearing wearing out or other mechanical issues.

Is it worth the price?   I think so but ultimately up to you.  I bought my first one used and then got the new one with easier tensioning up front.  The blade clamps are also sturdy and made from steel.

Once in awhile they show up used, so you might keep an eye out for one.

[Scrappile]

It's a tough decision, they are having a sale right now at Advance Machinery.  Mine is a 2010 model I purchased one of their demo machines.  I love my Hegner.  Took a little getting use to because tensioning very important.  At first I broke many blades and got real discouraged... Call Advance Machinery and they talked me through it.  All of a sudden it clicked and I've been happy ever sense. Just feel comfortable with it.  Like an old friend.  I can't tell you what to do..  Maybe check for a club in your area and contact them to see if someone would let you try theirs.  The only improvement I would like to see them make in one, is a bigger table.. I made aux. table for mine out of masonite to increase the size a little.  The big table on the Seyco I had spoiled me.   Good luck.. The only reason I won't say go for it is the price.  And unfortunately they do not have a good record for resale value.  If you can find a used one.. that is in good shape.. that is the way to go.  There was one on Craigslist, in my state the other day. There are quite a few on Craigslist in my area.  Some look to be in great shape.

[Dave Monk]

I've had mine for about four years. They are expensive and so are the parts but I've never heard of much going wrong with them.  Not near as many bearings as other saws to wear out. I'm sure it will outlive me.  I have seen a few used for sale for around $600.  I'm not crazy about having to work on one so I personally rather buy new and have a warranty. 

[OCtoolguy]

Do keep us updated on what you decide. I have 2 EX's and a Hegner with all the updates. I am more confortable using the Ex's but really haven't taken the time to learn the Hegner's quirks. I think my biggest complaint is the tall stand. I don't have a comfortable stool and I don't like standing. I am going to build a lower stand for it in the future. They are a tank and probably the most durable saw on the market. The weak point, to me, would be in the electrical area. Very expensive if a motor or controller fail. BUT they don't fail very often. Good luck.

[OCtoolguy]

Just to let you know what is out there, here is what I would call a "good deal" at this price. Even though I'd still try to get it for less. It has everything. Large rectangular table, variable speed, front tension release lever, foot switch, and lighted magnifier. The only thing missing is the Quick Clamp that holds the top of the blade. That's a $35 parts plus shipping. Even though this saw is almost 30 years old, it's still hardly broken in. As long as they oiled the two bushings in the upper and lower arms, there's not much else to do. Probably the weakest small part is the link between the motor's flywheel and the lower arm. It has two bearings in it but the material the arm is made of seems to crack with age. It's about a $50 part because you can't buy just the link. Bearings are included. When mine gives up the ghost, I'm going to try to make one out of aluminum. 

Edited February 3, 2023 by OCtoolguy

[OCtoolguy]

This one just came on and I'm very tempted. Less than an hour away. I think I could get it for $200. I checked with the seller and it is a variable speed. 

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/1916795135322222/?ref=search&referral_code=null&referral_story_type=post&tracking=browse_serp%3A39508d53-7539-4c30-b50c-19d5c1a3bef

[Scrappile]

While you are waiting to decide go watch the Hegner video at advance machinery

https://advanced-machinery.myshopify.com/pages/helpful-videos-demonstrations-advanced-machinery

 

if you order a new one, or purchase a used one, the QuikClamp is worth every penny.    Haw, I just watched them again... I do not do everything as they do and you probably will develop your preferred method also.  But pay attention on the info on the quikclamp... the regular clamps float in the holder, the quikclamp does not..  Did I mention they are on sale right now..

[OCtoolguy]

3 hours ago, Scrappile said:

While you are waiting to decide go watch the Hegner video at advance machinery

https://advanced-machinery.myshopify.com/pages/helpful-videos-demonstrations-advanced-machinery

 

if you order a new one, or purchase a used one, the QuikClamp is worth every penny.    Haw, I just watched them again... I do not do everything as they do and you probably will develop your preferred method also.  But pay attention on the info on the quikclamp... the regular clamps float in the holder, the quikclamp does not..  Did I mention they are on sale right now..

Thanks Paul. I've been on their site many times but have never seen any of those videos. I also found out about their multi-tool grinder add-on. Interesting but pricey.

I also learned a couple of things on using the Hegner saws. 

[Gonzo]

Thank you all very much for your responses. 

That aren’t any Hegner on Craigslist,  so I’m glad Octoolguy mentioned FB marketplace. 

I had my wife go on FB marketplace and there are a few Hefner’s listed. One of them is 10 miles away. 1999 model for $1100.00. Seems quite expensive to me.

Grampa Jim had one for sale a few months ago, unfortunately, when I was ready to buy, he had already sold it  

As Scrapplile mentioned,  they are on sale, and they ship in 24 hours! That amazes me.

Funny thing is, I have the ok to go ahead and order a new one, but am having a hard time justifying the cost. 
 But then again, I’ve never seen a hearse with a luggage rack.  

hmmm…. Decisions, decisions.  
Thanks again for all your opinions, very much appreciated!

[Gonzo]

What do ya all think about this one?  Yes, it’s a RBI, but it looks very clean, priced right, and is nearby
 

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/760214715464236/

[kmmcrafts]

I almost mentioned Hawk.. but you seemed pretty adamant on Hegner and for the first time I didn't want to show my bias for Hawk  . 

This saw in the link you provided is a Hawk Ultra.. good saws made from around 1996 - around 2004 -5.. I think the price is decent. Look for extra lower blade holders.. the more the better value, LOL even though you can only use one at a time.. it is kinda nice to have blades already loaded so for instance if you are veining you can cut with a straight blade then swap to the already loaded spiral blade then switch back to straight if need.. 

I find Hawks are cheaper priced and I think it has some to do with the fact that I think they sold thousands of them back in the day and there seems to always be some for sale.. I'm not sure how they compare to Hegner as I've never had a Hegner.. I would stay away from the Hawk with the round barrel clamps as they are getting quite old now, and most owners had a hate / love relation with those clamps. 

Now do note that the lower arm sits behind the angle adjustment mechanism so you have to reach around that to change blades etc.. not a big deal to me and in fact that keeps the sawdust out of your lap.. I actually like my Utra better than my brand new Hawk because of that and a few other small things.. Anyway seems like a good deal on this if you like it I'd go for it. Doubtful you'll find a Hegner any cheaper than that and pretty close to the same quality.. parts still available for them. 

I think the most common wear part on these is the tension cam and the wedge and nylon washer on top of the wedge..  

Edit to Add:  Bushton has some videos on their site as well.. here is one pertaining to the Ultra. 

 

Edited February 4, 2023 by kmmcrafts

[kmmcrafts]

Also check out eBay.. was just on there and there is a couple Hegners that seller says they'll ship.. one was a 2004 18" saw for $350.. shipping to me in Michigan was $115.. The down side is you can't really "try it out" before buying.. but in our area that's not a bad price.. not a great price if you live out in California though, LOL.. they seem to have the best deals out there.. 

Here is one.. there are a couple more on there too.. https://www.ebay.com/itm/165918005360

[Gonzo]

15 minutes ago, kmmcrafts said:

I almost mentioned Hawk.. but you seemed pretty adamant on Hegner and for the first time I didn't want to show my bias for Hawk  . 

This saw in the link you provided is a Hawk Ultra.. good saws made from around 1996 - around 2004 -5.. I think the price is decent. Look for extra lower blade holders.. the more the better value, LOL even though you can only use one at a time.. it is kinda nice to have blades already loaded so for instance if you are veining you can cut with a straight blade then swap to the already loaded spiral blade then switch back to straight if need.. 

I find Hawks are cheaper priced and I think it has some to do with the fact that I think they sold thousands of them back in the day and there seems to always be some for sale.. I'm not sure how they compare to Hegner as I've never had a Hegner.. I would stay away from the Hawk with the round barrel clamps as they are getting quite old now, and most owners had a hate / love relation with those clamps. 

Now do note that the lower arm sits behind the angle adjustment mechanism so you have to reach around that to change blades etc.. not a big deal to me and in fact that keeps the sawdust out of your lap.. I actually like my Utra better than my brand new Hawk because of that and a few other small things.. Anyway seems like a good deal on this if you like it I'd go for it. Doubtful you'll find a Hegner any cheaper than that and pretty close to the same quality.. parts still available for them. 

I think the most common wear part on these is the tension cam and the wedge and nylon washer on top of the wedge..  

Thanks Kevin.  I was pretty sure you’d respond about the rbi. 

[Scrappile]

I think I see a ratio of 8 used RBI's for sale versa 1 Hegner, so there are a lot of RBI's to choose from... I have always wanted to try one. I know there are some things to look out for because there were some that had clamps and motor that were not so good.  But I do not know enough to know what to watch for. If I find the right on at the right I may pick it up.

[kmmcrafts]

1 hour ago, Scrappile said:

 If I find the right on at the right I may pick it up.

At a 120lbs you won't pick it up for too long, 

[OCtoolguy]

5 hours ago, Gonzo said:

What do ya all think about this one?  Yes, it’s a RBI, but it looks very clean, priced right, and is nearby
 

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/760214715464236/

I'd be all over that one. Very clean and seems to have all the latest stuff. Go check it out and have 3 $100 bills in your pocket. I had a saw just like that one but sold it because it took up too much space in my small shop. You won't go wrong on that one.

 

Also, $1100 for that Hegner is too much. $800 max.

[Scrappile]

Come and see me with three $100 In your pocket to show me,, you may be missing come dinner time.. Okay, Come on gang,, Just kidding!  

[Jim Finn]

On 2/3/2023 at 1:00 PM, OCtoolguy said:

Do keep us updated on what you decide. I have 2 EX's and a Hegner with all the updates. I am more confortable using the Ex's but really haven't taken the time to learn the Hegner's quirks. I think my biggest complaint is the tall stand. I don't have a comfortable stool and I don't like standing. I am going to build a lower stand for it in the future. They are a tank and probably the most durable saw on the market. The weak point, to me, would be in the electrical area. Very expensive if a motor or controller fail. BUT they don't fail very often. Good luck.

In order to make my Hegner Polymax 3 usable while seated, I cut off a few inches from the legs of the stand.  Works well for me.

[Gonzo]

2 hours ago, OCtoolguy said:

I'd be all over that one. Very clean and seems to have all the latest stuff. Go check it out and have 3 $100 bills in your pocket. I had a saw just like that one but sold it because it took up too much space in my small shop. You won't go wrong on that one.

 

Also, $1100 for that Hegner is too much. $800 max.

Yeah, Ray, that’s what I was thinking. He actually wants 1400 for the Hegner. 
what’s weird is I inquired on 3 different saws on fb marketplace today. Not one response back. My thinking is, if I’m selling something, I’d wanna be available, especially on the weekend. Maybe it just me. 
I would really like to go see the one that I had posted earlier 

[OCtoolguy]

37 minutes ago, Gonzo said:

Yeah, Ray, that’s what I was thinking. He actually wants 1400 for the Hegner. 
what’s weird is I inquired on 3 different saws on fb marketplace today. Not one response back. My thinking is, if I’m selling something, I’d wanna be available, especially on the weekend. Maybe it just me. 
I would really like to go see the one that I had posted earlier 

People these days aren't the brightest candles. Is that Hawk a local seller? He might just not be hovering over his conputer as you or I might. 

[OCtoolguy]

1 hour ago, Jim Finn said:

In order to make my Hegner Polymax 3 usable while seated, I cut off a few inches from the legs of the stand.  Works well for me.

I've considered doing that Jim. Thanks for the thought.

[Gonzo]

23 hours ago, kmmcrafts said:

Also check out eBay.. was just on there and there is a couple Hegners that seller says they'll ship.. one was a 2004 18" saw for $350.. shipping to me in Michigan was $115.. The down side is you can't really "try it out" before buying.. but in our area that's not a bad price.. not a great price if you live out in California though, LOL.. they seem to have the best deals out there.. 

Here is one.. there are a couple more on there too.. https://www.ebay.com/itm/165918005360

What’s the difference between a RBI 220 and 226. 

Edited February 5, 2023 by Gonzo