The jigsaw is part of every self-respecting master’s arsenal. Whether you are a professional who knows exactly what you need, or you like to take care of the tasks at home, these tools are perfect for you.
With the help of one jigsaw, you can cut practically everything. They are essential for making straight or curved cuts on any worktop. A well-chosen machine could overcome materials such as PVC, wood, parquet, plastic, melamine, and more.
Excessive variety can be confusing and ultimately make it difficult to choose the right machine. As a result of ill-considered choices, you may simply fail to get the job done. Here you will find everything you need to know about jigsaws. We would personally recommend the Bosch Power Tools Jig Saws – JS470E.
A Spotlight on Some of the Best Jigsaws 2022
Jigsaws Reviews
SKIL 6 Amp Corded Jig Saw- JS314901
- High cutting efficiency– The 4-stage orbital function allows smooth cutting ability across different...
- Speed control– The 2-finger trigger provides increased control.
- Quick adjust angled cutting– adjust the shoe bevel for angled cutting without the need for a tool.
- Clear view precision– an on/off dust blowing switch gives a clear view of the piece being sawed so you...
- Easy blade change– replace saw blades in a matter of seconds with the tool-free blade Clamp.
Skil has long been known for making power saws. The JS314901 electric model is well worth every penny you spend on it. It has variable speeds, allowing the user to pick the most appropriate speed settings for the material they’re cutting. It’s also possible to control the speed with the variable-speed switch.
Also included are four distinct orbital settings, allowing quicker cutting when necessary and more exact curves when not. In addition, the JS314901 includes an inbuilt LED work light, which provides plenty of illumination for creating those perfect curves as well.
In addition, the base pivots between 90 and 45 degrees, enabling bevel cuts to be made. Because of the toolless design, changing the blade when it becomes dull or when the user wants to switch between other materials is straightforward.
It’s important to remember that this saw employs U-shaped blades, which are more susceptible to slipping out than T-shaped jigsaw blades.
Bosch Power Tools Jig Saws – JS470E
- ERGONOMIC TOP-HANDLE: soft-grip areas supply a solid, comfortable grip
- CONVENIENT: featuring a tool-less blade change system and fast insertion with a blade ejection lever that...
- 4-IN-1: 4 orbital action tool settings provide different blade strokes for smooth to aggressive cuts for...
- CONTROL: variable speed dial sets maximum speed and accelerator trigger controls operating speed;...
- SECURE: includes a large, sturdy die cast foot with steel insert and on board bevel wrench;...
The Bosch JS470E offers unrivaled cut line precise control thanks to its servo motor. Many people like the device because it has different speed settings.
An impressive 7-amp motor makes this jigsaw capable of handling most of your cutting needs. This Bosch jigsaw has a broad range of blade speed adjustments, ranging from 500 to 3,100 strokes per minute. Making clean, rapid cuts at 3,100 SPM is a breeze at this speed.
The jigsaw is equipped with Constant Response circuitry that ensures a stable pace even when the machine is under heavy load. This Bosch saw was built to last, and it’s the most robust one we’ve seen so far. The footplate can carry over 500 pounds of weight.
The dust control mechanism on the JS470E makes it easier to see the cut line. That helps maintain the machine’s smooth operation and provides you with fine cuts while also eliminating sawdust that might clog your cut line and cause it to jam.
The ability to replace blades without the need for special tools, and Bosch’s blade ejection mechanism, are two of the jigsaw’s most appealing features. The blade warms up quite a bit when in use, and this feature makes it possible to remove it without directly contacting the surface.
CRAFTSMAN Jig Saw, 6.0-Amp, Corded (CMES612)
- Variable speed trigger ranging from 03, 200 spm's provides control for clean and accurate cuts
- 4Orbital settings to adjust cut aggressiveness for various materials and applications
- Beveling shoe provides ability to cut up to 45 deg. For angled cuts
- Contoured overmolded handle for added comfort during use
- Compatible with the versa-track wall organization system. Hook and Accessories sold separately.
Powerful corded versions with high-amperage motors and enough run speed are required for this application. That’s what the Craftsman jigsaw has to provide, thanks to a powerful 6.0-amp motor that can cut at a maximum speed of 3,200 strokes per minute and a heavy-duty blade.
The speed dial, which is located on the trigger, has seven settings and may be used to regulate the speed.
This Craftsman jigsaw has four orbital stroke options and several speed variations available. Its toolless blade replacement technology lets users swap the U-shaped blades out quickly and easily. A textured rubber over-molded grip makes it easier to hold on to the tool and lessen vibrations.
However, using U-shaped jigsaw blades rather than T-shanks might be a drawback because they aren’t as durable.
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Jig Saw, Tool Only (DCS334B)
- Brushless motor of the cordless jigsaw delivers efficient performance for longer runtime (vs. DCS331 Jig...
- Compact size for easy grip and maximum control of the jig saw
- Bright LED on the jigsaw tool helps illuminate dimly lit work surfaces
- Variable speed trigger and dial provide precise speed control
- All-metal, lever-action keyless blade change allows for quick and easy t-shank blade changes
This jigsaw is an excellent choice for anybody looking for a high-performance jigsaw that can tackle any job. The jigsaw is cordless and equipped with a brushless motor, which gives lots of power while also significantly extending the battery’s life.
It can be powered by the DeWalt 20-volt battery technology, which allows consumers to get more out of their existing batteries.
This jigsaw has variable speeds of 3,200 spm and orbital strokes for more precise cuts. In addition, it features a shoe that can be adjusted from 0 degrees to 15, 30, and 45 degrees. When cutting, the machine has an integrated dust blower that blows the dust away from the cut line and an LED work lamp that makes precision cutting easier.
The lever-operated release simplifies the toolless T-shank blade replacement. Just keep in mind the package doesn’t include a battery. If you have one, you may have to buy a compatible battery at an extra cost or use DeWalt’s 20-volt battery system.
PORTER-CABLE PCE345
- 7 Position Speed Dial (0-3200 Spm) Integrated Into Trigger Of The Jigsaw Tool Provides Multiple Speed...
- 6 Amp Motor Of The Jig Saw Delivers Power In Demanding Applications
- 4 Orbital Settings Provides Best Cutting Performance In A Variety Of Materials
- Lock-On Button Provides Easier Control During Prolonged Use
The PCE345 jigsaw from Porter-Cable, a leader in low-cost power tools, is an affordable tool suitable for most jigsaw operations. It’s one of the finest jigsaws with an ergonomic grip, four orbital speeds, and a seven-position cutting speed dial.
The powerful 6-amp motor is one of the first things you’ll want to praise about the device. That’s great because some pricier models have motors that aren’t much more powerful yet expensive.
There’s no limit to what this tool can cut through. Thanks to its four orbital speeds, the jigsaw is suitable for cutting everything from solid wood, plastic, and metal to thin plywood.
This low-cost jigsaw also features seven different speeds that you can alter by turning the handle on the side of the jigsaw. Overall, the device is fast and affordable and can handle your basic tasks.
Jigsaw Buying Guide
Thanks to the appropriate jigsaw, you have the opportunity to shape any board as you need. It doesn’t matter if you want to configure a kitchen, arrange a parquet, design a cabinet, or just a shelf.
What is the jigsaw?
A jigsaw is a type of hand-held electric saw. It is small, light, and is used for cutting a variety of materials. It has a specialized blade that moves quickly back and forth, mimicking the movement of an ordinary hand saw. The difference comes from the fact that the saw blade moves automatically.
In addition, the machine manages to provide the blade with a much higher speed and frequency of movement, so that it functions much more efficiently.
Jigsaws are usually designed for both straight and curved cuts (below 90 and 45 degrees). In most cases, such tools do best in cutting relatively thin materials.
Extremely easy to use, jigsaws are just great for almost any cutting activity.
Of course, each model has its own characteristics and some do better with certain tasks compared to others. However, in all circumstances, if you choose carefully, you will certainly be satisfied with the results.
What are the main advantages of jigsaws?
In today’s market, you will certainly find a variety of power tools for cutting anything. Then why get a jigsaw and not some other electric tool?
Well, it is no coincidence that jigsaws are one of the most popular types of electric saws today. They have some major advantages over other instruments of their kind that definitely deserve attention.
Safety and comfort
Jigsaws are specially designed for the most efficient cutting through different boards.
They manage to increase your efficiency while saving you a lot of effort in the process of work. At the same time, these tools are easy to manage, regardless of the work experience you have.
The jigsaw fits snugly on the cutting surface and that’s why you don’t have to put extra pressure to keep the machine in place. At the same time, however, with a jigsaw, your work becomes not only easy but also safe.
These machines are precisely equipped with various safeguards that keep your hands and fingers away from the blade. The combination of comfort and safety makes jigsaws a great tool that gives you the best possible cutting experience.
Processing of various materials
You already know that jigsaws can handle many different materials than ordinary wood. Certain jigsaws, for example, could handle a variety of non-ferrous and composite metals, steel, fiberglass, chipboard, plywood, and even drywall. However, for this purpose, the blade and the capacity of your future tool must be carefully adjusted.
Know what you need and choose carefully. If you think about your decision well, you will be able to handle almost anything. It is these diverse possibilities that make jigsaws extremely valuable for any workshop.
Effective cutting
The cutting efficiency of a jigsaw is far from limited to the materials you can process with it. You already know that different tools are designed to make straight and curved cuts. Many of them can cut at an angle of 90 or 45 degrees.
It is this slope that allows them to create extremely effective curved lines, beveled cuts, and other various complex shapes. Successful corner-cutting makes it one of the most useful tools for creating luxury wooden projects that are difficult to implement.
In many cases, jigsaws are much more suitable for beginners. This is especially true in cases where you are not yet ready to switch to adjustable table saws.
Portability and mobility
As insignificant as it may seem to you, the portability of such an instrument is far from negligible. However, jigsaws are convenient to use anywhere, not least because of their compact design.
Many modern models are cordless and run on batteries. We will return to this manner in more detail later, but it is important to realize how serious this advantage is anyway.
The lack of a cable frees up your movements and thus significantly expands your work possibilities. Plus, if you get a cordless model, you won’t have to worry about cutting the power cable.
What to consider when buying a jigsaw?
You realize that the benefits of jigsaws do not end with those we have paid attention to. Either way, you already know for sure how great tools these are.
However, when you decide to get a jigsaw, the considerations have yet to begin. There are a bunch of things to keep in mind if you want your purchase to be worth it.
We have tried to gather the key characteristics and features of these tools that are worth paying attention to. Get acquainted with them and in all circumstances, you will get the best possible jigsaw to achieve your goals.
Power
When choosing the power of your future jigsaw, you should take into account the characteristics of the material you want to process. The nominal power of a particular model determines the type and thickness of the material that the tool can handle.
Keep in mind that the performance of a jigsaw will not depend solely on its power. Of course, the peculiarities of its blade, as well as the additional addons will also affect the final result.
In any case, the power of the saws varies between 350 and 850 watts. Depending on the power of the machine, you could cut pieces of wood or parquet up to 13 cm thick, as well as steel up to 1 cm thick.
Of course, the higher the power of your machine, the easier it will be to cope with its tasks. However, as can be expected, the higher the power, the heavier the tool.
The weight of a jigsaw can vary depending on its power between 4 and 6 pounds.
Our advice is, when choosing the power of your future saw, to take into account mostly what you will use it for.
350-watt models, for example, are suitable for any do-it-yourselfer. They will handle most small projects well, as they have lower cutting depths and lower productivity.
On the other hand, jigsaws with a power of about 500 W usually support up to 6-7 cm depth of cut in wood. However, when cutting aluminum, such models could handle a thickness of up to 1 cm. As for steel, the maximum would be about 5 mm.
Jigsaws with a power exceeding 700 W are suitable for wooden boards up to 10 cm thick. As for aluminum materials – 3 cm would be the maximum, and for steel – 1 cm.
Speed
Most modern jigsaws allow you to adjust their cutting speed. Believe us, this feature is definitely worth it, as it will greatly expand your capabilities.
Whatever material you cut, it is important to choose the right speed. Only when you do, you will have the chance to achieve the best possible end results.
Speed control is especially useful when cutting different types of brittle materials with different densities.
In summary, the cutting speed that a particular model offers you is decisive for the materials you could cut. In most cases, there are three main speed ranges to choose from.
Slow mode usually involves between 500 and 1000 movements per minute. It is suitable for cutting materials such as ceramics, wall tiles, or glass.
The average cutting speed usually extends between 1500 and 2000 movements per minute. If you plan to cut plastic or different types of non-ferrous metals, this is the speed you should choose.
Anything that exceeds 2,000 movements per minute is now suitable for cutting different types of wood. In general, the more, the better – the process will be much more efficient.
We recommend that you strive for the model that offers you the widest possibilities. Even if you do not initially intend to cut certain materials, you never know what you may need. More options are never superfluous.
Blade
As we have already mentioned, the quality of cutting that your jigsaw will provide you largely depends on the characteristics of its blade. As you may have guessed, there are many different types of blades, each designed for a specific job.
Perhaps the most important consideration to make is the material you intend to cut. However, you must also take into account the type of cut as well as the method of attaching the blade to the machine.
The type of teeth, as well as the speed of movement, are also key factors. The thickness of the material should determine the length of the blade you need.
Of course, it is desirable to consider the choice of your blade and its material.
If you take into account all the factors we have just mentioned, you will in any case choose the right blade for your purposes. Keep in mind that since each blade is designed for a specific purpose, it’s definitely a good idea to get many different types of blades.
You can find sets of blades in different places. Getting such a kit is a good compromise if you do not know exactly what blade you may need.
In most cases, the composition of these kits covers the needs of 90% of consumers. Above all, however, be sure to change your blade as soon as it wears out. A blunt blade will never give you the results you want, no matter how powerful your tool is.
However, the combination of the right blade, power, and cutting speed will surely leave you satisfied.
Power supply
Earlier, we partly raised the issue of the method of powering jigsaws. There are generally two options: with or without cable. Each of the two options has both advantages and disadvantages.
More affordable models are usually powered by cable. This constant connection to the power supply usually allows them to provide their customers with a higher power.
In addition, these jigsaws are often significantly lighter, as they do not have a battery to add extra weight to the machine.
However, the cable is both the biggest advantage and the key disadvantage of such tools. It often becomes a constraint on the work process.
It is possible to make your work difficult due to the lack of a convenient power source. In addition, some of your movements will certainly be hindered by the presence of a cable and the need to comply with it.
However, the most unpleasant obstacle remains the ability to cut your cable during the cutting process. You should always be vigilant about its positioning if you do not want to fall into this unpleasant situation.
The alternative that will save you from the cable obstacle, of course, remains to get a battery model.
Although such jigsaws usually weigh more, many modern models have solved the problem of low power. In addition, they free you from the limitations of the cable.
They give you all the freedom of movement you may need. With their help, you can practically handle cutting in many situations, which would be impossible if you are limited by the presence of a cable.
Unfortunately, battery jigsaws are not entirely unrestricted. In any case, you will need to constantly consider the life of your battery if you do not want to be interrupted in the process. However, spare batteries are a good way out of this inconvenience.
Quality and price
Whatever the purchase, the question of value for money is always on the agenda. This is inevitable due to the inextricable link between the two.
Of course, much more attention is usually paid to quality products. In addition, however, the materials used to make them are usually more expensive, and the time and effort spent are certainly more.
This is exactly what makes certain products more expensive. At the same time, however, this means that the quality of a particular product can largely be judged by its price.
Of course, you shouldn’t compromise on the quality of your future jigsaw. However, this does not necessarily mean that you should immediately focus on the most expensive model you can find.
Our advice is instead to think carefully about exactly what you need. If you organize your own requirements, it will not be particularly difficult for you to focus only on the models that cover them. This will significantly narrow your choice and thus make it easier.
However, if you have a more limited budget for buying a jigsaw, we recommend that you consider what you can do without. In case you do not intend to cut metal, for example, it is not worth looking for a specialized blade, right?
Be resourceful enough and you will certainly make the best possible choice. When you weigh the scales, you will see that you have got the right product with the perfect value for money.
How to use your jigsaw as best as possible?
Well, you already know everything you need for jigsaws and we are sure that you will make the best possible choice. Keep in mind, however, that buying such a machine is not everything.
As safe as they are, jigsaws remain extremely powerful and dangerous tools. If used incorrectly, they will certainly put you at risk.
That is why in this section we have prepared for you some basic tips and guidelines to make the use of your jigsaw as safe as possible.
Read the user manual
As you know, every product of this nature comes with a user guide. The first thing you need to do before you even start using your jigsaw is to read it carefully.
It will teach you everything you need to know about using your tool. However, you will also find information on how to proceed in certain situations in which you may find yourself.
Trust us – you will not find a better guide than the user manual.
Always wear protective equipment
Protective equipment is simply mandatory for this type of work. In this case, you must wear safety goggles and a dust mask under all circumstances.
The glasses will protect your eyes from dust or other ejected particles that can endanger your vision. The mask will prevent the inhalation of the same fine dust particles.
Gloves are far from mandatory when using jigsaws. In many cases, they can even interfere with your work and thus become a potential danger.
Take care of your jigsaw
If you take good care of your jigsaw, it will provide you with the desired results.
This includes regular inspection of faults as well as their rectification. You already know that blunt blades should be replaced immediately.
In addition, under no circumstances should you force your machine against hard materials. If the blade can’t cut them, remove it and try again. If you don’t get results again, your machine or blade probably just can’t handle the object being processed.
Also, keep in mind that jigsaws should never be used in humid conditions. The combination of water and electricity is one of the most dangerous you may encounter.
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