Buying a jigsaw that fulfills all your needs is a difficult task. Here is all you need to know about them to purchase the best jigsaw for the money.
A jigsaw is a power tool, also known as a bayonet saw or saber saw that is optimum for plunge cuts and curvatures. Although this tool leaves behind rough and ragged edges, they are lightweight, portable, and extremely versatile. They can be used to cut almost any and every material.
Even though all jigsaws consist of an electric motor and a reciprocating saw blade and allow cutting angles of up to 45 degrees, there are many factors to consider while buying one. My choice is the Borsch Jigsaw because of it’s 4 orbital settings. Check it out at Amazon.
In the following mini-guide, we are going to talk about various features of jigsaws that distinguish one from the other.
Corded and Cordless Jigsaws
When it comes to portability, there are two types of jigsaws available; corded and cordless jigsaws.
Corded Jigsaws
With corded jigsaws, the cord of the tool can only stretch so far. You have limited room to work with, after which you might need to unplug the power cord and move it or use an extension cord. However, corded jigsaws do not need a battery, so it is usually lighter in weight and it eliminates the need for recharging.
Cordless Jigsaws
With cordless jigsaws, you are allowed to move more freely and you aren’t restricted within an area of a few feet of an electrical socket. These jigsaws are battery-powered and need to have their batteries recharged often. A time comes when the battery needs to be replaced.
Types of Jigsaws
The following are the two main types of jigsaws:
Straight Reciprocating Jigsaws
A jigsaw whose blade moves linearly back and forth or up and down while you’re using it is known as a straight reciprocating jigsaw or simply a basic or standard jigsaw. This particular movement makes the tool more powerful, especially if you’re working on tough materials. These jigsaws are relatively cheaper and also allow more precision than orbital jigsaws.
Orbital Jigsaws
Orbital jigsaws move up and down along with moving forward and backward. This movement allows for more aggressive and extensive cuts with additional power. This makes them suitable for harder and tougher materials. They also help you clear any dirt and debris while you make your cut.
Other Important Features to Look for
Once you’ve decided upon a corded or cordless and an orbital or a straight reciprocating jigsaw, here are some other important features to consider while buying a jigsaw:
Blade Type
Choose the blade type most suitable for you. U-shanks, allow quick changes whereas T-shanks require an exterior tool to remove or replace.
Power
Corded jigsaws are measured in amps whereas cordless ones are measured in volts. Average users are fine with a 5-amp corded model or an 18-volt cordless jigsaw.
Stroke Length
Stroke length is the distance that a blade covers when it makes a stroke. The longer the length is, the bigger a cut you will be able to make.
Variable Speed
It is recommended to buy a jigsaw with the speed feature described as “variable” so that the user can easily control it according to their preference.
Bevel Adjustments
A flexible built-in bevel adjustment will allow you to change the slope of the cut smoothly and at a quicker pace. This allows you to make accurate curved cuts.
Vibration
A jigsaw that vibrates a lot will hurt the precision and accuracy of your cuts; therefore, you should look for tools with comfortable grips that would lower its vibration.
Lithium-Ion Batteries
If you have decided to opt for a cordless jigsaw, you will most likely need to buy a battery separately. In this case, buying lithium-ion batteries is recommended, as they are known to last longer than the standard ones.
Multifunctional LED Lights
This feature allows you to work easily, as it provides you with proper exposure to your workspace and thus allows you to make cleaner cuts.
Dust Collector
A built-in dust collector gets rid of all the dust (sawdust) and debris while you’re making your cuts, therefore, your projects become mess-free and convenient.
If you’re still confused and do not know which jigsaw to choose from all the available varieties on the market, let us help you out. Here is a list of our picks for the best jigsaw for the money:
Bosch Corded Jigsaw
This corded jigsaw comes with a blade ejection lever that allows you to steer clear from hot saw blades. The 4 orbital-action tool settings provide versatility in terms of cuts as it allows you to make smooth to tough cuts easily. It also features a variable speed dial that sets a maximum speed. With the accelerator trigger, you can easily control the operating speed according to your requirements.
Moreover, it comes with a multidirectional blade clamp, ambidextrous lock-on button, internal precision control, and lightweight handling, making it an ideal tool for woodworkers and craft-makers.
Specifications
- Brand: Bosch
- Model Number: JS470E
- Weight: 5.9 pounds
- Dimension: 15.8 x 14.5 x 4.5 inches
- Power Source: Corded
Key Features
- Four orbital-action tool settings
- Lightweight handling
- Internal precision-machined plunging
- Low-vibration design
- Tool-less blade change system
Pros
- Aluminum and steel construction
- Built-in dust collector
- Variable speed control
- Blade ejecting lever
Cons
- Costly
- No clamps
Makita Corded Jigsaw
This corded jigsaw by Makita exudes precision and durability. It is suitable for cutting all kinds of materials and the 40% less tool vibration makes the jigsaw produce as little noise as possible. The amazing built-in LED lights enhance the accuracy of your cuts and let you work comfortably.
In addition to all these spectacular features, you get to maintain a constant speed with the electronic speed control even under load.
Specifications
- Brand: Makita
- Model Number: 4350FCT
- Weight: 8.46 pounds
- Dimension: 14.6 x 3.9 x 13.4 inches
- Power Source: corded-electric
Key Features
- 3 orbital settings
- Low vibration design
- Built-in LED lights
- Variable speed control
- Tool-less blade change system
Pros
- Die-cast aluminum construction
- Best-in-class top handle
- Lower noise
- Smooth start-up
Cons
- Lock button not suitable for left-handed individuals
BLACK & DECKER Jigsaw
The powerful and precise BLACK&DECKER machine comes with curve control technology that allows you to adjust the jigsaw’s orbit from the four offered customized settings. You can make 45-degree bevel cuts with precision and cut even the most demanding of materials.
The new and improved wire guard provides more perfect results and the sturdy and lightweight design makes the handling extremely comfortable and easy.
Specifications
- Brand: BLACK+DECKER
- Model Number: BDEJS600C
- Weight: 5 pounds
- Dimension: 11.8 x 4.4 x 9.2 inches
- Power Source: Corded-Electric
Key Features
- Curve control technology
- Wire guard
- Beveling shoe
- Built-in dust blower
Pros
- Variable speed control
- Tool-free blade change
Cons
- Short power cord
- Noisy
Select a jigsaw from our featured list that works the best for you and optimizes your woodworking skills!
