Choosing a Jigsaw

The tool's versatility and the wide variety of materials it can cut are major reasons many DIYers pick it as their first power saw. Knowing the different types available is a necessary initial step when considering adding a jigsaw to your tool set.

Corded vs. Cordless

Like all power tools, corded jigsaws are more powerful than cordless models. They’re suitable for heavy-duty jobs and best for those who do most of their cutting in one place.

DIYers and homeowners planning renovations may prefer cordless models because of their flexibility. These draw power from rechargeable batteries and are portable. Without power cables tethering them to outlets, you can use them anywhere. There’s also no risk of power cables and extension cords getting in the way when using these battery-powered tools.

Unlike corded units, owners should expect downtimes when using cordless models as they need to recharge their batteries. To minimize such breaks, it helps to have fully charged extra batteries at the ready. Note that some manufacturers don’t include batteries with their cordless jigsaws. Some also supply these tools without a charger. A cordless unit without an included battery or charger may be a cost-saving option if you already have cordless power tool sets from the same manufacturer.

Barrel Grip vs. D-Handle

While often overlooked, handle designs determine how you'll use the tool.

A barrel grip model has its handle at the back of the tool. This design necessitates two-handed operation with one hand placed on the bulging ledge at the top and the second hand gripping the saw by the shank handle. This two-handed position makes it possible to push the blade through the material with a greater force. However, cutting with this tool requires fastening the material to a workbench as both hands are gripping the tool. Therefore, a barrel grip jigsaw is best suited for an equipped workshop.

A top or D-handle model permits a one-handed operation. It has a bulbous head at the top that serves as the handle and offers a solid grip. This design has a low centre of gravity that improves the balance of the power saw and makes it easier to manoeuver the tool. The ergonomic D-handle design is found on most jigsaws.

Jigsaw models have varying sets of features. Some are available on most models, while others are reserved for high-end units. These are the most desirable features and factors to consider when shopping for this versatile power saw.

Motor Power: The power ratings of corded jigsaws are quoted in ampere (A), while cordless units use volt (V) to describe their outputs. Corded models are available with motor power from 3.2 A to 7 A. It's best to choose one with a rated power between 6 A and 7 A when looking for a power saw capable of handling heavy-duty cutting tasks. Cordless models have motors with power ratings between 14 V and 36 V. Just as for corded models, a higher power rating translates to faster and cleaner cuts.

Variable Speed Control: This allows users to adjust the cutting speeds of their jigsaws. This is useful when cutting metals and materials harder than wood. Sometimes, slower speeds produce better cuts and make intricate curved cuts easier.

When experts offer tips for using a jigsaw effectively, they advise that making cleaner and more accurate cuts is achieved by using high cutting speeds (over 2,000 SPM or strokes per minute) for sawing wood. It's also advisable to switch to medium cutting speeds for plastic, steel, and aluminium (1,000 to 2,000 SPM) and low speeds for ceramic and other delicate materials (500 to 1,000 SPM).

Stroke Length: This is the distance covered by the blade in one stroke. Jigsaws with longer strokes cut faster and rougher and are better suited for thick materials. It’s best to have a short-stroke unit on hand when cutting delicate materials.

Orbital Action: While a standard jigsaw only moves its blade up and down, an orbital-action unit powers its blade in an elliptical cycle. This means it moves the blade slightly forward on the upstroke and slightly backward on the downstroke. This orbital path protects the cutting edges of jigsaw blades, prevents blade chattering, and produces smoother cuts.

Laser Guide: A thin red laser line cast in front of the saw that serves as a jigsaw cutting guide to help users maintain straight cutting lines.

LED Lamp: A saw with a built-in LED lamp is best for working in dimly lit areas. It shines a bright light around the work area and helps operators avoid errors and accidents.

Blades are essential power tool accessories to have when working with power saws. To produce clean and accurate cuts, it's important to find the right ones. Each blade is designed for specific materials (metal, wood, plywood, ceramics, etc.) and types of cuts (straight, curved, scrolling, V-shaped, etc.). These jigsaw parts have different serrated patterns on their edges. Common ones include fine-, large-, and reverse-toothed edges. Bigger blade teeth cut faster but rougher.

It also helps to match the thickness of the material you need to cut to the length of the blade (long blades for thick materials and short ones for thin materials). While most jigsaws use T-clamps, there are models that support both T- and U-shank blades. An opportunity to reuse the U-shank blades you have lying around is one good reason to select a model that accepts both clamp styles.

Lastly, it's also a good idea to pay attention to blade materials. Commonly used materials are high-carbon steel (HCS), high-speed steel (HSS), alloy, carbide, and diamond. HCS blades are best for wood, particleboard, and plastic, while HSS units can cut through metals. Alloy blades made of HSS and HSC are stronger, more flexible, and last longer.

Carbide blades are ideal for cutting fibreglass, reinforced plastic, glass, tile, and cement board. To make cuts in stone, marble, granite, and porcelain tiles, diamond blades should be included in the list of reciprocating saw blades and accessories to purchase.