Woodworkers & Jigsaws

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The Jigsaw, a Handy Tool in the Wood Shop

Woodworkers use jigsaws for cutting curves and finishing square cuts that require precision. Often employed in a more artistic manner than other saws the jig saw is essential for most wood shops. Using a jigsaw effectively requires a steady hand, a good eye, and plenty of lighting.

Mechanics of the Jigsaw 

Jigsaws are power tools, composed of an electric motor and a reciprocating saw blade. A rear thrust bearing keeps the blade tracking straight and perpendicular for accuracy. Some models have useful features like variable speed, orbital-action, bevel function, quick-change blade and dust blowers.

Starrett® HSS Jig Saw BladesInnovative, high-quality High Speed Steel jig saw blades have unified
shanks with Bi-Metal Unique%u2122 technology to reduce breakage.

Blade design and cutting stroke produces dual chips that are
more easily removed from the cut.
Blades fit most jig saws.

Starrett® HSS Jig Saw Blades

Starrett® HSS Jig Saw Blades

Variable Speed Jigsaws 

Variable speed is important when cutting precise lines in wood. It allows the blade to slow during tight curves adding to the accuracy. Some models have a dial on the trigger, which prevents it from moving at high speeds.

Freud® Heavy-Duty Variable Speed Jig SawFully-loaded jig saw cuts through thick boards and light metals with ease,
and handles continuous operation.
Electronic cruise control maintains constant speed under variable
load for a faster, finer cut.
120 V, 6 amp motor with variable speed (500-3,000 spm) allows you
to adjust the blade speed to the material being cut.
Four-position orbital action lets you cut through stock faster.
Base tilts for angled cuts up to +/- 45º.

Freud® Heavy-Duty Variable Speed Jig Saw

Freud® Heavy-Duty Variable Speed Jig Saw

Orbital Action Feature 

The orbital action feature angles the blade forward and into the material, while a standard-action jigsaw only moves the blade in an up-and-down motion. The orbital action jigsaw can have up to four settings for cuts from fine too aggressive. This prevents the blade from heating up, extending its life.

Bosch 1590EVSK Jig SawTop-handle jig saw is loaded with great features to make it the most
precise and powerful jig saw on the market!

With 6.4 amp motor.

Bosch 1590EVSK Jig Saw

Bosch 1590EVSK Jig Saw

Other Features of a Jigsaw 

The bevel function, which allows angles of up to 45 degrees to be cut, is convenient at times but not used often. Some models have a quick release, which allows the bevel to be set without tools.

Festool Trion PSB 300 EQ D-Handle JigsawThe PSB 300 is a jigsaw with the blade guidance system of a bandsaw. Two side guides and a rear thrust bearing keep the blade tracking straight and perpendicular for unprecedented precision. You'll be amazed at the cut quality. Replaceable zero clearance inserts slide in for incredibly smooth, splinter-free cuts on both sides of the kerf. Features the easiest blade change system in the industry: simply pull a lever and the blade drops out; drop in a new blade, release and you're done! Dust channels in the baseplate and a shroud surrounding the blade provide excellent dust extraction. Oscillating action has four settings for cuts from fine to aggressive. Electronic speed control is infinitely adjustable with a single dial. Also available in a "barrel grip" design (72853) with identical features.

Save 10% off the purchase of a Dust Extractor when you purchase with a tool. Choose from the CT Mini, CT Midi, CT 22 or the CT 33.

Festool Trion PSB 300 EQ D-Handle Jigsaw

Festool Trion PSB 300 EQ D-Handle Jigsaw

The base plate of the jig saw must be held tight on the material being cut or jumping occurs, which can scratch or marr the material as well as the user. Non-marring base plate covers come with some jigsaws, which add even more protection for softer material.

Festool Trion PS 300 EQ Barrel Grip JigsawThe PS 300 is a jigsaw with the blade guidance system of a bandsaw. Two side guides and a rear thrust bearing keep the blade tracking straight and perpendicular for unprecedented precision. You'll be amazed at the cut quality. Replaceable zero clearance inserts slide in for incredibly smooth, splinter-free cuts on both sides of the kerf. Features the easiest blade change system in the industry: simply pull a lever and the blade drops out; drop in a new blade, release and you're done! Dust channels in the baseplate and a shroud surrounding the blade provide excellent dust extraction. Oscillating action has four settings for cuts from fine to aggressive. Electronic speed control is infinitely adjustable with a single dial. Barrel grip handle provides a low center of gravity with a knob for two-handed leverage. Also available in a traditional "D-handle" design (75417) with identical features.

Save 10% off the purchase of a Dust Extractor when you purchase with a tool. Choose from the CT Mini, CT Midi, CT 22 or the CT 33.

Festool Trion PS 300 EQ Barrel Grip Jigsaw

Festool Trion PS 300 EQ Barrel Grip Jigsaw

While cutting thick material, jig saw blades tend to bend, which can damage the material. This can be avoided by cutting 1/8" outside the line, then finish with a sander or flush router. This will decrease the risk of cutting inside the line, however slowing the jig saw speed helps as well.

Jigsaw Blogs 

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by Chris70

Cabinetmaker/Woodworker with over 20 years experience in design & craftsmanship. I own a cabinet shop in central Texas, which is my true passion as w... (more)

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