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A jigsaw is a versatile power tool that excels at making curved, circular, and intricate cuts in various materials. It’s an essential addition to any DIYer’s toolbox. In the video above, This Old House general contractor Tom Silva demonstrates some key features and his techniques for using a jigsaw correctly.
Types of Jigsaw Grips
Jigsaws come in two main grip styles. Choosing a grip is mainly a matter of preference and personal comfort. We recommend trying both before purchasing if possible:
- Barrel-handle jigsaws: Barrel-handle jigsaws feature a cylindrical grip that allows users to hold the tool close to the cutting surface. Some prefer this style of saw for intricate or detailed cuts or when cutting for extended periods.
- Top-handle jigsaws: Top-handle jigsaws, sometimes called D-handle jigsaws, have a grip that extends upward from the body of the tool. Some people find that a top-handle grip puts less strain on their back when working.
Key Jigsaw Features To Consider
Several features can impact a jigsaw’s performance and versatility. Pay attention to these to make sure the tool meets your specific needs and preferences.
Orbital Action Settings
Orbital action refers to the blade’s forward and backward motion as it moves up and down. This feature affects cut speed and quality. Here’s what the settings mean:
- Lower settings (0-1) provide finer, slower cuts ideal for precise work.
- Higher settings (2-3) offer more aggressive, faster cuts for rougher work.
- Adjustable orbital action allows for versatility across different materials and cut types.
Finer settings are best for delicate materials or detailed work, while more aggressive settings can tackle tougher materials with ease. This adaptability makes the jigsaw a multi-functional tool that can handle a variety of projects.
Speed Control
Variable speed control allows users to match the blade’s speed to the material being cut. These are the general best uses for each speed:
- Lower speeds are suitable for cutting metals and plastics.
- Higher speeds work well for most woodcutting tasks.
- Some models offer an automatic speed adjustment feature that responds to the material’s resistance.
Bevel Adjustment
Bevel adjustment allows you to tilt the blade for angled cuts. This feature is useful for creating beveled edges or back-cutting when scribing to walls without needing a separate tool. It can expand the range of projects you can tackle with your jigsaw.
Blade Change System
Many modern jigsaws feature tool-free blade change systems, which allow for quick and easy changes and safer blade handling.
Dust Blower
A built-in dust blower can be a valuable feature for maintaining the visibility of your cutting line. Benefits include:
- Keeps the cutting line free of debris
- Enhances accuracy and precision
- Reduces the need for manual cleaning during the cut
Choosing the Right Jigsaw Blade
Learn how different blades suit different materials and cutting requirements so you can make an informed choice.
Blade Direction
Jigsaw blades come with teeth pointing in different directions. This is what they do:
- Upward-facing teeth cut on the upstroke, ideal for most woodcutting projects.
- Downward-facing teeth cut on the downstroke, reducing chip-out in veneers and laminates.
- Forward-facing blades cut a little up and a little down.
Blade Material
Different blade materials are suited for various cutting tasks. Some common types of jigsaw blades include the following:
- High-carbon steel blades are cheap and work well for softwoods, but will dull faster if used on harder materials.
- High-speed steel blades are more durable but less flexible, meaning they dull slower but are more prone to snapping.
- Bi-metal blades are more expensive but offer increased durability and flexibility, and are suitable for hardwoods and some metals.
Blade Shank Type
Be sure to look at how the blade connects to the saw. Some jigsaws accept a “T” type shank, while others accept a straight shank. Choose the one that matches your saw.
Proper Jigsaw Technique
To achieve the best results with your jigsaw, follow these essential techniques:
- Secure your workpiece firmly to prevent movement during cutting.
- Mark your cut line clearly and make sure you have good visibility while cutting.
- Place the jigsaw’s shoe flat against the workpiece before starting the cut.
- Allow the blade to reach full speed before contacting the material.
- Guide the saw steadily along the line, avoiding pushing or pulling the tool.
- Ensure the show remains flat to prevent the blade from jumping.
- Let the saw do the work, applying only gentle pressure to keep it on track.
Silva emphasizes the importance of letting the saw do the cutting and avoiding the urge to force the tool, which can lead to inaccurate cuts or bent blades. “If it feels like it’s going too hard, you may want to change your setting to a higher number,” Silva says. “And you’ll notice a difference in the cut.”
By following these techniques, you can improve both the accuracy and quality of your cuts. We recommend practicing on scrap material before making cuts to your actual workpiece. This will help you get a feel for the tool and adjust settings as needed.
Jigsaw Safety Considerations
When using a jigsaw, keep these safety tips in mind:
- Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris.
- Use hearing protection, especially during extended cutting sessions.
- Wear gloves to prevent cuts, but make sure they fit properly so you maintain control over the saw.
- Keep your free hand away from the blade and cutting path.
- Unplug the tool when changing blades or making adjustments.
- Allow the blade to come to a complete stop before setting the tool down.
Resources:
Silva demonstrates best practices by showing several jigsaw examples, including the Carvex PS 420 EBQ manufactured by Festool and the JS470E Top-Handle model manufactured by Bosch.
Jigsaw blades can be purchased from home centers and hardware stores.
