TOH Reader Tool Test
Over the years, these handy curve-cutting saws have acquired a number of cool advances:
keyless blade changing, trigger-finger speed controls, and orbital sawing action for faster cuts through wood. Now they’re starting to lose their cords and rely on battery power. This Old House readers tried out four of the latest 18-volt lithium-ion versions. Here’s what they found.
DeWalt DC330K
Highlight: Comes with a wide blade that cuts flush with the front of the shoe.
Tester: Kevin Fowler, Concordia, Mo.
Skill level: Professional (“I’ve remodeled homes for the past 10 years.”)
Used tool for: Plunge cuts into 2x log siding for electrical boxes.
Verdict: “The motor did not slow down much, even when pushed hard and fast. Flicking on the
orbital switch really increased the cutting efficiency.”
Tool stats: 7.5 pounds; variable speed to 2,200 strokes per minute; 1-inch stroke length, four-position orbital setting; keyless blade change and shoe adjustment.
Price: About $279; DeWalt
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Hitachi CJ18DL
Highlight: Built-in LED illuminates area ahead of blade.
Tester: Robert Clark, Arlington, Va.
Skill level: Professional (“I’m a licensed contractor.”)
Used tool for: Cutting decorative scroll work out of plywood and pine boards.
Verdict: “I was surprised at how strongly the battery performed, even after hours of constant work.”
Tool stats: 5.5 pounds; variable speed to 2,400 strokes per minute; 1-inch stroke length, four-position orbital setting; keyless blade change; shoe adjusts with Allen key.
Price: About $233, Hitachi
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Ryobi P521
Highlight: Ruby laser projects a cutline ahead of the blade.
Tester: Stuart Charlton, Ypsilanti, Mich.
Skill level: Seasoned DIYer (“I remodeled my entire kitchen, top to bottom.”)
Used tool for: Cutting receptacle box holes in a plaster wall.
Verdict: “I liked the orbital action, but I’d trade its long battery life for more power.”
Tool stats: 5.5 pounds; variable speed to 2,100 strokes per minute; ¾-inch stroke length, four-position orbital setting; keyless blade change; shoe adjusts with Allen key.
Price: About $79 for jigsaw, $129 for battery and charger, Ryobi
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Ridgid R883
Highlight: Works with both 18- and 24-volt NiCad or lithium-ion batteries.
Tester: Tim Lambert, North Yarmouth, Maine
Skill level: Seasoned DIYer (“I’ve designed and built outdoor decks.”)
Used tool for: Cutting hole for a new cooktop in a laminate counter.
Verdict: “This tool has plenty of power; it didn’t bog down at all.”
Tool stats: 7.75 pounds; variable speed to 2,200 strokes per minute; 1-inch stroke length, five-position orbital setting; keyless blade change and shoe adjustment.
Price: About $119 for jigsaw, $150 for battery and charger, Ridgid
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