How to Use a Jigsaw. Jig saw machine

How to Use a Jigsaw

Jigsaws are useful for cutting through wood or metal, and enable you to make a variety of cuts, from straight edges, to rounded corners, to cuts that start within the material. This tutorial will go over how to safely set up and use a jigsaw for basic cuts.

Some very important safety tips to remember, along with usual shop procedure, are to always make sure the saw is unplugged when you are changing blades and to keep the cord out of the path of the saw.

Disclaimer: This Instructable is not intended to serve as a substitute for hands-on training. Always follow proper safety protocol in the shop and tool specific safety instructions

Step 1: Select the Right Blade

The blade of your jigsaw depends on the type of material you intend to cut. If you are cutting wood, a wood blade will enable a faster cut. If you are cutting metal, a metal blade with 21-24 teeth per inch is ideal. The blade type is evident in how fine the teeth are, or the label on the blade’s box.

Step 2: Set Up the Jigsaw

Start by putting the blade into the jigsaw, but first, make sure the saw is unplugged. Some jigsaws have an bolt that needs to be loosened with an allen wrench to change the blade. Newer jigsaws have a black lever that loosens the grip on the blade when pulled down, which enables you to put a new blade in. Make sure the blade is facing the right direction (the teeth of the blade are facing towards the front of the jigsaw), and that the end is securely gripped by the jigsaw when you release the black lever.

NOW you can plug your jigsaw back in and prepare for the cut.

Step 3: Set Up Material

Make sure you have properly marked where you want to cut your material. If you need a square and even cut, a t-square will help to draw a square straight line from the end of the material. If the cut does not need to be square, still mark the shape you are going to cut out with pencil on the material. While jigsaws can cut curves, make sure none of the curves are too tight; going around very sharp bends has the potential to bend the blade.

Whatever material you are cutting must be securely clamped to a table, with enough clearance so that the jigsaw doesn’t run into any clamps or the table itself. If you are cutting one big piece of wood into two, and having the edge hang off of the table is too much, you can push two tables close to each other and saw the long cut between them. Both sides must still be clamped down.

For smaller cuts, it is fine to let the end of the wood hang off of the table. Just make sure to leave enough space for the foot of the jigsaw to pass by the clamps without forcing the saw to run off track.

Step 4: Cutting the Material

When setting the jigsaw up to cut, make sure the foot of the jigsaw is pressed flat against the material. Also make sure that the blade is not touching the material before you pull the trigger. Once you have lined up the blade with your cut, pull the trigger and let the blade speed up. Once at full speed, slowly move the jigsaw forward and let the blade cut into the material. Apply some forward pressure but do not force the saw to go too fast. It will naturally cut through the material, and pushing too hard can cause the blade to recoil or break, in addition to possibly damaging the material. Make sure you don’t let the blade stop before completely going through the material.

If at some point in the middle of your cut the blade is forced to stop, let go of the trigger and gently try to pull it out, either straight up or through the already made cut. The blade might stop if you are cutting with the foot at and angle, if your curve is too sharp, or if you are moving too fast.

Step 5: Clean Up

Once you are done cutting, make sure to sand all of the edges of your material to avoid any splinters. Depending on the size and material, this can be done with an orbital sander, a belt sander, or a file.

Make sure to unplug the jigsaw, remove the blade, and store both in their proper location.

Sweep and vacuum your work area, and make sure to dispose of any scraps. If there is large scrap material, place it in one of the areas around the facility designated for scrap material.

How to use a jigsaw safely

If you have one power saw in your tool box, make sure it’s a jigsaw. As power tools go, it’ll be one you reach for most – next to your drill/driver. From cutting wooden boards in straight lines to creating intricate patterns in sheet metals, a good handheld jigsaw is more than able to deal with even the trickiest of cutting tasks. But are you currently getting the most out of yours?

We’ve put together the ultimate jigsaw how-to guide. Whether you want to brush up on the basic techniques or you’re looking for the real insider trade secrets – this guide is for you. It doesn’t matter if you’re a curious DIY novice or seasoned pro. We’ve taken all the most useful information on jigsaw uses, features and benefits – and brought it here into one place.

If you use the tips and tricks in this guide, your projects will be a sight for saw eyes in no time!

What is a jigsaw?

An ever-popular power tool from the SGS product range, a jigsaw is a saw that can be used to cut irregular curves in wood, metal and other materials. When working with a jigsaw, its blade makes the cut in a ‘push-and-pull’ motion. This is otherwise known as “reciprocating” blade.

Curved or angled – the cuts you can achieve with a jigsaw tool make any projects quicker and easier to complete. And it’s important to know how to operate a jigsaw to maximum effect. In doing so, you can be sure of superb cutting results – and reflect on a job that’s truly well done.

It’s just one reason that we’ve produced this comprehensive jigsaw cutting guide.

How to choose your jigsaw

To start, let us help make sure you choose the right handheld jigsaw from our extensive range of products. With options from some of the most renowned power tool brands, it’s easy to find the one that’s right for you. See some of our most popular portable jigsaws below:

Ryobi ONE R18JS-0 18V Cordless Jigsaw with Flush Cut LED Light

This 18V Ryobi ONE jigsaw is a top-of-class cordless power tool – combining the performance, power and reliability you’d expect from a corded option. It offers up to 3,000 SPM and features a 4-stage pendulum stabilisation to achieve the perfect cut every time.

With the freedom and convenience this battery-powered jigsaw provides, it’s the ideal addition to any shed, workshop or garage. With long-lasting run time thanks to the Ryobi ONE battery, there’s no need for any trailing cables or nearby power sockets when you need to get the job done.

Makita DJV182Z 18V Brushless Jigsaw

energy, more power – Makita’s DJV182Z jigsaw machine comes with an innovative motor system that automatically slows the blade speed when no load is detected. It provides you with the benefit of being able to easily trace your cutting line for improved precision.

With its brushless motor, you can expect up to 50% more runtime and 3,500 strokes a minute at its highest, no-load speed. Just in case you can’t see clearly when working with your jigsaw, the DJV182Z has twin LED work lights and built-in blower to see where you’re cutting.

Milwaukee M18BJS-0 18V Compact Jigsaw

With a 3-year warranty as standard, we’re certain that you’ll find the Milwaukee M18BJS-0 will be everything you need in a portable jigsaw. The 5-position orbital setting gives you the choice of speed and cut – whether you’re using the jigsaw to cut metal, wood or something else.

This product is designed with your convenience in mind. Blade changing is quick and easy with the QUICK-LOK Blade Clamp. Other features include its tool free shoe bevel with positive stops and a non-marring shoe to protect against damage. No matter the job, this option is up to it.

Still not sure how to pick a jigsaw that’s right for you? Check out our jigsaw buying guide now.

Get to Know Your Jigsaw

Before we get started with any cutting or woodworking projects, it’s a good idea to take a look at your jigsaw tool. Explore what features yours actually has and how you can adjust them. As you’ll no doubt see when you come to pick your new jigsaw, they’re not all the same. You may find that yours doesn’t have advanced features such as orbital action or a bevel adjustment.

Here are some of the features that a jigsaw can include:

Variable speed dial. Many options have several speed settings for cutting different jigsaw materials. When using a jigsaw to cut metal, for example, use a lower blade speed to keep your blades in top shape. You might also choose a slower speed setting when working with plastics. This will reduce the risk of melting your workpiece.

Orbital action. Some jigsaw saws are capable of orbital action, which means it will provide thrust to the blade as it moves up and down. These tools have an impressive cutting speed when compared to a conventional saw. If yours has this feature, use its orbital action knob to increase or decrease the jigsaw’s “thrust”.

Bevel Adjustment. Some jigsaws will have a special pivoting baseplate and bevel adjustment setting, so you can cut wood or other materials at angles. Although you probably won’t use this feature day-to-day, a jigsaw with bevel function can be incredibly useful for sawing at an angle of up to around 45°.

Trigger Lock-on switch. Your trigger starts and stops your jigsaw power tool. It might take a moment for it to get up to speed after pressing the trigger, however. So, make sure you’re at capacity before your start any cut. If it has a lock-on switch, this will help you when working on a longer cut. As you hold your trigger, click this mode and you can lock a jigsaw while it continues to work.

Blade Blade clamp. A jigsaw can come with a range of locking mechanisms that secure or let you change out your blade. The simplest blade-changing systems will be toolless. But many will use a standard hex key for securing your blade in place.

How to stay safe when working with your jigsaw

Like all power tools, your safety is paramount. That’s why our jigsaw cutting guide offers some helpful tips on how to use a jigsaw in a way that keeps everyone safe:

• Jigsaws make dust. There might be a lot of it too – depending on what you’re cutting. Use a mask and goggles to keep yourself protected if working with a jigsaw.
• Using a corded jigsaw? Be sure where your power cord is. Keep it clear from your cut line. Make sure you use an extension lead that’s long enough to let you move around – but isn’t so long that you’ll get tangled up.
• A jigsaw’s blade is fairly exposed. So, keep all your appendages away from the business end. Make sure the jigsaw power tool is completely unplugged (or the battery removed) before you try to adjust a blade.
• Make sure your saw blade is sharp and fit for purpose. Old blades can go brittle and may snap during use of a jigsaw machine – causing danger to you and your workpiece.

How to Choose a Jigsaw Blade

The most common mistake when working with a jigsaw is choosing the wrong blade for the job at hand. Your jigsaw is likely to be capable of cutting anything from plywood board to sheet steel. If you pick the wrong blade, however, you’re not going to get the finish that your work deserves.

A good jigsaw blade is precision engineered for a specific task. So, to get the most out of your tool, it’s a good idea to have a range of different blades at hand. Our jigsaw guide should give you an extra edge when it comes to choosing the perfect blade:

• Shank type. Remember, not every blade will fit a jigsaw! Double check the shank type before you buy a load of brand new blades. Ryobi jigsaw blade holders, for example, will take a “T-shank blade”. “U-shank” blades are very common too.
• Amount and size of teeth. As with any cutting blade, larger teeth mean a quicker cut – but a rougher finish. Using smaller teeth, you’ll get through the jigsaw material slower. It does mean, however, that you’ll get a far finer finish. The number of teeth on a blade is measured in either “T” – meaning total teeth – or “TPI”, which is teeth per inch.(Use fewer, larger teeth for quicker, rougher cuts or use numerous, smaller teeth for a slower, finer finish)
• Narrow blades vs Wide Blades. Wider blades are best for making longer, straighter cuts. The alternative options are narrow-bladed and used for cutting curves. You should have at least three or four teeth touching the workpiece at all times during your cuts.
• Application-specific blades. Many blades are made specifically for harder or softer woods, as well as plastics or metals. The teeth shape and the blade material itself are just two factors to consider based on what you need it to cut through.

How to use a jigsaw to make a cut

We’ve seen where everything is on a jigsaw, how to stay safe when using your jigsaw and how to select the perfect blade for the project you have in mind. Now it’s time to actually use it! We have created this jigsaw how-to guide to be pretty universal. So, it should be helpful regardless of what material you’re cutting or how intricate your design is.

Like anything, practice makes perfect. If you don’t get it right on the first attempt, don’t worry! And don’t forget that you can always finish off an untidy edge with some sandpaper and a file if the end result is a little rougher than you hoped for. Let’s get started:

Mount the correct blade

After choosing an appropriate blade, mount it in your jigsaw while it’s unplugged (or the battery is removed). Release the blade clamp, holding your blade in place. Secure your blade and check that it doesn’t move in the clamp. Check your jigsaw instructions for more details if needs be.

Prepare your workpiece

Measure and mark out your cut line on the workpiece. If you’re cutting out a hole for a specific item like a sink or an electrical socket, you might want to draw round the object itself.

For other shapes, it might be an idea to make a template first and draw round that. The more accurate your cut line is, the better chance you have of making the perfect cut.

Secure your material to a worktable or sawhorse too – using a couple of clamps to reduce any possible movement while working with a jigsaw. This will leave you with two hands to navigate your jigsaw machine around the cut line.

Set your saw’s cutting settings

If you’re using a jigsaw that has orbital adjustments and speed settings, now’s the time to set them. Remember – an orbital action and speed setting will lead to a faster and easier cut.

Using jigsaw to cut metals or ceramics? You’ll want the lower the speed and orbital action settings. For wood, choose higher settings. You can always refine with sandpaper later.

Lining up and getting to speed

Rest the base plate in a secure position. Slowly pull down the trigger and wait a moment for the jigsaw to get up to full speed. The base plate should stay flat throughout the cut.

Follow the cut line

Now you’re up to speed, push your jigsaw firmly – but slowly – into your workpiece. Guide your jigsaw blade around its path by gradually twisting the back of your saw in the opposite direction to the one you want the blade to travel.

You’ll know if you’re pushing too hard because the saw will feel as if it’s straining. You may also feel a slight kickback. Slow your forward momentum down if this is the case. Moving too fast is a sure-fire way to damage your saw blade, miss your cut line and/or splinter the workpiece.

TOP TIP: If you’re cutting in a straight line, you might find it useful to clamp a guide piece of wood to your workpiece. This is normally a simple length of straight wood clamped parallel to your cut line. The base plate can rest against this as you cut. You can see an example of a jigsaw guide-piece in use above.

Complete your cut

Complete the cut by following your cut line to completion. Take care to make sure any excess jigsaw material can freely fall away from the workpiece without hitting you or the power cord.

Letting excess material drop off before you’ve completed a cut, however, causes the blade to bind – and possibly splinter the workpiece. With your finished piece, you can cap it off with a piece of sandpaper to get rid of some of any remaining rougher edges.

How to operate a jigsaw: Top tips and trade secrets

Now we have the basics covered in this jigsaw how-to guide. If you want some real trade-rated secrets, however, read on. The jigsaw is a power tool you can pick up and use almost instantly. And these more advanced tips will have you tackling bigger and more complicated DIY tasks in no time at all.

Starter holes

Not starting at the edge of a material? No problem. Drill yourself a starter hole roughly 5-8mm larger than your jigsaw blade. This means you can start in the centre of a workpiece, such as a countertop or a flooring board. There’s no need for difficult plunge cuts with this method!

Nobody knows you can do this with a jigsaw! Hidden Features of Jigsaw

Protect laminated or highly finished materials

By using masking tape on top of a laminated surface, you can reduce the risk of damaging the protective top layer. Special down-cutting laminate blades are available for added protection.

Know when to turn the speed down

A jigsaw’s variable speed settings aren’t just there for show. They have an important function. Slow the speed down when you’re using a jigsaw to cut metal. Your cut might take a little longer – but your blade will stay in better condition. It’s often worth bringing your cutting speed down for this sort of task. It’s slow work but it’s how you get the perfect finish.

Clamp metals between scrap wood

Clamp sheet metal between two pieces of plywood when you’re working on intricate designs or when the finish really counts. This reduces the risk of you shredding your workpiece as you cut.

Tight corners and curves

If you’re working on a corner or curve that’s too sharp to move the blade, keep backing up and restarting your cut at ever increasing angles. This will create a progressively larger kerf for your blade to turn into.

Super smooth cutting

A jigsaw cuts on the upward stroke. That’s why splintering is not unusual. If you really want to make sure you’re getting the best possible finish, use a slower blade with more teeth or buy a specialist downward cutting blade.

Choose the right blade!

We might be repeating ourselves – but we can’t say it enough. Use an appropriate blade for the material and task at hand. If you skipped our “How to choose a jigsaw blade” section, please go back and have a quick read. It’s so important to know how to use a jigsaw more effectively.

Still Need help?

Our in-house experts are always on hand to help you make the most of your new power tools – and how best to use a new jigsaw. If you have any questions or need any further advice about which corded or portable jigsaw is right for you, get in touch today.

Use a versatile jigsaw tool to cut lumber, plywood, metal and tile.

Family Handyman

A jigsaw tool is the grand master of cutting shapes in a variety of materials. All you need is the right blade. We’ll show you how to use this versatile power tool for cutting intricate shapes and for making compound and bevel cuts in boards and other materials.

By the DIY experts of The Family Handyman Magazine

Time An hour or less Complexity Beginner Cost 51–100

Jigsaw: Cutting a range of materials

Jigsaw blades

Using the right blade is the key to cutting various materials.

20 Jigsaw Tips for Beginners

My jigsaw often sits for months just gathering dust. But then I’ll need to cut out an intricate pattern for a hobby project, saw into a countertop to install a kitchen sink or cut a material like thin tile or metal that my other saws can’t handle. That’s when I remember why I love this jigsaw tool. It’s a versatile tool a novice can safely operate, control and—with minimal instruction—enjoy good results from within minutes of picking it up. We’ll show you how to get superior results cutting wood, plastic laminate, ceramic tile and metal.

Cutting wood with handheld jigsaw

Photo 1: Keep the saw shoe on the workpiece

Cut smooth curves in wood. Begin by pressing the saw shoe firmly on the workpiece with the blade away from the edge. Start the motor, guide the blade along the outside of the cutting line (for finer sanding later) and move from curves to inside corners. Always move the saw forward at a pace that allows the blade to cut without deflecting and doesn’t make the motor labor. Prevent the saw blade from binding on tight curves by using relief cuts to remove waste.

Photo 2: Use a fence for perfectly straight cuts.

A jigsaw is versatile enough to make straight, compound and beveled cuts through boards. Hold the workpiece firmly and guide the saw steadily against a saw fence. Avoid driving blades into the bench top (bending and breaking them) by using rails to raise the workpiece.

Photo 3: Finish cuts made with a circular saw

A jigsaw can precisely complete cuts begun with a circular saw in stair stringers, wood flooring and sheet materials. To avoid bumps in your final stair stringer, hold the jigsaw blade tight to the inside of the stringer cutting line.

General purpose wood cutter blade

Jigsaws are ideal for cutting curves and complex shapes in wood (Photo 1). They also work well for making short crosscuts on a board (Photo 2) and finishing inside corner cuts (Photo 3) that you start with a circular saw. Jigsaws are not good for making fast, long, straight cuts. Use a circular saw instead. When cutting wood, follow these guidelines:

• Jigsaws work best for cutting softwood that’s no more than 1-1/2 in. thick and hardwood up to 3/4 in. thick. Jigsaw blades tend to bend when cutting curves in thicker boards, leaving a beveled edge rather than a square one. To keep the cut square, use a sharp blade and avoid forcing the saw through the cut.
• To “plunge cut,” that is, make an entry saw cut into the middle of your wood, tip the jigsaw so that the blade is parallel to the workpiece and the saw’s weight rests on the front lip of the shoe. Start the saw at maximum speed, tilt the shoe and steadily lower the stabbing blade into the wood. I usually reserve plunge-cutting for rough work so that an errant blade doesn’t slash and mar expensive woods. In fragile material, drill a 1/2-in. starter hole to safely position the blade for a cut.
• For quick cutting, use a coarser blade. But note that the coarser the blade, the more sanding later.
• Most wood-cutting blades for jigsaws are designed so the teeth cut on the upstroke. For fine work demanding less chipping—in wood veneers, for example—choose a “downstroke-cutting” blade (Photo 4). An alternative is to place painter’s or masking tape on the cutting line path before drawing on the pattern line.

Cutting countertops

Photo 4: Drill a hole to start the blade

Make precise, no-chip cuts in laminate by drilling a 1/2-in. starter hole in the countertop for the blade. Use a special laminate blade that cuts only on the downstroke, and follow the cutting line drawn on masking tape. Avoid marring the countertop by taping the bottom of the saw shoe.

Down-cutting laminate blade

A jigsaw is perfectly suited for making the curved (or short diagonal) cuts at the corners of countertops and for the final long cut parallel to the backsplash. When installing a sink, make the front and two side cuts in the countertop with a circular saw. It’s faster and there’s no blade deflection to deal with.

The narrow space between the sink cutting line and the backsplash won’t accommodate the wider circular saw shoe but lets the narrower shoe of most narrow-body jigsaws sneak in perfectly (Photo 4).

If you’re not comfortable making countertop cuts with a circular saw, use a jigsaw for the whole job. Cutting through a countertop with a jigsaw is slow-going. Choose a special down-cutting laminate blade. Its 5/16-in. wide blade, with eight teeth per inch, minimizes laminate chip-out. Use short relief cuts inside curves to ease the blade through the turn.

Cutting ceramic tile

Photo 5: Cut slowly when working with tile

Use a carbide-grit abrasive blade to make curved cuts in ceramic wall tile that’s up to 1/4 in. thick. Speed the work and reduce tile breakage by clamping the tile and using a light mist of water to lubricate the saw cut. Jigsaws that have a movable scrolling head work best to move the blade through tight curves. This is slow work that demands patience, blade changes and relief cuts to open the tightest turns.

Carbide-grit ceramic blade

Use this blade for cutting ceramic tile up to 1/4-in. thick.

Cutting curves and shapes into tile with tile nippers and ceramic rod saws is slow and results in a lot of tile breakage. If you’re cutting wall tile no more than 1/4 in. thick, try your jigsaw for this task.

Use special toothless, carbide-grit blades for tile cutting. For thin tile, apply water frequently to lubricate the saw cut. Thicker tile requires lubricating the saw cut with cutting oil.

To minimize tile breakage, it’s imperative that you clamp your tile down tightly and hold the saw firmly on the tile to control saw and blade vibration. Avoid marring the tile by applying masking tape to the saw shoe. Go slow, using short relief cuts to remove waste and ease the blade through the turn.

Cutting metal

Photo 6: Clamp metal between plywood to cut it.

Cut sheet metal without shredding it by clamping the workpiece tightly between two thin sheets of plywood. Begin by drilling saw blade starter holes inside all pattern circles. Cutting through a plywood sandwich is slow-going. For the smoothest cuts, select metal-cutting blades that have 21 to 24 teeth per inch.

Metal-cutting blade

Use blades with 21 to 24 teeth per inch to cut metal.

With the proper blade, jigsaws can cut through wood with embedded nails, 1/8-in. mild steel, no-iron pipe and sheet metal up to 10 gauge thick (Photo 6).

For cutting sheet metal, choose a finer blade with 21 to 24 teeth per inch. To avoid shredding sheet metal or raising a lot of edge burrs, tightly sandwich the metal between two layers of thin plywood. Cut metal plate and pipe on low speed. For pattern cutting, drill blade starter holes instead of making plunge cuts. Expect it to take a while to cut through the sandwich. When cutting over a workbench or sawhorses, prop the sandwich on rails for adequate blade clearance below.

Features such as higher saw power, long blade stroke, variable speeds and orbital cutting action are all pluses for cutting metals, and are found on more costly jigsaws. Saws that are equipped with vacuum hose connections to keep the pattern cut sightlines free of dust also are a plus. Cutting pipe and mild steel plates wears out blades fast. Keep plenty of blades on hand, select a coarser blade (like 14 teeth per inch) and lubricate the saw cut with cutting oil.

Blade and Saw Basics

A jigsaw (also called a saber saw) cuts in a Rapid up-and-down motion. The key to excellent results with a jigsaw is to match a specific blade to the type of material you’ll cut: wood, metal, plastics, tile, etc. The blade package will indicate what material the blade cuts best.

Most blades are carbon steel, 2 to 3-1/2 in. long and either 1/4 in. wide for making tight radius cuts or 3/8 in. wide for general-purpose cutting. Six-teeth-per-inch blades cut fast but rough; finer blades with 10 or more teeth per inch deliver smoother cuts. Special toothless blades cut everything from leather to tile. When buying blades, consider investing in bimetal blades. They can last 10 times longer and are less likely to break.

When purchasing a saw, check to see what type of blades it uses. Most jigsaws accept blades with a 1/4-in. universal tang that locks into the blade clamp with a set screw. Some saws accept only specially designed blades (like bayonet-mount) from their own manufacturer. Once you discover the blades you use the most, stock up to avoid running out in the middle of a job.

If you’ll only use a jigsaw once in a while, you may want to buy just a basic model. When you’re ready to move up, you can spend more than 200 for a heavy-duty saw that performs better and has more features, such as:

• Orbital cutting action. If you’ve ever rocked a handsaw up and down while cutting a board or firewood, you’ve noticed how this speeds the cutting action. Jigsaws with this feature have dialed settings that change the pitch of the blade from straight up and down for metal cutting to angled forward for aggressively cutting wood.
• Longer blade stroke. Using a jigsaw that delivers a 1-in. long blade stroke will get you through a job faster than using a saw with a 1/2-in. long stroke.
• Blade guides. Saws so equipped have a pair of rollers or other guides below the blade clamping assembly (Photo 4) to steady the blade for less bending and greater accuracy.
• Variable speeds. A jigsaw with preset speed settings or a variable speed trigger allows you to customize each cut and to slow down when you’re at a tricky point in a pattern. This helps you work with a wide variety of materials and densities, too.

Required Tools for this Project

You’ll also need a jigsaw blade for the material you’re cutting.

If you’re cutting countertops, you’ll need a drill and a 1/2-in. drill bit to make a starter hole.

Manage tight curves and other useful cuts with a versatile quality jigsaw that’s right for your projects, skills, and budget.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.

As an electric saw with a vertically plunging blade, the jigsaw tends to be underappreciated. True, it’s not as powerful or fast as a circular saw, and it can be a little tricky to master. Still, savvy carpenters, woodworkers, metalworkers, and even DIYers know to reach for one of these capable tools to make various cutting tasks a breeze.

The jigsaw’s main purpose is to cut curves, but it can also cut lumber to length with ease and create holes and other shapes in materials such as plywood and plastic. Today’s models are lighter, more powerful, and more versatile than ever.

This guide will help in choosing the best jigsaw for your DIY or professional projects. We put some of the most popular brands to the test, evaluating both corded and cordless saws. Cutting through 1/2-inch thick plywood, we evaluated their features, how smoothly they cut, and how aggressively they could blitz through wood.

• BEST OVERALL:Bosch Barrel-Grip Jigsaw Kit JS572EBK
• BEST BUDGET:Ryobi PBLJS01B jigsaw
• BEST FOR BEGINNERS:BLACKDECKER Jig Saw 5.0-Amp (BDEJS600C)
• BEST FOR MAX POWER:Milwaukee 2737B-20 Jigsaw
• BEST TOP HANDLE SAW:RIGID R8832B Jigsaw
• BEST ERGONOMIC HANDLE:DeWALT 20V MAX XR Jig Saw (DCS334B)
• BEST LIGHTWEIGHT SAW:Makita 4329K Top Handle Jig Saw
• BEST FOR FAST CUTTING:PORTER-CABLE Orbital Jig Saw 6.0-Amp (PCE345)

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Jigsaw

Today’s jigsaws tend to be far more feature-rich than the models of the past, offering varying cutting speeds, different levels when it comes to aggressive cutting, amperages, and power supply options. Some options make sense, while others might be an unnecessary bell or whistle a DIY likely doesn’t need.

Type

Jigsaw puzzled? No surprise! Here’s the need-to-know info about how different models stack up.

• Straight-reciprocating: Older models and newer low-end options are typically straight-reciprocating jigsaws. This means the blade simply travels up and down with no variance in its path. Though these jigsaws cut slowly, they’re able to make very tight turns and create curves, unlike a table or a circular saw. All modern jigsaws have a zero orbital option and all the versions we tested have selectable switches to increase the orbit — or aggressiveness — of the cut.
• Orbital-reciprocating: These jigsaws have a slightly forward motion to their blade stroke. The blade tilts forward on the upstroke, clearing wood more quickly than a straight-reciprocating jigsaw. To activate orbital-reciprocation, the user typically flips a switch on the side of the saw into one of (usually) four positions. These saws cut faster but with less accuracy and maneuverability than straight-reciprocating models. There will also be more tear-out (splintered wood that chips up along the cutline) on the top of the wood.
• Top handle: Traditional jigsaws have a tall, large handle shaped like the letter D with a basic finger trigger inside the hand loop to operate the saw. This grip is easy to wrap a hand around, but the height increases lateral leverage, which can tip the saw and lead to less accuracy. While handle type is a matter of preference, those with smaller hands will usually have an easier time controlling top-handle saws.
• Barrel grip: A newer form, barrel-grip jigsaws allow users to keep their hand lower to the material they’re working on. This can increase control, minimizing the tendency to tip the saw and skew the blade’s path. These models usually have thumb switches instead of finger triggers. Often DIYers and pros who do a lot of “under the table” cutting, where the blade faces up while following a line, will find these tasks easier using a barrel grip.
• Cordless vs corded: Most tool manufacturers offer both versions of this tool, and some even offer cordless versions of different voltages (i.e., 18- and 12-volt). Typically, a corded jigsaw costs quite a bit less than a cordless version. Most makers offer cordless saws both as kits, paired with a battery and a charger, and as a bare tool without a battery or charger. The latter makes it easier to weave the tool into your existing cordless tool kit, using the same batteries and charger you already own. Cutting extremely dense woods like oak or walnut can chew through battery life pretty quickly, so woodworkers should check into corded options. For site work like decks and pergolas, battery-powered models are the way to go.

Amperage and Cutting Speed

Amp ratings on power tools refer to the amount of power they can draw without compromising the motor or internal components. Generally, the higher the amperage, the more heavy-duty the tool. Most modern jigsaws range between 5.0 and 7.0 amps.

All jigsaws have varied cutting speeds, operated by either a pressure-sensitive trigger or an adjustable dial. These power tools also have adjustable speed ranges, starting at around 500 strokes per minute (SPM) and up to 3,000 to 4,000 strokes per minute at the top end.

Cabinetmakers, woodworkers, and metalworkers will most likely enjoy dialed speed control that provides consistent results. For the multipurpose DIY workshop, a do-it-all jigsaw with a pressure-sensitive trigger might be a better choice, as it can easily bounce from job to job without much fuss.

Blade Type Material

There are two types of jigsaw blade options: T-shank and U-shank. Many of the best jigsaws use T-shank blades, which lock in easily (usually without the use of tools) and stay secure during tight curves and decorative cuts. U-shank-style saws sometimes require tools for blade changes, making them far less popular since the invention of T-shank blades.

Also, there are three different materials used to make jigsaw blades:

• High carbon steel blades are inexpensive and they’re fine for most construction work. These blades are flexible but dull easily.
• Manufacturers make bi-metal blades from carbon steel with high-speed tool steel for the teeth. They’re flexible, but the blades stay sharper longer.
• The most durable jigsaw blades utilize tungsten carbide. These blades are expensive but highly heat resistant.

Safety

In the grand scheme of power tools, jigsaws are relatively low risk for injury, but there are some built-in features that make them safer to handle. For instance, many jigsaws have onboard LED lights that illuminate the cutline and ensure the user can see where they’re cutting—one of the most critical aspects of power tool safety.

There are also safeties that the user must depress before squeezing the trigger, preventing accidental activation from occurring. These buttons are typically mounted on the handle where the user can reach them with a thumb, and a quick press allows the user to activate the saw.

Additional Features

Beyond amperage, speed, and safety features, there are additional features that can make a jigsaw more functional, convenient, and/or easier to use.

• Dust management: Jigsaws don’t kick up nearly as much sawdust as a table saw, miter saw, circular saw, or other types of saws; instead of turning wood to dust, these jigsaws take chunks out of the material. Still, these chunks can land on the cutline, challenging visibility, so some models include dust blowers that fan small chunks off the cutline. Although jigsaws create minimal mess, for a sawdust-free work space, look for a model that attaches to a shop vac.
• Blade change system: Quick-release blade retention systems make switching blades a breeze. These systems have spring-loaded chucks that clamp down on the blade shank, holding it firmly in place until the user changes the blade. This is a huge improvement over older systems, which required hex keys to remove the blade.
• Size and weight: Wielding a jigsaw isn’t typically strenuous work, but size and weight might be a consideration. Most jigsaws weigh well under 10 pounds, but some lighter models weigh just 5 pounds or so. Also, some jigsaws feature barrel grips, which make them more compact than top-handle jigsaw models.
• Ergonomics: Some jigsaws feature ergonomic designs, such as rubber overmolded handles to reduce vibration and improve grip. Also, thumb-activated speed adjustments and multiple trigger positions (such as one on each side of the saw) allow for comfortable hand positions regardless of handedness.

Our Top Picks

Having just absorbed a lot of information about the best jigsaws, shopping for one ought to be a snap. Still, to make the job of choosing the right model even easier, we tested popular jigsaws from leading tool makers, reflecting everything from pro-grade versions to entry-level priced saws that DIYers might use sparingly. How well you use a jigsaw to cut depends heavily on how the tool feels in your hand, so it’s a good idea to visit a home center for a hands-on experience with the tools to see what grips feel the best.

Bosch Barrel-Grip Jigsaw Kit JS572EBK

The Bosch Barrel-Grip jigsaw is the ultimate choice for accuracy and control. This jigsaw comfortably keeps the user’s hand close to the workpiece, helping avoid the tipping that tends to occur with taller top-handle jigsaws. Also, the grip is slimmer than most barrel-style grips, for better control and improved comfort.

The saw has the highest amperage in this lineup at 7.2 amps and a speed range of 800 to 3,000 SPM; speed is regulated by a dial at the rear of the barrel. While the speed could be higher, it’s likely plenty for most jobs. This Bosch came packed with three blades, more than any other jigsaw we tested. It has a three-position setting for orbital cutting, a very convenient thumb-activated on/off switch, and a bright LED light. T-shank blade changes are easy thanks to the toolless design with blade ejection.

Granted, there are a lot of buttons and switches on this tool, from the blower setting to the orbital action, that will become more familiar with use. During our tests, this model excelled at speed, maneuverability, and minimal chip out both at 90 and 45 degrees.

• Power: 7.2-amp corded
• Speed: Up to 3,000 SPM
• Stroke type: Straight with three orbital setting
• Stroke length: 1 inch
• Heavy-duty motor
• Comfortable grip with one or both hands
• Comes with three blades for a variety of materials
• Blower exceptional at clearing sawdust from the cut line

Get the Bosch JS572EBK at The Home Depot, Amazon, or Lowe’s.

Ryobi PBLJS01B jigsaw

Some DIYers might consider a saw sold as a bare tool a negative, but with so many Ryobi 18 volt batteries available, many folks already have one in their toolbox. Buying a bare tool lowers the cost and prevents accumulating unnecessary chargers. The Ryobi PBLJS01B is just about the most budget-friendly brushless jigsaw on the market—meaning the digital motor inside is more efficient at pulling power from the battery—providing nearly 80 percent longer runtime from the same lithium-ion power pack

The handle is roomier than the other beginner saws we tested, so it should fit a range of users. The 1-inch stroke length matches the most expensive saws in our test group, and the top end speed of 3,400 strokes per minute is pretty close to the fastest tools tested. Plus, DIYers will likely appreciate that the tool sets straight up on its battery; it needn’t rest on its side, which might cause the blade to scratch surfaces.

During the cut tests, the Ryboi felt fast and agile, but it had quite a bit of chip out at 90 degrees when set to max orbital. The sawdust also seemed to gather right at the blade, making it more challenging to see the cut line.

• Power: 18-volt cordless
• Speed: Up to 3,400 SPM
• Stroke type: Straight with three orbital setting
• Stroke length: 1 inch
• A solid brushless tool that will extend runtime with standard battery
• Comfortable handle and body that sits upright between uses
• 3,400 SPM is the fastest for saws in this price range

Get the Ryobi PBLJS01B at The Home Depot.