Which jigsaw to choose for home use. Choosing a jigsaw The optimal jigsaw for the home

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The jigsaw is an indispensable tool for many household work on processing materials. It is distinguished by its simple operation, power and compactness. Many manufacturers offer these products. To choose the right option, you need to study the characteristics of the device and our top 10 best jigsaws.

With this tool, a wide range of different works is performed

The multifunctional tool can be divided into separate groups according to its distinctive features.

Product classification

The types of the device are classified according to the type of power supply. There are network and battery varieties.

Networked tools operate from the mains. They have more power than battery counterparts. The battery options are mobile. If you often have to cut building materials indoors and outdoors, then the best solution would be to purchase a network and battery jigsaw.

The device is known for the following advantages:

the ability to adjust the sole;
excellent speed;
versatility and smooth start;
quick-clamping file fasteners;

Makita 4329

It features minimal vibration and a die-cast aluminum base.The model has the following advantages:

the presence of three modes of pendulum motion;
base panel adjustment;
rubberized handle;
kink-resistant power cord;
connecting a vacuum cleaner;
light weight.

AEG BST 18X

This rechargeable model has extensive functionality. The addition is a screen to protect the eyes and face. Its disadvantages include significant weight and high cost. The mechanism has the following advantages:

switch for regulating the motor mechanism;
cooling of the motor mechanism;
cast aluminum sole;
work safety;
ventilation system.

Dewalt DW 349

A quality tool with manual platform adjustment. The operating speed is regulated by a switch. For better performance, there are three pendulum modes. The inclination of the sole is easily adjustable. The device has the following advantages:

little noise;
metal gear housing;
low vibration;
light weight.

Useful information! The cover protects the mechanism from scratches when cutting.

Ryobi CJS 180L

This jigsaw is lightweight and features a laser pointer and safety guard. For this model, the charger and battery must be purchased separately. The design has the following advantages:

excellent balance;
there is a storage compartment for saws;
pendulum switch;
backlight and speed control;
cutting direction laser.

Interskol MP-100E

This domestic model belongs to the best jigsaws of the top 10. The low cost is an important advantage of the device. During continuous operation, cooling is provided by the aluminum gear housing. The device is endowed with the following advantages:

excellent balancing of the reciprocating mechanism;
hinged cover for cleaning the structure;
work safety;
high-quality cooling.

Makita JV100DWE

The design is characterized by adjustable pendulum stroke, as well as low power and high efficiency. The inclination of the sole is set in two directions. The model is characterized by certain advantages:

protective screen;
minimal vibration and noise;
control over the number of revolutions;
light weight.

Fiolent PM 3-600E

This jigsaw is suitable for small jobs. It is ergonomic and lightweight, allowing one-handed operation. The device is equipped with an anti-friction pad that allows you to process smooth materials without damage. The device has the following advantages:

regulation of the sole;
cutting speed control;
convenience and compactness;
low cost.

Skil 4370 AA

The model has a rubberized and staple handle, which provides a comfortable grip. Slight vibration reduces fatigue. The device has advantages:

slight vibration;
built-in fan and backlight;
safety is ensured by a protective shield;
sole control;
ergonomics.

How to choose a jigsaw for home: price overview

The table shows prices for popular models.

So that the unit does not fail in a difficult situation, you need to choose a jigsaw for the house, carefully looking at its parameters. What each digit means in the characteristics of the device and which jigsaw is better to choose for household needs is described later in the article.

General information about jigsaws

To use a jigsaw (for example, such as), you do not need special knowledge or skills. This device stands out for its simple design, and works at the touch of a button. You can get to know the instrument better by understanding its structure and principle of operation.

Regardless of the model, the electric jigsaw has:

Pen... Positioned horizontally to help hold the tool while working.
Motor... Provides direct movement of the file. Has different power. The list of materials that will be "on the shoulder" of the jigsaw depends on this value.
File... It is different for each material, with a unique tooth design. It can be made of various types of steel, have additional spraying for rigidity. Responsible for the accuracy and precision of the cut, as well as the correct angles when sawing.
Base plate... Holds the saw in position. You can change the angle of inclination. Some models have an angle scale.

In addition to these basic elements, the device is also equipped with additional functionality designed to facilitate the work of the wizard. But more on that later.

Principle of operation

As soon as the master presses the trigger, the teeth on the blade begin to cut the harvested raw material. The saw in the tool is installed in such a way that the material is cut when it moves up. It is held in place by strong clips and does not slip out of the cut. The support roller acts as a guide in the process, it also takes on most of the load. This platform is "pressed" into the material, ensuring 100% cutting accuracy.

In models where a pendulum stroke is provided (for example,), the blade moves not only up / down, but also (slightly) to the right and left. The swing range of the pendulum is regulated by a switch.

Important! Without activating the pendulum stroke, the jigsaw works more slowly, but the cut is perfect. When the pendulum is turned on, the operating time is reduced, but its quality decreases.

Types of electric jigsaws

Compact home jigsaws are divided into the following categories:

1. By type of food:

rechargeable- convenient due to their mobility, but require regular recharging.
from the network- there is "attachment" to the outlet, but power is supplied uninterruptedly.

2. By the shape of the handle:

staple- the most common type, during operation the tool is held with one hand;
mushroom- the handle provides for holding the unit with two hands, thereby guaranteeing the smoothest, even cut, without burrs.

Using mushroom-shaped electric jigsaws (example -), it is important to ensure preliminary and high-quality fixation of the material being processed, in the same way as when working with a drill.

Jigsaw selection parameters

When buying such a tool for the home, you can completely trust the opinion of consultants, explaining your requests to them, or you can make a choice yourself by comparing several models with suitable characteristics. To consider yourself a guru in matters of choosing a jigsaw, you must first study in detail and understand the main criteria of the unit.

Power consumption

This is the most important indicator that affects the quality of work, the range of materials for cutting and the price of the tool. For infrequent home use, a power of 350 to 700 watts will be sufficient. It should be noted that the more powerful the device, the larger and heavier it is.

Tools with the declared power can easily saw wood, metal products, steel, as well as ceramics, plexiglass, hardboard, drywall and other building materials. The entire list of possible raw materials for work (with their main parameters) is indicated in the instructions.

Maximum stroke rate

The value determines the speed at which the saw blade will cut through the material: the more the saw moves, the faster the job will be done. This indicator ranges from 2500 to 3200 moves in 60 seconds. you can choose with minimal indicators.

Many manufacturers equip their tools with the ability to adjust the stroke rate. This is convenient, because each material needs its own speed of work. So, when making a cut on thick metal, you need to select the minimum speed; when sawing wood, on the contrary, the fastest turns are included in order to avoid uneven cut.
The speed can be adjusted using the shift lever or by pushing. The second option is ideal for those who like to cut extraordinary figures or ornament with a jigsaw.

Cutting depth

The characteristic is related to the power rating of the tool and will differ depending on the material. Home jigsaws can cut wood with a maximum thickness of 50 mm and aluminum up to 10 mm. The thickness of other products is indicated in the technical data of the unit.

Power type

As mentioned above, the jigsaw can operate from a battery or an outlet with a standard voltage of 220 V. Choosing for yourself, it will not be superfluous to immediately think about purchasing an additional battery. The most popular are 18 V and 10.8 V.

Additional functions

A "pumped-over" jigsaw is several times more expensive than a regular model, but do you need all these bells and whistles for home use? Before laying out an extra hundred hryvnia, you should think more than once where this additional functionality will be applied.
Each brand tries to equip its products with special features, here are just a few examples:

Sloped outsole. This outsole upgrade expands the jigsaw's range of tasks. For units from the middle price range, only two positions are selected - 0 ° and 45 °, for professional versions the assortment is wider. The angle is adjusted with a simple turn or a special key.
Branch pipe for automatic removal or blowing of the received chips. Can connect with a vacuum cleaner. Without such an element, work will have to be stopped every time a large amount of sawdust accumulates. Stops like this drag out time and can distort the cut.
Backlight... Also affects the quality of work. Provides perfectly straight cut lines as it acts directly on the working area.
Laser... It serves as a guide when cutting, and is a good alternative to conventional line markings.

Review of the best manufacturers: which company to choose

If you focus on brands, then you should choose only those that everyone has heard. This rule also applies to jigsaws. The best models on the market are represented by 5 manufacturers. Who they are and what are their chips, the table will tell:

Manufacturer	Features of his jigsaws
	Household jigsaws of the brand are decorated in a green case. They have many positive reviews from consumers for the build quality and long service life. All models have an SDS system, designed to quickly change the file without using additional tools. The four-stage pendulum stroke control allows you to customize the sawing parameters. There are also built-in vibration suppression technologies and stabilizing electronics.
	The range of the company includes budget models and premium options for professionals. All jigsaws of the brand have speed regulators, the function of removing debris from the cutting site, comfortable handles with rubber pads.
	The tool is produced exclusively in Germany. The brand's jigsaws have a unique handle shape, are equipped with a saw blade speed regulator, a large selection of pendulum stroke modes and the ability to quickly replace accessories (with a key and without a key).
	The brand's models are lightweight, compact, consume a minimum of electricity, and are equipped with a steel sole. It is possible to adjust the angle in 15 ° C increments. The function of blowing the cut zone and the ability to connect to a vacuum cleaner is provided.
	The increased wear resistance of the tool is ensured by the gears of the reducer made of alloy steel. The engine has a three-layer coating of heat-resistant varnish, which protects it from damage and also extends its service life by more than 50%. The list of advantages of the jigsaws of the brand is continued by a rubber bearing sleeve, which helps to reduce vibration, and when it gets jammed, protects the body from damage. The power button is protected against network drops.

One-stop shopping tips

If the craftsman is not a fan of a particular brand, it makes sense to consider a few other tips on how to choose a jigsaw for home use. There are only 3 of them:

Inspect the stem.Due to the heavy loads on this part of the tool, it breaks most often. Most inexpensive models are equipped with a thin stem-plate, 3-4 mm thick and up to 12 mm wide. Such a plate is very fragile, and therefore not an option for frequent use (albeit at home). It is best to choose a tool with a round or square stem. If possible, you should definitely check the stem for backlash. Minimum fluctuations should be mandatory, but a strong backlash is a problem: it will lead to a deviation from the cut line.
How the file is attached. Replacing the blade with a key increases the operating time, and therefore it is better to choose models where the file is attached with clamps or bolts.
Is it possible to adjust the speed. A useful option that allows you to work with any material. It is convenient when the adjustment lever "lies under your finger" and you can change the pace of work right in the process.

Be sure to remember about the power. What this indicator affects is already described above.

You might also be interested in articles about other tools, for example:

Eventually

A correctly chosen jigsaw will save time and effort. With such a tool the master can handle any "mountains". In order not to get into a mess when determining which jigsaw is better to buy for the house, it is worth at first at least roughly determining the list of works for the unit. Well, and then, already starting from this information, view models with suitable characteristics.

We continue to discuss the choice of the right tool for construction and home. Let's look at several models of jigsaws, find their strengths and weaknesses, and figure out the design features. Then we will draw the necessary conclusions, and only then it will be possible to go to the store.

Ask any master finisher to voice the personal TOP-5 of the most common, frequently used tool, and you will hear a list in which there will definitely be a jigsaw. For example, I have it firmly in fourth place, after a hammer drill, a screwdriver and a grinder. The thing is that this is an incredibly functional, mobile, truly universal assistant. He, if necessary, although with some restrictions, can replace a number of other tools, which is especially important for a home craftsman. Working with an electric jigsaw is simple and interesting, everyone can do it. Even my wife, who is far from repair and construction equipment, can sometimes cut something with pleasure.

When our team makes the first landing on the object, the jigsaw is always with us, there has never been a case that it was not useful. But his absence is sometimes acutely felt. Usually, already at the very beginning, it is necessary to make a scaffold, shelving, a primitive table from wood.

Most often, we use a jigsaw for curly and rectilinear sawing of all kinds of sheet materials, such as plywood, plexiglass, OSB, chipboard, MDF, gypsum board, gypsum board, thin cement slabs and so on.

In the production of roofs and wooden frames, we saw (often in place) a board, a rail, a not very massive bar. In the absence of another tool, you can also cut a thick bar with a jigsaw - in two passes, because it is not necessary for the saw to cut through the wood.

When it comes to materials such as parquet, laminate, lining, there is nothing to talk about - a jigsaw is beyond competition.

Often, during tiling, it is necessary to make a curvilinear pruning, bypass a rounded column, near which there will be no baseboard, revet the box with the exit of the hundredth sewer pipe. From time to time, designers give us a fun piece of work. Terrible dream of a tiler: radial or wave-like adjoining of a tile, for example, to a parquet. Then it is extremely difficult to solve the problem with grinders and tile cutters, a jigsaw comes to the rescue again - we put a diamond-coated file and millimeter by millimeter we move towards the intended goal, or rather, along the planned line.

It is no secret that with a jigsaw you can cut profile metal workpieces, as well as sheet metal. There was no need for such in my practice, but for the sake of interest, I, of course, tried to do it. We set the file for metal, reduce the speed to a minimum, remove the pendulum stroke and start. Well, yes, you really can.

Unlike a reciprocating, circular, chain saw, the same mill, the jigsaw is held and guided with one hand, which allows the other to fix the workpiece. Thanks to this, a sufficiently accurate cut is obtained at a significant speed of work, since there is no need to fix the workpiece every time, you just need a marking and a firm hand of the operator. By using the saw table to attach the jigsaw, you can achieve even more impressive results in terms of precision and cleanliness of the cut. Then the file goes down with its teeth, and there are no chips on the front surface, and the workpiece is moved with two hands. In general, there are two problems when working with an electric jigsaw - the appearance of chips and the departure of the saw blade from the vertical. In most cases, they are solved by selecting the correct saw and choosing the operating mode (blade speed and pendulum amplitude). The skill of the user and the design feature of the jigsaw also play an important role.

Jigsaw device: 1 - power cord; 2 - power button; 3 - speed regulator; 4 - brush assembly; 5 - electric motor; 6 - cooling fan; 7 - reducer; 8 - eccentric joint (reciprocating mechanism); 9 - pendulum mechanism; 10 - protective limiter; 11 - support roller for sawing; 12 - air duct for removing sawdust

"Fiolent" PMZ-600 E

In my arsenal there are several jigsaws, each of which is focused on its own tasks. The main hard worker, whom we have been mercilessly exploiting for many years on the most difficult jobs, is the Fiolent PMZ-600 E. Engineers were able to create a very, very tenacious machine. It can be noted that the manufacturer from Simferopol is simply famous for its successful jigsaws, as well as for grinders. PMZ-600 E is a powerful and efficient device that quickly copes with any task.

Wood up to 85 mm thick, steel up to 10 mm, aluminum up to 20 mm - these are not just numbers from a passport, this is a very real cutting thickness. The high-powered 600-watt motor moves the stem up to 2,600 times per minute at idle speed, generally based on power. Many of my colleagues have such a model, no one had any problems with the anchor, brushes, gear - all the filling was made with a margin of safety. True, a solid motor, a steel counterweight, strong metal parts could not but affect the weight of the product, which is 2.4 kg, which is quite a lot.

The jigsaw has a switchable pendulum stroke, which helps to speed up work along a straight path, and if for thin materials the difference is not particularly noticeable, then with a large thickness, performance improves significantly. This option can be completely disabled for curved cuts or for sawing metal, ceramics.

The button, the switch-on latch, the speed controller are functioning properly. The manufacturer claims that this is a rather vulnerable site of Western European production.

I heard about complaints about the quality of the stock - someone broke, and that it requires adjustment, revision, since it can be deployed, because of which the file strives to deviate from the working line. Everything is fine with me, the rod did not break, it saws exactly. He has no serious backlash, the file is well stabilized in the transverse direction.

The stamped sole is made soundly, it is reliably fixed exactly perpendicular to the canvas. It is possible to move it to the 45 ° position, but honestly, I don't use this function at all. By the way, the set included a factory-made plastic outsole, which prevents the appearance of black metal stripes and scratches on the front surfaces. Unfortunately, after laying the second hectare of the parquet board, it was successfully erased.

Separately, it should be said about the attachment of the file. Here they used, perhaps, the best option - the lock clamping the canvas is fixed with one screw. Everything happens quickly, the file is fixed tightly, without distortions. The worst thing that can happen is that there will be no flat screwdriver on the farm. In addition, blades of various thicknesses can be used, which cannot be said about quick-release mechanisms.

So let's recap. "Fiolent" PMZ-600 E is an excellent jigsaw for any work on a construction site, it is time-tested. In which case it is very easy to find spare parts for it, and they are inexpensive.

About a year ago, my partner was eager to get a high-end jigsaw, he really liked the Makita 4351 FCT. Well, a man loves a gorgeous instrument. Of course, I did not deny myself the pleasure of giving this unit a good test drive.

The performance of this unit is simply stunning. I tried to cut the hundredth bar - no problem, the 75th metal corner 6 mm thick - normal, without tension. Everything works very quietly, there are no vibrations, the power reserve is clearly felt (according to the passport, the maximum saw depth for wood is 135 mm, for steel - 10 mm). The 720 W motor seems to suggest this order of things, but in practice, not all manufacturers manage to successfully transfer the large energy of the power plant to the saw headset. The blade travel is 26 mm, the speed of its movement can be set in the range of 800-2800 translational movements per minute. These indicators are similar to those of "Fiolent" PMZ-600 E, but there is already an electronic system for controlling the cutting speed, which maintains the specified parameters regardless of the structure of materials, including dissimilar ones. Naturally, we offer a pendulum motion. The developers have made it three-mode, although practice shows that it is enough to have two extreme positions: "on" and "off". The jigsaw starts without jerking, this is triggered by the inrush current limiter - "soft start" (the function helps with ultra-precise operations).

The jigsaw is equipped with a very solid die-cast aluminum sole, it is clearly fixed in the zero position and at an angle of 45 °. There is an anti-slip, protective plastic pad on it, an anti-splinter liner. By the way, in the clamped places, the support platform can be shifted back.

The file is changed without keys and screwdrivers. It is a little alarming that the holding mechanism is activated by a plastic lever, but so far everything is fine with it. It is interesting that the cartridge seems to be "omnivorous" - he tried to insert canvases of different thickness, he securely fixed everything.

The working area is illuminated by a built-in lamp, which turns on when you press the "start" button - very convenient. The sawdust removal system works quite effectively.

Now about the unpleasant. The jigsaw is heavy (2.4 kg) and quite large, in some places they simply cannot crawl. Its length is 30 cm, plus 10 cm of the cord sticking out backward. The body is thick, it looks like a small grinder, I could not grip it normally, the device tries to fall out of my hands. The mushroom handle requires two-handed operation, which I hate. To turn off the start button, which necessarily locks, you must intercept it, you cannot get it from the working position of your hands.

The Makita 4351 FCT is, of course, a powerful, reliable, functional tool. However, it is not suitable for construction and finishing, since a lot of work has to be done "on site", cutting workpieces "on the knee" is not his element. The jigsaw will show itself perfectly in the workshop, where the part can be securely fixed. With its help, a figured cut is perfectly performed, you can easily guide the tool towards yourself, to the side, from the bottom of the workpiece.

The little green BOSCH PST 650 was developed by German engineers for the average home craftsman. I bought it in a large construction supermarket, as an addition to the monumental "Fiolent" PMZ-600 E. I will say again, there was no purpose to save money, I just assemble a set of lightweight compact tools for special use in special conditions. Practice has shown that the household series of this manufacturer can be used in the repair and construction business.

The jigsaw immediately fell into the hand, it is really comfortable - the thin D-shaped handle has soft rubber pads, the switches are located in accessible, expected places, everything is perfectly balanced. A sensitive large button allows you to "turn off" a little. The weight of the device is only 1.6 kg, which is as much as 800 grams less than that of the PMZ-600 E or Makita 4351 FCT. The developers used a 500 W motor for it, but the working rod was accelerated to 3100 strokes per minute (for Fiolent PMZ-600 E, for example, 2600 strokes per minute). In a word, as in the case with other tools of the household series, the Germans relied on speed. I easily cut beams with a thickness of 50 mm, and this is clearly not the limit (the passport indicates 65 mm - wood, 4 mm - steel).

This jigsaw can be credited with a well-fixed steel platform, including at 45 °, adjustable sawdust blowing, anti-vibration system, good lateral stabilization of the blade.

A keyless chuck is installed on BOSCH PST 650, which has one drawback - not all saws can be inserted there, due to the different thickness of the shanks. At the same time, the canvases that fit are fixed very reliably.

For a year and a half, the PST 650 has been working without failures on finishing works, sawing beams, boards, laminate, lining. An excellent ultra-light tool, it rightfully deserves its place on the construction site. As for home use, then, given the price / quality / performance ratio, this jigsaw will be out of competition.

The Einhell BPS 600E jigsaw came to us by accident and left us very quickly. It seems that he had everything for success: a pendulum stroke with three modes, a 600-watt motor, a speed regulator, a good frequency, a traditional design, a German name ... But the quality of execution brings the manufacturer down irrevocably. The button broke, the rubber peeled off the handle, the stock began to play, the sole was bent, the block fixing the file broke, a very stiff cord began to crack ... Only the motor continues to function. This is an example of how not to make jigsaws, this is a complete failure. It makes no sense to buy such a tool, no matter how cheap it is.

Let's summarize. To choose the right jigsaw, you need to consider a number of nuances. Based on the practical experience of professional builders, some general recommendations can be formulated:

Determine in advance what type of work the jigsaw will be used for. In most cases, including for construction, a household or semi-professional tool of the middle price range is suitable.
High power necessarily affects the weight of the product. Consider if you need it.
The mushroom-grip jigsaw is better suited for workshop environments. The two-handed grip involves fixing the workpiece. It is very convenient to make complex curved cuts with such a tool.
D-shaped machines are operated with one hand, they are good when used in the "field", "on site". This option is preferable for the construction site and for the home.
The pendulum movement significantly increases productivity.
To work with a variety of materials, you will need to change the stroke rate - it's good when there is a step speed controller.
For delicate sawing, the function of electronic stabilization of the set speed and soft start will not be superfluous.
The sole must be firmly fixed perpendicular to the cutting blade. A big plus will be the presence of a plastic lining.
The less play on the working rod and the support roller, the cleaner and more accurate the cut will be.
The quick-clamping blade may have a restriction on the thickness of the shanks (not all files are suitable). The most unreliable option is a block with a slot and two screws. The key / screwdriver lock is the most versatile.
Directional airflow and illumination of the work area are very useful options.
Each model has its own unique ergonomics, before buying be sure to "shake" the jigsaw in your hands, choose what suits you personally.
In many authorized sales centers, the buyer is allowed to test the tool in operation, use this right.

The jigsaw is the perfect helper for any repairs needed to speed up and improve the quality of work. The jigsaw, which has an electric drive, is a versatile device with low weight and dimensions. With such a device it is very convenient to do not only direct cutting of a sheet, profile, but also to make any curly cutting. To purchase a quality tool, you need to know exactly how and which jigsaw to choose for certain jobs.

The jigsaw can perform the following tasks:

make any cut other than straight-line;
cut holes of various shapes (rectangular, circular, etc.);
make direct cutting of various kinds of material.

How to choose a good jigsaw from the variety of models offered by manufacturers? This is the question every average craftsman asks himself when preparing for repair. To answer this question, it is necessary to consider the determining factors.

The advantages of an electric jigsaw

The tool is convenient at home, since there is no need for a saw, hacksaw and similar devices. With a jigsaw, you can make any cut much faster, and most importantly with little effort.
Thanks to this device, you can easily perform figured cutting.
Every professional appreciates the convenience, speed and quality of this device.
Very handy for wood carving.

Differences in a number of models that differ in their technical characteristics, as well as a set of various additional functions, affect the choice of a good jigsaw.

Household jigsaw

Household appliances, or home jigsaws, are applicable for sawing wood with a thickness of about 70-80 mm, and metal - about 2-5 mm. They have less power and less service life.

Professional jigsaw

Professional jigsaws, unlike household jigsaws, are necessary for performing various jobs under heavy loads. They have a longer service life and higher performance parameters. With such a jigsaw, cutting is carried out within the thickness range: for wood - 80-120 mm, for metal - 5-20 mm.

Jigsaw design

The choice of a good jigsaw is also influenced by its design features.

The body has a built-in file that is started by an electric motor. This nail file produces reciprocating movements within 3.5 - 4 thousand strokes per minute. The support platform, which is installed on the working surface, allows precise cutting of the product in the right place. The platform has the ability to rotate to the desired angle, allowing you to create the desired cutting angle. To preserve the safety of the process, the file is hidden under protective plexiglass.

Additional functions of electric jigsaws

Each model is equipped with a multilevel pendulum mechanism that informs the saw of offsets away from the cutting direction. Thus, the safety of the file itself is ensured and its service life is extended, as well as smoother and more high-quality cutting.

Stroke frequency adjustment

This parameter is simply necessary for performing work with various materials. There are two modes of frequency selection:

Mode selection just before switching on.
Adjusts the frequency by pressing the support part.

Consequently, the more the speed of movement of the saw is set, the higher the productivity of the device, but at the same time the greater wear of the saw itself occurs. For added convenience, many manufacturing firms have filled the electric tools market with the necessary modifications:

backlight on the handle, which allows you to illuminate the work surface in low general lighting;
automatic sawdust blowing function;
connection to a vacuum cleaner, which will allow you to immediately collect waste sawdust;
the ability to rotate the file 360⁰ (very convenient when cutting circles).

The most common devices

Fastener that secures the device to the work surface. Thus, when cutting, it is not the jigsaw itself that moves, but the cutting material. Such a device is effective for working with small parts.
Replaceable insert for better jigsaw glide on the work surface.
Convenient storage case. Such a suitcase allows you to put your device with all accessories, without fear of damage during transportation.

Electric jigsaw files

Saws are the most basic element of a jigsaw. They differ in configuration, material of manufacture, color options, as well as the shape of the shank. The most common file materials are bimetal and steel. Files for these devices according to the material of manufacture are used for the following works:

Carbon steel is used for cutting soft types of wood, in addition, it is also used for processing artificial materials.
High-speed steel, used for cutting metal, as well as when processing hard materials such as: plastic, non-ferrous metal, aluminum, etc.
Bimetal blade - has high ductility and longer service life.

Saw blade tail

The tail is the end part that directly cuts the material. Ponytails differ in the shape of the end on the canvas itself. This parameter is important when buying a new blade, which must be compatible with your electric jigsaw model.

Jigsaw file tail shape

On the building materials market, the following types of tails are found:

Cross, is the most common. It is produced by many construction companies, among which is Makita, which has established itself as a reliable and high quality brand.
It has two stops, often found in models - Bosch.
Universal, with a semicircular recess, manufactured by the firms - Dewalt and Skil.
Smooth, typical for firms - Defort and Hander.
The shape with circular holes is a Makita product.

Saw blade size

Some of the most common types are files with a length of 50-105 mm, as well as 155-160 mm.

Files are used for:

straight cut;
cut curve.

Curved cut is made with a narrower blade, providing a more jewelry cut. For many manufacturers, the color of the blades indicates the area of \u200b\u200bapplication of the cutting elements.

Saw blade teeth on a jigsaw

The types of teeth in the blades differ depending on their area of \u200b\u200bapplication. The teeth come in a variety of shapes, sizes and pitches. When using teeth with a larger set, the productivity increases, but the cut quality decreases.

Powder files

When working with fragile materials, such as glass or ceramic tiles, blades that do not have teeth are used. These files are equipped with diamond or hard metal dusting, which allows for extremely accurate cutting.

Device power

Along with the choice of blade, power is of decisive importance when choosing the right jigsaw. The amount of power directly affects the performance of the device, but more energy is consumed and there is more weight. Among other things, power affects the travel speed of the cutting blades.

File change system

Replacing files is essential when working with different materials. All blades in a jigsaw are clamped with special clamps, or with working screws through the holes. When changing blades, it is important to have a mechanism that allows such a change to be made easily, quickly and safely. All of the above characteristics will help everyone make the right choice of a good jigsaw.

Duration of work with certain materials with increased strength and hardness. With prolonged work, the tails of the files heat up, become soft and can deform or simply break. It is necessary to provide additional cooling of the working elements. This can be done with water, machine oil, or all kinds of soap solutions.

Cutting steel, it is recommended to carry out with a higher speed of the cutting elements. For plastic, it is recommended to use a speed of no more than 1000 strokes per minute. When working at low stroke rates, frequent breaks and cooling of the blades are necessary. When working with thin material, experts recommend placing a sheet of plywood under the work surface.

The mechanisms and parts of the jigsaw should be kept in good condition and lubricated in a timely manner. In the event of their failure, timely replace them.

An electric jigsaw will show itself perfectly during repairs. It gets useful surprisingly often. The use of different types of saws allows you to cut metal, wood, plywood, chipboards, materials made of plastic or epoxy resin. According to statistics, this is the second most commonly used tool after a screwdriver.

How to choose a jigsaw for the house, which company, what to look for, what additional equipment may be required? Do I need to purchase equipment of a high price category for household needs or a simple enough model?

The principle of the jigsaw

A jigsaw is necessary in every workshop, useful for some household work, repairs.

The tool can cut:

wood,
soft metal,
plastic.

He can make different cutting lines:

straight line,
curves,
zigzags,
holes are round, rectangular, irregular.

When working, the sole of the jigsaw should be evenly pressed against the material. The tool should not be allowed to uncontrollably change position during operation - this may damage the saw. It is better to cut harder materials in the lowest gear, that is, at a low sawing speed.

Wood cutting

Using an electric jigsaw, you can cut irregularly shaped wood. It is advisable to buy a special compass that allows you to cut in a circle. Sometimes manufacturers sell a compass complete with an instrument. There is a spike at one end of the device, which can be moved along the rod, allowing you to increase, decrease the radius of the circle. The jigsaw cannot perform a 90 degree turn. To cut a rectangular bar in a tree, you need to make 4 cuts, shown in the figure:

To start cutting not from the edge, but from the center of the board, you need to use a drill with a large diameter or a cutter. The outline of the hole to be cut is drawn on the board. The drill drills holes in the corners of the contour. Then you can place the file in the hole and start cutting along the line you have drawn. This will create a hole with rounded corners. To get right angles, you need to then cut off the curves with a saw.

Bevel cutting

The tool can cut wood not only at a 90 degree angle. The minimum cutting angle in relation to the material surface is 45 degrees.

Jigsaws usually have 2 cutting angles - 0 ° and 45 °, but professional models have much more possibilities with different angle adjustment steps, for example: 0 °, 9 °, 15 °, 22 °, 5 °, 25 °, 30 °, 45 °.

The angle is set by adjusting the inclination of the sole. To make corner cuts, you need to attach the clamps to the table. Metal strips - tires can be attached along the cut line. During operation, the sole will slide on the guide rail.

Working with metal and plastic

Working with these materials is similar to cutting wood, with the exception of some nuances:

before cutting mild steel, lubricate the blade with technical oil;
cutting aluminum will be easier if you lubricate the blade with industrial oil mixed with denatured alcohol;
cutting PVC, acrylic, etc. will be easier when the blade is wetted with water.

How to choose the right electric jigsaw?

Which jigsaw is better suited for specific tasks, and which will be more versatile - it is advisable to consider these questions before buying. This section provides information that allows you to understand the features of the device, helping to make the right choice of a jigsaw.

Types of jigsaws

According to the type of power supply, jigsaws are divided into 2 types:

Electric jigsaws powered by the network - devices of higher power. The disadvantage of the model is the cable, which makes the work less convenient and safe.
Cordless jigsaws - by far the biggest advantage is the portability of such a solution. They do not have a cable that must be handled with care during operation. However, the batteries have to be recharged, and in case of prolonged operation, additional batteries have to be used. Over time, the capacity of power supplies decreases, which leads to the need to replace them and additional costs.

Tool parameters

When choosing a jigsaw, it is advisable to carefully study its parameters that affect the operation of the device. Let's consider them in more detail.

Power. The higher the power of the jigsaw, the better the machine is at tough jobs. Power can indirectly affect the maximum cutting depth. This parameter provides longer running time without interrupting the motor. For different models, the power varies from 400 to 1000 W.
Cutting depth - indicated in relation to a specific material, differs for wood, metal.
Stroke frequency per minute affects the speed of work. The higher the frequency, the better the cut. The optimum stroke rate depends on the type of material. It is convenient when the instrument has the ability to adjust the frequency, which allows you to work effectively with different materials - for soft materials, a higher frequency is applicable, for hard materials, for example, metal, the frequency should be reduced.
Weight, dimensions... A lightweight device is more convenient to work with. Ideally, the design should be compact. Small dimensions and weight will ensure comfortable work, convenient storage of the tool.

Optional equipment

It is necessary to purchase additional equipment for the jigsaw: saws, guides, and other elements.

Jigsaw blades

Saw blades are made from carbon tool steel (HCS) or (HSS), respectively machined, formed. The files consist of:

shank for fastening,
housing,
cloves.

The teeth are made of a material that is more durable than the body itself. Saw blades differ in design depending on the type of material they are intended to cut.

Electric jigsaw blades are designed for the following materials:

softwood;
hardwood;
plywood;
Chipboard, joinery, fibreboard, laminated boards;
construction timber;
plastic resins, epoxy resins;
glass fiber reinforced plastics;
kitchen countertops;
wood with nails;
a metal sheet;
pipes, profiles;
aluminum;
non-ferrous metals;
soft ceramic tiles;
cast iron.

File changing and fastening system

It is worth paying attention to:

installation of files,
fastening system,
ease of replacement.

For different types of work, it will be necessary to frequently change files, this operation should be carried out easily. An important question is whether the blade can be installed without tools. This possibility significantly affects the usability of the jigsaw. There are several mechanisms for attaching the saw blade:

Shoe mechanism - the blade is attached with a shoe, allows you to use various types of files. The mechanism is used in inexpensive instruments.
Screw mechanism - fastening with a screw.
Fast clamp is the most convenient mechanism, its disadvantage is not suitable for all types of blades.

Considering the shape of the shanks, the following common saw types can be distinguished:

with T-shank (European);
with 2T shank;
universal, 1/4 "U-ponytail (American);
Makita.

T-Shank Blades (European)

The most popular, common in the market are T-shank files. With a jigsaw designed for the T type, there will be no problem buying consumables. Most of the commercial power tool manufacturers use European type mountings. The reason for the widespread use of the T-shank standard is the high reliability of the fastening, which is an important condition for efficient, safe operation. Important design features:

easy mount,
easy web removal,
the possibility of using keyless clamps, which greatly facilitate and speed up tool maintenance.

Fast assembly and disassembly is a basic requirement among professional users. During intensive work, especially when cutting difficult-to-machine materials, the cutting part quickly wears out, as a result of this - their frequent replacement. Therefore, the speed at which the saw blade is changed is important for productivity.

File material

hCS saws are designed for cutting soft materials - wood, fibreboard, plastics;
hSS files - for steel, aluminum, ferrous metal;
biM files are produced by electronically bonding an HSS toothed strip with a HCS steel body. This results in a flexible, durable combination of the highest strength. Depending on the design, the teeth can be rectangular or curved.

Bimetallic saws are especially recommended for applications that require high flexibility. It should be noted that the service life of bimetallic saws is 2-10 times higher compared to HCS and HSS files (the period depends on the hardness of the materials being processed).

HM / TC blades are bimetallic, as their body is made of HCS steel, and the working part, which directly cuts the material, is made of tungsten carbide. These blades are designed primarily for very hard, difficult-to-cut abrasive materials such as tiles, ceramic tiles, brick, cast iron, glass, etc. It should be noted that HM / TC saws are not suitable for wood.

Like the HM / TC tool, carbide tooth files have a body made of HCS steel. These tools are used to cut the reinforced plastic.

Jigsaw guide bars

The guides allow you to cut at an angle, bevel. The use of additional modules will help when cutting ceramic tiles. Using the guide even under normal conditions allows for more accurate and convenient cutting.

Guide tire, photo

Blowing off dust, shavings

Such a device allows you to work more conveniently. For those who often use a jigsaw, it is advisable to consider buying a jigsaw with dust blowing, working with it is more comfortable and effective.

Backlight, laser beam

The backlight allows you to make the cut line more visible. The laser beam speeds up work, eliminates the need to mark the material.

Files store, suitcase

Some jigsaws have space in the case for storing several extra saws. This is a convenient solution, we do not need to carry additional bags for accessories. A handy case for storing a jigsaw and necessary accessories is useful.

Models, prices and manufacturers

Cheap models can be bought for 750-1000 rubles, they have a power of 350-500 watts.
For 1800 rubles, you can buy a Skil hand jigsaw with a power of 500 W, a speed of 800-3000 strokes / min.
The BLACK DECKER KS501 tool with a power of 400 W, with a speed of 3000 strokes / min will cost 2000 rubles.
A Bosch PST 650 jigsaw with a power of 500 W, having a speed of 3100 strokes / min, a quick-clamping saw attachment costs 4200-4400 rubles.
Black & Decker and Bosch jigsaws at this price are certainly the base models.

Expensive tools will cost 30,000 rubles, for example:

Metabo STA 18 LTX 140 5.2Ah x2,
Bosch GSG 300,
Bosch GST 18 V-LI 4.0Ah x2 L-BOXX.

For this amount we will receive a professional device made of materials designed for long-term work, durable, with a lot of additions.

Rating of jigsaws for home

How to choose an electric jigsaw for home - video

Summing up

Which jigsaw is better to buy for home and summer cottages? We need to answer the question of how often we will use the tool. It depends on whether we choose a jigsaw for home use or equipment for professional work. You should also think about what accessories are needed for us. Runners, removable sole, dust blowing, other gadgets are interesting solutions, but they raise the purchase price. Having adequately analyzed your own needs, you can choose the best jigsaw in terms of price-quality ratio.