Choosing and using dewalt jigsaws

Advantages and disadvantages

The DeWalt jigsaw is a cutting tool that can cut wood, plastic, drywall and even metal in both straight and curved lines. DeWalt jigsaws have a number of advantages.

• These are ergonomic devices that are lightweight and fit comfortably in the hand. It is convenient to work with a jigsaw.
• They have a wide range of models, where everyone will choose a device in accordance with the assigned task.
• Almost all jigsaws have the ability to switch the frequency of strokes, which allows you to adjust the device for yourself.
• Most devices have a brushless motor that does not require periodic brush replacement.
• The guide roller on these devices is located at the bottom, so the files do not bend during operation.
• On the sole, the device has a special coating that protects the processing material from scratches.
• The device can be installed with T-shaped types of files from most other manufacturers of similar products.

Comparison with other manufacturers

Among the most popular manufacturers of jigsaws are the trademarks Metabo, Fiolent PM, Interskol, DeWalt, Zubr, etc. However, the Makita brand is usually called the main competitor of Bosch. Which one is better is difficult to determine: both companies produce a wide range of high quality models. However, there are some differences:

• Bosch, unlike a competitor, offers a household product line, which, of course, increases its attractiveness in the consumer market;
• the Bosch brand is ahead of Makita in the speed of new technologies introduction, thanks to the presence of its own high-level research base.

TOP-5 jigsaws

Now let's try to apply the information described above in practice and try to compare the TOP-5 of the most popular models of jigsaws, comparing their characteristics, parameters and configurations.

Comparative table of characteristics of jigsaws

Instructions and descriptions of jigsaws

Below are links to instructions and descriptions of jigsaws, from which you can glean additional information on characteristics and parameters.

1. Manual for jigsaw Hitachi CJ110MV (download)
2. Manual for jigsaw Bosch PST 900 PEL (download)
3. Manual for jigsaw DeWalt DW349 (download)
4. Manual for jigsaw Makita 4350 FCT (download)
5. Manual for jigsaw Metabo Steb 70 (download)

The choice is yours!

Reciprocating saws

Reciprocating saws were originally created as a tool for dismantling construction sites - and in this regard, they are very convenient. This compact tool allows you to cut wood, metal, lightweight foam and aerated concrete, and in difficult conditions of limited space. The cordless reciprocating saw is simply indispensable for roofing work, when the sheathing is being installed. This tool is also very handy for pruning branches and thick branches in the garden.

Bosch

Bosch Low Vibration technology reduces vibration in Bosch cordless reciprocating saws.

Greenworks

Reciprocating saw Greenworks G24RS, operates on a 24 V battery, which is suitable for all Greenworks 24 V tools.

When working, the reciprocating saw should not give too much vibration, which at purchase is best estimated by including several tools for comparison.

Saw Hammer LZK 800 B

When choosing a reciprocating saw, be sure to take into account the nature of future work with it in order to choose the right tool in terms of size and weight. To dismantle a barn or reinforced concrete wall, you will most likely need a powerful tool with comfortable grips for both hands. And the mass of the instrument (3-4 kg) does not play a special role here. And if you are going to cut the branches of apple trees while standing on a stepladder, it makes sense for you to choose a reciprocating saw as compact and lightweight as possible (and of course, it is better with a battery) - models such as, for example, Makita JR100DZ, Metabo ASE 10.8 0 or Bosch Keo that weigh 1-1.3 kg. The cost of such saws will be 5-10 thousand rubles, and the heavier and more powerful ones, powered by the network, are cheaper, 3-5 thousand rubles.

AEG

BUS 18BL Reciprocating Saw (AEG), 18 V, with PROFLUX brushless motor

Bosch

Bosch Cordless Reciprocating Saw AdvancedRecip 18

Leroy Merlin

Saber saw Makita M4501, 1010 W (7 920 rubles)

Reciprocating saws, like jigsaws, are equipped with saws with a standard shank. Files can be for different quality of work and for different materials. Moreover, the cost of some models of files can be very high (500-1,000 rubles and more)

Ryobi

R18RS7-0 (Ryobi) Brushless Reciprocating Saw, 18 V. The pendulum mode allows cutting speeds up to 40% higher than straight.

Black & decker

Reciprocating saw Black & Decker RS890K-QS (5 200 rubles)

How to cut chipboard, laminate

Next, we will consider how to smoothly saw off the chipboard with a jigsaw in order to avoid damage to the laminated front surface.

File selection. Experts recommend using a reverse cut file. True, in the process of work, a feeling of discomfort may arise due to increased vibration, but the quality of the cut will not suffer. If the sawing is carried out with a regular saw, work is carried out on the back of the material being processed.

Stroke frequency. The stroke frequency must be set to the maximum.

Pendulum mechanism. To avoid chipping, the pendulum mechanism must be turned off.

Sawing process. The tool must be firmly pressed against the surface of the material, while it must be guided smoothly without strong pressure.

Chips appear precisely on the part of the material that faces the instrument. Therefore, if the sawing is made with a file with ordinary teeth, then it is possible to pre-determine the front side of the product to make a cut on the back side.

In addition, an anti-splinter liner can be used to make cuts in chipboard or laminate. This is a small part with a cut that is inserted into special guides on the sole. The most ideal insert is one where the kerf matches the thickness of the saw blade exactly. Therefore, some manufacturers supply several of these inserts complete with a jigsaw. In this case, the cut in each of them must be done by yourself. Then you can start sawing chipboard.

Rating of the best models

Jigsaws are assistants in performing all kinds of construction and repair work. Low weight and compactness of the unit allow it to make labor productivity higher. An overview of the models of such tools testifies to their diversity in the price category: there are inexpensive budget options, as well as professional ones with a high price. Popular manufacturing firms offer a wide range of products, different in reliability, characteristics, functionality.

Here are the top 10 best jigsaws.

• Bosch GST 65B is characterized by a low vibration degree, reliability in the fastening of the soles, it is quite compact and weighs little. This device is a worthy option for performing work processes in everyday life, in the country. When using a jigsaw, hand fatigue is not observed, which is due to a successful design and an ergonomic base. Thanks to the blowing, the user can check the correct cutting line. Bosch GST 65B is advantageously used in work with wood, plywood and metal materials, which is why this jigsaw is versatile.
• Bosch PST 10.8 LI stands out from the rest of the battery-powered models. The tool is lightweight, is characterized by smooth acceleration of the engine, and an adjustable sole. Additional functions of this jigsaw include the presence of LED backlighting. This model is capable of functioning at night thanks to its battery power supply.

• Makita 4329 stands out among other options with low vibration. It is characterized by three modes of pendulum movement, has a rubberized handle. Of the minuses, users single out only the duration in replacing the canvas.
• The AEG BST 18X ​​is a cordless jigsaw that is characterized by extensive functionality. And also the model is equipped with a face protection screen, an electronic brake, and a cast aluminum sole. With all its advantages, the tool has a low cost. The inconvenience can cause the severity of the jigsaw, so additional use of the table during work will be appropriate.

• The Ryobi CJS 180L is a jigsaw that has extensive capabilities and low power. The unit weighs a little, has a laser-type pointer and a guard for protection. Batteries and chargers are purchased separately. Ryobi CJS 180L is often used as a desktop device.
• Interskol MP-100E is one of the domestic models of jigsaws. Its main advantage is considered to be its low price. The tool can easily withstand significant loads thanks to the special housing on the gearbox. The lid of the device is hinged, so the jigsaw can be easily cleaned.

• Bosch GST 14.4 V-LI Professional is one of the best representatives of battery jigsaws. The design of this model allows the replacement of the saw holder with a single movement. The tool is equipped with illumination, sawdust blowing function. This jigsaw is capable of working for a long time without being charged.
• Makita JV100DWE is characterized by its compactness and the ability to adjust the pendulum stroke. This jigsaw has a household purpose, so it is used for household needs. The tool is not very powerful, but at the same time it is quite effective.

How to choose?

When choosing a jigsaw for a home, a summer residence or artistic cutting, it is worth evaluating all the capabilities of the tool and the functions that it is able to perform

When buying a good jigsaw model, you should pay attention to a number of characteristics

• Saw stroke frequency. This indicator is one of the most important in this tool. The higher the value, the faster the sawing process takes place. To cut aluminum, plywood and wood products, the maximum speed will be sufficient. Low rpm is suitable for sensitive materials such as plastic and stainless steel. In many models of jigsaws, there is a stepped speed adjustment, which is not provided in budget options. For home and summer cottages, you should not buy fast models, in this case, the best option would be a performance of 2600 strokes per minute.
• Power. Jigsaws can have a power of 450 to 850 watts. Power does not always have to be high for a tool to perform well. Low power tools are also quite productive.

• Swap. Equipping the jigsaws with a pendulum motion makes the sawing speed faster.By installing one of the 3-4 steps of the pendulum, it is possible to ensure the movement of the saw not only up and down, but also along the entire path. A tool with a pendulum stroke should be used only for a straight cut, if you need artistic cuts, you should buy a jigsaw that has no pumping, or with a shutdown.
• Cutting depth. The maximum cutting depth refers to the possible thickness of the workpieces. Working with different materials has its own limitations. The maximum values ​​for the thickness of sawing wood are 7-10 cm, aluminum - 0.15-0.2 cm, ceramics - up to 0.1 cm, and plastic - up to 0.8 cm.
• Saw attachment types. A certain type of file is intended for each material, which is indicated on the marking. Saw attachment types can be T-shaped and U-shaped. Most electric jigsaws use the first type.

• Types of handles. Modern jigsaw models have a bracket-shaped or mushroom-shaped handle. The latter option is suitable for professional work. Staple handles are more common, they can have both a semicircular and a square bracket.
• Sole. The support platform can be cast and stamped. Stamped soles are essential for the household and semi-professional jigsaw. This option is made of thin metals, therefore, with intensive and prolonged use, they deform. In high-quality and expensive models of jigsaws, cast strong platforms are provided.
• Type of food. For the operation of an electric jigsaw, an electrical network or a portable power plant is required.

Many models can perform a number of additional functions:

• forced blowing of working areas;
• smooth start;
• laser pointer;
• types of cartridges;
• highlighting of working areas;
• maintaining power under loads.