Jigsaws are handy tools that are excellent for cutting intricate and irregular shapes into many different materials. Most commonly, they are used during woodworking projects but are versatile enough to be a favorite with DIYers and handypersons. But are they expensive?
Jigsaw saws can cost anywhere between $30 and $300, as prices will vary from one brand and model to the next. If you want a powerful, high-quality jigsaw with many extra features, such as guided lasers, you can expect to pay more. Entry-level models with fewer features are a bit more affordable.
In this article, we’ll look at some of the benefits of using a jigsaw, which models many consider to be the best, and if these power tools are worth your money.
Once you’ve finished this article, you’ll have a good idea of whether or not you want to invest in this versatile tool.
How Much Does a Jigsaw Saw Cost?
Buying a new jigsaw isn’t a decision you should take lightly. Although you can get away with buying one cheaply, you should still consider your options and your project’s scale.
There are thousands of affordable and excellent quality jigsaws, along with plenty of top-of-the-line options.
It would take a lot of time to compare all the different models and brands, so we’ve narrowed it down to three top choices.
Any of these should be able to keep you happy no matter what you use them for.
Black+Decker Smart Select JigSaw
This inexpensive model is a good option if you want to invest in a good jigsaw but don’t have a big budget.
It is powerful, fast, and will work well for any professional needs you may have. It’s also cordless and light for convenient use.
You can buy it on Amazon.
Bosch JS470E
For many jigsaw users, this top-of-the-line Bosch model is a favorite because it makes cutting smooth.
It’s easy to handle because the vibration is low, even when cutting thicker materials.
It also works well with cutting angles of 45 degrees, has variable speeds, and four orbital action settings.
Buy the Bosch JS470E on Amazon.
Ryobi One+ P523
This is not only a reasonably priced option, but it is also one of the best. At almost half the price of the Bosch JS470E, it can compete with it very well.
Orbit changes, variable speeds, and the cordless feature all make this Ryobi a fantastic choice.
It’s for sale on Amazon right now.
Why Use a Jigsaw?
Before you grab your wallet to buy a new jigsaw, it would be good to know the various reasons they’re so popular.
Not only are they easy to use and often available in cordless options, but they are also excellent for use on a variety of materials.
1. Easy To Use
Jigsaws are uncomplicated and easy to use no matter how much experience you have with power tools.
It’s as easy as inserting the blade, plugging the jigsaw in (or popping in the battery for a cordless model), and cutting.
Of course, you do need to practice before you cut as well as professionals, but getting started is straightforward.
You can use them in almost any workshop because they don’t take up a lot of space.
2. Cuts More Than Wood
In general, jigsaws are ideal for cutting wood of different densities and thicknesses.
However, if you use the right blade, you can also cut fiberglass, drywall, and steel.
That’s not all, though. Jigsaws can cut laminate tops, ceramic tiles, plasterboard, and plastic. As long as you use your jigsaw correctly, it is quite a versatile power tool!
It’s also reasonably easy to change the blades to prepare for whatever application you’re using your jigsaw.
Simply turn the dial counter-clockwise to release the blade and insert the one you need.
3. Easily Cuts Curves
Though they’re the only portable power tool that can cut curves effectively, using a jigsaw makes it extremely easy.
If you want to get things done quicker, cleaner, and better than a hand-held coping saw can, you need a jigsaw.
4. Able To Go Cordless
Cordless power tools are a must-have in any workshop because of how convenient they are. The same principle applies to jigsaws.
You can twist and turn it as much as you need and cut elaborate curves with ease.
Battery-powered and cordless jigsaws are lightweight and slim, making them a joy to use.
5. Can Make Bevel Cuts
Bevel cuts (angled rather than straight up-and-down cuts) often require adjustable table saws to get right.
However, a quality jigsaw can be angled up to 45 degrees to make bevel cuts easy.
6. They’re the Best Pumpkin Carvers
Although carving pumpkins isn’t at the top of any DIYers list of requirements, jigsaws can make quick work of these vegetables-turned-decorations.
Because jigsaws can make intricate cuts, they’re ideal for making Halloween décor.
Should You Buy a Jigsaw or Circular Saw?
Jigsaws can handle different kinds of cuts, and they can easily cut many different materials. Intricate and bevel cuts are where jigsaws excel most of the time.
Circular saws are great for straight and long cuts, whether you use a cutting guide or not.
The kind of saw you use really depends on what your project is. Overall, jigsaws are more versatile and will be more useful in many situations.
If you have to choose, go with a jigsaw.
Important Features To Look For in a Jigsaw
When you buy a new jigsaw, there are a few features that you have to look out for.
These features will help ensure that you can finish your project or do your work as quickly and efficiently as possible.
1. Variable Speeds
Although variable speeds aren’t always necessary for woodworking, it is a valuable feature when you cut metals.
Slower speeds are also helpful when you have to make intricate cuts.
You might not use it all the time, but it’s an important feature that all good jigsaws have.
2. Orbital Action
Jigsaws with orbital action allows the blade to move slightly forward and backward, making the blade’s movement almost elliptical.
This will minimize the wear of the blade.
Usually, you will be able to adjust the angle of the action to suit the materials you work with.
Cuts made with jigsaws that have this feature will be a lot smoother.
3. Depth of Cut
Although it might seem like a deeper cut is better, that’s not the case with jigsaws.
Deeper cuts mean higher chances of the blade bending or breaking. Deep cut depths also result in undesirable angled cuts.
Ideally, it would be best to have a jigsaw with a cut of two inches deep when working with wood.
If you want to cut metal, you will need a depth of ½ inches.
4. Cordless vs. Corded
For the most part, corded jigsaws are more powerful and capable. They should be able to easily handle whatever job you throw at them.
Cordless jigsaws may not be as powerful but are still useful, especially since they’re so mobile.
If you can, consider buying a cordless and corded jigsaw so you can enjoy the best of both worlds.
These types of jigsaw will typically be slightly more expensive due to their convenience.
5. Dust Blower
You may not feel that you need a dust blower for your work, but once you’ve experienced its convenience, you might change your mind.
Dust blowers blow a stream of air over your workpiece, keeping the cutting line free of debris and sawdust, making cutting easier and more clear.
6. Motor Power
Depending on what you want to do with your jigsaw, you will likely need a robust model with high amperage ratings.
A motor rating of six or seven amps should be good enough to get the work done. If you go for anything lower – and usually less expensive – expect the tool to be a bit weaker.
7. Laser Guide Line
Laser guidelines are not strictly necessary, but they go a long way toward making your work easier.
With this feature, you have a thin, red cutting line cast from the front of the tool.
It helps you maintain a straight line as you cut and get more accurate results.
Final Thoughts
You have many options to choose from when it comes to jigsaws, and their prices vary greatly. If you want a powerful tool with many valuable features, you should expect to pay a bit more.
However, there are reliable and well-rated models that won’t break the bank for beginners in most hardware stores.
In general, you can expect to pay anything between $30 and $300, depending on the model and its features.
Of course, you might find a cheaper or more expensive jigsaw, but it is up to you to decide on must-have features.
Related
- Read the full article about why tools are so expensive.
