Photo: DeWalt
If you are simply starting with woodworking and don’t have a budget to accustom multiple cutting tools then start with a jigsaw.
These are compact yet powerful cutting tools that can work on a variety of materials. A jigsaw, because of its small size is easy to use, without needing any prior expertise. Plus, they cost a lot less than heavy-duty machine saws.
In this post:
What Is A Jigsaw?
A jigsaw is a simple cutting saw device that can be powered either by electricity or batteries. It has a straight blade that runs in up and down motion which results in creating the cuts in either upstroke or downstroke motion, depending on the direction of blade’s teeth.
You are able to create curves and circles in metal, wood, and other material type. Here you can learn all about the working of a jigsaw.
Type of Jigsaws
1. Corded Jigsaw
Photo: Bosch
The name of the type gives it all. Corded models are the ones that will need plugging-in to an electric outlet for working.
These are more powerful with motors between 5.0 – 7.0-amp. Plus, as there are no batteries in the jigsaw, you can expect the weight to be on the lower side. It becomes convenient to use it in constraint spaces.
On the downside, the wire is a constantly disturbing the work. Plus, if there is no electric outlet to power the jigsaw, you won’t be able to use it.
Pros:
- Consistent in performance
- Comes with powerful motor
- Lightweight and portable
Cons:
- The cord is a constant disturbance
- Cannot work in spaces where there is no power outlet
2. Cordless Jigsaw
Photo: Makita
Just like any other tool without a cord, this one comes with heavy-duty batteries that can ensure high-performance of the tool.
Since there is no cord, you will not require a power outlet for the jigsaw to work. Also, these are portable and suitable to work in confined spaces.
These models are equipped with lithium rechargeable batteries between 1.5 – 5.0 Ah. The downside is that these might be more convenient to use, but they are not as powerful as corded versions.
Pros:
- Portable
- Comes with rechargeable batteries
- Suitable to work in confined spaces
Cons:
- Not as powerful as corded jigsaws
3. Pneumatic Jigsaw
Photo: Hazet
The professionals prefer pneumatic jigsaws as they work in conjunction with an air compressor. This type is extremely powerful and expensive and is preferred by the professionals with heavy-duty cutting chores.
As far as weight is concerned, these are quite lightweight and have self-cooling mechanism which makes then unlikely to overheat. The pneumatic jigsaws are brought in use when you have to cut metal or fibreglass.
Pros:
- Suitable for heavy-duty cutting
- Self-cooling mechanism
- Extremely powerful
Cons:
- Expensive
Buying Advice
All the different varieties are suitable to attend different task types. If you are mostly on-a-go and require jigsaw for light-duty cutting then a cordless model will serve you the best.
For heavy-duty tasks, a corded jigsaw will prove useful. But if you are a professional who has to handle a variety of materials for cutting then pneumatic jigsaw is an unvarying choice to make.
Safety Tips To Use Jigsaw
Taking precautions while using any electric tool that has a blade attached to it is dire for every user. There are some safety tips that one can follow to stay safe while handling such aggressive tools.
1. Protection Against Shock
It is not suggested using a jigsaw in wet environment (irrespective of the type). Since it is an electrically powered device, it has the potential to shock the user if exposed to water or even the airborne moisture. That is why, you should only work with a jigsaw in a dry, cover, and protected environment.
2. Protection Against Fire
Just like shock, there is a wide possibility od fire accidents with a jigsaw. It is because these tools use RCB circuit breaker which allow the circuit to shut down the power automatically when there is a surge of power.
If you have plugged the jigsaw in a non-RCB circuit then it can cause excessive flow of power which can lead to fire.
3. Protection Against Lacerations
Laceration is amongst the most common injuries that can be provoked by a jigsaw. It happens that the hand of the operator is too close to the blade.
To prevent this, you should always wear safety gloves and other accessories. Plus, make sure to use the jigsaw when it has sharp blades as the dull blades are more susceptible to kickbacks.
4. Gearing Up
Other than just the gloves, there are various other gears that one should wear while using a jigsaw. It can include shatter-resistant goggles to protect the eyes from dust and particles from getting in.
Also, there are face masks that you should always wear as when you work with materials like wood, the particles float as the blade strike the material. That can go straight into your mouth and nose and cause allergies.
5. Other Tips
There are some basic tips that you need to follow while using a jigsaw.
- Since the jigsaws carry smaller and weaker blades, these are somewhat sporadic. Therefore, you need to have as much knowledge about these blades as you can gather to have better control over the tool and reduce the risk of injury.
- Make sure to keep the blades and other components well-lubricated. This will help in cleaner cutting. Do not force the saw in stubborn materials. If the blade fails to cut in the first go, reverse it and try again with the cutting instead of force cutting.
Conclusion
A jigsaw is a proven solution for all DIYers and woodworking beginners since it gives them amazing and accurate cuts while costing half as much as large and heavy-duty tools might cost.
It is important to plan your tools carefully, especially in the beginning. If you start enjoying the woodworking and learn all about it, there will be many chances to make hefty purchases on the later stage.