Top Rated Jigsaw Buying Guide 2018
A jigsaw is a DIY enthusiast’s best friend. It is also one of the most basic tools every woodworker possesses. Buying one is an investment that requires careful consideration. Since jigsaws are known to be a bit pricey, you must first consider some factors to determine which one in the market is the best for you.
Listed below are the things you should consider before buying a jigsaw:
1. Consider the power source and amperage
There are jigsaws that are battery operated and portable. However, this means that they are heavier and are less likely to possess the motor torque that heavy cutting requires. If you’re looking for a jigsaw that you will use for more heavy duty cutting, you might want to purchase one with power cords. The amperage should be considered when you’re planning to cut harder and thicker material, such as thick hardwood lumber. You will need a jigsaw with a rating of 8 or 9 amps to cut through lumber.
2. Consider the speed control
The speed control is an important element of your work. Jigsaws come in multiple speeds, variable speeds, and single speed functions. If you’re planning to use your jigsaw to cut different types of materials, it is recommendable to purchase a top rated jigsaw with variable speed that can cut through a lot of materials, particularly metal.
3. Consider the type of blade
Most jigsaws have blade locking and changing mechanisms that are useful when performing various types of cuts. When selecting the type of blade, you should consider the teeth per inch (TPI). The TPI of the metal blade should match the thickness of the material you are sawing. The general rule is that three to five teeth should engage with the material you are cutting through at all times. For instance, when cutting through a quarter of an inch of wood, the TPI of the blade should be 12 to 16.
4. Consider the width of the blade
The width of the blade matters, particularly when attempting to saw around corners. A wide blade is suitable for cutting straight edges. For cuts that require turning around corners, a narrower blade is more suitable. Also, make sure that the width of your blade perfectly fits the jigsaw. Loose blades can lead to accidents and poor woodwork.
5. Consider additional features
Some jigsaws have additional features installed into them. Some have a light source to aid you to see better. Others have automatic dust blowers to get the dust out of the way as you work. As expected, these additional features come with a price tag. Carefully assess if they’re absolutely necessary before buying them.
This article serves as a buying guide before you purchase a jigsaw. Hopefully, this brings you a step closer towards the perfect jigsaw for you. Perform additional research on the manufacturer you’re planning to purchase your jigsaw from. Buy from a brand that is known to deliver quality products. Otherwise, you would only be wasting your money on flimsy tools that you will need to replace frequently.
Author: Colin Steinway