Which Bosch jigsaw to choose. Additional power tool functions

Among professionals and home craftsmen who perform repair work, both in production and at home, the use of electric jigsaws is very popular. This type of hand tool is considered universal, so you need to know how to choose the right jigsaw.

The tool is lightweight, convenient for cutting in a straight or shaped way on sheet material. The jigsaw is equipped with an electric drive, which makes it possible to use it when performing work with a variety of materials of different structure.

The electric jigsaw is simple and easy to use, you just need to follow the safety rules. Before choosing an electric jigsaw, you need to determine the presence of electricity in the construction area. Since cordless jigsaws are chosen to work on objects without electricity.

What characteristics of an electric jigsaw should be considered?

Do right choice a high-quality jigsaw is possible, given the following main criteria, they will allow you not to worry about the poor quality of the tool:

The electric jigsaw has an important characteristic that provides for the saw blade the function of the pendulum stroke. This property is responsible for the implementation of the cut associated with the cleansing of the cut, and depends on the movement of the blade either down or up.

In the first case, a shift is made back, and in the second, forward. Setting the pendulum motion of the saw blade is associated only with an even cut. This allows the saw blade to move in the direction of the cut and back. This increases the service life of the working file. With an increase in the speed of work, the quality of the cut deteriorates slightly. Therefore, if necessary, this function is disabled.

If you need to replace the files while working with the device, you may need a screwdriver. In device it is possible to change the blade, which makes it possible to do this thanks to the installed clamping mechanism. Moreover, the use of different auxiliary tools not required.

Power is an important indicator of jigsaws

Since electricity is consumed during sawing, then power is important indicator electric jigsaw. As a rule, stores sell tools where the power rating varies in the range of 340 watts and higher.

Power determines the mass of the jigsaw, so when choosing a tool, you need to decide what is most important to you: the weight of the device or the quality of work. At the same time, higher power implies not only a greater mass of the tool, but also a more expensive cost.

As a rule, jigsaws with a power of over 450 W or more are bought for the home. With the help of them you can saw wooden bars, approximately 70 mm thick. Considering that cutting thicker bars is not needed so often, an electric jigsaw with the above power will be enough for you.

Professionals advise buying jigsaws with low power, approximately 450 watts. This tool will provide an opportunity for quite a short time perform large amounts of work. Sawed boards can be selected with a thickness of up to 100 millimeters. Domestic and foreign jigsaws have completely different power. Professionals advise choosing a tool, given the power reserve.

Requirements for the use of electric jigsaws in everyday life and industry

Using a jigsaw, you can make holes of almost any geometric shape or make a curved cut. That's why this tool will be indispensable during carpentry work. An important point when preparing a jigsaw for work, there will be a choice of a suitable blade for sawing.

Professional electric jigsaws are characterized by high power and the ability to withstand significant loads. You can use a professional jigsaw throughout the working day. A household jigsaw is cheaper than a professional device. If the jigsaw is professional, then he has additional features , which increase the overall performance of the device and the quality of the work performed, while simplifying them.

As a rule, professional devices meet strict regulations in a more aggressive mode of operation. The performance of a professional tool is appropriate. This makes it possible to use it for cutting beams with a thickness of up to 135 millimeters. This type of jigsaw can also be used for cutting sheet steel up to 10 millimeters, as well as non-ferrous metals with a thickness of not more than 20 millimeters.

A jigsaw for cutting at home can be used for a month no more than 18 hours. Even when the same manufacturer produces both a professional and a household series of jigsaws at the same time, the cost for them will be completely different.

The degree of working resource at low power for household electric jigsaws is less, but they are more convenient and simple during operation, being a worthy tool for realizing creative possibilities at home. Device from household model range jigsaws will have fewer additional features. The cutting process will have limit values ​​that do not exceed 2-4 millimeters on the steel sheet and 70 millimeters on wood material.

How to adjust the work of the jigsaw?

Since the whole principle of operation of the jigsaw is reduced to bringing the cutting blade into motion with the help of a pendulum mechanism and an electric motor, it must be reciprocating. For what guides are provided, they are elements of support jaws or rollers. The presence of a base plate in the design of the device makes it possible to prevent its probable shift, and to make the edge of the saw cut more accurate.

The movements of the saw blade vertically up or down are determined by the stroke frequency, which changes, this is determined by the force with which the button is pressed. The level of frequency of movement is set before turning on the jigsaw. It can be equal to 3600 movements per minute.

Electric jigsaws are equipped with a comfortable handle, it can be mushroom-shaped, which provides convenience during work on the surface at an angle. Choosing the right electric jigsaw with certain form hilts can be based on your specific preferences.

Electric jigsaws differ in the way the saw blade is fixed. There is a way due to the presence of a clamping device or a hexagon, it is considered quick-detachable. The saw blade has a shank that determines the type of attachment.

How to choose the right saw blades for an electric jigsaw?

When choosing a tool, you need to be able not only to choose the right jigsaw, but also files for this device. Files are considered consumable, which determines the quality of work with the tool. Select files, paying great attention to the set marking value, it is universal for each manufacturer and indicates the material from which the canvas is made:

  • HSS - hardened metal;
  • HCS - carbonaceous metal;
  • BIM - bimetal;
  • HM is a hard metal.

Presence color coding can lead to a dead end, since different manufacturers label the saw blade at their discretion, not taking into account the standard, because there is no millet.

The saw blade can be attached various shape end, namely the shank, which does not affect the quality of the cut. Choosing a saw blade that is equipped with a sparse shank is a difficult task. The shape of the shank is also cruciform. Also, the shank can have several stops, which differ in the presence of:

  • notches in the form of a semicircle;
  • round holes;
  • smoothness.

Files for sawing have a huge size, varying in the range of 50-105 millimeters and more. If you need to make a straight cut, then choose the width of the file greater value than with a curved cut.

You can buy an electric jigsaw for home use only if you have knowledge of the planned work. When cutting various materials, saw blades are used that have a different pitch, tooth shape and size. Blades for sawing without teeth treated with a special coating, which consists of a hard alloy, diamond chips can also be added to it. They are used for cutting glass or tiles.

For cutting thin metal sheets install a suitable unnecessary object, it must be placed under the sheet. It could be a piece of plywood. If you need to cut solid material, for example, glass or tiles, then you need to cool the materials, since their processing requires a lot of power of the jigsaw and high frequency move.

When using the instrument at home no need to press it with force, as this action may cause the blade to break. If the stroke frequency is low, then the tool must cool down more often. Do not forget to replace the files that have already worked out their own.

To choose the right jigsaw, you need to consider a number of factors. Taking into account practical experience professional craftsmen, it is possible to identify some general recommendations and tips:

  • More power is reflected in the weight of the equipment. Think about whether you need it;
  • First determine what type of work the jigsaw will be used for. As a rule, including for construction, suitable household tool average cost;
  • D-shaped devices are operated with one hand, they are great for on-site use. This option for construction and home is preferable;
  • A jigsaw with a mushroom handle is perfect for working in the shop. Two-handed grip means fixing the sheet. This tool is quite convenient to perform complex curvilinear cuts;
  • To work with different materials, it is necessary to change the stroke frequency - it is good if there is a step speed controller;
  • For delicate sawing, the function of electronic stabilization of the soft start and set speed will not be superfluous;
  • Any the model has its own unique ergonomics, before purchasing, be sure to “shake” the instrument in your hands, buy the one that suits you;
  • The presence of a pendulum stroke significantly increases productivity;

In many branded sales centers the buyer is given the opportunity to test the tool, be sure to use this right.

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, look into design features. Next, we will draw the necessary conclusions, and only then it will be possible to go to the store.

Ask any master finisher to voice his personal TOP-5 of the most popular, frequently used tool, and you will hear a list that will definitely include a jigsaw. For example, for me it firmly takes fourth place, after a puncher, a screwdriver and a grinder. The thing is that it is an incredibly functional, mobile, truly universal assistant. He, if necessary, albeit 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 brigade makes the first landing on the object, the jigsaw is always with us, there has not yet been a case when it was not useful. But his absence is sometimes acutely felt. Usually, at the very beginning, it is necessary to make scaffolds, racks, and a primitive table from wood.

Most often, we use a jigsaw for curly and straight sawing of various sheet materials such as plywood, plexiglass, OSB, chipboard, MDF, GVL, GKL, thin cement board and so on.

In the production of roofing and wooden frames, we saw (often in place) a board, a rail, a not very massive beam. In the absence of another tool, a jigsaw can be cut and thick timber- in two passes, because it is not necessary that the file passes through the wood.

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

Often, during tile work, it is necessary to make a curvilinear trimming, bypass a rounded column, near which there will be no plinth, clad a box with a honeycomb outlet sewer pipe. From time to time, designers throw us a fun job. A tiler's nightmare: a radial or undulating junction of a tile, for example, to a parquet. Then it can be extremely difficult to solve the problem with grinders and tile cutters, a jigsaw comes to the rescue again - we put a saw blade with a diamond coating and millimeter by millimeter we move towards the intended goal, or rather, along the intended line.

It's no secret that you can cut profiled metal blanks with an electric jigsaw, as well as sheet metal. The need for this in my practice somehow did not arise, but for the sake of interest, of course, I tried to do it. We install a file for metal, slow down the speed to a minimum, remove the pendulum stroke and start. Well, yes, it is indeed possible.

Unlike reciprocating, circular, chain saws, the same router, the jigsaw is held and guided with one hand, which allows the second to fix the workpiece. Thanks to this, a fairly accurate cut is obtained at a significant speed of work, since there is no need to fix the workpiece each time, you just need marking and the firm hand of the operator. By using a saw table to mount a jigsaw, you can achieve even more impressive results in terms of precision and cleanliness of the cut. Then the file goes down with the 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 - this is the appearance of chips and the departure of the saw blade from the vertical. In most cases, they are solved by choosing the right file and choosing the operating mode (blade speed and pendulum stroke amplitude). An important role is also played by the skill of the user and the design feature of the jigsaw.

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

Fiolent PMZ-600 E

I have several jigsaws in my arsenal, each of which is focused on its own tasks. The main hard worker, whom we have been mercilessly exploiting for many years in the most difficult jobs, is the Fiolent PMZ-600 E. The 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 grinders. PMZ-600 E is a powerful and productive 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 the passport, this is a very real cutting thickness. A high-torque 600-watt motor moves the rod up to 2600 times per minute at idle, in general, the calculation for power. Many of my colleagues have such a model, no one had problems with the anchor, brushes, gearbox - all the filling was made with a margin of safety. True, a solid motor, a steel counterweight, durable metal parts could not but affect the mass of the product, which is 2.4 kg, and this is quite a lot.

The jigsaw has a switchable pendulum stroke, which helps to speed up work along a straight path, and if the difference is not particularly noticeable for thin materials, 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 rather vulnerable node is of Western European production.

I heard about complaints about the quality of the stock - someone broke it, and that it needs adjustment, refinement, as it can be deployed, which is why the file strives to deviate from the working line. Everything is fine with me, the stem did not break, it cuts smoothly. It has no serious backlashes, the file is well stabilized in the transverse direction.

The stamped sole is made soundly, it is securely fixed exactly perpendicular to the canvas. It is possible to translate it into a position at 45 °, but, to be honest, I do not use this function at all. By the way, the set was factory plastic pad on a sole that prevents black metal stripes and scratches on the front surfaces. Unfortunately, after laying the second hectare of the parquet board, it was safely erased.

Separately, it is worth mentioning the attachment of the file. Here, perhaps, the best way- the lock that clamps 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-clamping mechanisms.

So let's recap. "Fiolent" PMZ-600 E is an excellent jigsaw for any work on the construction site, this has been tested by time. 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 chic 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 amazing. I tried to cut the hundredth beam - 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). A 720 W engine seems to suggest such an order of things, but in practice, not all manufacturers are able to successfully transfer the large energy of the power plant to the saw set. The web stroke is 26 mm, the speed of its movement can be set within 800-2800 translational movements per minute. These indicators are similar to those of Fiolent PMZ-600 E, but there is already an electronic sawing speed control system that maintains the set parameters regardless of the structure of materials, including dissimilar ones. Naturally, a pendulum move is offered at our service. 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 a jerk, this triggers the inrush current limiter - “soft start” (the function helps with ultra-precise operations).

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

Replacement of a file is made without keys and screw-drivers. It is a bit alarming that the holding mechanism is actuated by a plastic lever, but so far everything is in order with it. It is interesting that the cartridge seems to be “omnivorous” - he tried to insert canvases of different thicknesses, he fixed everything securely.

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

Now about the unpleasant. The jigsaw is heavy (2.4 kg) and quite overall, they simply cannot crawl into some places. Its length is 30 cm, plus 10 cm of the input casing of the cord protruding back. The body is a bit thick, it resembles a small grinder, I couldn't grasp it normally, the device strives to fall out of my hands. The presence of a mushroom-shaped handle involves two-handed operation, which I really do not like. To turn off the start button, which is necessarily locked, it is necessary to intercept it, you cannot get it from the working position of the hands.

The Makita 4351 FCT is certainly a powerful, reliable, functional tool. However, it is not suitable for construction and decoration, since you have to work a lot “in place”, sawing workpieces “on the knee” is not his element. The jigsaw will show itself perfectly in the workshop, where the part can be securely fastened. With its help, a figured cut is perfectly performed, you can easily lead the tool towards yourself, to the side, from the bottom of the workpiece.

The little green BOSCH PST 650 was designed by German engineers for the average home craftsman. I bought it in a large building supermarket, as an addition to the monumental "Fiolent" PMZ-600 E. I will say again, there was no goal to save money, I just assemble a set of lightweight compact tools for special application under special conditions. Practice has shown that the household series of this manufacturer can also 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 lining, the switches are located in accessible, expected places, everything is perfectly balanced. A sensitive large button allows you to “go off the gas” 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 (Fiolent PMZ-600 E, for example, has 2600 strokes per minute). In a word, as in the case of other household tools of the series, the Germans relied on speed. I easily cut bars 50 mm thick, and this is clearly not the limit (the passport indicates 65 mm - wood, 4 mm - steel).

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

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

One and a half years PST 650 has been working without failures on finishing works, sawing bars, board, laminate, lining. An excellent ultra-light class tool, it has rightfully earned its place on the construction site. Concerning 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 motion with three modes, a 600-watt motor, a speed controller, a good frequency, traditional design, German title... But here quality of execution brings the manufacturer irrevocably. The button broke, the rubber peeled off the handle, the stem began to play, the sole bent, the block that fixed the file broke, a very hard cord began to crack ... Only the motor continues to function. This is an example of how not to make electric jigsaws, this is a complete failure. It makes no sense to buy such a tool, no matter how cheap it would cost.

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

  1. 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.
  2. High power necessarily affects the mass of the product. Consider if you need it.
  3. A jigsaw with a mushroom handle is better suited for work in a workshop environment. Two-handed grip involves fixing the workpiece. It is very convenient to make complex curvilinear cuts with such a tool.
  4. D-shaped machines are operated with one hand, they are good when used in the "field", "on site". This option for the construction site and for the home is preferable.
  5. The presence of a pendulum stroke significantly increases productivity.
  6. To work with a variety of materials a change in stroke frequency is required - it’s good when there is a step speed controller.
  7. For delicate sawing, the function of electronic stabilization of the set speed and soft start will not be superfluous.
  8. The sole must be securely fixed perpendicular to the cutting blade. A big plus would be the presence of a plastic lining.
  9. The less backlash at the working rod and the support roller, the cleaner and more accurate the cut will be.
  10. The quick-clamp blade fastening may have a limit 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.
  11. Directional airflow and illumination of the working area are very useful options.
  12. Each model has its own unique ergonomics, be sure to “shake” the jigsaw in your hands before buying, choose what suits you personally.
  13. In many authorized sales centers, the buyer is allowed to test the tool in operation, use this right.

There is probably no man who does not know about such an instrument as electric jigsaw. This versatile device has the ability to process any materials at home. Every experienced master, who understands construction, repair work, woodcarving or carpentry, has this tool in his household.
On the construction markets and in any specialized stores a huge assortment of electric jigsaws is offered, so before purchasing a tool, you need to find out in detail its main technical characteristics.
Often, manufacturers produce models that have various additional functions, due to which their cost increases. But not all of these functions are used in the work. Therefore, it is not recommended, when choosing a jigsaw, to start only from the cost of the model, believing that an expensive tool is better than a cheaper one. For choosing an electric jigsaw, there are certain criteria that you should be aware of.

What is an electric jigsaw and what are its functions?

The electric jigsaw is an electric jigsaw, a hand tool equipped with electric drive. Due to its small dimensions, this tool has a small weight, which is almost not felt.

An electric jigsaw quickly and efficiently performs the following work:

  1. Direct cutting of wood, plastic, drywall sheets, metal sheets, laminate, ceramic tiles and other materials.
  2. Curvilinear cutting of any of the materials listed above.
  3. Cutting round holes with the required diameter.
  4. Cutting rectangular holes.

The electric jigsaw is designed to perform various operations on the longitudinal, transverse and curly cutting any sheet materials.

The electric jigsaw, which is produced by the Dutch manufacturer Skil, can be used for domestic purposes, performing a straight cut. wooden parts and material.

Features of the design of the jigsaw

The electric jigsaw cuts the material with a special file, which is driven by an electric motor. In this case, the saw blade reciprocates in a vertical plane with a frequency of 3500 strokes per minute.

The mechanism is mounted on a support platform, called by the masters a board or a sole. The base plate is used as a guide, which ensures high accuracy in cutting materials, by maintaining a constant distance from the cutting material to the surface being processed.

Since the support platform has the ability to rotate to a maximum angle of 45 degrees, it is possible to change the inclinations of the cut. The platform is most often made of the following materials:

  1. become;
  2. aluminum;
  3. high strength plastic.

The file of the tool is closed by manufacturers under a transparent protective screen, for the manufacture of which plexiglass (organic glass) is used, which ensures safety during cutting work.

There are two various types handle designs that are equipped with electric jigsaws:

  1. A peculiar shape that allows you to perfectly view the cut lines.
  2. Mushroom shape for easy cutting on an inclined plane.

The types of handles do not affect the quality of work, so the jigsaw is not selected according to this criterion. Therefore, the design of the handle is chosen according to personal preferences.

By purchasing a jigsaw, you will greatly simplify your work and save a significant amount of time.

The electric jigsaw, which is designed for the work of professionals, is equipped with various additional features that make its operation much easier. It consists of: a speed controller, a switch lock, a switch, a saw holder, a dust collector nozzle, a pendulum governor, a guide roller, a protective cover and an adjustable sole.

The well-known Japanese company Hitachi produces a cordless jigsaw, which is designed to work in places far from electrical networks.

When planning to use an electric jigsaw without connecting to an electrical supply, you must purchase a cordless model. However, one must be aware that such a tool has time limits during operation. Rechargeable models often have low power.

Additional functions of the jigsaw

Electric jigsaws are available in various configurations, but most often it includes the following functions and components:

Stroke frequency adjustment- it is used when working with various materials. The stroke rate is selected either before the start of the power tool, or during operation. To do this, you need to strongly press the start-lock button. Thus, labor productivity increases. True, with such operating mode the electric jigsaw quickly wears out the working blade.

Multistage pendulum mechanism- it is a characteristic modern models electric jigsaws. Thanks to this mechanism, it is possible for the file to make additional horizontal movements (in the direction of sawing and in the opposite direction), as well as to cut the material only when moving “up”. This feature increases the productivity of the work, while eliminating the rapid wear of the saw blade. But with this mode of operation, the quality of the cut surface deteriorates. For this reason, when making a fine cut, it is not recommended to use this function. This recommendation applies to sheet metal and hardwood work.

Illumination of the working area- this is done using a lamp that is built into the design of the electrical appliance. This feature increases convenience when working in low natural light.

Quick saw blade change system- it facilitates the removal of worn cutting blades by pressing a special lever.

Automatic sawdust blower This is done with a fan that cools the engine. With this function, the cutting line is freed from sawdust generated during operation and settling dust.

Connecting an electric jigsaw to a vacuum cleaner- this is carried out using a special nozzle, and contributes to rapid cleansing working surface tool from waste, while improving the visibility of the cut line.

Blade turning device- this function helps the working blade turn 360 degrees, which makes it possible to cut circles of various diameters in the material.

Angle lock- the function helps to fix the position of the jigsaw at angles from zero to 45 degrees.

So, you got acquainted with the additional functions of an electric jigsaw, based on which you can choose what you need for work.

Differences between professional or household models

Electric jigsaws, like other electric tools, come in a variety of models that can be used for professional or domestic purposes. In everyday life, this tool is not used very often, so household electric jigsaws have low power, inferior to professional models that are in constant use.

Household electric jigsaws are equipped with fewer additional features and have minimal working resources, which are enough for a one-time use of the tool. Accordingly, the cost of household models of electric jigsaws is 2-3 times less than the price of professional models.

When choosing an electric jigsaw, it must be borne in mind that household low-power tools are used for cutting wooden products with a maximum thickness of 70 mm, and steel with a maximum thickness of 4 mm.

Professional models of electric jigsaws, which have high power and performance, are used to cut wood with a maximum thickness of 135 mm, steel up to 10 mm and aluminum up to 20 mm thick.

When choosing a model by cost - think about how often a jigsaw may come in handy for you, it may not make sense to buy an expensive model.

If you know how thick the metal you need to cut, it is easy to calculate the power of the jigsaw needed for this job. Household electric jigsaws are produced by Chinese and Polish manufacturers. Better instruments are produced by German, Japanese and Swedish manufacturers.

The professional electric jigsaw is produced by the well-known German manufacturer Bosch.

Cut round holes, having different diameters, with the help of an electric jigsaw in sheet materials (wood, steel, plastic) easily and quickly.

Criteria for choosing a jigsaw model

The main indicator that requires special attention when choosing an electric jigsaw is its power. You need to know that household tool models are produced with a power of 350-500 W, and professional models are produced with a minimum power of 700 W. The power of an electrical appliance affects the depth of cut, the duration of uninterrupted operation and the life of the jigsaw.

Powerful models of electric jigsaws are heavy, which can have great importance for those who work with hand tools.

Also important is the number of file strokes per minute. This indicator affects the speed of work and the cleanliness of the cut. Most models of electric jigsaws have a value of this indicator from zero to 3100. However, for some tools, the number of strokes per minute reaches 3500 times.

The use of an electric tool can be comfortable, which is affected by the system for changing the files and their fastening. The blades are attached with:

  1. screws.
  2. Special clamping devices. In this case, the cutting blade can be changed much faster and no special tool is required.

When choosing an electric jigsaw, be sure to pay attention to the function of adjusting the stroke frequency if you use this tool to process various Construction Materials. Some of the sheet materials can be cut with tools that have certain values ​​​​of this indicator.

The use of models connected to a vacuum cleaner will help maintain health. Thanks to this function, the eyes and respiratory organs are protected from the ingress of fine dust, which is formed when working with an electric jigsaw. In addition, the vacuum cleaner allows you to keep the workplace clean.

If the electric tool kit includes replaceable files, special oils for lubricating the working surface, screwdrivers and other useful little things, this will be a nice addition to it. But all these components are sold separately by specialized stores, and service centers, which are opened by tool manufacturers.

Lightweight and silent Makita electric jigsaws are inherent in high quality and various additional features. These tools are produced by the company's own factories located in Japan, USA, UK, China and Romania.

Video - comparative review jigsaws from various manufacturers.

Electric jigsaws are produced by well-known companies: Bosch, Makita, Meister, Hitachi, Metabo, Skil. Before choosing a particular tool, you must familiarize yourself with the technical characteristics of all brands. So you can become the owner the right tool for a relatively small cost.

  1. Bosch PST650
  2. Bosch PST 900 PEL
  3. Bosch PST 700E
  4. Bosch GST 8000 E
  5. Makita 4329
  6. Makita JV0600K
  7. Makita 4350 FCT
  8. Fiolent (Рhiolent) PM3 650E
  9. Fiolent PM5-750E M
  10. Interskol MP 100 700e
  11. Interskol MP-65 E-01
  12. Festool PSB 420
  13. Bison ZL 710E
  14. Hitachi CJ90VST
  15. DeWALT DW349

The characteristic of the functioning and safety of the electric jigsaw allows it to be used by people without special practical skills. Today, every construction online store selling power tools offers goods of this category, and its delivery to the most remote corners of our country is carried out without stopping. Household jigsaws can have a battery or run on mains power. Cordless jigsaw is not tied to outlets, which is convenient in conditions of lack of electricity.

On the market building tools The units of the brands Bosch (Bosch), Makita (Makita), DeWALT (De Volt), Festool, (Festul), Metabo (Metabo), Stomer (Stomer), Skil (Skil), Dremel (Dremel) and others have proven themselves to be excellent. For example, for Festul jigsaws, the PSB 420 model is especially popular, and for the same Skills - 4581 LA, for Makita this is the JV0600K unit, and for Bosch - PST 900 PEL. To understand the whole variety of these units and find out which one is better suited for specific tasks, we suggest viewing the rating of electric jigsaws that have collected positive reviews experienced users.

Bosch PST650

This model refers to pendulumless power tools equipped with a vibration neutralization system. Ideal for processing any material and performs both straight and figured cuts. A vacuum cleaner can be connected to the Bosch PST 650 jigsaw to remove sawdust. The compact and lightweight unit is easy to handle and allows for keyless blade changes. The steel sole guarantees long service life, and the powerful engine gives the chance to carry out the most difficult works.

Bosch PST 900 PEL

A high-quality and high-performance representative of the Bosch family, it is endowed with all the necessary functions for efficient work. Such jigsaws with backlight, anti-vibration system and the ability to blow off sawdust from the cutting line are very popular with buyers. Like the previous model, it provides for changing the saw without a key.

Bosch PST 700E

Electric jigsaws of this model are characterized by high power. They are equipped with an ergonomic handle with a comfortable soft nozzle, securely fixed in the hand. Manufacturers have provided an adapter for connecting a vacuum cleaner and equipped the tool with the SDS system, which guarantees a quick change of the cutting blade without auxiliary devices. A 45 degree angled steel soleplate is provided for a clean cut.

Bosch GST 8000 E

Manual jigsaw without battery with four-stage pendulum adjustment equipped with a bracket-shaped handle and a quick-clamp torch mount. A powerful tool capable of processing any material and allows you to get a high-quality cut, while it can function without interruption for a long time.

Makita 4329

Electric jigsaws Makita 4329 are equally popular among professionals and amateurs due to their excellent technical specifications. One of the main advantages of the Makita 4329 electric jigsaw is the ability to adjust the sawing speed and the amplitude of the saw blade oscillation. The unit is equipped with a start button lock and has a low noise level. The weight of the Makita 4329 jigsaw is only 1.9 kg, and its price is in the most optimal ratio with build quality and functionality.

Makita JV0600K

Powerful Makita JV0600K electric jigsaws are equipped with a comfortable rubberized handle that guarantees a secure grip and dampens vibration. Like the previous model Makita 4329 electric jigsaws, there is a keyless connector for sawing, shavings blowing and an adapter for connecting a vacuum cleaner. Included with the equipment is a convenient case for storage and transportation.

Makita 4350 FCT

Makita jigsaws of this model belong to the class of professional equipment, and their versatility allows you to work with any material. The powerful engine of the unit is distinguished by a wide range of saw stroke frequencies, while the jigsaw has compact dimensions and low weight, as well as a reduced level of noise and vibration. Its aluminum platform slides back as needed and can tilt 45 degrees to either side. The model is completed LED backlight working area.

Fiolent (Рhiolent) PM3 650E

Professional jigsaws Fiolent domestic production proved to be reliable units with high performance. The manual jigsaw Fiolent PM3 650E with a three-stage pendulum stroke and its frequency adjustment meets all modern requirements, including safety, while being inexpensive, which is why it is popular among craftsmen. The jigsaw Fiolent of this model is equipped with efficient system ventilation that protects the unit from overheating during long-term continuous operation. Like most models of Fiolent jigsaws, this sample allows you to process the material perpendicularly and at an angle of -45 to 45 degrees. The accuracy of the cut is ensured by the side clamps of the saw.

Fiolent PM5-750E M

Another representative of Fiolent jigsaws, which does a good job of cutting plastic, wood and metals. Its smooth operation and low vibration make it comfortable to use when held with one hand. The Fiolent PM5-750E M jigsaw package includes a guide roller of the pendulum lever, which ensures the stability of the saw blade in all operating modes.

Interskol MP 100 700e

Jigsaws Interskol MP 100 700e are equipped with a chip collector, have a comfortable handle and a pressure wheel that provides an even cut. These samples are characterized by reduced vibration, an air cooling system and the ability to adjust the sole without using a special key. Safety of work is reached thanks to existence of the protective screen.

Interskol MP-65 E-01

Jigsaws Interskol MP-65 E-01 are easy to use. The round rod is not deformed when the saw blade hits the workpiece. Thanks to airflow universal tool exhibits excellent overload resistance when machining wood, plastic and metal workpieces. The pendulum mode switch makes it possible to adjust the operation of the saw depending on the nature of the procedures. Electric jigsaw Interskol allows you to cut material at an angle of 45 degrees.

Festool PSB 420

Festul jigsaws are characterized by an ergonomic body, comfortable handle and low weight. Pendulum jigsaws Festul ideally cope with curved cuts due to the introduction of a triple cutter guidance system. For quick sawing of workpieces from various materials, electric jigsaws of this brand provide a powerful traction force.

Bison ZL 710E

Jigsaws Zubr ZL 710E are equipped with a laser marker, which increases the convenience of work. The rubberized handle is securely held in the hand and does not slip while cutting material.. This model of Zubr units with a pendulum stroke provides for an adapter for connecting a vacuum cleaner, and a quick-clamp connector makes it possible to quickly change the file.

Hitachi CJ90VST

The electric jigsaw with disk speed control of the saw is equipped with a balancing system that ensures smooth operation of the tool. This model of Hitachi brand units successfully combines high power and low noise level. Sawdust is removed from the cut line by blowing.

DeWALT DW349

Jigsaws DeWalt are distinguished by high build quality and excellent performance. Electric jigsaws of this model are equipped with all the necessary options to ensure a flawless cut, and have stroke frequency adjustment, sawdust blowing, and a counterweight system. The comfortable handle with a rubber grip does not slip in the hand, and the anti-vibration system reduces the load on the hand during operation.

Power, W

Stroke frequency (max), stroke / min

Cutting depth of wood, mm

Price, rub

Bosch PST 900 PEL

Bosch GST 8000 E

Fiolent PM3 650E

Interskol MP

ZUBR ZL-710E

(18 ratings, average: 4,17 out of 5)

This is a versatile tool. You need to understand that jigsaws are more often used by professionals than homemade homemade ones. But nevertheless, this tool deserves the attention of any self-respecting master.

Apply electric jigsaw professionals in various fields- plumbers, tilers, furniture makers, roofers, etc. during repair work in houses and apartments. As already mentioned, this is a universal tool, which means it has a wide application profile. Thanks to various files, it can be used in different directions construction.

Tilers use a professional electric jigsaw to get around the rounded shapes of columns or ornate parquet to tile joints. Roofers use a jigsaw when working at height, cutting a beam or cutting a board. Furniture makers cannot do without this tool at all.

Well, if you decide with your son to make a birdhouse or other structure for the house, a jigsaw will come in handy.

The electric jigsaw is equipped with an electric drive hand tool . Thanks to special files, which are driven by a stepper mechanism and reciprocate, a cut occurs. The jigsaw has a sole that glides well on the surface. With the help of the sole, you can change the angle of the saw to 45 degrees, which will allow you to connect parts at an angle of 90 degrees.

When choosing a jigsaw, remember that it has the following main characteristics:

There was a time when the main criterion for the quality of an instrument was its cost. But, as practice has shown, when choosing a jigsaw, you should first of all pay attention not to the well-known name of the manufacturer, but to the main characteristics so that they are enough to carry out the planned work (Vasily, Russia).

How to choose a tool for the home

Along with various professional tools, which are on the farm, the jigsaw will take its rightful place. This universal tool and it is necessary to approach his choice responsibly.

Most often, a wood jigsaw is used at home, which means it is better to choose from budget models. The choice of a jigsaw is better to stop at well-known manufacturers, such things will last longer. A device with a power of 500 watts for the home is quite suitable. No extra bells and whistles needed. Following these principles, you can buy a high-quality, but at the same time inexpensive instrument.

The rating of jigsaws can be seen in user reviews. But it is better, when choosing a jigsaw, to hold it in your hands. Authorized stores allow try out the tool. Hold it, feel it in your hand, try how it lies, whether the handle is comfortable. Check that there are no backlashes in the main moving mechanisms - the quality of the cut depends on this. So you can feel the tool, its convenience for you personally. Not a single rating compiled by professionals will give such an effect.

It is good that it has a soft start and a stroke frequency controller, as well as a multi-stage pendulum stroke function. This will make your work easier when cutting hardwood for a long time.

Choosing a jigsaw for home use, I settled on inexpensive model domestic production. It turned out that it is not so bad, it is quite enough for homework. Except that cutting accuracy is poor compared with professional models (Andrey, Russia).

Jigsaw for professional work

It all depends on where you plan to use this tool. If this is a workshop, then it is better to take a heavy, powerful tool with a mushroom handle. Such a jigsaw has good declared characteristics and quality. He will be able to cope with the tasks of working in the shop.

If this is work on the road, then it is better to take handy tool, which can be crawled everywhere. The D-shaped handle makes it easy to operate with one hand. The second hand is free to hold the part or turn it.

Working at height(this is usually roofing), it is better to use characteristics above average, since you have to cut timber. It is desirable that the weight of the tool itself be small, and it directly depends on the power of the jigsaw. So you have to choose the golden mean between quality and convenience.

Varieties of saws

Different types of materials in terms of hardness or thickness require from the manufacturer make saws for all occasions. For wood, for example, there are saws for faster, cleaner or thinner cuts. All saws have different tooth configurations.

For different materials such as steel, aluminum, drywall, wood and even ceramic tile, there are types of files.

Faced with the need to buy a jigsaw file, I found that in stores, and even more so in markets, often sell fakes made of soft metals who are unable to function properly. Therefore, I made it a rule to always check the quality using well-known methods for quickly checking the quality of the metal (Dmitry, Russia).

In order to make it easier to pick up a file, they are marked by manufacturers. The marking contains information about what alloy the saw itself is made of.

  • For wood and polymers, as well as plastic, a carbon steel blade is suitable.
  • High speed tool steel is suitable for cutting sheet metal and aluminum.
  • Universal bimetallic blades are suitable not only for cutting, but also for drilling.
  • For ceramics, files made of carbide alloys are suitable.

It is also necessary pay attention to blade shanks because they are also different. You need to buy the ones that are suitable for your instrument. There are several types of fastening saws.

The marking may contain data in the following form: T118AF.

  • T - shank type;
  • 1 - file length;
  • A - tooth size;
  • F is the material from which the saw blade is made, in this case bimetallic.

In conclusion, I would like to draw attention to the fact that if you use the jigsaw correctly and carefully, clean it after each use, lubricate the parts, then the tool can last quite a long time. No need to rush the tool during work, pressing on it to finish drinking quickly. By doing this, you load the cutting parts of the tool and make the electric motor work under excessive load. This will damage your instrument. Replace used blades with new ones promptly.

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