Best jigsaws in 2020

The jigsaw is a useful thing in the home craftsman's "arsenal". It will help you quickly cut any material: laminate, aluminum profile, boards - you just need to choose the right file.

Types of jigsaws

By the principle of work

• Manual. Most models belong to this type. They differ in that the workpiece is fixed, and the jigsaw moves along its surface. Optimal for simple jobs.
• Desktop (stationary). Only the workpiece moves, which helps to ensure greater accuracy and quality of the cut. Well suited for sawing patterns. They cut various types of materials. Due to their large size, they are not very convenient for use at home, they are more often found in a carpentry workshop.

By type of food

• Network. They work when connected to the mains, they have high power.
• Rechargeable. They are distinguished by their mobility. Well suited for outdoor work.

By appointment

• For household use. Designed for household chores. They are relatively inexpensive. They work with wood no more than 70 mm thick and steel 2-4 mm thick.
• Professional. They can function for a long period of time, therefore they are characterized by high power. Used to perform a large number of jobs. They are used for cutting wood up to 135 mm thick, steel - up to 10 mm, aluminum - up to 20 mm.
• Industrial. Required in production. In appearance they resemble a machine tool.

How to choose a jigsaw

Selection criteria to be guided by in search of a quality tool:

• Power. For a home craftsman, a household model is quite suitable, in which this figure is 200-700 W, which will allow sawing both wood (up to 135 mm thick) and metal (aluminum up to 20 mm thick, steel up to 12 mm). Such a tool is lightweight and easy to operate.
• Weight. Depends on power. Light models - up to 2.2 kg, heavy - over 2.2 kg.
• Stroke frequency. This is the number of progressive movements of the file in the up and down direction per unit of time. The speed of the tool will depend on the value of the indicator. At the same time, wood "requires" high speeds, while plastic and metal, on the contrary, - low. The universal jigsaws have an option to adjust the stroke rate and 6-8 speed options to choose from.
• Pendulum stroke. This function allows the file to move not only up and down, but also to make swaying movements back and forth. This increases the cutting speed and reduces the wear of the saw blade. Many models have a special switch that adjusts the stroke amplitude, which affects the quality of the cut when working with different materials.
• Anti-vibration system. Reduces the number of vibrations transmitted to the hands of the person using the tool.The result is improved cutting quality by controlling the jigsaw.
• Cutting depth. This indicator fixes the maximum workpiece thickness that this jigsaw can handle. For household models, this value ranges from 50 to 120 mm when working with wood and from 5 to 10 mm when cutting soft metal.
• Method for making the sole. A stamped sole is usually found on inexpensive models, however, if possible, it is better to prefer its cast analog, made of aluminum alloy, which is more durable and reliable. An important function is the adjustment of the slope of the sole, which allows you to cut at a certain angle, making bevel cuts. For this, the design is supplemented with special clamps.
• File attachment. The screw is reliable and versatile, allowing you to work with files of any kind. Its disadvantage is the difficulty of installing the file. The quick-release fastener allows you to change accessories by pressing the lever. It is convenient to use when working with different materials. However, it requires the use of files of the same thickness and of a specific manufacturer.
• Ergonomics. Modern jigsaws can be used with one hand. They are equipped with rubber grips to compensate for vibration. Tool handles are made staple (in the form of the letter D) and mushroom-shaped (resemble a boot). The former allow you to see what the cutting line is, the latter are convenient when working on an inclined surface. Jigsaws with hybrid handles are less common.
• Additional functions. There are a number of characteristics that make it easier to work with the tool:

1. Laser pointer. Shows a straight cut line.
2. Guide bar for precise cutting.
3. Illumination by LED lamp. Allows you to see the marked line in low light conditions.
4. Double electrical insulation (if it is necessary to carry out work in damp rooms).
5. Sawdust blowing off due to the built-in fan. Improves the visibility of the cutting line, making the operator's working conditions more comfortable.
6. Connector for a technical vacuum cleaner.
7. Protective screen. It is made transparent, can be removed or moved. Restricts access to the canvas working area.
8. Smooth descent. Reduces the current when the tool is turned on, which protects the engine from burnout, increases the service life of the equipment.
9. The file can be rotated 360 degrees, which is very convenient for curly cutting.
10. Built-in battery that makes it possible to work when there is no access to the mains.

• The presence of a case for storing and carrying the tool.
• The popularity of the model: today a large number of both branded and non-branded equipment are presented on the power tool market. If finances permit, it is worth giving preference to the tool "named": usually brands provide customers with a guarantee of service.
• How much does the tool cost: professional models are more expensive than household ones. In addition, the more options, the higher the price of the equipment. Therefore, when planning a purchase, you need to carefully read the functions of the model you like and determine how useful they will be to you.

Choosing a file for jigsaws: what to look for

• File material:

1. Carbon Steel (HSC). This file "works" with non-solid materials (plastic, wood, plywood).
2. High speed steel (HSS). Designed for cutting hard blades - from non-ferrous metal or steel.
3. Carbide (HM). It is used for particularly hard materials such as ceramics or aerated concrete.
4. Bimetallic alloy (BIM). It has high strength and wear resistance, therefore it is suitable for any material.

• Material for processing. For each of its varieties, saws are produced that have the necessary strength characteristics of the blade.Today, on the shelves of specialized stores, you can find files for wood and metal, for laminate and stainless steel, for ceramics and plastic and other types.
• Saw tooth shape. Fine, fine teeth will give a more accurate sawing result, but the work will be rather slow. Large sparse teeth will allow you to get the job done quickly, but the cut will be rough.
• Thickness. The stability of the saw blade during operation depends on this indicator.
• The pitch of the teeth is the distance between their tops. It is designated t / TPI. For standard carpentry work, a file with a t value of 3-3.5 mm (with a medium tooth) is suitable.
• Saw blade width. The larger it is, the more stable the canvas itself. If you need to cut a curved line, you should choose a narrower blade, since it fits more easily into turns.

Which company is better to buy a jigsaw

Depending on the price, two groups of models can be distinguished:

• Budgetary. Not the most famous and popular models among users. May not always be of high quality.
• Upscale. Famous brands from companies specializing in the production of construction equipment and producing both household and professional models.

Top manufacturers

• Bosch (Germany);
• Makita (Japan);
• Hitachi (Japan);
• Metabo (Germany);
• DeWalt (USA);
• Interskol (Russia);
• Fiolent (Russia).

Rating of quality jigsaws - 2020

Household models

DeFort DJS-505-B

One of the best representatives of the budget segment. Its mini size and light weight make the operator's work easier. Of the useful options, there is a regulator for changing the stroke rate, inclination of the sole at an angle of 45 degrees, connecting a vacuum cleaner to collect dust.

• Bracket handle;
• Functionality;
• Budget model;
• Evenness of the cut;
• Reliability and good quality.

• Changing the file is not very convenient.
• Not the best outsole.

Average price: 1200 rubles.

Fiolent PM 3-600E

A simple jigsaw, suitable for beginners. Convenient for small-volume work. Low weight allows one-handed sawing. A special guide roller ensures the stability of the saw blade at any speed. The kit includes an anti-friction pad for working on smooth surfaces. The quality and reliability of the model is much higher than that of the Chinese counterparts for the price.

• Ergonomic;
• Compact;
• Inexpensive;
• Locking the start button enables continuous operation;
• The cutting speed is adjustable.

• Noises during operation;
• Control over the cutting line is required.

Average price: 2300 rubles.

Makita 4329K

One of the best models for DIYers with a power of 450 watts: it makes a cut quickly, easy to use, light in weight. With the help of a special wheel on the handle, the frequency of movement of the file is adjusted, which is quite convenient. There is a pendulum motion and a chip blowing function.

• Low vibration level;
• You can connect a vacuum cleaner to collect chips.

• Not designed for heavy loads.

Average price: 4 150 rubles.

DeWALT DW349

An excellent model for the home with a full range of options: lighting, handle with soft pads, sawdust blowing, 4-meter cable. There is a function to adjust the inclination of the sole. Metal brackets are provided to protect your fingers.

• Low weight;
• Low noise level during operation;
• Three modes of pendulum motion;
• The gear housing is made of metal.

disadvantages

• Relatively high price in this segment;
• There is no soft start option.

Average price: 4550 rubles.

Bosch GST 65 B

Convenient and easy-to-use tool. It is lightweight and compact, which reduces the strain on the operator's hands. The blowing function helps you see the cutting line, which means you can do the job efficiently. The jigsaw successfully copes with cutting various metals: wood, metal, plastic and others.

• Ergonomics;
• Reliability;
• High-quality assembly;
• The fixing button is made two-way.

• Heats up with prolonged use.

Average price: 4 370 rubles.

Hitachi CJ14DSL

This is a cordless jigsaw. It has good power and productivity, it can cut steel sheets up to 10 mm thick. The ergonomics are well thought out: the handle fits perfectly in the hand, the blowing function works. The kit includes a battery standard for all power tools from the manufacturer.

• Low vibration.

• Great weight.

Average price: 6 790 rubles.

Professional jigsaws

Bosch PST 900 PEL

The relatively low cost for this segment is combined with characteristics that are not inferior to the top models. The power of the tool is 620 W, it can handle both wood (up to 90 mm thick) and metal (up to 8 mm thick). Smooth start, lighting, ease of attachment of the file - all this makes the model popular with buyers.

• Can be connected to a vacuum cleaner to collect sawdust;
• Reliability;
• Functionality;
• Low vibration.

• The stamped outsole has no overlap.

Average price: 5 210 rubles.

Makita 4350FCT

Ideal for cutting circles and curved lines. It has a whole range of useful options: LED illumination, continuous operation button, material protector, pressure wheel.

• Pendulum stroke;
• Power 720 W;
• Quick-clamping file attachment.

• The need to control the accuracy of the line with a straight cut.

Average price: 9680 rub.

DeWalt 331K

Perfect for different types of work. The jigsaw is equipped with a convenient saw change system: it takes place through just one movement. Also available is a soft start option and adjustable sawdust blowing.

• Low noise and vibration;
• Reliability.

• Great weight.

Average price: 10 550 rubles.

Bosch GST 18 V-LI B 0

The standard battery model is convenient for those who own several power tools of the same brand. The battery capacity can provide good performance. Rubber pad on the handle, no loud noise and strong vibration, ensures ease of use.

• Convenience;
• Profitability:
• Quick-change mount;
• Good build quality.

• The die-cast aluminum sole can break if the tool falls on the concrete.

Average price: 15 692 rubles.

When choosing a power tool, it is important to determine the scope of its application. Professional jigsaws have a wide range of possibilities, but in a home workshop a number of their options may remain unclaimed, which means that extra money will be paid in vain. Therefore, if you are not going to make money with this tool, you should pay attention to household models.