Reviews say that while laser guides are the least helpful luxury feature on jigsaws, built-in LED lights are more important, and they really do help illuminate the cutting line. Nearly all jigsaws now offer variable speed, orbital action settings and baseplate adjustments from 0 to 45 degrees for beveled cuts. While most jigsaws include cases, some of the least expensive saws do not. An expensive jigsaw that includes a lot of accessories may cost less in the long run than a stripped-down jigsaw, because the cost of good blades, a fence for straight cuts or a dust collection attachment can add up quickly.

  • Switches are important safety features. Reviews say the safest type is a rocker switch that just takes a touch to turn the saw off, but this type is usually found only on barrel-grip jigsaws. Safest placement is in the middle rather than on the side, so it's easy to reach whether you're right- or left-handed. (A convenient switch for right-handed users may be a safety hazard for left-handed operators.) Note that some switch locks keep the tool turned off even if the trigger is pulled – important if children are around – while other locks keep the tool turned on to prevent hand fatigue for long cutting sessions.

  • Consider the speed control. Reviews are mixed as to which type of speed control is best, but the most recent reviews recommend a separate speed dial rather than trigger-controlled variable speed. A speed dial allows for a lock-on option, so you don't have to keep the trigger depressed for long cuts. This is especially useful on curves, where it helps keep the speed steady for better accuracy.
  • How much power and cutting capacity do you need? A low-powered lightweight jigsaw may cut everything you want to cut, but if you're planning to cut thick wood, be sure the jigsaw is rated for that task. Some jigsaws cut wood up to about 2 inches thick, while others can cut through 5 inches. If you want to cut metal, be sure the saw can cut the thickness you have in mind. Most of the metal ratings are for mild steel, so a jigsaw will cut thicker aluminum than that, but only thinner stainless. For cutting metal, be sure you can turn off the blower, a feature some woodworking reviewers overlook.
  • Ease of blade changing is emphasized in all the reviews we found. Steady improvements in blade-changing mechanisms have been made over the years, but reviews say that some tool-less blade changing systems are more trouble than using a screwdriver.
  • Orbital action settings are important for cutting a range of materials. You can choose a high orbital action for fast, rough cuts. But it's important to be able to shut off orbital action completely (for smooth cuts in materials that might otherwise chip or splinter).
  • Anti-splinter inserts help when cutting materials such as plywood and melamine with minimal splintering. Because a jigsaw cuts on the upward motion of the blade, splintering can be a persistent problem. Good splinter inserts can minimize this problem. They also keep splinters from flying up into the tool itself, where they could clog up the works. These are considered disposable items, so buy a jigsaw whose replacement parts are easy to get. Also look for a jigsaw whose insert doesn't impair visibility.
  • Air blowers push sawdust and chips away from the cutting path for better sightlines. Not all jigsaws have this feature, and adjustable blowers are best. If you always use a vacuum attachment to suck dust away from the saw, however, the dust blower doesn't matter as much. When a saw has a blower, it's important that you can turn it off when cutting metal. (Airborne metal chips are dangerous. Don't use a vacuum for these either, because hot metal can ignite sawdust in the vacuum.)
  • Some baseplates slide back for flush cuts, so you can get the blade right up to a wall or post. Reviews say this adjustment is much easier on some jigsaws than on others.
  • Dual-bevel capacity adds convenience. This means you can change the cutting angle from one direction to the other without flipping the board over.
  • Tool-free bevel adjustment is a nice feature, especially if you need to make angled cuts often. However, reviewers say that some tool-less systems work much better than others.
  • A soft baseplate cover can protect vulnerable surfaces. This is handy for protecting surfaces that might be scratched by the basic metal base. The most convenient covers snap on and off without tools. Many woodworkers just cover the plate with masking tape – a low-tech solution that also works.
  • For corded jigsaws, a long cord is a plus.
  • Consider dust collection. The best jigsaws come with standard ports for attaching a small shop vac hose – though reviews say this requires using guards that can obscure the sightline. Some jigsaws offer this only as an optional accessory. Festool has a superior system, and the Hilti WSJ 850-ET (*est. $280) has a built-in dust container that gets high marks.
  • The Collins Coping Tool is a curved baseplate that makes it possible to cut accurate inside corners on molding. It can fit on most jigsaws made by several manufacturers, including Bosch, DeWalt, Makita and Milwaukee, but not on Porter-Cable models or on the Bosch 1590 or 1591. If using this attachment is important for your work, you may want to check with the Collins Tool Co. (888-838-8988) to verify compatibility.
  • Note that while a jigsaw's quality and features affect how well it makes accurate cuts, all jigsaws take some practice to use well. In addition, the choice of blade makes a big difference in the quality of the cut. It's important to select the best blade for the material and thickness being cut. Bosch blades usually get excellent reviews.

Watch the video

To learn more, watch this About.com video on safety tips for using a jigsaw.

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