Jigsaws are a serious contender for one of the most handy and versatile saws, but which one is the best jigsaw out there?
As a power tool, the jigsaw is considered to be the master in cutting varied shapes in varied materials.
For anyone who works with a variety of materials, jigsaws can be considered an excellent option for cutting many different shapes in many different materials. So when it comes to your next project, a jigsaws might just be on the list. That’s why we’ve assembled a list of the best jigsaws on the market.
There are quite a lot of good jigsaws out there which are used by DIYers and professionals worldwide. The creams of the crop are made by brands such as Dewalt, Black+Decker, Porter-Cable, Makita, etc. All of these are recommended by workers for the current year, keeping the needs of the workers and the specifications in mind.
So let’s take a detailed look at the 7 Best Jigsaws for 2022 to help make up your mind….
Jigsaws in 2022: 7 of the very Best
#1. DEWALT 20V MAX Jigsaw
Dewalt has become a household name due to their various top-notch equipment. The DEWALT 20V MAX Jigsaw is no exception to that. You don’t have to take an eternity changing the blades on this jigsaw due to its lever-action and keyless blade changing mechanism. This jigsaw is also quite versatile as its shoe bevel detents from 0 to 45 degrees at a 15° interval.
One complaint about jigsaws is that the worker has to constantly blow the dust off the saw. The DEWALT 20V MAX Jig Saw comes with a dust blower that can easily be adjusted so the worker doesn’t have to worry about cleaning up.
Pros:
- Has a speed that varies between 0-3000 spm, allowing for versatility.
- The grip is anti-slip, making the grip comfortable.
- T-shank jigsaw blades can be installed in them.
Cons:
- Doesn’t have LED on the cutting line which makes seeing it difficult.
#2. BLACK+DECKER Jigsaw
Yet another well-known name in the industrial tools world, Black+Decker is known for its products’ quality. The BLACK+DECKER Jigsaw is one such product. The jigsaw has 4 settings that are customized. Curve control technology allows the user to gain access to all of these settings easily.
The BLACK+DECKER Jigsaw comes with Non-marring pads that make gripping it easier and make the working experience smoother than ever before. The triggers are one-handed, which enables the instant release of the clamps.
Pros:
- The variable cutting power of up to 3000 spm.
- Adjustable shoe bevels can make cuts up to 45 degrees.
- A hardened steel body along with resin construction makes sure the jigsaw is sturdy and durable.
Cons:
- Can only work properly with T-shank blades.
#3. PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX* Jigsaw
One of the best cordless jigsaws on the market, the PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX* Jigsaw comes with a dust blower that always keeps the tool clean. The blades of the jigsaw can be easily and quickly changed due to the tool-free release of the blades. The jigsaw also has a variable speed trigger up to 2500 spm that allows it to make clean and intricate cuts with utmost precision.
The PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX* Jigsaw comes with a contoured over-molded handle that is designed to make life easier for the worker. You will also get a 3 years warranty, which is a big plus.
Pros:
- Has 3 adjustable orbital settings.
- Bevel shoes that allow bevel cuts from 0 to 45 degrees.
- Cordless system of 20V
Cons:
- The battery is short-lived.
#4. Makita XVJ03Z Cordless Jig Saw
The Makita XVJ03Z helps carve out beautiful and intricate designs on the wood by having a variable speed of up to 2600 spm. This allows the cutting to be faster and more precise. The jigsaw also has 3 orbital settings along with straight cutting, which can be used in a different number of materials.
It is one of the top jigsaws out there when it comes to convenience. This equipment has a variable trigger that can be operated by two fingers only.
Pros:
- Tool-free blade changing mechanism.
- Has a base that is not only heavy gauged but precision machined as well?
Cons:
- The plastic blade removal guard easily comes off.
#5. SKIL 5 Amp Corded Jig Saw
The SKIL 5 Amp Corded Jig Saw is one of the best-corded jigsaws available in 2022. The jigsaw has an adjustable orbital function with 4 stages. This makes sure the cutting experience is smooth across all surfaces.
Not only does the SKIL 5 Amp Corded Jig Saw has variable speed control, but it also comes with a brake function that makes precision cutting even easier. On top of that, the blade changing mechanism is very fast due to being tool-free.
Pros:
- Angled cuts are possible due to shoe bevels.
- Comes with a dust blower that allows clear vision.
Cons:
- The dust blower is not automatic.
#6. RYOBI One+ P5231 T Shaped Jigsaw
The 18V Cordless Jigsaw from RYOBI has 4 orbital settings that allow the worker to cut the wood or even at various speeds. It also comes with a dust blower that is built-in which makes keeping the tool easier. The visibility is even more due to the LED lighting.
This 3,000 SPM Jigsaw comes with a trigger lock system that allows the worker to work with full focus. All the Ryobi 18V batteries of previous models work with this jigsaw.
Pros:
- Unused blades can be kept in the base for future use.
- Graphics to let the worker know which setting is best for what material and cuts.
Cons:
- Doesn’t support U-shank blades.
#7. CRAFTSMAN Jig Saw
The CRAFTSMAN Jig Saw allows precision cuts due to its 0-3000 spm variable speed. The jigsaw also has 4-stage orbital settings that allow aggressive cutting into a wide range of materials. The equipment comes with a fiberglass hammer that makes sure comfort is increased while ensuring minimal fatigue.
Pros:
- Fast tool-less blade change system.
- Very durable and can last years.
Cons:
- Can be a bit loud.
Final verdict
All the 7 best Jigsaws for 2022 on our list are great in their rights. There’s a jigsaw for everyone. But if you’re asking my opinion, well, I have the Porter-Cable in my workshop that seems to get used every other day.
The overall construction of the Porter-Cable is excellent, the 3 orbital settings are great to control how fast the saw cuts through a variety of different materials and the value for money is great. This one never lets me down.
How To Choose The Best Jigsaw
To help you zero in on the best jigsaw out of the list, here’s 5 important points that you should consider:
Power
Another point that you must consider while purchasing a new jigsaw is the power of the machine, the RPM, and other motor specifications. Make sure to choose a jigsaw with a powerful motor so that you can easily deal with tough wood logs and projects that need more power
Maintenance
As a common woodworking tool that you are going to use often in the workshop, it’s essential that you choose a jigsaw that is easier to use and maintain. Be sure to choose a product that has less expensive maintenance and doesn’t cost a lot to make adjustments.
Efficiency
Whether it is about the performance or the power, make sure that the tool you are planning to buy has better efficiency than other popular tools in the price range. By this, you can be assured of getting a perfect product that you can use without any worries about performance and value.
Value for money
Value for money is another important aspect while purchasing any power tool. Be sure that the price you are paying for the tool is worthy enough for the features, brand value, and efficiency you are getting from it.
Jigsaws Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my jigsaw not cutting straight?
Jigsaws are majorly used for cutting in a curved fashion. However, you can still use it for cutting straight. You need to get the technique right. Ensure that you are not exerting too much pressure on the blade. The blade should do the cutting and not the force that you are applying. You should not face any problem while cutting straight on the thin wood. However, you would need some practice before you can get a perfectly straight cut on thick wood. You might also need to clean up a little after you finish cutting. Using sandpaper or plane would help you in reaching perfection.
Which is better, a Jigsaw or a Circular Saw?
If you are a homeowner or if you often do DIY projects, then jigsaw would be a better option for you. The jigsaw’s advantage is that it can handle many different types of cuts, and it also has a proper blade. You can use a jigsaw with other materials. The jigsaws are not an ideal tool for making straight cuts in sheet material, but you can get this done at the store where you are purchasing your raw material from. They charge significantly less for making these cuts, so it would be better to buy a jigsaw instead of a circular saw.
What is the depth of cuts that I can get from a jigsaw?
The cutting depth of the jigsaw would vary as per the material. For wood, it would range from 1.5 inches to 6 inches. For metal material, the cutting depth would be between 0.37 inches to 1.5 inches. Similarly, for the mild steel, the cutting depth would be 0.25 inches to 0.625 inches. The thickness and the density of the material also matter here, and hence we would recommend you to check the product specifications before you start cutting.
Can a jigsaw be used for cutting at a 45 degree angle?
The significant part of the jigsaws is that it can be used for cutting at angles. You can use these saws for cutting at 45 degrees, and you will also be able to use them for cutting at 15 degrees or even 30 degrees. They can even cut at a 90-degree angle. You get the versatility when you buy a jigsaw. You will get a wide range of angles.
How can I use a jigsaw without splintering the wood?
The ideal cuts should be without the splinters. One of the reasons for getting the splintering could be the wrong use blade. The teeth of the blades may have some issues. You can check if the teeth have bends. Another reason could be the use of lower speed or over-cutting. The last reason that may lead to splintering is exerting pressure while cutting. If you wish to get rid of splinters, then you can use a splinter guard. You can also cover the wood with the masking tape on both sides, and then you can cut in the center of the masking tape.