Wednesday, 21 September 2011

Versatility Of A Cordless Jigsaw

By Andy Norris


Jigsaws are generally used to cut curves and patterns into a spread of materials for cultured purposes. It is very important to find a cordless jigsaw that is cosy, stable and easy to manoeuvre. A top handle design is to be chose to a barrel grip for bigger controllability. Cordless jigsaws will usually have a tool free bevel alteration function which allows the blade to chop angles up to 45 degrees. A feature of just about all models is a tool-free blade change. Some systems require the blade to be turned manually to get rid of it but it's best to have a blade ejection feature to stop fingers being cut or burned. Look for a blade guide structure with sufficient side support to keep the blade on course and lessen bending. Most jigsaws offer orbital blade action for faster coarse cuts. Many models have a blower which expels a stream of air to clear dust down the trail of the cut and so improve operator visibility. With a variable speed option, most cordless jigsaws can run between 500 and 3000 spm. Customarily, choosing a higher voltage will result in better tool performance and because the saw's exertion tends to come in transitory phases, batteries last longer. The cheapest cordless jig saws cost as low as $40 but the best models are rather more dear than a corded jigsaw.

Name Brands We Recommend

The best cordless jigsaw overall is the 18V Makita LXT BJV180 at $198.67 for the bare tool or $388.99 for the kit including 2 Lithium Ion batteries, charger, anti-splintering device, blade set and tool bag. Weighing only 6.1 lbs and measuring 10" long, this cordless Makita jig saw has been highly commended for its wonderful ergonomics. It also has less vibration and lower noise for more control and comfort. A high-torque motor produces 2600 spm and comes with a variable speed trigger. There are 3 orbital settings plus straight cutting for use in a wide range of materials and a tool-less push-in lock system for speedy blade changes. The blade roller guide is positioned near to the work piece for cutting accuracy and an LED light illuminates the work area. See also a Makita cord-free reciprocating saw.

Voted the greatest value cordless jig saw is the 18V Bosch 52318. This jigsaw uses Ni-Cad instead of Lithium Ion batteries and is heavier (6.4 lbs) and slower (2000 spm) than the Makita cordless jig saw. Nonetheless do-it-yourself tools reviews give the Bosch cordless jig saw high scores for smooth cutting power and easy blade changes with a blade ejection lever. It has a variable speed trigger with ambidextrous lock-off switch. A soft rubber top handle grip that may be used in different positions increases comfort and control, and a three-way grip maintains secure blade position for precision cutting. Magnesium gear housing and a big aluminum foot provide further stability and control. A kit with battery and charger costs $223 while $150 will purchase the bare tool.

One of the less expensive, quality brand options is the 18V cordless Dewalt jigsaw DC330K costing $109.95 for the bare tool and $229 for a kit with charger, battery pack, blades and kit box. It can reach a speed of 3000 spm which can on occasion be sundry for different materials and applications. A four-position orbital action increases speed and control over cut quality and the metal keyless shoe has four bevel positions. Other features include a top handle anti-slip comfort grip and a dust blower. It works with the old Ni-Cad and new Lithium Ion batteries. All of these models carry a three year guarantee.




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