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06-01-2019, 02:36 PM
(This post was last modified: 06-01-2019, 02:40 PM by R Clark.)
I can't talk to the Dewalt or Ryobi.
Yes, in my opinion, there can be a huge difference.
I had a Craftsman; LOML gave it to me for my birthday years ago. I hated that jigsaw. Not only was the bevel a royal PITA to set, even when cutting a straight line in plywood it bucked and fought me every inch along the way. Required a screwdriver to change blades. Didn't seem to cut very well, even in soft woods with a fresh blade. During a project building a pergola for the patio four years ago, I was using it with the usual poor result. LOML saw that and asked, "Why is that saw doing that?" I told her it always had. She said, "Replace it, then."
Next day I went and bought a Bosch JS470E. Think I paid $130-140 for it. What a joy to use in comparison. Plenty of power, tool-less blade change, smooth-running, nice quality cuts (for a jigsaw).
I ended giving the Craftsman to my daughter to sell in a school class garage sale. I think they got $10 for it or something like that. Sometimes I feel bad that somebody paid $10 for that POS.
I like my Bosch tools; I have several. The jigsaw I'm talking about, a finish sander, and a reciprocating saw that's perfect for my needs.
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06-01-2019, 03:32 PM
(This post was last modified: 06-01-2019, 03:44 PM by Mr Eddie.)
Bosch - I have a slightly older model, I think it's a 1590. It has been worth every penny. Cuts straight as an arrow and is a joy to use. Wouldn't even consider another brand.
Lonnie
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(06-01-2019, 11:38 AM)Ricky Wrote: Seems like a handy tool to have. Been youtubing for recommended jigsaws but would appreciate advice here from experienced users.
Looks like a simple tool, is there a wide range in quality? I'd rather pay more for a decent one than have regrets.
Any advice appreciated. Local Home depot had 2 brands in stock, Ryobi and dewalt.
Jig saws are a great basic tool that everyone needs.
First Choice: Top Handle or Barrel Grip. Top handle is better for vertical and upside down applications, however, this is very seldom needed. In most cases a barrel grip gives more control and is more comfortable. I personally find top handles a bit too clumsy and swear by barrel grips, but it's really a personal choice.
Second Choice: regular quality or super quality. For most folks, a Bosch--the best regular quality jigsaw--is perfect. Bosch does jigsaws particularly well. If you use a jigsaw professionally then consider moving up to the Festool. Most people won't appreciate the small differences but for someone who uses a jigsaw all day the differences are worth it. I use a jigsaw A LOT and have used the barrel grip Festool for about a decade. Love it.
But if you're just taking a cut every now and then get the Bosch. And if you only need a jigsaw a couple times a year then really anything will work and even the Bosch might be overkill.
Last consideration: battery or plug in. I recommend plug in since these things use a lot of energy. If you have infinite
wealth then having both is fine but if you're just choosing one get the plug in. I've got a plug in and a battery reciprocating
saw [which is Kinda apples to oranges...] and it's nice to have the battery version when I don't want to drag an extension cord out to whatever I'm hacking at---but it's always underpowered and runs through about 3 batteries for every small job I attempt with it. Jigsaws and reciprocating saws are just better hardwired in to power.
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06-01-2019, 03:34 PM
(This post was last modified: 06-01-2019, 03:52 PM by Ricky.)
Thanks! Yeah seems Bosch gets top reviews from what I've been seeing. Time to check Amazon prime. Thank you gentlemen!
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Smart choice, you wont be sorry.
"I tried being reasonable..........I didn't like it." Clint Eastwood
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Mine is an older model Bosch Bosch 1590 EVS. I'd buy it or its successor in a heartbeat.