It doesn’t matter if you are an architect or a woodworker, a professional or a passionate home DIYer if you like working in the workshop and have an eye for ‘the best,’ this post is for you to read!
As a beginner, a jigsaw is good enough to get the job done, be it wood or metal. A standard jigsaw itself is a powerful tool consisting of a reciprocating blade and an electric motor. It can also be viewed as a hand-held version of a band saw, or a scroll saw used for detailed cutting, offering precision, accuracy, and speed. In addition to this, some jigsaws consist of a bevel function that allows cutting angles that can vary up to 45 degrees compared to the usual vertical stroke for the cutting of miter joints. There is a wide variety of blades used for each work, such as:
- Blade Edge: This blade is appropriate for use when you are cutting soft metals as it delivers neat and straight cuts. The blade is symmetrically sharp-ground and is often made of high carbon steel, which effectively cuts the material with little effort.
- Cranked Blades: Cranked blades are flexible and break-proof. The milled, wavy-set teeth are excellently designed for cutting sheet metal. They are made of bi-metal (BIM) and the fully hardened high-speed steel (HSS) tooth strip bonds with the highly elastic high carbon steel body, making it sufficiently hard and flexible.
- Thin Blades: Thin blades can cut tighter curves more efficiently.
- Push Stroke Cutting Blades: While these blades prevent the top surface from damaging, they also deliver a neat and elegant cut.
The type of blade you use usually varies in TPI (teeth per inch), and it depends upon the material intended to cut.
These blades and variations may suffice your need for the clean, sleek cut, but as a professional, you need to have the perfect tool!
There are multiple options in the ‘top-rated specialty saw’ category today, and they are bound to provide you with an easy to use design.
However, a professional tool is preferred when it’s versatile with the ability to fulfill the contoured workshop needs. Be it navigating circles, curved openings, or simple curves; the objective is to have a tool that doesn’t splinter the wood.
As we observe the power tools, we come across several dizzying brands. Still, only a handful of them are trusted by the professionals only because they stand up to the rigorous jobs at the workshop and are precise, at the same time.
The heavy-duty professional jigsaw is all of the above; precise, powerful, and versatile.
However, picking up the best professional jigsaw for all your needs can be a daunting task. To make things more exciting, we have a list of top-rated professional jigsaws, and we’ll be reviewing each one in detail!
The Professional’s Pick
With these high-powered tools in the professional category, the real question is, ‘What makes a ‘good’ professional-grade jigsaw? What do professionals look for when they make their pick? Is it versatility or compatibility?
With hundreds of brand manufacturers, only a few are considered as the ‘best’ and relied upon by the professionals as they work with higher gigs.
To start with, the first factor that contributes to quality is ‘blade compatibility’!
Yes, good blade compatibility ensures an excellent working experience. Since you are working with a motor that is at least six amps, you will need both U shank and T shank compatibility to cut soft and hardwood along with any other materials you might use.
As a buyer, the next thing you’ll be interested in is the motor because that provides the essential energy to make it work. There are two main types:
- Brushed (used with corded models)
- Brushless ( used with cordless models)
The motor speed and power are also to be considered. The power source may or may not be cordless; it depends on your area of expertise and requirement. The corded power source is more suitable for cutting harder materials, but due to limited area and portability, it can sometimes be a problem.
So whatever you pick, it is all good as long as it fits your work style and needs.
Best Professional Jigsaws
We’ve compiled detailed reviews on each jigsaw below, but here are the six best professional jigsaws in 2021:
1. Bosch 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Jig Saw Bare Tool
2. DEWALT 20V Max Jig Saw, Tool Only
3. BLACK+DECKER Jig Saw, Smart Select, 5.0-Amp
4. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Jigsaw with Battery And Charger
5. Makita 18V LXT Brushless Barrel Grip Jig Saw
6. Bosch 7.0 Amp Corded Variable Speed Barrel-Grip Jig Saw
Let us review these top products and see which one wins the ‘Best Professional Jigsaw’ title!
1. Bosch 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Jig Saw Bare Tool JSH180B
– Power Source: Battery (Ion Battery)
– Voltage: 18V
– Weight: 4.8pounds
Its compact design eliminates the element of user fatigue with a smaller grip diameter and allows you to work for extended periods with the same precision and excellent cut. Compared with its competitors, it is about 30% lighter and 10% smaller, which makes it the perfect workshop companion.
It comes with a T shank blade change system, making tool-less blade changes possible, so you don’t have to touch the hot blade. The footplate is also adjustable and allows for bevel cuts up to 45 degrees. What adds to this factor is the increased visibility along the lines, thanks to the additional LED light and dust blower.
The next thing you would want to know is the safety levels. It comes with Electronic Cell Protection and the Electric Motor Protection, which warns you in case of an overload or overheating. It is easy to use, portable, and with the onboard bevel wrench storage, you don’t have to worry about the convenience issues.
It also comes with a four-stage orbital action which matches the cutting performance with the application, and the always-on dust blower and LED lights; convenience is just not an issue!
It’s a perfect fit for your home DIY projects and equally apt for your workshop requirements.
So, in summary, this product scores an average rating of 4.65/5
Value For Money 4.8
Easy To Use 4.7
Accuracy 4.4
Maneuverability 4.7
Pros:
– Compact design
– Four-stage orbital action
– Dust blower and LED lights for workspace illumination
– Lightweight
– Portable
Cons:
– Not suited for heavy-duty gigs
2. DEWALT 20V Max Jig Saw, Tool Only
– Power Source: Battery Powered (product specific batteries are required)
– Voltage: 20V
– Weight: 5.6 Pounds
– Item Dimensions L x W x H: 11.25 x 11 x 3.9 inches
Charger and batteries are available separately.
The DEWALT 20V Max Lithium-Ion Cordless jigsaw is something you need to have for the ultimate experience so that you don’t have to worry about project downtime. It is affordable and delivers optimum performance at the same time.
It features variable speed selection ranging from 0-3000 SPM, and the four-position orbital action ensures aggressive yet precise cuts. With the all-metal lever action, you can easily change blades.
It accepts T-shank jigsaw blades that allow for professional results with optimal holding power, so you can easily navigate along the cut lines. The dust blower is adjustable. You can fix it as per your convenience and requirement to keep the cutting line clear for better visibility and user experience.
The keyless shoe bevel has dents at 0, 15, 30, and 45 degrees, providing versatile options for easy cutting.
Another thing about this power tool is the anti-slip comfort grip, which allows for excellent control. As a professional, a good grip is a primary factor in deciding whether the tool is worthy of being a workshop companion. This jigsaw has your back in that regard!
It comes with a brushed motor and has a stroke length of 2.5 cm.
This tool comes bare since the batteries are not included, but the ones sold separately are compatible with the DEWALT 20V Max tool and are usually 2Ah (Amp-hours).
If you are looking for something portable, this might not be the best fit for you. But for your substantial workshop needs, this is an excellent power tool. It is versatile, easy to use, and most of DEWALT batteries and chargers are compatible with other systems available in the market. It is a must-have for your one-stop workshop!
It is a 4.8/5 power tool.
Value For Money 4.8
Easy To Use 4.8
Accuracy 4.8
Maneuverability 4.8
Pros:
– Powerful and Long-lasting Battery
– Very Responsive Blade Stop
– Orbital Action in Four Positions
– Metal lever
– Keyless Blade and Quick replacements
Cons:
– Restricted Line of Sight
– No LED
3. BLACK+DECKER Jig Saw, Smart Select, 5.0-Amp (BDEJS600C)
– Power Source: Electric Powered
– Voltage: 120V
– Weight: 4.6 Pounds
– Dimensions: 11.75 x 4.38 x 9.25 inches
The most prominent feature of this power tool is the curve control technology, which allows you to adjust the saw’s orbits in one of the four customized settings.
Its 5Amp variable speed motor is capable of generating speed up to 3000 SPM of cutting power. The adjustable shoe is an excellent support for a stable cutting platform, which means that irrespective of the complexity of the material’s curves and nature, you will have a stable platform and a firm grip to navigate along the cutting lines. Bevel cuts of up to 45 degrees can be achieved easily.
It comes with an improved wired guard to help you with precise cuts and a clearer line of sight.
If you are a beginner, an amateur, or fond of woodwork, this tool is just the right pick. It is user friendly and is bound to deliver clean cuts, just like a hot knife!
It is an essential tool for light jobs around your house, it is light, it is versatile, and with flexible options, it can prove to be a long term companion making it a 4.6/5!
Value For Money 4.4
Easy To Use 4.6
Accuracy 4.8
Maneuverability 4.7
Pros:
– Curve Control Technology
– Variable speed
– Better Support Platform
– Suitable for beginners and use at home
– Versatility and Compatibility
Cons:
– Not suitable for heavy-duty gigs
– Not portable
4. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Jigsaw with Battery and Charger (BDCJS20C)
– Power Source: Battery Powered
– Voltage: 20V
– Weight: 5.5 Pounds
This 20V Max Lithium jigsaw is an all-rounder, providing you with cutting versatility and compact portability in one tool. It comes with a powerful motor that can deliver up to 2500 SPM that can be used anywhere. The cordless convenience is undoubtedly a plus!
It has an in-built dust-blower and a tool-free blade change that eliminates project downtime, so you can continue working without disruptions. It is undoubtedly the best pick for detailed fine cuts and is equally effective over a multitude of surfaces and materials.
The speed trigger is variable and allows you to have an increased control with the 45-degree bevel shoe capacity. You can go for angled cuts in both directions. The dust blower keeps the cutting line clean for increased visibility, and since it accepts both T and U-shank, it is no surprise that it is listed as the professional’s pick.
It is comfortable to use and convenient in operation. Orbital cutting at a reliable speed is also possible with it.
What makes this power tool truly impressive is its design and the curve control technology. For maximum control, the handle and trigger are present at an archtop, which is the critical design factor here.
It delivers remarkable cutting, and the adjustable shoe provides you with the additional support platform for increased stability.
Overall, reviews suggest that it is a 4.3/5 power tool.
Value For Money 4.3
Easy To Use 4.4
Accuracy 4.2
Maneuverability 4.3
Pros:
– Accurate Angled Cuts
– Clear Line of Sight
– Versatility
– Curve Control
– Portability
Cons:
– Not suitable for heavy-duty gigs
5. Makita XVJ01Z 18V LXT Brushless Barrel Grip Jig Saw
– Power Source: Battery
– Voltage: 18V
– Weight: 5.5 Pounds
Bare Tool, No Battery!
You might be wondering what LXT means on Makita tools. The answer to this question lies in the combination of premium power and industrial grade high performance. The LXT is a one battery solution for contractors who require cordless tool systems for better productivity and enhanced efficiency.
Undoubtedly, Makita leads the brushless motor technology, and the LXT lithium-ion brushless cordless barrel grip jigsaw combines everything top-notch! It offers precision, power, and efficiency, all in one.
Now, what makes the XVJ01Z second to none? It is engineered to deliver the power of a corded jigsaw with the same level of performance. Irrespective of where your work station is located, this tool promises to cater to your needs and deliver the exceptional quality effortless cut.
The brushless motor is electronically controlled for optimized battery performance, having a 50% longer run-time charge compared with its market competitors. Since there are no carbon brushes, the motor can run for more extended periods without heating.
It comes with a tool-less blade change system, which allows for faster blade change and installation. The aluminum base ensures smooth, accurate cuts with increased durability.
The LED lights help illuminate the work area and allow you to continue with faster and accurate cuts throughout your project.
Its best feature has to be the slow start technology, where it only speeds up when in contact with the surface under consideration.
So this power tool bags a 4.77/5
Value For Money 4.9
Easy To Use 4.7
Accuracy 4.6
Maneuverability 4.9
Pros:
– Barrel grip for closer to work control and precise cutting
– Variable Orbital settings
– Variable six-speed control dial
– Dual LED Lights for workspace illumination
– Tooth-less blade change system
– Portability and compact design
Cons:
– Expensive
6. Bosch 7.0 Amp Corded Variable Speed Barrel-Grip Jig Saw JS470EB
– Power Source: Electric Powered
– Included Components: Bare Tool
– Weight: 5.9 Pounds
This jigsaw comes with a built-in control system that promises accuracy.
The Bosch 7.0 features accuracy in plunging by a precision-machined plunging system. This Bosch JS740EB barrel grip jigsaw vibrates at a very lower rate than other competing power tools. The low vibration scheme also contributes to delivering neat cuts and accurate results. The precision-machined plunging system and low-vibration mechanism both result in providing the user with better control and grip while working.
In addition to this, the tool-less blade change system is very convenient. The tool-less-blade change system is built for the very purpose of the quick exchange of blades. The variable speed keeps the user in complete control of the cutting speed of the saw. This item features the convenient and safe blade ejection lever that surpasses the need to touch the blade’s hot surface. It makes the Bosch 7.0 JS740EB Barrel grip very convenient and safe for use for various purposes.
It comes with the best power features, including the top class 7.0 amp motor that delivers more than three thousand strokes per minute. The variable speed feature comes in handy when you need to work at variable speeds, preferably for curves and neat ends.
It is compact and promises convenience as it features a convenient soft-grip handle that reduces fatigue so you can work for more extended periods on end. It is comfortable and up to the mark with its ergonomic features.
The barrel grip jigsaw works very smoothly as it is consistent and responsive to the tiniest available details. It does not lag due to the response circuitry, which provides a plodding yet smooth start to the tool and continues without resistance.
Power is one of the essential features, and it is enough to cut through a variety of materials, including thin layers or sheets of metal. The cutting capacity of Bosch 7.0 is incredible, making it more efficient than other such products.
The built-in electric circuitry called constant response circuitry (CRC) ensures smooth functionality and prevents stalling.
As per the reviews, this power tool scores a 4.4/5
Value For Money 4.6
Easy To Use 4.4
Accuracy 4.3
Maneuverability 4.3
Pros:
– Very comfortable in handling and consistent in speed.
– Variable speed options
– New and better CRC system
– Aggressive blade adjustment
– Four orbital settings
Cons:
– No illumination or LED lights
– One bevel cutting angle
The Buyers Guide: What to consider before making your pick?
Although the products mentioned above are all top-rated and trusted by professionals worldwide, certain factors should be considered before making the purchase. Every workstation and project has its requirements, and the power tool you have decided the speed and finish of your work!
If you are always on the run and work at multiple locations, then the toolkit you should be looking for is portable, cordless, and powerful batteries. But if you are a passionate worker who likes to work in their own space, then your category and preferences will be different. We have reviewed the TOP SIX products in this category, and they are all available on Amazon, some are also part of a good deal! But asking the same question again, ‘what should YOU consider?’
Here are a few things that should be kept in mind.
Power Source
It has two categories:
– Electric power source
– Battery
Now, if you need mobility and work with light or smaller projects, then battery-powered jigsaws are a smarter choice. But for heavy-duty gigs, you can’t depend on the lightweight power tool.
Handle and Grips
There are usually two types of grips/handles available in the market: the barrel grip handle or the D-handle/Top-handle.
The barrel grip handle is located at the jigsaw’s backside and allows you to push with a higher force through the material. However, a D-handle is more natural to maneuver and reduces fatigue.
The ‘Type’ of Jigsaw
Is it the Orbital Jigsaw or the Straight Reciprocating Jigsaw?
The orbital jigsaw is the best fit for you if your projects involve cutting circles and following curves. But if you have detailed work that requires rip cutting, you might need to weigh your options in the latter category.
Speed Adjustments
Different materials require a specific speed range for a clean cut. Keeping in mind the materials you work with, you should check the speed range. For instance, hard materials can be cut best using a low speed, but if you are working with softer materials such as wood, then you a high-speed range for efficiency. Some models come with a fixed speed, and it all depends upon your project requirement.
Jigsaw Blades
Be it intricate applications or a rough cut; a jigsaw is used for all. There are many shapes and sizes of blades. Some are up-cut, whereas some are down-cut jigsaw blades, and for each material, there is a specific blade that delivers the excellent cut you have in mind.
Know your blades and the shank required for your jigsaw to get the ultimate quality cuts.
The T-shank blades don’t require external tools for changing; they are user friendly in this regard and can be used with a U-Shank Jigsaw.
On the other hand, a U-shank blade has a convex shaped end and a specific screw-kit for replacements.
Some jigsaw are compatible with both!
Anti-Vibration
Do check for vibration-reduction or anti-vibration features when purchasing a jigsaw because prolonged exposure to vibration results in fatigue. To be comfortable and for better maneuverability, anti-vibration jigsaw is a must.
Conclusion
Unless you are a professional or spend days in the workshop working on gigs, and the expensive heavy-duty jigsaw isn’t recommended. However, you should not compromise on the quality for a better deal!
Keeping in mind your requirements, do your research, and narrow down the best pick for yourself.
We tried to review and compare the top-rated professional jigsaws to help you get started, what you need to do now is:
- Know Your Type
- Keep In Mind Your Budget
- Company reputation
- Product Reviews
- Availability of Parts/Replacements
If your pick checks all the above-mentioned boxes, it is safe to say you won’t regret the deal!
You may also like
The 9 best cordless jigsaws for 2021 and a detailed buyer’s guide
In this article, I test and review the best cordless jigsaws on the market, looking at how they perform on different materials. I’ll describe the pros and cons of each so that you can select the one that best suits your needs.
Read more
The 8 Best Sanders For Cabinets In 2021 And A Detailed Buyer’s Guide
In this guide, I road test the eight best sanders on the market in a real-world environment and tell you how they perform.
Read more
The 9 Best Sanders For Refinishing Furniture In 2021 [Detailed Buyer’s Guide]
Whether your favorite household furniture is starting to look a bit tired or you’ve picked up a diamond in the rough from a yard sale, you need the tools and know-how to restore them to their former glory.
Read more