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Your guide to buying a power jigsaw A power jigsaw will take the hard work out of sawing. This versatile tool can cut both straight and curved lines, as well as making internal cuts, such as holes in a worktop for a hob or sink. They can quickly, easily and accurately cut through a wide range of materials including wood and ceramic tiles and are so useful, we recommend every diy'er buy one as part of their basic toolkit. Generally, the more features a jigsaw has, the higher the price. So when you're deciding which model to buy, consider the range of tasks you are likely to use it for and how often you will need it.

Corded versus cordless Mains-operated power tools are generally more powerful, so a corded jigsaw is the best bet if you plan on heavy use, or sawing tougher materials such as hardwoods. However, battery-operated models have the advantage of portability, allowing you to saw anywhere without the restriction of a lead. Power rating and speed The more powerful the jigsaw (wattage for corded jigsaws, voltage for cordless), the faster you can work and the deeper the cut - up to a maximum of around 70mm in timber or 8mm in steel.   Single or variable speed   A single speed motor will be adequate for basic use, but variable speed models offer superior control, allowing you to preset sawing speed to suit different materials. When cutting wood you need to use a high speed as working with too low a speed will cause vibration. Other materials will melt and scorch if cut too quickly and working at the wrong speed for the material can prematurely blunt the blades. Working at a slower speed will allow you more control when cutting and scrolling. Some models have a lock-on switch which allows you to set a single speed, useful for continuous cutting.   Accessories Different models come with different accessories but among the most useful are a carrying case, on board blade storage, soft grip handle, and dust collection bag. Jargon buster Quick blade release Look out for models with a quick blade-release system. It allows easy and quick changeover of blades, which is a useful feature when working with a number of different materials. Pendulum action When cutting, more advanced models use a pendulum action, which moves the blade away from the material on the down stroke and returns it on the upward cutting stroke. This has the double advantage of increasing cutting speed and extending blade life and reduces the chance of jamming. Most pendulum action models cut more quickly than their non-pendulum equivalents. Blades The key to success when using a jigsaw lies in choosing the correct type and size of blade for the job. Different materials require fine, medium or coarse cutting blades with varying numbers of teeth per inch (TPI). When buying blades always make sure you choose the correct blade for your model as blades come with flat, domed or sunken fittings. Scrolling A scrolling jigsaw allows you to steer the blade directly along curves, making intricate cutting easier and more accurate. The blade can be locked into the straight ahead position when required (although for long straight cuts a circular saw is more accurate). Adjustable base plate On all models the sole (base) plate can be adjusted by tilting it left or right to make angled cuts ('bevels') of up to 45 degrees. Dust blower and extraction Some models provide a dust blower which clears the debris from the cut to make it easier to see what you are doing. Better still, the extraction facility allows you to connect up to a vacuum cleaner enabling you to clean up as you work. This facility is useful when working with MDF, which generates a lot of fine, messy sawdust. Laser or red-eye generator Some more advanced models now include a laser generator. This device generates a laser beam onto the work surface for precision cutting and improved cutting vision.   << Back