Also known as a sabre saw, a jigsaw is a really useful tool for any keen DIYer. A jigsaw is able to cut neatly through a wide range of materials such as wood, metal, aluminium, plastics, ceramic tiles and laminates. It’s perfect for tasks including cutting shelves, flooring and garden projects. The narrow, reciprocating blade means it’s great for cutting curves and other awkward shapes, and it generally cuts on the upstroke as you feed it into the edge of the material.
How much do jigsaws cost?
Prices for a jigsaw range from around £25 to £150, and both corded and cordless designs are available. If you only plan to use it occasionally, a single-speed jigsaw is ideal, and should cut wood up to a thickness of around 50mm. If you spend a little more you can expect a host of additional features such as variable speed control, and a pendulum action, which means the blade moves back and forth as well as up and down.
Do I need different types of jigsaw blades for different materials?
Depending on the projects you have planned, you’ll need to invest in a set of blades which are suitable for different materials. When working with laminate worktops, for example, you’ll need a special blade which cuts on the downstroke, meaning that you can work on this type of material the right way up without damaging the surface. Expect to pay around £15 for a set of blades.
How to use a jigsaw
Best affordable jigsaws to buy
Mac Allister MSJS600 600W electric jigsaw
This budget-friendly jigsaw has a powerful 600W motor, four-stage pendulum action and comes complete with blades for both wood and metal
Black + Decker corded jigsaw
Cut profiles, curves and corners easily with this mid-range corded model with 500W motor. Its variable speed and pendulum action allows fast and accurate cutting through timber, metal and plastics, with the right blade attached
Bosch 290W corded jigsaw PST 800 PEL
This corded design from Bosch is compact, offers great control for precise cutting and features a transparent cover which extracts the dust when used with a vacuum cleaner.
