What is a jigsaw?
A jigsaw is a handheld electric saw with a narrow, reciprocating blade that allows you to make straight and curved cuts in wood, sheet material, plastic, and thin metal. The narrow blade makes it possible to cut curves, circles, and cutouts — something a circular saw cannot do.
What do you use a jigsaw for?
| Application | Example |
|---|---|
| Cutting curves | Round cutouts in worktops, decorative shapes |
| Cutouts | Hole for an electrical outlet, pipe penetration |
| Cutting to size (thin material) | Thin boards, plywood, MDF |
| Laminate | Floor boards to size (around obstacles) |
Saw blades
| Type | Application |
|---|---|
| Coarse (6 TPI) | Fast cutting in thick wood |
| Fine (10-12 TPI) | Clean cut, thinner material |
| Metal blade | Thin metal, aluminium |
| Ceramic blade | Tiles (special blades) |
TPI = Teeth Per Inch. More teeth = finer cut.
Limitations
- Not for thick structural timber — Maximum cutting depth approximately 60-80 mm, but the cut becomes sloppy in thicker wood
- Less straight than a circular saw — Due to the narrow blade, the cut can deviate when making long straight cuts
- Slower — For repetitive straight cuts, a circular saw is faster
Tips
- Pendulum action — Turn on the pendulum action for thick wood (faster, but rougher cut)
- Keep the blade cool — For plastic and metal: cut slowly, use lubricant if needed
- Plunge cutting — You can start cutting in the middle of a panel by slowly lowering the blade into the material
Related terms
- Circular saw
- Mitre saw
- Router