If you have one power saw in your tool box, make sure it’s a jigsaw. As power tools go, it’ll be one you reach for most – next to your drill/driver. From cutting wooden boards in straight lines to creating intricate patterns in sheet metals, a good handheld jigsaw is more than able to deal with even the trickiest of cutting tasks.
MAKITA JV103DZ 10.8V CXT SLIDE BRUSHLESS HANDLE JIGSAW
Makita JV103DZ 10.8V CXT Slide Brushless Bow Handle Jigsaw Body Only. The “Soft no-load” function automatically reduces the motor speed during idling to suppress the vibration of the machine body. The JV103D features a top “hook” handle style and is suitable for woodworkers, cabinet makers, remodelers and general contractors.
Here are some of the features that a jigsaw can include:
Variable speed dial – Many options have several speed settings for cutting different jigsaw materials. When using a jigsaw to cut metal, for example, use a lower blade speed to keep your blades in top shape. You might also choose a slower speed setting when working with plastics. This will reduce the risk of melting your workpiece.
Orbital action – Some jigsaw saws are capable of orbital action, which means it will provide thrust to the blade as it moves up and down. These tools have an impressive cutting speed when compared to a conventional saw. If yours has this feature, use its orbital action knob to increase or decrease the jigsaw’s “thrust”.
Bevel Adjustment – Some jigsaws will have a special pivoting baseplate and bevel adjustment setting, so you can cut wood or other materials at angles. Although you probably won’t use this feature day-to-day, a jigsaw with bevel function can be incredibly useful for sawing at an angle of up to around 45°.
Trigger & Lock-on switch – Your trigger starts and stops your jigsaw power tool. It might take a moment for it to get up to speed after pressing the trigger, however. So, make sure you’re at capacity before your start any cut. If it has a lock-on switch, this will help you when working on a longer cut. As you hold your trigger, click this mode and you can lock a jigsaw while it continues to work.
Blade & Blade clamp – A jigsaw can come with a range of locking mechanisms that secure or let you change out your blade. The simplest blade-changing systems will be toolless. But many will use a standard hex key for securing your blade in place.
HOW TO STAY SAFE WHEN WORKING WITH YOUR JIGSAW
- Jigsaws make dust. There might be a lot of it too – depending on what you’re cutting. Use a mask and goggles to keep yourself protected if working with a jigsaw.
- Make sure your saw blade is sharp and fit for purpose. Old blades can go brittle and may snap during use of a jigsaw machine – causing danger to you and your workpiece.
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