Bosch Home and Garden Jigsaw PST 700 E (500 W, 1x saw blade, in carrying case)

Product Information

As indicated previously, the KS501 can perform 45° bevelled cuts. However, the mechanism for adjusting the base plate in both the 45° and perpendicular 90° orientation is a crude single-screw mechanism which does not instil the greatest of confidence in its ability to stay totally fixed in place over repeated cuts. In addition, one can only set the base plate either to its default perpendicular position or to the 45° angle with no other angles in between preventing any more complicated types of bevel cutting. This is an excellent choice if you need a cordless jigsaw, but beware: the R18JS-0 comes with neither the battery nor charger. This ruins any pretence it has of being a bargain, adding significantly to the price.

There are two aspects to speed control: First, there is variable speed control that is controlled via trigger pressure - the harder you press on the trigger the faster the blade moves. Then there is variable MAXIMUM speed control. This is usually controlled via a dial with numbers which sets the maximum speed the jigsaw will go when you FULLY depress the trigger - this feature is useful when cutting different materials. Unfortunately, the difference between the two types of control is not always made clear on jigsaw marketing material so make sure you know which one they are referring to - the more expensive machines have both.

The best jigsaw tool should be versatile enough to cut straight or curved lines in wood, plastic, or metal. Stroke rate control –Adjust with the trigger switch to adapt to suit the material or for finishing your cuts in control and safety. More expensive models may include features such as dust removal systems and variable speed controls, which are useful if you need to slow it down to cut objects such as tiles or even glass without completely destroying them. LED lights are convenient for seeing what you’re doing more clearly, especially if working in tight spaces or shadows, and a tilting baseplate allows for cuts at up to 45 degrees.

Sheffield-based Evolution Power Tools are famous for their cutting equipment. The RAGE 7-S is one of their most versatile and best jigsaws that they’ve produced. The PST 700 E jigsaw is around 20% smaller than its predecessor and weighs just 1.7 kilograms. Continuously variable stroke rate adjustment using the accelerator switch allows the user to start sawing into any material gently. Features and Benefits Low vibration –Keep a steady hold for ultimate control and more comfortable cutting, and reduce fatigue with this low vibration model thanks to sprung dampening rollers on the blade.

The best jigsaws to buy in 2023

Hychika are one of those tool brands that make you wonder how they can produce quality power tools for such reasonable prices. The JS-100C is a powerful, feature-heavy jigsaw that punches way above its price range. Japanese tool masters Makita have won the respect of professional tradespeople and savvy DIYers around the world. Getting hold of a Makita brand jigsaw for a low price is a bit of a steal if you ask me. The quality of this little jigsaw is excellent and blows a lot of cheap imitations out of the water. This is one of the best jigsaws for providing smooth clean cuts across a variety of materials. It’s easy to produce a perfectly straight line almost every time. The saw also comes with 5 jigsaw blades, an anti-splintering device, a dust nozzle and a cover plate. Jigsaws, like many power tools, come as both corded mains-powered machines and cordless battery-operated devices. So one of the first decisions to make when searching for an electric jigsaw is the type of power system one wants in the device. The Makita 4329/2 orbital action jigsaw is probably one of the best budget jigsaws. It’s powerful, well put together and has an effective oscillating action.

While having the cord trailing behind you, perhaps to an extension lead, is a slight annoyance, the payoff is that a corded jigsaw will work all day without having to be recharged. Alternatively, if it’s you who’s working all day, make sure your rechargeable jigsaw has removable batteries so you can keep a set on the charger for the inevitable moment when it loses power. A professional tool from a professional brand, this cordless jigsaw comes with neither battery nor charger, and without a case or anywhere to keep your blades. If you’re a pro, you’ll already have that sort of thing covered, of course. The best jigsaw tools should feel comfortable to hold and operate. Weight plays an important part here and 2 – 3 kg is ideal.The powerful motor sends the blade from 500 – 3,100 spm. It weighs just 1.7 kg, making it an ideal compact and lightweight jigsaw. It’s my favourite for easy handling and good manoeuvrability. You can also set the footplate to bevel to 45° on both sides. The jigsaw tool should also feature variable speed control to manage the number of strokes per minute – typically 0-3,000 spm. What makes this one of the best budget jigsaws is how simple and uncomplicated it is. It’s ideal for someone who might be new to DIY. There aren’t many fancy functions or speed settings, but it saws smoothly and it’s incredibly easy to change blades.