Tool School: Get Started Woodworking Basics With a Jigsaw
Whether you are building a stool or a table, you can start your woodworking career with a jigsaw. Jigsaws can cut straight like an arrow or in curves of your choice, and anyone can handle this tool regardless of experience.
Jigsaws are used by both hobbyists and experienced wood craftsmen and are a great introduction to power tools. The jigsaw cuts much faster than a hacksaw or hand saw, saving you time and effort.
Jigsaws are ideal for small workspaces as they fit perfectly in a hard carrying case that can be stored on a shelf or closet. Despite their small size, jigsaw blades can perform the same tasks as a larger circular saw or band saw , such as cutting plywood or pine planks. But the jigsaw has a major advantage: it can start cutting in the middle of the board (just drill the starting hole and then insert the blade).
Begin cutting with the jigsaw with the teeth in front of the blade. There is a lever at the front of the jigsaw that needs to be rotated so that the base of the blade is fully seated and then locked in place when the lever is released. Check the condition of the blade each time you use it, look for broken or dull teeth and replace the blade if necessary.
A variable speed trigger controls the speed of the blade as it moves up and down. Turn on the blade before touching the wood, otherwise you risk splitting the blade.
Additional features you can expect from premium jigsaws include tilt angle adjustment, which allows you to cut at different angles, andorbital blade action , which moves the blade in a D-pattern, which provides a more aggressive cutting action and is beneficial for hardwoods …
Jigsaws are available with both corded and cordless tools ranging from $ 50 per master to $ 280 for a DeWalt 20V Max battery . Power and cutting speed are the same on both models, but DeWalt offers cordless portability with contractor strength.
Always wear safety goggles when working with a jigsaw and enjoy this underrated woodworking tool on your next project.