How to use a jigsaw like an expert

Preparing your material

Before you start cutting, make sure your material is securely fastened. The jigsaw vibrates during cutting, so it's important to secure your material to the work table with clamps or a vice. Remember to wear safety glasses and gloves to avoid damage from flying splinters when cutting.

Choose the right clamp

Jigsaws can use blades with T-shaped or U-shaped clamps, depending on the manufacturer. It's important to know what type of clamp your tool uses to select the right blade. In our case, we used a blade with a T-shaped clamp, which is compatible with the Ratio jigsaw.

Installing the saw blade

Before handling the saw, make sure it's unplugged. If it's a battery-powered saw, turn on the locking button for added safety. Most jigsaws have a tab that you twist to insert the blade, then snap it back into place to secure it properly.

Blade Types by Material

Selecting the right blade is key to achieving a good finish. There are blades specifically designed to cut wood, metal, plastic, ceramic, and other materials. Choosing the right blade for the material you're working with will ensure a more accurate and efficient cut.

Blade Types by Cut

Fine Cut vs. Coarse Cut

If you want a finer finish, choose a blade with small, close-set teeth. This type of blade cuts more slowly but offers greater precision. On the other hand, for quick, less detailed cuts, use a blade with large, widely spaced teeth.

Straight and Curved Cuts

For straight cuts, you can use a side fence that some saws include. If you don't have one, a strip of wood can serve as a guide to ensure that the cut is straight. For curved cuts, use a narrower, more flexible blade, specifically designed to facilitate cutting in tight curves.

Adjusting the Speed

The speed of the saw should be adjusted according to the material you are cutting. Modern saws usually have electronic speed control. Hard materials, such as ceramics, require a low speed, while plastic and soft metals need a medium speed. For cutting wood, a high speed is best.

The Pendulum Motion

Some jigsaws have a pendulum motion feature, which simulates hand-held cutting with a hacksaw. This oscillating motion makes cutting faster, but can reduce accuracy. Adjust the pendulum setting based on whether you prefer speed or a cleaner finish.

Additional Tips

Don't force the saw, as this can cause the blade to misalign and ruin the cut. If you're cutting plastic, set the saw to a low or medium speed to prevent melting the material. Also, since blades often have rising teeth, place the material face down to prevent splinters on top.

By following these tips, you will be able to master the use of the jigsaw and achieve precise cuts in your DIY projects.