Which jigsaws should you choose? Buying guide

Short answer: for most jobs a jigsaw with variable speed and pendulum action is the best choice. Choose a corded model if you cut for long stretches in the workshop. Choose a cordless jigsaw if you work on site, indoors or without a socket. Then check cutting depth, blade change, dust extraction and the right blade for wood, metal or laminate.

Read this article in Dutch as well: Welke decoupeerzagen kies je? Keuzegids.

What do you use a jigsaw for?

A jigsaw cuts curves, cut-outs and straight lines in sheet materials. Typical jobs:

• cutting worktops to size;
• cut-outs for sockets or basins;
• shortening skirting, battens and thin beams;
• working laminate, plywood and chipboard;
• with the right blade also thin metal or plastics.

Because the tool can do so much, the choice matters: a light jigsaw vibrates and burns in thick wood; a heavy one is harder to steer on fine curves.

1. Corded or cordless?

A corded jigsaw delivers constant power and suits long cuts in the workshop. The JSS65VS jigsaw (550 W) (550 W) is light and handy for thinner stock. The JSS85VS jigsaw (710 W) (710 W) has more reserves for thicker wood and daily use.

A cordless jigsaw gives freedom on the scaffold, indoors and in the garden. The JSS20-85BLVS cordless jigsaw runs on Stalco's 20V system: the same batteries as other tools in that line. More on that system in our blog on the Stalco 20V battery system.

💡 Mostly workshop work? Choose corded. Often without a socket or on several sites? Choose cordless, and take a spare battery.

2. Pendulum action: what does it give you?

Pendulum action moves the blade not only up and down but slightly forward. You cut faster in wood and clear chips better. For straight, fast cuts in thick wood, set the pendulum high. For fine curves, laminate or metal, set it low or off: you cut calmer and the edge splinters less.

3. Variable speed

With variable speed you match the cutting rate to the material:

• high for softwood and fast cuts;
• lower for metal, plastics and precise work;
• lower when starting a plunge cut in the middle of a board.

The JSS65VS jigsaw (550 W), JSS85VS jigsaw (710 W) and JSS20-85BLVS cordless jigsaw all have variable speed. On a jigsaw that is not a luxury; it is one of the main buying points.

4. Cutting depth, blade clamp and shoe

Check how thick a material you want to cut and whether the tool can handle that depth. A solid blade clamp or quick-change system swaps blades without fuss. A firm shoe that sits flat on the workpiece prevents wandering. Some shoes tilt for bevel cuts; useful for skirting and angled edges.

5. The blade decides the result

The machine is only half the story. Match the blade to material and tooth pitch:

• HCS blades for wood and soft materials, such as the HCS jigsaw blade for wood (set of 5);
• HSS blades for metal, such as the HSS jigsaw blade for metal (set of 5) or the longer long HSS jigsaw blade for metal (set of 5);
• finer teeth for a clean cut in laminate or veneer, such as the fine HCS jigsaw blade (set of 5);
• shorter blades for curves, longer ones for deeper cuts.

Keep a set of blades in the case so you do not keep cutting with the wrong one. Clamp the workpiece with a 300 mm quick clamp.

6. Dust extraction and visibility

Many jigsaws have a dust port or a blower that clears the cut line. Connect a construction vacuum where you can. You see the line better and breathe less dust. A tidy workshop helps; tips in our blog on organising a workshop or garage.

Working safely with a jigsaw

• Clamp the workpiece with a 300 mm quick clamp or vice; never hold it by hand alone.
• Let the blade reach speed before you enter the material.
• Keep both hands on the tool; keep your body out of the cut line.
• Unplug or remove the battery before changing a blade.
• Check that the blade is secure and not cracked.

More on site safety: our blog on safe working on the construction site. On recognising solid tools: our blog on recognising quality tools and our brand blog on Stalco.

PPE when cutting

Always wear safety goggles or impact-protection goggles against flying chips. For longer sessions, earmuffs is wise. In dusty work (chipboard, sanding after cutting) use at least an FFP2 dust mask. Sturdy work gloves with nitrile coating protect your hands when handling boards, but spinning blades and loose gloves do not mix: switch to well-fitting grip gloves and keep clear of the blade. More in our blog on safety glasses for professionals, our blog on hearing protection and our buying guide for work gloves.

⚠️ Never cut into material that may hide electrical, gas or water pipes without checking first. If in doubt, use a detector or call a professional / qualified installer.

DIY or call a professional?

Shortening a board, cutting a worktop opening or a curve in plywood: with the right PPE and a sharp blade you can often do that yourself. Large runs, expensive slabs or structural parts are another matter.

👷 For natural-stone or thick composite worktops, for structural parts and for cutting that loads neighbours and lungs with dust or noise, a professional with the right machines and extraction is often faster and safer. Unsure about pipes in the wall or the slab? Have it checked.

Quick choice

Frequently asked questions

Is a cordless jigsaw strong enough?

For most sheet and wood jobs, yes, especially with a full 20V battery. For hours of workshop cutting, a corded model stays more practical.

Do I need pendulum action?

For faster cuts in wood, yes. For fine curves, laminate and metal, set the pendulum low or off.

Which blade for laminate?

A fine-tooth blade, preferably for laminate or plastics, and low or no pendulum.

Can I cut metal with a wood blade?

No. Use an HSS blade for metal and adjust the speed.

How do I reduce splintering on the top face?

Cut with the good face down, use a fine blade, low pendulum and optionally tape over the cut line.

Where can you find everything for this job?

At Saniso, the online store for DIYers and professionals, you will find tools, materials and personal protective equipment for your job.

• Browse our construction tools and our workwear and safety.
• Create a customer account and order easily.
• Working on a bigger project or want to hand over the job? Request a project quote.
• Book a showroom visit, at least 24 hours in advance.
• Not sure which material suits your job? Get in touch with us.

In doubt about the approach? Feel free to call in a professional.

Saniso – Build your home with Saniso.