: I'm looking for help picking out a power jigsaw.

: Roger and I picked up a bunch of Lauan plywood and now I'm going to build a
: kayak. I've got my eye on the Yare in The Kayak Shop book by Chris K..

: I'm thinking my old second hand, handheld, jigsaw will not be up to the task
: of cutting out the pieces. The book mentions a Porter Cable and other
: brands and I'd like a bit more help in chooseing. I'm sure there are those
: of you that have an opinion. I'd love to here it. Were hot to buy so we
: can make some sawdust.

: We have identified a few of posibilities: Bosch 1584 and 1587
: Porter Cable 9543, 548 and 97549

: We are after a good reliable saw that will do what we need.
: It would also be nice to know what blades work well.

: Thanks for any advice.

: Foster & Roger Nuffer

Hey Guys

You don't have to spend a lot of money to get a desent jigsaw. Just stay away from the bargain basement models and about every brand has it's " Better " quality stuff. I use Sears stuff and I've used some for many years with no problems. I'd recommend staying away from the cheap models, and also, I wouldn't advise going for the really slick models with the top knob that lets you scroll as well. Not worth the money and the blade is a bit loose and can move a little with the play in the mechanizm. About anything in the $30 to $50 range would be good. As for blades, try to find the plywood blades as they have more teeth per inch. The sheet metal blades have more and a finer cut, but take a while to get through.

How long a tool lasts has little to do with it's cost. If you clean your tools and keep them stored out of the dust and up where they won't get stepped on or knock around, they will all last a long time.

Accuracy isn't really a concern here as when you cut parts with a jig saw, you generally cut wide of the line and sand down to it. Also, with any jig saw, when you are cutting double, or duplicates, the turns tend to widen as there are no guides for the bottom of the blade. They flex out from the turning direction. When cutting curves, always go slow and keep the blade parallel to your cutting line.

As for price, just pick something that's in your budget and get used to using it. Good cutting comes from experience with the saw. Hope this helps!!

Rehd