We have used quite a few different brands of jigsaws in recent years, but by far our favorite brand is Bosch. We’ve been using Bosch’s 1587AVSK jigsaw model for about two and a half years now, and it’s reliable, durable, provides plenty of power, and still operates smoothly and efficiently.
Although we’ve heard the occasional complaint about this particular model and its tool-less blade change mechanism, we’ve never had any issues. Lift the knob, turn the knob, insert blade, twist the blade, turn the knob, listen for the click, depress the knob. How’s that so difficult?
If our 1587AVSK ever calls it quits (or accidentally becomes attached to a cinder block before finding itself near a deep lake), we would promptly replace it with Bosch’s 1590EVSK. The 1590EVSK is more powerful – 6.4A compared to 5.0A, but we’ve never felt that the 1587 was underpowered in any way.
The major difference between these two jigsaws is that the 1590 has a much quicker and easier one-touch tool-less blade change system. Push the blade into the tool to insert it, and flip the lever to drop it.
You can probably find the 1587AVSK on sale for $100, but it may still be worthwhile to splurge for the 1590EVSK, which can be found for $140-$160.
Bosch 1590EVSK Jigsaw (Amazon)
Bosch 1587AVSK Jigsaw (Amazon)
Product Info (Bosch)
In case our Bosch 1587 really does fail we would also consider a Metabo jigsaw, given that we could find one to check out in person first. Never trust a manufacturer’s claims of a “quick blade change” without seeing it in person!
The 1587 is the last model that the Collins coping foot works on. There is another difference between the 87 and the 90 besides the blade change mech, and the power. The blade has extra/different supports, to keep it more reinforced, to cut straighter. These are like the guides on a bandsaw and I’ve heard reviews that say it is the much better model when using the longest jigsaw blades.
Hmm, I didn’t realize that. I’ve never had any issues or wobbling with my 1587′s blade guide. Then again, I haven’t tried a 1590 for comparison yet.