I have repeatedly told myself over the years that I don’t need a cordless jig saw. I’ve got an older corded Bosch jig saw that I am fondly attached to, and so I don’t need a cordless jig saw.
But, when is the last time I used that corded jig saw? Hmm.
I came across a promo today – more on this at the end of the post – and something clicked in my mind. I need a cordless jig saw, and it’s time to buy one.
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I have used cordless jig saws over the years – test samples and similar – and have had great experiences with a Dewalt 20V Max D-handle jig saw.
My jig saw usage has changed a lot over the years. Now, I tend to use jig saws for a wide variety of cutting tasks, from cutting smaller raw materials to size, to making precise cut-outs in panels and benchtops.
Going back 10+ years, I frequently used a jig saw with a cutting guide for all manners of straight cuts. I now own – and have the space for – plunge-cutting circular saws and other equipment that work better for longer straight cuts.
If I need to cut one small board, it’s easiest for me to break out a cordless jig saw than anything else. All but gone are the days where I use a jig saw for long work and project sessions.
I have a couple of older cordless jig saw test samples that I tend to rotate, but I don’t really like any of them enough to buy a personal copy.
As mentioned in the title and shown in the top image, I went with the Dewalt 20V Max brushless barrel grip jig saw, model DCS335B.
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The type of handle design, D-handle vs. barrel grip, is a personal choice. I went with the barrel grip, partly because it complements the D-handle saws I already have at my disposal, but mainly because it provides for a lower center of gravity, and this can help improve user control.
Both of Dewalt’s brushless jig saws have speed control dials. The D-handle jig saw (DCS334) has a variable speed trigger and lock-off button, while the barrel grip saw (DCS335) has an on-off switch.
I’m going to give this one a try.
Price: $199
Why Dewalt? I didn’t consult any reviews, I didn’t look at head to head comparisons, and I didn’t entertain the idea of requesting review samples so that I could do the same.
I am confident in the brand, I have had great trouble-free experiences with their D-handle cordless jig saws, and I have been expanding my 20V Max tool kit.
Over at Ohio Power Tool, they have a new promo where you get a free Dewalt PowerStack starter kit with the purchase of select bare tools.
Read More: New Dewalt PowerStack Battery Tech
I don’t need any more chargers, but I could definitely use more PowerStack batteries.
Dewalt’s marketing claims really sunk in. I don’t need 5Ah runtime on a cordless jig saw, at least not for how I would use it, but I can absolutely use high capacity battery-level power.
High output compact 3Ah and 4Ah batteries are an option here. Dewalt’s 2-pack of compact 3Ah batteries is still $99 as part of ongoing holiday season promotions.
Not to mince words, Dewalt’s PowerStack battery has a very high cost per amp-hour right now. A single battery is priced at $119, and a 2-pack is $179.
As this is a 1.7Ah battery, the price comes out to be $52.6 per amp-hour when you buy the more economical 2-pack.
$12-13 per amp-hour is an excellent price and usually the lowest I ever see Dewalt 20V Max batteries selling for. At $99, the 3Ah battery 2-pack bundle is a great value at $16.5 per amp-hour.
More than $52 per amp-hour?
But, the benefits are real. I have been using a test sample of Dewalt’s PowerStack battery, and I really like it a lot.
I avoid using compact 1.3Ah, 1.5Ah, or 2.0Ah batteries with heavier duty power tools. They might work in a pinch, but 5-cell batteries are rarely ideal for cutting tools. Larger form factor batteries have changed things, but they are also larger and heavier.
The PowerStack battery is a great fit for fastening tools, and I started to draft a post about the promo. Two thoughts popped into my mind – I could use the cordless barrel grip jig saw was the first thought, followed by PowerStack would be perfect for this!
I took a moment to price-shop around, and this seems like a very good deal.
I wasn’t planning on buying a cordless jig saw, but this convinced me it’s time to get one of my own. Now that I’ve been thinking about my purchase – I placed the order before starting this post – I’m really curious to see how well the jig saw performs with the PowerStack battery compared to a D-handle with typical 10-cell battery.
I wouldn’t have purchased a PowerStack battery just yet, as the price is a bit too high for the benefits – in my opinion and for how I might use it. But a FREE battery? I’ll take it. I don’t need any more 4Ah or 5Ah batteries, but given my brief experiences so far, I’d like more PowerStack batteries.
I say all this because the jig saw alone didn’t prompt my purchasing decision.
When I spoke to a local Dewalt rep a few weeks ago, they repeatedly emphasized that the PowerStack battery delivered 5Ah battery-level power. Yes, it has compact battery-level charge capacity and runtime, but it can deliver the power heavier duty tools need.
PowerStack is a smaller and lighter battery for sprinting-type tasks, and not for marathon-length projects. I could use this, especially in a cordless jig saw.
And that’s how I was finally convinced to purchase my first-ever cordless jig saw.
I fully expect some readers to argue against my choice. Is this the best-ever cordless jig saw, or tool and battery pairing? Probably not, but it seems like a good fit for me.
Here are the other Dewalt 20V Max brushless bare tools that are eligible for a FREE PowerStack starter kit, including the newest Atomic series 3-speed impact driver and Atomic series brushless impact wrenches.
I bought a personal copy of the DCF850 impact driver over the holiday shopping season, and already own the compact reciprocating saw – both tools will also benefit from the PowerStack battery’s small size and power output. I almost bought an Atomic impact wrench over the holiday season, when they had a different free battery promo, but I really didn’t need or want another 5Ah battery.
The jig saw was a rare impulse-buy for me. I’ll take a day to think things over – there’s a good chance I’ll expand my Dewalt 20V Max and Atomic series tool kit further.
Note: Dewalt is a recent ToolGuyd sponsor, but that did not factor into this purchase decision or write-up.
Leo B.
I’d be interested to see a comparison with a M18 Fuel barrel grip jigsaw and a 3.0 HO battery. It’s not exactly apples to apples, but I think it’s reasonably close. Cutting performance, ergonomics, things like that. Somewhat related, I think Powerstack and similar pouch cell batteries might be a big part of an OPE revolution, given the increasing bans against new gas equipment. Further development should help get us a lighter battery that delivers more power and charges faster. It seems like a promising solution. I’m interested to hear your thoughts on it!
Big Richard
Stihl has a new pouch battery for their AP line of OPE, I think they are the first. It’s supposed to just be bonkers. It’s 9.4Ah but is the same size as their 7.2Ah AP 300C battery, and puts out 3000W of juice compared to the 300’s 2100W.
DeWalt has a unspecified capacity FlexVolt version coming eventually, and I can see EGO coming out with something based on the same pouch cell tech Chervon is using in their FLEX tools. But yeh, this little 1.7Ah guy is just the beginning.
Jared
I didn’t know about the Flexvolt version – that might be exciting!
I keep wondering if this pouch-cell tech might lead to something new. Don’t get me wrong – there’s clearly use-cases already (just like the subject of this post) where high-draw capability and lightweight/compact nature of these packs is advantageous.
However, I wonder if there are tools I haven’t thought of that didn’t make sense till now because the size of battery required made them too bulky.
Maybe we’ll get mini OPE?
John Fal
I’m all in for a Flexvolt version, (that hopfully doesn’t cost a arm and a leg).
I think power stack for Flexvolt would be a great game changer. Hurry Dewalt!
Jeff
Considering a 12ah flexvolt is $250, a 15ah is $350, and a 1.7ah power stack is $119, I’d guess they’ll be pretty pricey! If they just tripled everything and went from 5 pouches to 15, that would be 5.1ah and a price of $357.
MoogleMan3
I have the M18 barrel grip and love it. From comparisons I’ve seen online, the dewalt will vibrate a bit less. I haven’t had any issues with the M18 though. Good blades make a huge difference. Bosch/diablo are excellent blades.
Garrett
“I don’t need any more chargers.” Bwahahaha…Funniest line ever! I could tile my house (unevenly, ofc) with battery chargers. Sorry to disrupt the flow of comments, Stu…back on topic for the next comment. Promise.
MM
I’m interested in picking up a couple powerstack batteries but I held off on purchasing so far to wait and see what kind of combos or promos there might be. This doesn’t look like a bad deal at all, assuming you need one of the tools in the promo. Alas I either already have or don’t need anything that’s being offered here but I’m curious what other vendors might offer.
Frank Rizzo
The Powerstack pack is legit. I picked up two and won’t go back to the cylindrical in the slim packs. I don’t care that they are 1.7Ah, the size and weight difference makes them worth the cost of admission. I put them on everything including my cordless hand planner, trim router, and miter saw. No hot pack, just light weight work getting done.
Nathan
thanks for the heads up on the kitting idea as I might pick that up for the impact wrench.
meanwhile I like barrel grip and I considered the dewalt cordless but I really didn’t think I wanted a cordless jigsaw – so I got a bosch for cheaper. while I’ve liked it – I have enough batteries I sort of wish I had taken the dewalt cordless bare tool.
eager to hear how it plays.
Jared
I’m not going to complain about your choice of tool – that’s a nice piece of kit! Were I buying a jigsaw over again I would choose the barrel grip too. From holding different styles (though not the Dewalt mentioned here), I feel like that style would offer a little more precision.
I have the Porter Cable D-handle – which is pretty dated at this point – but it does what I need it to and I don’t use it often enough to justify an upgrade anytime soon. However, with a jigsaw I think control is the most important aspect. If I want to cut faster I generally use a different saw.
Any thoughts on this Dewalt versus the Bosch or Milwaukee 12v barrel-grip saws? They appear to be even smaller and I might be tempted to go that route if I added another jigsaw.
TonyT
I’ve been happy with my 12V Bosch so far, but haven’t used it much (and am not a demanding user). One pet peeve: it doesn’t have a blower, so it’s harder to see exactly where you’re cutting.
John E
You have a built in blower on you at all times. Just be resourceful.
The Baker
Just be sure to use a good in-line filter.
Copenhagen bits tend to stain the wood.
TonyT
Next time, I’ll see if I can use my small Ryobi cordless fan to blow the sawdust away.
Tim E.
The M12 also doesn’t have a cut line blower, and a lot of folks seem to dislike it severely for that reason, and that the soleplate lock lever is not well adjusted from the factory and takes some fiddling with an allen screw and adjustment occasionally to get to a good tension. If you have an 18V system, I’d probably go with a jigsaw on that system just for the blower as well. That said, I have no problem with my M12 and love it, the handle isn’t even what I’d call barrel grip but kind of more “pistol grip”, which I really like, and I have plenty of M12 batteries to use with it (it is a battery hog). It has tons of power, and I usually keep it out to reach for for quick tasks and leave the M18 in it’s case unless I’m doing something jigsaw intensive.
MM
Your experience is a lot like mine: I have an older corded Jigsaw (mine happens to be a Dewalt), but I don’t use it enough these days to justify spending on an upgrade. Back when I was a teenager getting into DIY and whatnot a jigsaw was one of my first power tool purchases as it was so flexible. I could make straight and curved cuts with it, blades were cheap, and they could cut various materials that the circ saw technology of the day could not. But nowadays I don’t use it very often. I use bandsaws, plasma cutters, and disc grinders for metalwork. I don’t do so much woodwork these days but when I do I use circ saws for straight cuts and I tend to use the router and either a pattern bit or a circle jig for making curved cuts. Or I slap a wood blade on the bandsaw.
I think I’d like the ergonomics of the barrel grip jigsaw, but if I read things correctly the barrel grip doesn’t have a variable-speed trigger, and that’s a big turnoff for me.
Jared
I didn’t realize it didn’t have variable speed. My Porter Cable does – I’m going to have to pay attention next time to whether I’m actually using that feature when I cut.
TonyT
My impression is that it’s common for barrel grip jigsaws to have a variable speed dial but not variable speed trigger.
Paul
I’ve had the bosch 12v barrel grip, and currently have the dewalt 18v barrel grip. The difference is pretty big. The bosch was nice for small stuff, but it had its limitations and was a bit slow to cut. The no blower thing was also annoying. You would have to have a corded jigsaw on hand with it for anything demanding.
The dewalt feels like it is corded, it’s got the power. I still have a corded, but I no longer carry it around in the van as the dewalt has handled everything I’ve thrown at it over the last year. Maybe a particularly tough job might warrant needing corded again but so far so good. If you’re not completely invested in the bosch 12v system I’d have to recommend the dewalt 100% over the bosch. It’s been used daily for kitchen fitting and second fix. Might not be as important if it’s only an occasional use tool. Body grip is much nicer for cutting upside down as well….
John
Huge fan of the barrel grip for the reason you mentioned (ergonomics).
I have a corded D-handle Bosch that I’ve never liked. A friend has the barrel grip Bosch, and I love it (and try not to think about when I’m using mine).
I don’t use a jigsaw enough to justify buying a cordless one, but if I did I would absolutely get the Dewalt since I’m on their platform.
JoeM
…I’ve been a little nervous to ask it openly, and I’m glad this article answered my stupid question for me… That being “What is the actual Amp-Hour Rating of the new Power Stack, as it’s not really listed anywhere in the open?”
Well, now I have the answer, and new questions where this is the absolute perfect place to ask them confidently. The PowerStack Battery is 1.7Ah, with connectivity bonuses for high-draw tools that may require something in the region of 5Ah. (Likely down to the folded cell design’s electrical properties, not some embedded electronic controller or switch like the FlexVOLT line.)
But this is where I am proud to have a valid Question for Stuart and his DeWALT connections: Ignoring an answer about what sizes, are there plans to create any larger capacity PowerStack batteries, or is this one a specialty creation for certain tools?
Keeping in mind, of course, there are, indeed, several well-respected specialty batteries such as the Oil-Resistant line. As well, since it all seems to fit into one coherent system, would the “PowerStack Lineup” be one for each of the 12V, 20V, and FlexVOLT lines? I would agree with the sentiment Stuart has… More PowerStack Batteries! Question is… In what way do we want more of them?
Big Richard
A 12v PowerStack would be almost the same dimensions as the 20v, just flatter (3 pouch cells stacked instead of 5 pouch cells stacked). So while it would be able to generate more power, it would have a physically larger footprint and offer less runtime than their existing 2Ah and 3Ah 12v 18650 based batteries. So while it’s still possible, I don’t think it is likely. Plus that extra power doesn’t matter a much in 12v tools, especially when you consider the cost premium of these.
As for future 20v packs, the rumor mill says a 5Ah is the next in line. Would that be a 3p configuration using the same 1700mAh pouch cells, or use some other capacity cells? Idk. I think a 2p 3.4Ah pack would be another viable option. I don’t have anything official at the moment, unfortunately. I do know in Europe/Australia they are going to be kitting this PowerStack battery with the new DCD800/805 compact XR drills, I have to think the NA market will get the same.
JoeM
Hey Big Richard!
Honestly, any view into what PowerStack is going to be is what I seek.
If it wouldn’t work for certain systems, fine. If it is a one-time specialty battery, fine again. If there’s a new lineup that either spans folded packs across different platforms, or a version of PowerStack for X, Y, and Z level tools, or there comes some need to designate special PowerStack Batteries for specific tools, Saws versus Drills as an example, then I’m interested in where PowerStack is going. A Bluetooth edition for stock management and power monitoring?
Any info is welcomed in this line of questioning! I am happy to read it!
MM
This jives with what I have heard as well. I’ve been told by multiple reps that Dewalt has larger size Power Stack batteries in the works, including Flexvolt models, but they will come later than this model. I have not heard any specific details though.
Stuart
I’m sure more PowerStack batteries are in the works.
I can ask, but Dewalt doesn’t discuss their roadmap with media ahead of time. If there’s something they can share, it would be under NDA or embargo (I am not under any at the moment) or via official announcement.
I saw a product listing shared on Reddit about a 5Ah battery, but it wasn’t very revealing.
I think that a 5Ah-capacity-sized battery is likely. I haven’t heard of a FlexVolt version, but that seems feasible. Why not?
This seems to be the start, although there are never any guarantees.
Jared
I think at least one “compact” Flexvolt option would be nice.
Flexvolt tools are usually big anyway, so adding a large pack isn’t THAT big of a deal – nevertheless, it would be nice to have a lightweight option for those times you don’t need the runtime.
E.g. maybe you’re making an awkward cut with the reciprocating saw and it would be nicer to have a lighter tool.
ca
I ended up getting the D handle version because of the trigger. I find it easier to turn on and off and it has variable speed.
Rog
“I don’t need another line of power tools and batteries… I don’t need another line of power tools and batteries… I don’t need another line of power tools and batteries…”
Blocky
Cool. I love my makita cxt brushless barrel grip jigsaw for all the reasons you listed. It’s very precise, w minimal vibration, and cordless makes it a quick grab and therefore a tool that sees more use.
Tom P
Wow. You just summed up my own feelings towards my Bosch jig saw. I used to really be reliant on it for bigger jobs. But as my tool shed has filled out it seems like I still need the jig saw but only for a few cuts at a time. Getting it out of its case and plugging it in seems like more than a hassle than it used to. I love my Bosch barrel grip but could really see the appeal of getting a 20v and just having it hang on the wall, ready to go.
Fyrfytr998
Damn, that’s a pretty decent deal for the DCF850 with a Power Stack.
Matt the Hoople
I’m in a similar boat. I think it’s because I now have so many different cutting options available to me that my corded jigsaw rarely gets used. Normally it is only when I have to follow a curving line at cut a precise notch. I bought the brushless Dewalt D handle saw and it is great. In fact, I gave m away my corded saw to a younger coworker who just got married and bought his first home. I like the comfort of the D handled saw. However, since I only use the jigsaw for small, precision jobs, I would have opted for the barrel version had it been available at the time.
Stacey Jones
I looked at this one but ultimately got the Makita XVJ01Z. I plan on getting my cordless woodworking tools from Makita because they have the best reputation for mainstream use for that purpose. I’d be interested in your thoughts on how they compare, especially if you use them with tracks. I bought one and jusy haven’t set it up yet.
Stacey Jones
Oh I’m looking to add a workbench primarily for woodworking. What do you like for low end pricing? Also interested in what other accessories. Clamps, vises, etc. you’d recommend.
Stuart
That question could barely be answered in a 10,000 word article.
What type of woodworking do you plan to do? Generally, there are 3 approaches – power tools, hand tools, and hybrid mixes-technique.
Start by thinking over your immediate project needs. That can help determine a lot. If you try to anticipate your needs, and projects or designs change, you can be left having to spend more in the long run.
There are decent value-priced workbenches by Sjoberg, and portable work surfaces by Lee Valley/Veritas. You can also make mini benches and fixtures to work with mobile worktables, such as a Moxon vise.
10 different woodworkers can give you 10 different shopping lists, and you might need everything or nothing from that list. That’s why I typically encourage everyone to start slow. Your projects will dictate things. Spending carefully can also help get you better quality in the long run.
For instance, I bought some trigger bar clamps, but also bought Bessey parallel clamps gradually as needed and my budget allowed. This worked out better than if I had bought a dozen bar clamps and needed/wanted to upgrade to parallel clamps later on. So I bought maybe 4 bar clamps and 2 parallel clamps.
This is also why I didn’t buy a basic woodworking bench – I get by using portable work tables, and am finally ready to build my “dream workbench.”
Stacey Jones
Well I’d love to eventually make some furniture for the house. Wall to wall bookcases, a better desk, a grandfather clock, picture frames, and maybe a shed. In the meantime, need to build some skills. Thanks for the advice!
Leo B.
A Sjobergs bench wouldn’t be a bad option, but sawhorses would be a better option for the shed build specifically. They’re also useful for putting an auxiliary work surface on for finishing, staging material, and breaking down sheet goods, depending on your technique. I’d personally go with a bench and 2 sets of horses, if you have the room. Benches allow more mass for chopping or sawing by hand, and the dog holes and vises are very useful. Sawhorses are lighter and more portable, and better for rough construction. It’d be a chunk of change to get it all in one go, but I think that those would all be a very versatile combination. Hope this helps!
Leo B.
Skill-building wise, you could build the sawhorses, then build the bench. It’d be cheaper, and progressive skill building. For the projects you mentioned, a mix of clamps would be helpful, from bar to trigger, but parallel should be very helpful, particularly for the clock. Strap clamps might prove useful as well.
Koko The Talking Ape
Stuart gives excellent advice.
Re workbenches specifically, Fine Woodworking has a ton of articles about building your own, and also reviewing commercial benches. Well worth the subscription price.
This article has a really clever bench you can build that stows away easily. (I think you get access to a few articles for free.)
https://www.finewoodworking.com/2010/08/04/a-workbench-anybody-can-build
I built mine using torsion box construction and folding picnic table legs. It isn’t super steady, but it was cheap and quick, and it’s super strong. I put in dog holes every 8 inches or so, and use Veritas “Wonderdogs) for all the clamping.
Stacey Jones
Interesting build. I was wondering if a couple of sawhorses with a slab on top would work. I guess the answer is yes. I don’t see dog holes in their version. Like you, I’d think you’d want those. Also, no vises?
Stuart
I’ve never used any Makita jig saw. I bought their ~$70 compact corded version for my father to upgrade his older B&D model, but they don’t have a cordless equivalent of it.
I’ve used Bosch, Festool, Dewalt, Milwaukee, and a couple of other lower tier brands.
I also wouldn’t buy into Makita’s 18V lineup. I did buy into XGT, as I wanted to replace the X2 track saw I have, as the two-battery interface has been too clunky at times.
Dewalt hasn’t let me down, with respect to their cordless jig saws and in general, and so this seemed like a low-risk decision.
Milwaukee’s jig saws are also really good. If there was a similar promo on the Milwaukee jig saw right now, that would be a really tough choice.
IronWood
Glad to see some promising real-world use of the Powerstacks. I’m kinda binding my time waiting for others to jump in (like Stuart!) before I spend that kind of money on them, but I can sure see where they’ll be beneficial. Great topic for a ToolGuyd review, thanks!
I also have that DCS335 jig saw and really like it. It replaced a clunky old D handle DeWalt that never got used because A: I hate it and B: I only ever seemed to need it where it was a pain to plug in. Since upgrading to the cordless I find myself reaching for it quite often. I’m very pleased with the ergonomics, build quality and features. At the time it was a purchase that felt like an unnecessary splurge (I DO already have a jig saw after all), but it has turned out to be a really good buy.
Mike
I have two Nano packs (2008, 2010) that I’m still using.
Seeings how EVERY ‘pouch’ battery I’ve ever owned (Laptop, Watch, PDA, Tablet) has eventually swollen and needed to be replaced at ~3 years – what ‘secret sauce’ does DW (or any of them for that matter) have to prevent puffing/failure – especially seeings how their batteries will be used in much harsher conditions?
I guess like everything else, time will tell.
Franco Calcagni
I also still have a Bosch barrel grip corded jigsaw, that came with a very long screwdriver to use in changing the blade….great jigsaw. I really loved it but also have to say of all the woodworking tools I use, a jigsaw is definitely less frequent than the other saws and drills.
I have quite a few LXT Makita tools and bought the jigsaw years ago when it was on sale. Never looked back. The times I use a jigsaw, half the time I bring the workpiece to my bench and cut, but very often I will make a cut in place and bring the jigsaw to the workpiece. Sometimes there isn’t an outlet close by so an extension is needed.
A cordless jigsaw is not my most used tool but cordless is definitely the way to go.
I also have the smaller M12 jigsaw, it along with the LXT are great tools. I haven’t used my Bosch corded in about 7-8 years.
Koko The Talking Ape
Nice! I feel like jigsaws don’t get enough cred. With blades for metal, wood, plastic, etc., they’re pretty versatile, and with a guide they can cut surprisingly smoothly. And they’re relatively safe. They’re slow, but that might be the only real downside.
My corded Bosch is smooth and powerful, but if I ever have to cut lots of curves, I might get a cordless.
IronWood
Agreed you can do a lot with a jigsaw. A cordless jigsaw and my Fein tool are kind of my problem-solver tools. Several guys at work have the higher-spec corded Bosch jigsaws and they are really good tools. If I were to buy another corded jig saw that’s what I’d get for sure. But I’m finding that with my cordless jigsaw I’m much more likely to use it and to take it to the work.
SNett
100% agree, I’ve got a real nice Bosch coded model, but rarely ever use it because of the “get it out, find an extension cord, etc.” hassle. I got the cordless Dewalt barrel grip to use during a construction project and find I use it frequently just because of the convenience.
AlexK
This jigsaw looks like it would handle great, so I looked at reviews before I jumped on the deal. Besides the great reviews from almost everyone, one person mentioned how the battery was jutting upwards and he has to hold his forearm on the side of the barrel, not directly over it. Without trying it, I’m not sure if it would be an issue for me, but I like using a jigsaw upside down and that made me hold off on ordering the Dewalt. I had gotten the D handle Milwaukee Jigsaw during holiday sales as the free gift from Home Depot.- 2 5ah batteries and charger for $199 and the jigsaw was free. I wanted a barrel grip, but the Milwaukee deal was so good that I went for it, but now I’m going to return it. Seeing the Dewalt made me glad I haven’t used it yet. I realize I want a barrelgrip, so……..I’m going to see if I can get my hands on the dewalt, see how it feels, then try the M18 and decide which feels more like an extension of my hand. I don’t mind getting into a different battery system for a tool that fits natuarally. I don’t feel that way about a circular saw, reciprocating saw etc. but a barrel grip gets you very close to the wood and maybe it’s sensory feedback or something, but I’ve gotten a lot of pleasure using a corded bosch barrelgrip and I think that if I didn’t see Stuart’s post today, I would have forgotten the enjoyment I get using a barrelgrip. Any feedback on other jigsaws would be appreciated. I have a Bosch 1581 (or 1585?) D handle and a M12 jigsaw – which is underpowered for my uses, doesn’t cut at 90 degrees and bevels are a pain but feels great in hand. Can’t afford a Mafell.
fred
Alek
I mixed up the part #’s – as you corrected my mistake
The Makita that I have is a DJV181Z – bought in Canada in 2017
I’m not sure how it differs from the XVJ01Z that they sell in the USA
https://www.amazon.com/Makita-Djv181Z-Cordless-Brushless-Li-Ion/dp/B00M215JBK
I also have a M12 2445-20 that I keep in Florida for hobby stuff
Franco Calcagni
“I’m not sure how it differs from the XVJ01Z that they sell in the USA”….could be zero difference. For over at least 10 years, or maybe 30 years, Makita part numbers globally and in Canada are the same, but for the USA, what is often the exact same tool, the USA part number is different.
Why? I do not know but was hoping Stuart or someone else might know. (AFAIK, of course there will always be some item that is an exception, butBosch, Milwaukee and Dewalt have the same part numbers globally and the USA.)
Stacey Jones
I read somewhere they are the same. I just got the XVJ01Z and it’s a nice tool. It’d be nice if the grip was a little smaller, but it’s no big deal.
Skye A Cohen
D handle vs barrel grip?
Barrel grip usually doesn’t have a variable speed trigger. That’s a big disadvantage for most everyday use, the a ability to ease off the trigger at times, such as the start of a cut is a huge advantage over simple on off switch with a separate dial for the speed.
Barrel grip can be nice for the lower center of gravity or for use with a coping foot such as the Collins coping foot, that setup works way better with a barrel grip.
Personally I would only consider a barrel grip if it was dedicated to a coping foot but then I prefer to cope in other ways and having a separate tool for coping when it takes less time to simply cope on a table saw or grinder with a flap wheel or coping saw.. it just makes it difficult to really see a need for a barrel grip jigsaw but to each their own I know many of them are sold and I imagine people like them, maybe someone will enlighten me but until then I will stick with d handle jigsaws
Blocky
I used to feather the jigsaw trigger very effectively and thought it was a key feature; however, my makita cxt barrelgrip has a slow start, then ramps up when it hits more resistance entering the cut. In actual use, I haven’t missed the trigger control, and can get quite surgical with this tool.
AlexK
The person that showed me how he uses a jigsaw upside down is a journeyman trained as an apprentice in Ireland. I’m curious how many people in this/our community are from overseas and use a jigsaw that way. Jerry taught me by drawing lines on wood, and quickly cutting right near the line, where your had an unobstructed view of the blade and line. Then he would clean the side by keeping the side of the blade against the board, but not angled in to cut. It would give an almost jointer like clean edge, by just smoothing and getting right on the line. He did it fast. I can get close to that, but I don’t have 45 years experience to do it super fast and accurate.
Bob
That’s funny I learned that trick as a kid from some European trim carpenters too. Damn those guys could cope molding so quick!!! These fellas happened to be from Italy.
I was joking with them I said I thought all Italians were stone masons? He said he figured out early on it is easier to lift a hammer than a rock!!
Met a lot of trim crews from Ireland over the years as well. I was told that in Ireland when you do an apprenticeship (I think 3 years?) The first year you are not allowed to use any power tools it’s all hand saws, chisels, hand planes,etc.
Almost makes you sad with the painted trim that’s so popular these days. These guys cut out such a tight joint you don’t need calk to hide the joint. Unlike the $#!+ fit up so many other guys do these days.
Bob
I have an ancient AEG (back when they were German owned/made) barrel handle jig saw. Never liked the D-handle designs. But craftsman have always been able to adapt to less than perfect ergonomics on tools. It’s just an issue of practice and skill and preference.
I did end up with a D-handle Dewalt. Never like the D-handle and the quick release blade holder sucked to be honest. Probably one of the few DeWalt tools I’ve had that just didn’t work very. Not sure if it was a model specific problem or maybe mine was just a lemon?
I am assuming this new barrel handle jigsaw has a quick release blade mechanism? Does it hold the blades firmly?
I don’t need a new jigsaw but when you need when you need one. The thought of slapping a battery on instead of grabbing an extention cord is tempting. Plus I kind of want to try out those new batteries….Somebody talk me off the ledge haha
Saulac
Interesting how the discussion turn into D-handle vs barrel grip. I think most would be agree that the barrel grip allow better control and are best for coping molding. But how about, for the lack of better word, straight handle? Imagine the drywall cutting knife, but with jig blade, and is powered. A similar tool is the existing “body saw” that they used in car body shops. This saw use a special blade. I want something similar to that saw, but use battery and jig blade. The closest I could think of, and want to try out is the Ridgid JobMax (12v handle) with the recip attachment. Yes, the attachment use recip blade, but I can find those narrow (?) recip blades that work just like jig blade. A saw like this would be the ultimate cut it all, like the OMTs, that people would grab first. Heck, with the right blade, it could work as chisels.
fred
About 30 or more years ago – we bought some Bosch 3294EVS corded in-line jig saws. They were a favorite of our cabinet installers – for reaching in and doing cutouts. We nursed them along for years – until even most of the spare parts were discontinued:
https://www.partswarehouse.com/Bosch-Inline-Grip-Jig-Saw-3294EVS-115V-0603294739-s/327055.htm
BTW – my first jigsaw was a Porter Cable d-handle jig saw that used an oddball (bayonet) blade style. I still have the tool – but it has gathered (instead of making) dust for years.
https://www.amazon.com/Porter-Cable-548-Bayonet-4-5-Amp/dp/B00004WMQG
Once I switched to a barrel-grip saw (corded Bosch 1584VS in the mid-1990’s – I never much went back to using a top-handle design. I still use the 1584 – with a Collins coping foot – permanently mounted – but have a more modern corded Bosch JS572EBL and a cordless Makita 2445-20 that I grab more often.
Saulac
That old Bosch tool certainly belong. I got the name for the grip type from that tool, “inline-grip”. Got it.
TonyT
Would the Metabo HPT cordless one-handed reciprocating saw that can take jig saw blades work?
https://toolguyd.com/metabo-hpt-cordless-compact-reciprocating-saw/
Saulac
This certainly interesting, but it still has the “hump”. I want a just a stick basically. TIL that I am a jig saw snob, my idea is not new, and other people have been wishing for the same saw. I did not know taking both recip/jig blade could be a thing. Searched “jig saw” on here and I learned so much. That “coping foot” is a thing. That coping up side down is a thing, and the Bosch 12v jig saw is ideal for doing that. But I, like many others, still want an “in-line grip” jig saw. I found discussion about “jig saw blade holder/handle”. I want that something like that, but powered! Hmmm…I have a non-fuel M12 recip…if I can fit a copying foot on that…it’s a starting point.
Fyrfytr998
You should tell Jim over on Philly Fixed YT that your team Barrel Grip now.
Robert Adkins
This exact tool has been on my Amazon wish list since I first ran across it, so if you had a choice of font colors I would have written this in green. 😒
They say once you try a barrel style, you will stick with it. Let us know how you like it!
The power stack batteries are another matter. I haven’t had any DeWalt battery packs fail over the years, but when one does, I will salvage any good 18650 cells from them for my flashlights, phone chargers, rotary tools, homemade micro-saw, etc. For that reason and others, I won’t be buying Power Stack batteries any time soon. They will have to offer higher AH packs and come *way* down in price before I’ll be tempted.
AlexK
Fred, is that the Makita model? I’m not seeing it. What shows up is the Milwaukee 12v jigsaw.
The Bosch you have is out of stock.
I love the look of the Dewalt jigsaw! Okay, now back to off topic, kinda. To me, the jigsaw will have to take the place of a bandsaw when I’m not able to use someone’s shop. When I work at the woodshop/sawmill, there is ALWAYS work to do. If not cutting or milling, then greasing the bobcat, sweeping the mountains of sawdust etc. In two years, I’ve never had time to “play”. When the day is done, I’m tired and I don’t go near tools that can remove fingers or limbs without being on top of my game.
I don’t have a shop of my own and I’m moving into an apartment. To be respectful of my downstairs neighbor, I’m hoping to use power tools as little as possible, indoors. I like the jigsaw. Sure, it’s slow. But I’m making things for personal satisfaction, not my livelihood. When I look at anything built before the industrial revolution, it reminds me that you can flatten, cut and join wood with hand tools. It’s a mindset. Having an untethered jigsaw, circular saw, drill and router with my husky collapsible table and some saw horses is luxury. My heated vest makes working outside more manageable. I’m very excited at the thought of building something anywhere I want. That being said, I think I’ll just go and watch someone on YouTube build something. It’s 24 degrees outside and I don’t actually have a project that needs to be built. Already built my snowblower a shed, using a ridgid circular saw and m12 impact driver, with leftover 2×2”s of white oak from the mill, some remnants of plywood, non torn parts of an old tarp and some left over scraps of metal roofing. My girlfriend is living in hillbilly hell. Actually, it looks alright and is bone dry inside.
The jigsaw is a safer tool than the circular saw, just like a bandsaw is safer than a tablesaw – no kickback. I like tools, but I could function with just a jigsaw and drill.
fred
I replied about the Makita model # to your earlier post
Matt P.
I impulse-bought an M18 barrel grip jigsaw a few years ago and it sees way, way more use than I ever thought it would. For one-off quick cuts I’ll always grab it before a cordless (or corded) circular saw. I too have a really nice corded Bosch jigsaw and I can’t tell you the last time I used it. For a big project with lots of cuts I might drag it out but suffice to say a cordless jigsaw is a lot more useful than I imagined it would be. My only gripe with M18 version is it’s pretty bulky. The DeWalt one looks more compact and if I were to do it all over again, now that I’m dual team Red and Yellow, I’d likely get something a little more compact than the M18.
Flotsam
Jig saws have been a constant journey for me. It seems for the longest time only Dgrips were available and i had a bunch of Craftsman. On thicker wood it would seem they were never square to the surface (when they were supposed to be). The one Craftsman had a feature i have not seen on any of the newer jig saws. There was a rotary dial on the top of the Dgrip. It could be fixed or if unlatched the travel of the saw blade could be deflected wit this dial. Cool feature for cutting really tight turns on thinner stock.
So i thought i would try a barrel grip and started with the Ridgid. This was horrible because i didn’t care for the shape of the barrel and it was fixed speed. Fail.
So i went with the top of the line Bosch barrel grip which i got for a great price and that is my go to jig saw. But it does have a cord which isn’t too much of an impediment.
But there are times when a Dgrip is preferred and i did find a variable speed Rigid that was 18v . I later found a similar Ryobi as a backup as well.
What i have found on ALL these newer jig saws is that blade retention is easier and vastly improved. and more importantly the ability to cut square is vastly improved.
Can never have too many jig saws!
Ross
I ordered an impact wrench with the deal you mentioned on January 8th from Ohio power tool and it still hasn’t shipped a month and a half later. Starting to feel pretty salty about it. What’s even worse is that they charged my credit card for the full amount within a day. Didn’t really feel like giving out a free loan.
Stuart
I have not received my order either – they’re waiting on the batteries. I was surprised that I was charged immediately as well. My understanding is that they sold more than expected early on, resulting in the backorder.
There are two options – email them and ask for an ETA (they responded to me very quickly), or purchase elsewhere and ask OPT to cancel.
I was given a mid-Feb ETA, but that has changed to Feb 25th. I figure I’ll email for another update later this week.
They gave me the option of shipping the jig saw first at no extra charge, since they have that in stock again, but I opted for everything to ship together in case I later opt to cancel and purchase the same promo from a different retailer.
Ohio Power Tool are good people, and so I’m more forgiving here than I would be with a huge corporate retailer.
Determine what type of resolution you’re looking for (ETA, partial ship, cancellation), and then call or email them.