Jigsaws unplugged

Craftsman/MD 19.2-volt jigsaw

This saw was smooth and quiet to use. The best feature of the Craftsman: its variable-speed trigger was one of the most precise to operate in the test group. Although smooth, the saw struggled to produce effective cuts in hardwood, moving very slowly through the 1.5″-thick material. The orbital-action setting produced only slightly speedier cuts and it led to a big sacrifice in cutting control. Overall cut quality was adequate in softwoods and with thinner stock, although not stellar. The tool uses a front-mounted plastic yoke system similar to that found on the Black and Decker; however, the Craftsman version is slightly more difficult to use because of stronger spring pressure. Adjusting the bevel angle of the sole isn’t overly complicated, requiring you to loosen two Allen screws. As a bonus, the jigsaw has handy onboard storage for the Allen wrench in the base. The saw’s sole slides forward to provide support to the material being cut, reducing splinters. Overall, this tool is a functional, no-frills saw that would serve the average home workshopper, especially someone who has other tools with the same 19.2-volt DieHard battery system.

Test results:

Price: $80
Battery/charger: Not ncluded
Battery/charger: Nicad
Blade change: Fair
Variable speed: Excellent
Operating smoothness: Good
Orbital blade action: Poor
Bevel adjustment: Fair
Ease of cutting: Poor
Sole design: Good
Contact: www.sears.ca; 888-473-2772