Review: Bosch 7-Amp Barrel-Grip Jigsaw
Contents
A jigsaw should be easy to use and easy to steer along a line.
The Bosch 7-Amp barrel-grip jigsaw does that well. Its four orbital-action settings let you choose between a smoother cut and a faster, more aggressive one.
What Are the Features of the Bosch Jigsaw?
The primary feature that we really liked when giving the Bosch jigsaw a closer look was its blade changing system. It is a tool-less system with an ejection lever, so you never have to touch a hot blade. Note that the clamp takes T-shank blades only, not U-shank.
There are these additional features that are worth noting on this particular jigsaw model as well.
- It features a precision-machined plunging system, matched up with a low-vibration design, that allows you to accurately follow your cut path to create consistent results. This is supported by the barrel-grip design, which allows you to provide balance to the cut without a high level of hand fatigue.
- It has a large die-cast aluminum footplate that bevels to 45 degrees, plus a no-mar plastic overshoe to protect finished surfaces.
- It has been equipped with a variable speed dial that allows you to set the maximum speed of your cut. There is also an accelerator trigger equipped that allows you to control the operating speed on the fly. The 7-amp motor runs from 500 to 3,100 strokes per minute, and a dust blower keeps the cut line clear.
- The barrel grip gives you more control than say a top handle like this Dewalt jigsaw has.
All in all, if you’re looking for a power jigsaw that gives you the control and movement of a handsaw, then this is a solid choice. You can check out some of the other jigsaws that we like and recommend.
What Could Be Improved with the Bosch Jigsaw?
A jigsaw isn’t a precision joinery tool, and you will usually sand to the line after cutting. With some blades, this model can undercut.
Now we know there are plenty of woodworkers out there that take the shortcut of using a jigsaw to cut joints, but this tool isn’t supposed to be for those critical cuts. In thick stock, the blade can deflect so the bottom of the cut wanders slightly from the top. A sharp, stiff blade and a slower feed reduce it.
The Verdict
So for basic jigsaw cutting needs, we found Bosch 7-Amp Barrel-Grip Jigsaw to be useful, powerful, and adaptable. If you’re trying to make a critical cut or use this jigsaw in other ways than the manufacturer intends, you will likely come away feeling disappointed. With a sharp blade it cuts cleanly, so it is worth a closer look.
Sources
- JS470EB Jig Saws, Bosch Tools
- Wood Dust - Overview, OSHA
