Review: Porter Cable 6-Amp Orbital Jig Saw
Contents
Are you tired of using jigsaws that don't get the balance right? Wouldn't it be nice to have a tool that didn't put undue weight on your wrist, forearm, or elbow as you worked?
The Porter Cable 6-amp orbital jigsaw is a well-balanced saw for the money. Good balance helps you follow a line and reduces fatigue on longer cuts.
What Are the Features of the Porter Cable Orbital Jigsaw?
Porter-Cable builds a 7-position speed dial into the trigger of the PCE345, with a top speed of 3,200 strokes per minute. Reaching the dial takes a slight stretch of your grip for some users.
Combined with 4 orbital settings, the speed dial lets you match the cut to a wide variety of materials.
There are these additional features to consider with the Porter Cable orbital jigsaw as well.
- It has a lock-on button for long cuts. The button sits on the handle near the trigger, out of the way enough that you're unlikely to engage it by accident.
- A keyless blade clamp lets you change blades without tools. Unplug the saw before changing blades.
- The orbital setting is a lever close to the blade. Stop the saw before you change it.
The saw comes with a wood-cutting blade and a wrench. Porter-Cable backs it with a 3-year limited warranty, 1 year of free service and a 90-day satisfaction guarantee.
Compare these features to the Skil Orbital Jigsaw, and you'll find this Porter Cable model is at par.
What Could Be Improved with the Porter Cable Jigsaw?
Check that the blade sits square to the base before you start a cut. A blade that leans makes the cut wander and can cause tear-out.
If the blade binds, don't force the saw forward. Slow down, and use a narrow blade for tight curves, as OSHA recommends for sharp turns.
Overall, the Porter Cable orbital jigsaw is a fast and effective tool that can give you consistently good cuts at a fair price.
Conclusion
Overall, the Porter Cable Orbital Jigsaw is one of the best jigsaws in its class. It cuts both hardwoods and softwoods well, which makes it a versatile tool in its price range.
Sources
- 6 Amp Electric Orbital Jig Saw PCE345, Porter-Cable
- Woodworking eTool: Jig Saws, OSHA
