If you are just beginning to build your power tool collection, a jigsaw is the first saw you should buy. A jigsaw, formerly called a scroll saw, is a good all purpose saw because it can make both straight cuts as well as curved cuts for a stenciled design or custom shape.
It should, however, be noted that cutting very precise and exactly straight lines can be difficult for a jigsaw even when using a guide (a better option for exact cuts would be a circular saw or a table saw.) This power tool is typically hand held and easy to use because it is generally lightweight.
Makita Reciprocating Saw
A jigsaw is usually found as a corded model, although it is possible to find a battery operated one. A feature of virtually all models is interchangeable blades. Jigsaws are generally used to cut through wood and other similar materials, but different materials can be cut using specific blades.
The blades do have a tendency to bend when used to cut thicker materials or when used to cut designs with very sharp curves. But that isn't too much of a problem because they are relatively inexpensive to replace. Jigsaws excel at sawing through thin materials but can cut pieces that are up to one and a half inches thick. But beware of overheating a jigsaw or forcing the saw forward to quickly while cutting thick pieces.
It is also important to note that the reciprocating blade is pulled upward and so all materials to be cut ought to be placed finished side face down to avoid chips in the surface. Generally all jigsaw models also feature a bevel function which allows the blade to cut angles up to forty-five degrees relative to the vertical position for miter joints.
Prices of jigsaws vary but can be found for as low as forty dollars. They are relatively inexpensive when compared with other power tools and saws, but yet jigsaws are often the most helpful tools in the shed. The prices increase with better brands, higher quality, more powerful models, longer warranties, and additional features.
Some of the common features found in most jigsaws include a variable speed option, a quick release for fast and easy changing of blades, and a tool free bevel adjustment function. Other jigsaws offer a dust collection mechanism and a blade storage compartment on the power tool itself. When you finally do purchase your first jigsaw, make sure that you protect your investment by storing it in the specified case and in a safe place. It is also important to keep it clean and well maintained.
When using the jigsaw always wear goggles or protective eye wear and it may be wise to wear protective gloves as well. Don't try to cut material greater than an inch and half thick as the results may be less than satisfactory and you may damage your new power tool. Also, go slowly when making cuts to ensure your safety and the exactness of your cuts.
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Makita JR3070CT Reciprocating Saw Feature
- 4-position orbital/straight cutting action
- Variable speed dial for presetting maximum speed
- Long 1-1/4" stroke for faster cutting
- Tool-less blade change and shoe adjustment
- 1 year warranty
Makita JR3070CT Reciprocating Saw Overview
Powerful 15 Amp Motor, Variable Speed, Anti Vibration Technology Reciprocating Saw, 2 Times Less Vibration With Counter Balance System, Unique Clutch Assembly Helps Protect The Gears Should The Blade Bind, 4-Position Orbital/Straight Cutting Action, Variable Speed Dial For Presetting Maximum Speed, Powerful 15A Motor With Electronic Speed Control Maintains Constant Speed Under Load, Long 1-1/4" Stroke For Faster Cutting, "Tool-Less" Blade Change & Shoe Adjusment, Includes: Blade & Metal Tool Case.Makita JR3070CT Reciprocating Saw Specifications
Makita's Reciprocating Saw with AVT delivers superior power and performance with less vibration. The JR3070CT is equipped with Anti-Vibration Technology (AVT), an exclusive counterbalance system that reduces vibration. The result is faster, more efficient cutting and less vibration in the tool -- and the tool user.![]() View larger | ||||
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The JR3070CT with AVT is powered by a 15 AMP motor with electronic speed control to maintain constant speed under load. The JR3070CT has a long 1-1/4-inch stroke for faster cutting with 0-2,800 strokes per minute (SPM) and a variable speed dial with six different preset speeds to match the speed of the saw to the application. The unique clutch system extends the tool life by protecting the gears should the blade bind. It also has orbital action with four settings to choose from for high speed cutting.
More Work, Less Vibration
The JR3070CT is equipped with AVT, Makita's exclusive counterbalance system that reduces vibration for more efficient cutting power. The JR3070CT has a durable body design that keeps dust and debris away from the motor, with rubber and felt seals to keep dust and water out for a longer tool life. The JR3070CT weighs just 9.7 pounds, with "tool-less" blade change and five-position shoe adjustment.
Versatile Design for a Range of Applications
The JR3070CT is a versatile and powerful reciprocating saw engineered for demolition, metal cutting, wood cutting, drywall and plaster, plastics and remodeling. It's ideal for builders, roofers, metal fabricators, remodelers, and general contractors seeking a best-in-class industrial quality reciprocating saw. The JR3070CT is just another example of Makita's commitment to innovative technology and best-in-class engineering.
About Makita's Anti-Vibration Technology (AVT)Makita has adapted the science of earthquake engineering into power tools with Makita's Anti-Vibration Technology (AVT). AVT is an exclusive innovative counterbalance design that provides the professional a power tool solution with up to three-times less vibration, less noise and more efficient power than the competition. Seismic research has developed this damping science to absorb shocks and protect buildings from the devastation of earthquake vibrations. AVT dynamic damping involves reciprocating engineering where a mechanical damper, effectively a counter balance weight, provides an equal and opposite anti-vibration force that puts an equal mass directly opposite the point at which the striker bolt delivers the impact joules to the breaker steel, carbide bit or recipro saw blade. As vibration is eliminated, power is efficiently increased. Without the dissipation of power through vibration, more of the generated energy in the motor can be delivered to the tool bit or blade.
About Makita
Makita is a worldwide manufacturer of industrial quality power tools and offers a wide range of industrial accessories. Makita applies leading-edge innovation to engineer power tools that are more compact and energy efficient, yet deliver industrial strength power and results. Makita U.S.A., Inc. is located in La Mirada, California, and operates an extensive distribution network located throughout the U.S. For more information, please call 800/4-MAKITA (800/462-5482) or visit makitatools.com. Makita is Best in Class Engineering.
Warranty
Every Makita tool is thoroughly inspected and tested before leaving the factory. If you are not satisfied with any Makita tool within 30 days of purchase, return it and Makita will provide a replacement or refund. Each Makita tool is warranted to be free of defects from workmanship and materials for the period of ONE YEAR from the date of original purchase. Should any trouble develop during this one-year period, return the COMPLETE tool, freight prepaid, to one of Makita's Factory or Authorized Service Centers.
What's in the Box
Makita JR3070CT Recipro Saw, two blades and metal tool case.
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