BoschJS470EB Corded Barrel-Grip Jig Saw - 120V Low Vibration, 7 Amp Variable Speed for Smooth Cutting up to Up To 5-7/8 Inch on Wood, 3/8 Inch on Steel For Countertops

I'll preface by stating I don't use jigsaws very often, and purchased this mostly because I do not yet have a band saw. I used to use an OLD Black&Decker saw, one with an all metal housing - that's how old. Very underpowered and not at all precise. This tool is the complete opposite. It's actually very large, the size and weight a bit daunting at first. However, not at all a drawback because controlling it is no problem. The variable speed is great, and a very handy feature. The variable oscillation control is just as nice. They can be varied separately which is all the better. Also, the dust blower can be turned off so that's nice too. The cord is quite long, which minimizes the need for extension cords - always a good thing. Blade changes are great, no tools needed. However, you must make sure the blade is fully seated in the chuck. The quick release shoots the blades out, so take care to release the blade where you want it to go.As other reviewers have noted, the blade does cant forward about 1/16" and a bit more with a Progressor blade installed. Personally, I don't mind this as I don't consider jigsaws precision tools. For what I use this saw for, which is making templates and installing things, the blade canting forward isn't an issue. For precision cuts I'd use a band saw, but because I don't have that yet, I use a jigsaw and clean up with other tools.The anti-mar sole plate goes on easily and is a nice feature. Haven't used the anti splinter insert but it looks like it'd work just fine. The tool is a little loud, but that's a result of the very powerful motor, which has NO trouble chewing through two inch thick, extremely hard woods. I haven't used it to cut metal yet, but with good blades and reasonable feed rates I have no doubt it'd do a fine job. The high power would be great for that application. The case is excellent and has room for blades to be stored which is great.Overall I was and still am impressed with this tool. Fit and finish are great, performance is great, and it's made in Switzerland. I use Bosch blades which for me have been the best, and highly recommend them as well. Excellent tool and blades, two thumbs up to Bosch.EDIT 9-27-12This jig saw is going strong. I have used it to cut metal, in several thicknesses and types. Bronze 1" diameter rod, aluminum 1/2" bar, and mild steel 1/4" bar. Went through all like they were nothing, though I did slow the saw down as well as orbital action. Once again, variability for these is GREAT. I also used a Progressor blade for metal on these. I did use it to cut some sheet metal, and as one might expect it went through that like it was nothing, but again, I turned down the speed and orbital action and used a standard metal blade. Bosch has a winner with this saw.

I'm doing a camper conversion on a Nissan NV High Roof and was using a Black & Decker consumer level cordless jigsaw. It wouldn't cut straight, or plumb no matter what I did. Spent lots of time hand filing and sanding to correct the terrible cuts.Decided to upgrade and get this Bosch jigsaw since I have a couple other Bosch tools and am impressed with the performance.After a whole day of working with the saw, I'm very happy with the performance and the ease of use. I got the Barrel-Grip for several reasons. I specifically like the way the speed is set with a dial at the rear of the tool and the switch on the side doesn't need to be held for the saw to keep cutting. I set the speed dial for the blade and material, turn the saw on and concentrate on the cut. I can grip it several different ways to get the best cut, but I'm 6'4" with large hands.The saw also has an adjustable blade orbit that keeps the blade straight for metal and really rips thru thicker wood on Setting III (most orbit). It has a chip blower that helps visibility, but doesn't clear the cut area completely (oh well).Adjusting the footplate for angle cuts requires removing the soft overshoe and using the included allen wrench on the footplate screw. Not too bad and there are detents for 15, 22.5, 30 and 45 degree cuts.The saw comes with a clear plastic insert for the footplate that is called the "Anti Splinter Insert". I used it on some 1/4" plywood and it really works (with a smooth wood blade).Overall, I would highly recommend the saw.

This is my first "barrel" handle jig saw and I like it! I'm a hobby carpenter who grew up working in residential construction. This saw is big, maybe 2.5-3 inches in diameter where you hold it, I wear large size gloves and have no trouble holding it. The blade locking mechanism is much better than the screws on my old saw, but I can see how this is a possible breaking point. It has a line clearing/blowing feature, but my old saw was a little better at clearing the line. It has a rocking feature, which is new for me, but seems to work well for cutting thick material. It has a long cord! Descent caring case. Non-scratch clip-on base which might be useful. I cut a piece of pine 2x4x30 inch to test it out. It cut well in both directions with a 10tpi DeWalt clean cut blade in it.

The barrel grip does give excellent control, as advertised. The tradeoff, however, is ergonomics. I find it hard to access the on/off switch with one hand while routing, but I have relatively short fingers. It is, however, the best router I've ever owned.

I bought this before reading the negative reviews. I want to address just those points. I find the saw works well, is very powerful, and makes a great cut.1) No light: well, yes, this is true, so I gave it 4 stars. If a light is important to you, don't get this one.2) Heavy: It has mass, that's certain. About like my circular saw. But it sits on the surface it is cutting so no big deal to me. The mass might also help reduce the vibration as this saw is very stable.3) Body gets too hot to hold: I didn't have this issue, but mine only runs for a few minutes at a time.4) Blade is not straight up and down, but pitched: Not on mine. At rest it looks crooked, but the blade under pressure moves back and makes contact with the stabilizer wheel and the blade is then straight. I had no issues with this.5) Can't see the blade when cutting so it is hard to follow a line: Not for me, the visibility is as good as the old Craftsman I replaced: no issue.The saw cuts extremely well. The only improvement would be a light, but my shop has plenty of light I'm ok.

My workshop consists of 100's of power tools. I've gone through many different brands over the years. I'm not brand loyal, as I've discovered that there is no single brand that's superior in every tool they make.This jigsaw is top notch. The barrel grip is a must have for comfortable precise cutting. Don't get suckered into thinking "lighter is better", lighter is more often then not, lower quality. This jigsaw is the complete opposite, it's heavy! It will plant itself on the table and will glide around with ease, no bouncing or vibrating with this jig. It's precise!The blade guard is a piece of steel, not some cheap plastic that will snap off the second you throw it in a tool bag. The quick change blade feature is nice to. You can swap a blade out in as little as 5 seconds.No tool is perfect though. I did notice that the barrel grip will get quite hot after 5+ mins of continuous cutting. This isn't a huge concern for me though. I'm rarely doing a cut that takes that amount of time.Overall, this is my 6th jigsaw over 5 common brands, and it's hands down the best. If you're serious about what you do, it's worth every penny.

Easy to use.Powerful

Great tool. The last saw I had was a B&D (3.5 A). This tool is in an entirely different league. Very strong and sturdy. I use it mostly at speed # 4 (medium speed) and this is plenty for the detailing work with my pine wood in the addition I am building This thing will last for many decades. I love the extra long electrical cord it comes with. So far I didn't need an electrical extension. I do not have big hands and so far I am not bothered by the bulk of the saw. I find it easy to control the cut.I would have love for it to have a LED light. My eyes are not what they used to be. Often I work in area that is not very well lit. There is enough light for most of the work I do, but it is too dark for precision work with this saw. I have to put a head light to make sure I see the mark to be cut. I know I should have better lighting, but my drill and my nail gun and my multi tool do have LED light and I am able to work very well in my ambient lighting.Also it would be nice if the foot was curling a bit at the front in a ski like fashion. My old B&D had this feature. This is very handy when you work with uneven wood. As it is, I find that the Jigsaw sometime get caught where two slightly uneven boards are meeting.

Comes with one blade. Order a blade kit too. This saw is powerful and steady. Scrolled through pressure treated 2x8 like a hot knife through butter.

works well, but no LED light, I really can't see where i'm cutting!