Would you mind if you quadruple your productivity at work with a tool rather than doing hectic work manually? If you know the craft of woodwork or carpentry then you must know how daunting of a task it is to make curve cuts manually.
But wait! There’s a powerful tool that can solve all your struggles related to curve cuts and much more. Yes, you guessed it right. It’s a “Jigsaw”. We have compiled a list of the best jigsaws for coping and other woodworks. Jigsaw is the ideal choice for curve cuts and bevels. To bevel irregular shapes manually is pretty hectic which is why Carpenters require a coping jigsaw.
You can also cut inside shapes and holes, such as a circle or a square, by drilling first and then using the jigsaw on the wood. So, if you’re a carpenter why would you not need such a tool which can maximize your productivity at work and save you time.
Jigsaw can be shifted to change to any angel as it is versatile, requires little space, and the best part is it is quite affordable.
Jigsaw will be the only power tool you need for your woodworking projects as it can cut tight radiuses and can also help you make holes in the lumber which is something even some expensive and considerably more effective power tools such as colins coping foot even can’t do.
In short, Jigsaw is the least appreciated power tool and is highly underrated.
Can you use a Jigsaw for Coping?
If you are still confused about whether a jigsaw can be used for coping then the answer is an absolute yes! In fact, it is the most effective tool which would give you the quickest and the most accurate cut. A coping foot is something that can be attached to most jigsaws. Coping the baseboard with a jigsaw gives you the perfect cut and shape with accuracy unlike coping with other tools or manual coping which gives you a ragged cut.
What is the difference between Corded and Cordless Jigsaw?
The basic difference between corded and cordless jigsaws is that cordless jigsaws require some other stuff to work such as batteries and chargers which aren’t required (in corded jigsaws) and they are also relatively lighter in weight than cordless jigsaws. So let’s check out which of the corded jigsaws are the top choice of our team.
Shopping Tips: Best Jigsaw for Coping Foot
Corded or Cordless
The answer to this depends on the nature of your work because a cordless jigsaw would be an ideal choice for someone who just wants to work on DIY projects or a beginner. It also provides ease of mobility. It is easy to handle and requires no power outlet.
When it comes to corded jigsaws the biggest advantage is they don’t need to be charged and they are also more powerful than the ones which are cordless. Corded saws are less expensive than cordless ones as they don’t require batteries to operate.
Motor Power
Higher amperage ratings indicate an increased cutting power. The top-notch jigsaws will have motor ratings ranging from 6.5-7 amps. Cheaper jigsaws may range between 5 amps or less.
Battery Source – Battery Powered or Electric Powered
When we talk about battery sources then electric-powered jigsaws are preferred over the ones with batteries. If you’re doing woodwork professionally then go with an electric jigsaw for 2 simple reasons, a higher ability of strokes per minute and an ampere rating.
What happens as a result is that the battery may get low and become a hindrance during your work whereas in an electric-powered jigsaw the supply of electricity is in abundance which means that it would perform at optimum levels all the time.
The performance of the battery-powered jigsaws may vary as each manufacturer is different. If you have budget issues then the electric-powered ones are better because in most cases you have to buy the battery separately and when you sum up the price then it gets more expensive than the electric ones.
Blade
Which blade to use depends on the materials you will be working on. Some common materials are High carbon- steel, High-speed steel, bi-metal, and tungsten carbide.
High carbon steel is made with inexpensive material and will work fine if you want to cut both 2×4 woods using a jigsaw or plywood with a jigsaw. High speed-steel is much harder than the latter and offers increased durability but keep in mind that it isn’t as flexible as high-carbon steel. Materials ranging from hardwood, metal or reinforced plastic can be cut through it.
As the name indicates, bi-metal’s body is made up of both high carbon- steel and high speed-steel teeth. This mixture allows them to have the best of both worlds such as flexibility and hardness. Both heavy metal and hardwoods can be cut through it.
The tungsten carbide blade is the most long-lasting and durable blade when compared to others. If you are looking for a blade with the best heat-resistant quality then this is the one. The reason for it being so robust is that instead of having teeth in the blade it has a tungsten carbide grit coating on the cutting edge which makes it so unique.
Voltage
It may differ as per the jigsaw’s other functions but ideally, a good choice would be at least a jigsaw with 110-volt power.
Variable Speed
It is a very useful feature but isn’t for everyone. If you are working on basic cuttings then you don’t need it much whereas when it comes to making complex cuts or cutting steel then you definitely need it because with metal slower cuts are better. This feature is worth paying the additional amount if you really need it.
Orbital Action
Orbital action cuts through jigsaw are always preferred as it gives the most smooth cuts when compared to the regular saws. Unlike the regular saws which move up and down, orbital action is when it is slightly forward and moves into the workpiece on the upswing, then moves in a backward position on the downstroke as the blade moves for the next stroke. This movement is a bit elliptical which in result helps in minimizing the wear on the blade.
Depth of Cut and Stroke Length
How thick a jigsaw can cut? Usually, jigsaws cut as deep as 2 inches on wood and ½ inch on the metal material. It isn’t recommended to force your cuts through a jigsaw as the more deep cuts you make the higher chance of blades getting bent or broken.
Whereas a little hack in such a situation is to cut a little less on your desired cut line and then cut it further with the help of an oscillating drum sander
Weight
Usually, the corded jigsaws are lesser in weight but there are cordless jigsaw variants that are lightweight too. But if you prefer mobility overweight then a cordless jigsaw should be your choice. Corded jigsaws can weigh anywhere between 1½ kg to 3 kgs whereas cordless jigsaws weigh between 1½ kg to 3½ kgs due to the weight of batteries.
Top Jigsaws for Coping At a Glance:
- Dewalt DCS334B XR
- Porter-Cable 20V MAX
- M18 Fuel D-Handle Bare Tool
- Ryobi P5231 18-Volt ONE
- Makita XVJ01Z 18V
- Black & Decker 5.0-Amp
- Bosch Barrel-Grip JS470EB
- Craftsman 5.0-Amp
- Dewalt Top-Handle (DW317K)
- WEN 33606 Orbital Jigsaw
Best Cordless Jigsaws for Coping
Some of the users have a preference for cordless jigsaws over the ones with a cord so we have compiled a list together. There you go:
Dewalt DCS334B XR
Best Brushless Jigsaw for Coping
REASONS TO BUY
✓Robust brushless motor and cordless design.
✓Efficient 3200 strokes per minute for a vast range of materials.
✓Integrated LED light and dust blower for efficient work.
✓ a keyless mechanism for changing blades.
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Without a lock button.
✗The battery and charger should be bought separately.
One of the biggest issues faced by users is the cord attached to the Jigsaw which is somehow one of the biggest obstructions in your work. In the Dewalt DCS334B, you will get a 20V MAX XR battery which will allow you to work for longer periods of time with ease.
It is equipped with a robust brushless motor which gives you the option to set a variable speed control ranging from 0 to 3000 strokes at a time per minute whereas the speed can also be adjusted through the trigger. It has a 4 position orbital action which enhances the speed and cut control.
The control it offers both in terms of speed and accuracy due to the functionality of variable speed trigger and the dial is unmatchable. There are surfaces where there isn’t sufficient light available and that’s where the LED light placed on the Jigsaw comes into play as it enables you to work even in a dim light environment and is one of the most liked features among users of Dewalt 20V DCS334B MAX XR JigSaw.
The t-shank blades which come with the Dewalt DCS334B model are enough to cut both hard and delicate materials such as wood, plastic, even tiles, etc. It weighs 5½ pounds and the grip it comes with is anti-slip. There is an integrated dust blower that helps in clearing the sight while cutting. It is air-powered that requires 20 volts to operate. The bottom line is that it is the best brushless jigsaw for coping.
Porter-Cable 20V MAX
Best 20v Cordless Jigsaw for Coping
REASONS TO BUY
✓Affordable choice with a 2500 stroker per minute.
✓Variable speed control.
✓Lightweight.
✓Tool-free blade mechanism.
✓Built-in dust blower.
REASONS TO AVOID
✗U-shank blades can be difficult to manage.
✗Doesn’t come with an LED light to assist in dim light surfaces.
The Porter-Cable PCC650B comes with a 20V Lithium Battery that can last longer as compared to similar Jigsaws. The battery of any other Porter-Cable jigsaw can be used to run this jigsaw. It has the ability to move the blade at the speed of 2,500 strokes per minute which makes it an ideal choice for beginners. Another differentiating factor of it from its cordless peers is that it is lightweight.
What makes this jigsaw standout is that it’s lighter on the pocket even though it is classified as an industrial built quality built. However, it is not a premium choice but is definitely a machine that can fulfill your everyday requirements related to woodwork.
It has the feature of a variable speed mechanic which allows users to control the speed as per requirements and control.
3 orbital settings allow you to get smooth cuts and are ideal for coping joints. It is also good for a wide range of materials. The built-in dust blower allows it to clear the debris to enhance visibility and to ensure that you remain on the cutline. The tool-free blade makes it easier to change blades and resultantly increases your speed while working plus it also makes it safer to use.
We have found it to be an ideal choice for carpenters and other professionals who are looking for cheaper Jigsaws but with a complete package. The minor lacking of this jigsaw is covered with its features which are a steal for its price and it is known as the Best 20v Cordless Jigsaw for Coping on the market.
M18 Fuel D-Handle Bare Tool
Best battery-powered Jigsaw for coping
REASONS TO BUY
✓Brushless motor and cordless design.
✓RedLink Plus Intelligence system for optimum performance of the machine.
✓3,500 strokes per minute for clean cuts which is exceptionally well.
✓Tool-less blade change and LED Light for visible in dim light.
REASONS TO AVOID
✗The battery should be bought separately.
If you’re tired of issues such as chipping or bucking while trying to make a clean cut and controlled cuts then this powerful machine of Milwaukee is the best battery-powered Jigsaw for coping.
To run it efficiently just a single Lithium-Ion battery is required and is rated as among the top cordless jigsaws. This Jigsaw is equipped with 10 teeth to offer a speedy, and finer finish of the cut for all the basic materials.
It has a brushless motor that amalgamates the power, and blade speed, and enhances the precision of the cut which in result creates superior quality cuts on all kinds of materials. The LED light attached to it helps in keeping the cutline visible during work.
As per the Reviews of users, this is a lightweight (5.73 Pounds to be exact), noiseless Jigsaw, and is sturdy as compared to the competitor brands. The rubber material makes it easier to make a grip or hold on the machine while performing tasks. It requires 18 volts to run and has a blade speed of 3,500 strokes per minute when compared to jigsaws with cords this is quite higher. The tool-less blade change and tool-free bevel adjust with detents at 0, 15, 30, and 45.
It is a technologically intelligent machine as it comes with a Redlink Plus Intelligence system which helps in the integration of tools, charger, and battery. It also keeps a check on the internal network in order for the jigsaw to perform coping tasks on an optimum level.
Ryobi P5231 18-Volt ONE
Best 18v Cordless Jigsaw for coping
REASONS TO BUY
✓Ablade saving base.
✓Trigger lock system.
✓4 orbital settings.
✓Built-in dust blower and LED light.
REASONS TO AVOID
✗The battery needs to be purchased separately.
This is one of the most versatile Jigsaw you can find on the market. RYOBI’s innovative blade saver feature allows access to unused teeth with the help of an adjustable base, it helps in increasing the blade life.
Similar to 125 other tools of One+, this jigsaw works fine with all the Ryobi 18-Volt One+ batteries, giving you complete freedom and furthest versatility in the selection of tools.
With the 4 orbital settings of this Jigsaw, one can make cuts into the lumber or can make curves into the metal easily. The speed can be increased or decreased as per the material or the underlying task you are performing.
The variable speed dial option provides you with a clean and superior cut by allowing you to choose between 1,100 to 3,000 strokes per minute. The built-in dust blower helps you clear the debris while working and improves visibility during work. The LED light works like a charm for areas with poor lighting conditions.
If you think your jigsaw blade is becoming worn out or redundant then you can remove the base so that you can use the unused blades of your tool. To enhance safety it comes with a trigger lock system which also allows you to put all your efforts into getting the perfect cut.
It is quite a lightweight jigsaw weighing just 5.06 pounds and can run on 18 volts. It is also classified as the best 18v cordless jigsaw for coping. Lastly, it is a battery-powered jigsaw that provides the convenience of portability, and performance-wise it’s no less than one with a cord.
Makita XVJ01Z 18V
Best Brushless Cordless Jigsaw for coping
REASONS TO BUY
✓Robust brushless motor.
✓6-speed control setting.
✓3 options of orbital movement.
✓Dual LED lights.
✓50% longer run time for battery.
✓Ergonomic barrel grip for coping.
✓LED remaining battery indicator.
REASONS TO AVOID
✗The battery should be bought separately.
It won’t be wrong at all to say that Makita XVJ01Z is the best brushless cordless jigsaw for coping available in the market whether we evaluate it from performance, efficiency, or power. It is the most dependable and reliable machine.
It comes with an 18-volt Lithium-ion battery and is compatible with any of the Makita cordless tools and provides fast charging. The brushless motor of this Jigsaw has an electric control and is designed in a way that the battery is used at optimum levels and resultantly the life of the battery increases significantly.
Unlike other jigsaws, it is equipped with a variable 6-speed control dial ranging from 800-to 3,500 strokes per minute allowing users to set it as per their usage or the material they are working on.
The system of electronic control is so efficient that it uses the battery as per the required demand of the underlying task. It also comes with an ambidextrous button to turn it on and off and a locking button for protection at work.
For superior cutting performance, it has a 0°- 45° left or right bevel capacity. For adding durability and accuracy in cutting performance, it comes with a heavy gauge aluminum base.
Some other notable features are tool-less blade change and dual LED light. The integrated dust blower clears the debris during work and gives you a perfect cut. The ergonomic build makes it much more reliable even though its weight is just 5.08 pounds.
Best Corded Jigsaws for Coping
Black & Decker 5.0-Amp
Best Heavy-duty Corded Jigsaw for coping
REASONS TO BUY
✓Powerful 5 Amp Motor.
✓¾ blade orbital action.
✓Curve control technology.
✓Lightweight.
✓Tool-free blade.
✓Integrated dust blower.
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Some users would prefer a cordless jigsaw
The Black Decker Electric Jigsaw has a powerful 5 amp motor that can deliver up to 3,000 strokes per minute. To enhance the precision of the machine It comes with a 3⁄4 blade orbital action.
Some users would require rounded cuts and the Black Decker Electric Jigsaw is the ideal choice for them, as it is equipped with Curve Control Technology. It allows four curve settings to get total control over rounded cuts.
To ensure that you get aesthetically pleasing designs this jigsaw can make beveled cuts up to 45 degrees. The variable-speed motor can be adjusted as per the required tasks and the underlying material the user is working on.
It is an ideal jigsaw for heavy-duty tasks and it won’t be wrong if we classify it as the best heavy-duty corded jigsaw for coping. Adjustable shoes provide enhanced stability and the wire guard clears your line of sight to obtain the perfect cuts. It comes with a keyless clamp so you would not require or need to look for other tools while replacing the blade.
The tool-free blade change feature allows you to replace U and T shank blades without any additional tools. It has high ratings on Amazon (4.7 out of 5) which depicts that it is liked by customers.
It is compact in size and just weighs 4.5 pounds. It requires 120 volts to run and the handle is made up of rubber for a stronger grip. The integrated dust blower keeps the debris away and makes you work with greater ease. The bottom line is Black Decker Jigsaw BDEJS600C is a smart machine for performing a wide range of cutting applications and woodwork.
Bosch Barrel-Grip JS470EB
Best Corded Jigsaw with Barrel grip
REASONS TO BUY
✓Robust machine, ideal for heavy-duty tasks.
✓Barrel grip design for increased comfort.
✓7.0 amp powerful motor.
✓Exclusive Constant Response circuitry system.
REASONS TO AVOID
✗A Built-in LED light is missing.
The barrel grip of this Bosch JS470EB jigsaw is what makes it unique and is the distinguishing factor among the competitor brands and it won’t be wrong if we call it the best-corded jigsaw with barrel grip. It comes with an aluminum gearbox and a precision-machined plunging system which enhances the control of the machine and also minimizes its vibration of the machine. Resultantly you get a stable and increased accuracy.
It has a strong 7.0 amp motor that has the ability to deliver 3,100 strokes per minute and has the option of variable speed control with which you can control the speed between 500 SPM to 3,100 SPM. From basic materials to rigid ones it can perform all tasks diligently and give you the perfect cuts.
The tool-less blade change system discounts the risk of touching hot blades and enhances security. It also allows faster insertion in the material to get a perfect cut. 4 settings of the orbital movement increase the speed and make the cut look more natural.
The aluminum footplate can provide tool-less bevel adjustments up to 45 degrees. It has a weight of 6 pounds. It is ergonomically built and has a soft handle which gives superior control, precision, and comfort.
The technologically advanced systems allow a simple and easy start. Consistent delivery of velocity is provided as the torque adjusts itself as per the required toughness of the underlying material.
Bosch provides a robust case to carry the jigsaw for enhanced convenience. To enhance the performance and get even more perfect cuts this corded Jigsaw by Bosch is recommended.
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Craftsman 5.0-Amp
Best Lightweight Corded Jigsaw
REASONS TO BUY
✓Variable speed trigger with 3,000 strokes per minute.
✓Lightweight and affordable choice.
✓3 year limited warranty and support.
✓4 orbital settings feature.
REASONS TO AVOID
✗It comes with just 1 blade.
If you are looking for the best lightweight corded jigsaw for coping (5.44 pounds to be exact) and which is also cheap on the pocket then this Craftsman 5 amp Jigsaw is an ideal choice for you.
The Craftsman Jig Saw comes with a contoured and over-molded handle which keeps you at ease while working due to the comfort it provides.
There’s a variable speed trigger that ranges from 0 to 3,000 strokes per minute which you can adjust according to the material you’re working on.
The 10 teeth of this jigsaw help in yielding a smoother surface cut and cleaner cut on the edges. For a faster sawing experience and aggressiveness of the cut, it is equipped with 4 orbital settings.
It works well for both T shank and U blades so if you have a versatile nature of work. You won’t require any additional tools for replacing blades as it’s a tool-free blade change feature. It also has a beveling shoe for angled cuts.
An addition of a cutline would have been great as it could increase the visibility during work but when we compare the offered features with the price it’s just a steal. The best of all it comes with a 3-years limited warranty and support. As per customer reviews, it works like a charm for materials such as wood, etc.
Dewalt Top-Handle (DW317K)
Best Professional Jigsaw
REASONS TO BUY
✓Powerful 5.5 amp motor.
✓Variable speed feature ranging between 0-3,100 SPM
✓4 position orbital feature.
✓No batteries required
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Blades need to be purchased separately
If you are a professional and looking for a Jigsaw that can support you in completing all their tedious tasks in a hassle-free manner then this corded jigsaw by Dewalt should be your choice. It has gained popularity among users as the best professional jigsaw for coping.
It has a keyless lever-action blade clamp which helps in changing blades in an instant without touching blades. The 5.5 amp motor performs powerful cuts even with rigid materials. The speed it delivers is also above the mark which is 0 – 3,100 strokes per minute that too with a variable speed feature which means you can adjust the speed as per your requirement of the material.
The 4 positions orbital feature provides an accurate cut and speed which is required for you as a professional. The metal case is built entirely with the material of metal so that it can depend on its durability when you’re working in a professional space.
For bevel cuts, the shoe bevel can make adjustments up to 45 degrees. Its power source is corded and the material is plastic made. It weighs around 6.2 pounds but doesn’t be mistaken, it can perform the toughest jobs when it comes to woodworks or some other curve-cutting duties.
WEN 33606 Orbital Jigsaw
Best Affordable Corded Jigsaw
REASONS TO BUY
✓LED and laser light for low-lit conditions.
✓Robust motor with a stroke per minute ranging between 0 to 3,300.
✓4-position orbital selection.
✓Affordable yet useful.
✓Beveling footplate.
✓Value for Money.
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Problems with laser light.
If you want to perform some basic tasks with a jigsaw and are looking for cheaper options then this Wen Orbital Saw is the Best Affordable Corded Jigsaw for Coping.
This is in no way lesser than other jigsaws even though it is quite cheap when it comes to price. Let’s find out how:
It has a 6.6 amp robust motor which is efficient enough to deliver stroke per minute between 0 to 3,300 which is higher than the competitors even with a higher price tag.
Not only does it have an LED light attached to it to work in poorly lit areas, in fact, but it also has an onboard laser so that you can get an accurate line of cuts whenever you are getting your woodwork done. It has a dust port which is also known as a front-mounted dust blower to keep the waste away from the line of cut during work. It weighs around 5.4 pounds which means it is quite heavy to handle.
For increased safety, it comes with a trigger switch that can turn on the lock which even some of the advanced saws don’t even offer. Some other notable features are as follows:
Beveling footplate, non-marring shoe, parallel fence bracket, etc. The power source of WEN 33606 is corded electric and needs 120 volts to run.
With the 4-position orbital selection, the blades can be moved from an up and down position to even a circular position. The best part is it comes with a 2-year limited warranty.
Important Accessories you need along with the Jigsaw:
Jigsaw Table: The most important tool would be a jigsaw table which is required in case you don’t have a jigsaw scroll. With the help of this, you will get better control and maneuverability for making scroll cuts.
Parallel and Circle Guides: A metal bar that is parallel to the blade of a jigsaw is known as a parallel guide. A guide on the other end and the bar go along the edge of your workpiece while you’re making the cut. Resultantly the guide empowers you to cut straight with a jigsaw and make accurate length-wise cuts which would be an impossible task if done without a table saw.
Molding Coping Jig: A very good substitute for chop saw is what your molding coping jig is. A molding coping jig replaces for you the need to cut, mold, or baseboard with the help of a miter saws handheld coping saw and they would help you in cutting the perfect molding cut with the help of a jigsaw.
Coping Foot Tool for Jigsaw: The best coping foot tool for a jigsaw is found to be of the brand Tezoro. Check it out.
How do you Cut a 45-degree Angle with a Jigsaw?
To make a 45-degree angle bevel cut with a jigsaw, the blade needs to be placed at an angle relative to the board’s face or the material you are trying to cut.
Keep in mind that the angle of the blade set at remains consistent during the cut so that you can get a clean, accurate bevel cut, most likely at a 45-degree angle.
At first mark the cutting line. The cutting line should be accurate with the waste side marked out. Find out the lever of the adjustment shoe and pull it so that the shoe gets unlocked. If you’re unable to perform it then check out the user’s manual of your jigsaw.
Now tilt the shoe and check the bevel scale of the jigsaw. Set the shoe at an angle against the blade where you get the best angle you need. Keep holding the shoe at that particular angle while you re-lock the shoe in place using the shoe adjustment lever.
Look if the shoe is locked tight in place and the bevel scale is showing the indicator at your required angle. Now you should confirm the angle with a protractor or a combination square when you adjust the jigsaw show.
To achieve accurate bevel cuts, you can make a guide fence by clamping a straightedge to the workpiece for the shoe to follow. Finally, just focus on the line and the fence and let the jigsaw do its magic.
Conclusion
We are enthusiasts of power tools and love to play around with them and the list of the best jigsaw for coping is written after due diligence and extensive research. We have cherry-picked these jigsaws from a plethora of others available.
We wish you good luck in all your woodworking or other DIY projects which you have planned to execute with your jigsaw. It would be a pleasure for us if we answer your queries and we welcome your feedback in the comments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is barrel grip jigsaw better for coping?
Yes, barrel jigsaw is the best jigsaw for coping foot as it offers better control on the blade due to the position of the hand and a clear line of sight.
What is a coping foot?
A coping foot has a dome base shape base for the jigsaw which is used to bevel, turn and pitch the blade while you change the angles during the cut.
Can you cope a baseboard with a jigsaw?
The straight answer is yes, you have two options, to crown mold or trim in order to cope a baseboard with a jigsaw.
