A jigsaw is a versatile power saw used primarily for cutting curves, intricate shapes, and beveled edges in a variety of materials.
Primary Uses
• Curved and Intricate Cuts: Because the blade is narrow, it can easily pivot to cut circles, waves, and custom shapes in wood, plastic, or thin metal.
• Plunge Cutting (Interior Cutouts): You can use it to cut holes in the middle of a surface—such as cutting an opening for a sink in a countertop—without starting from the outside edge (usually after drilling a small starter hole).
• Bevel Cuts: The metal base plate (shoe) on the bottom tilts up to 45 degrees, allowing you to make angled cuts for decorative edges or miter joints.
• Cross-Cutting and Ripping: While circular saws are better for long straight lines, a jigsaw can easily make quick straight cuts across boards, plywood, or PVC pipes.