The segment of processing hand tools has recently expanded with electric jigsaws. The compact tool with a thin saw blade allows both professional carpenters and DIYers to make clean cuts in wood, plastic and metal with minimal waste. The German Bosch jigsaw occupies one of the leading positions in this niche, demonstrating reliability and high quality results.
Tool Features
The manufacturer produces functional, ergonomic and practical models of jigsaws, which are also distinguished by optimized assembly and durability of the element base. For example, for the professional segment, developers offer devices equipped with a toolless SDS file fixing system, which saves time on changing equipment without losing to alternative fasteners in terms ofreliability.
As for functionality, the Bosch electric jigsaw is equipped with a pendulum stroke option, a chip blower system and high-power speed support. This provision is especially useful in furniture production, as it allows carpenters to use the tool for a long time with the maximum engine load. In domestic operating conditions, jigsaw illumination, a laser pointer and a smooth start are appreciated. The owner of a model with such functionality, even without special training, will be able to qualitatively perform even a complex figured cut.
Varieties of jigsaws
The basic classification of German jigsaw models involves the division into household and professional devices. Accordingly, this is an instrument with a blue and green body. Household devices are characterized by a limited power resource, a small set of options and a modest package. However, amateur-class Bosch jigsaw files are quite consistent in quality with professional-level consumables. For production and the construction industry, more productive units are offered that can operate uninterruptedly up to 8 hours. The quality of their element base is also higher, so you can count on long-term operation without repair operations.
Also, the Bosch family of jigsaws can be divided into mains and battery models. The former are powered by an outlet, while the latter are usually powered by lithium-ion batteries. The presence of a battery makes it possible to use the tool at remote sites withoutcentral power supply. More importantly, the battery-powered Bosch jigsaw does not lose in power to network counterparts. The manufacturer seeks to optimize the power filling, offering devices that are universal in use.
Characteristics of models
The assortment covers almost the entire range of technical and operational parameters typical for modern jigsaws. The main performance characteristic is the power potential. The operation of this tool, in principle, does not require high power, so on average this figure varies from 500 to 1000 watts. Unless individual industrial models are provided with 1200-1500 W motors. For domestic needs, the Bosch PST 900 jigsaw, whose power is 620 watts, is quite enough. No less important are the processing parameters of the workpieces. Models for home use provide a stable cut of wooden parts with a thickness of about 70-80 mm and steel products up to 3-5 mm. The professional versions are able to confidently process 135mm wood and aluminum workpieces up to 20mm thick. The separation of models by phase should also be taken into account. Household devices are connected to a 220 W network, and industrial devices are connected to 380 W sockets.
Jig saw Bosch PST 650
An entry-level solution with an average cost of 2.5-3 thousand rubles. The device has a power of 500 W and cuts wood up to 65 mm thick. As for metal blanks, only soft products up to 10mm. The development features include increased ergonomics, which has always been famous for household power tools of this brand. In particular, the Bosch PST 650 jigsaw received a proprietary anti-vibration Low Vibration, thanks to which the hands of the master do not get tired even during long working sessions.
Reviews about this version note its reliability, low weight, maneuverability and convenient mechanism for changing saw blades. But there are also negative experiences. For example, many point to the rapid wear of the Bosch jigsaw carbon brushes in this design. In general, the tool is recommended for straight simple cuts, but not for curly cutting.
Bosch GST 850 BE
One of the cheapest representatives of the professional class of German jigsaws. The model is available on the domestic market for 6.5-7 thousand rubles. Against the background of similar offers from competitors, this is a decent price tag, but, again, the costs are justified by the high build quality and element base.
The device is powered by a moderately powerful 600 W motor, does not set records in the segment in terms of workpiece processing capabilities (cutting depth of 23 mm for wood and 20 mm for metal), but favorably differs in wide functionality. In particular, reviews of the Bosch GST 850 BE jigsaw emphasize the presence of a four-stage pendulum stroke, a dust extraction system, a speed controller and a soft start. At the same time, a clean cut without defects along the edges is also noted, which is very important for low-power devices. With regard to disadvantages, the unstable sole of the structure is often mentioned, which has to beadditionally control in the process of work.
Jigsaw Bosch PST 900 PEL
This model can be considered as a universal device for a small workshop or household. Power at 620 W is enough to work with wood, metal, rubber and ceramic products. In this case, the configuration of the cut can be different. With proper skill, the master will be able to perform not only an even longitudinal cut, but also a curly cut with support for a 45-degree angle. Especially for accurate processing, the Cut Control system is provided, which makes it easier to control the line of cut.
Users themselves also note the advantage of the model as the optimal tool for cutting soft blanks without distortions. If we talk about the weaknesses of the Bosch 900 PEL jigsaw from the PST series, then first of all the owners emphasize the unsuccessful implementation of the flashlight, which illuminates the marked cutting line. In addition, when operating at high speeds, the lock lever may interfere.
Bosch PST 18 LI
Very successful implementation of a household-class cordless jigsaw, although the cost of the model exceeds this level - 6 thousand rubles. The Li-lon power supply voltage is 18 V, and the maximum cutting depth is 80 mm in wood. The device cuts steel sheets with a thickness of up to 10 mm. The model has absorbed a lot of typical functions, such as dust removal and lighting, but even this is not the main thing in this device. Cordless jigsaw Bosch PST 18 LI receiveda number of proprietary technologies that distinguish it from the general segment. Suffice it to mention the electronic module for speed control and the built-in Syneon Chip system, which increases the operating time on a single battery charge. As a result, users put the autonomy of the jigsaw at the top of the list of advantages, also noting its high performance and ergonomics.
Consumables
The manufacturer clearly segments the cutting blades according to their purpose, as well as the materials of manufacture. So, the following types of files are distinguished:
- Wide. For straight cutting material.
- Narrow. For curved cutting.
- Files with a large tooth. For fast cutting of thick workpieces. In this case, a rough cut is implemented.
- Cloths with fine teeth. Suitable for clean cuts: These Bosch jigsaw blades are typically used in carpentry shops where high precision is required.
- Diamond cutters. Used specifically for working with ceramic and glass products.
According to the material of manufacture, carbon steel blades, bi-metal cutters and saws made of high-speed alloy can be distinguished, which are recommended for use in working with non-ferrous metal and plastics. The average size range for the length of the canvas varies from 65 to 135 mm.
Conclusion
The construction tools from Bosch are usually addressed by those who are interested in high quality material processing. Andthese are not always employees of large industries, woodworking factories and metal depots. A solid tool with reliable parts and safe electrical stuffing may well come in handy for an ordinary home craftsman. In particular, the low-power Bosch jigsaw will allow you to accurately cut wood flooring, keeping the protective and decorative layers outside the processing area. Medium and high power devices are useful as universal helpers.
Do not forget that jigsaws work not only with wood, but also with metal. In the garage, for example, this tool will allow you to delicately cut damaged body parts. Another thing is that the quality of cutting will be influenced by the experience of the performer. Therefore, carpentry experts recommend that beginners make several test cuts on waste material with a similar structure before cutting a finished workpiece.
