Jigsaw

Sears Craftsman Sabre Saw

My first jigsaw was a Model 315.10700 from Craftsman.  It was purchased in 1983 from Sears.  I used it to cut hail targets to assess damage to sweet corn fields for my PhD project.  

The jigsaw featured:

1. Variable speed (2.5 amp) motor (0 to 3000 strokes per minute)

2. 5/8" stroke length

3. 2" cutting depth

4. Maximum cutting capacity: Oak 1 1/8", Steel 7/16", Aluminum 1/4".

5. Shoe bevels 0 to 45 degrees for beveled cuts

6. Weighs 5 lbs

Sadly, in 2010 the shoe near the blade broke off the mount.  Initial simple repair failed to hold shoe in place.  After a new DeWalt jigsaw was purchased a second repair attempt tried brazing the shoe to the mount.  The braze is holding for now.  

DeWalt Jigsaw

In 2012, I was looking for a jigsaw replacement.  The old saw had a flimsy shoe that broke after many years of use.  The DeWalt Heavy Duty Jig Saw (DW317) had a heavy feel and strong shoe.  The price was $100.

The saw features include:

1. A variable speed (5.5 amp) motor with speeds ranging from 0 to 3100 strokes per minute

2. 1" stroke length

3. Keyless blade change

4. The aggressive action of the cut has 4 settings

5. Maximum cutting capacity: Oak 2-3/8", Steel 3/4", Aluminum 1/4".

6. All-metal gear case provides superior durability on a professional site

7. Shoe bevels 0 to 45 degrees for beveled cuts

8. Weight is 6.2 lbs and length 9.75"

Thoughts and Hacks

1. The blades are easy to remove.

2. Weights more than expected but reduces jumping around.

3.