First Look- 

Bosch 12V Barrel Grip Jigsaw Review

Bosch is one of my favorite tool manufacturers, period. When I was looking through my collection to try and find some unique tools that I haven’t had a chance to take a look at yet, I knew a Barrel Grip JigSaw would be at the top of the list. D-Handle vs Barrel Grip is a well-contested debate between carpenters everywhere. I have always favored the D-Handle because it was what I was used to, so this was a priority to get a hold of and see what I thought of it. Bosch takes the ever-loved Barrel Grip and put it on their well-loved 12V platform, something I can’t help but love. Let’s dive into the Bosch 12V Barrel Grip Jigsaw Review.

 

A Little About the Brand-

Bosch 12V Barrel Grip Jigsaw Review

Bosch Power Tools is a global brand, one that is in company with electronics, appliances and so much more. What you may not know, is that Bosch’s first power tool was actually a hair trimmer. Yes, you read that right! Dubbed the Forfex, Bosch worked with engineer Hermann Steinhart to bring the first powered hair trimmer to market in 1928. A Bosch motor powered the Forfex, but what is amazing is that this inspired the power tool giant that we know as Bosch today.

Bosch currently is a leader in battery technology, as the creator of the CORE 18V batteries that power their light-weight power tools. Their 12V line isn’t as large in the US as it is in Europe, but in my experience, it is the best 12V line on the market for my uses. I own this Jigsaw, in addition to a Planer, Trim Router and Impact Wrench, and even a beast of a 360 Laser Level that all run on Bosch’s 12V batteries and I simply can’t say enough good things about them. While the line is smaller than say Milwaukee Tool’s, I would absolutely recommend them. They are a great fit for Professionals that want compact performance and the Homeowner will have far more power than most will need for common tasks.

 

Detailed Look-

Bosch 12V Barrel Grip Jigsaw Review

The Bosch 12V Barrel Grip Jigsaw clocks in at 3 pounds with a lot of thought put into the size and ergonomics of the tool to provide user comfort, especially during extended use.

Switchable LED Lights provide visibility of the workpiece and is located next to the onboard battery gauge.

Click N Go system provides toolless blade changes, with a multi-directional blade clamp that accepts T-shank blades. This 12V model provides a 2-inch depth of cut in wood.

Variable speed dial, giving 1500 to 2800 strokes per minute.

Bosch also included three orbital settings to adjust based on the material being cut. The switch is located next to the power switch falling right where you need them, allowing on and off to be controlled by a flip of your thumb.

An electric blade brake provides the user the additional safety of immediate blade stop. As well a finger guard is present in front of the blade for additional protection.

No-mar shoe plate is included for reduced marking on your work surfaces. An anti-splinter insert is included for even better cutting on delicate materials. This insert is only compatible with certain blades.

The shoe bevels from 0-45 degrees and features onboard wrench storage for quick adjustments.

The ability to do a plunge cut using a counterbalanced design for incredible comfort and precision and minimal vibration.

 

Who Can Use This-

Bosch 12V Barrel Grip Jigsaw Review

Bosch is a manufacturer that gears towards the Professional, and this is certainly an example of that. While this tool isn’t truly designed to replace a higher powered jigsaw entirely, it is designed to give users in certain applications reduced weight and improved comfort. This tool will be well appreciated by professionals who will really enjoy the light weight of this tool as well as the plunge feature. Particularly carpenters and general contractors who often install cabinets, trim work and the like will find a lot of benefit to adding this tool to their arsenal.

From a homeowner perspective, if you are on the Bosch 12V battery platform, this is a great addition to your collection. This Jigsaw will likely perform all of your needed applications and then some. When I first began really working with tools, I quickly learned that anything with a moving blade isn’t the place to cut any corners. Buying professional products that are designed to last is a worthwhile investment.

Value- 

Bosch 12V Barrel Grip Jigsaw Review

This Bosch 12V Barrel Grip Jigsaw, model JS120BN is available from Amazon for $109.00. Bosch makes impressive tools, and I think for the quality you can instantly feel in this Jig Saw, it is easy to see the value. I have always had amazing luck with Bosch Tools, so I am always happy to pay a premium for their tools when needed. This model though is really quite competitive with similar models on a 12V platform and has a strong feature set for the price.

Wrap Up-

Bosch 12V Barrel Grip Jigsaw Review

The second I opened the box for this tool, I knew it felt solid and well made. While more time needs to be put into testing, my initial feelings are that this tool has a lot to offer with no obvious drawbacks. It doesn’t feel flimsy despite only weighing three pounds. Like most Jigsaws is slightly front heavy, which provides the ideal weight distribution to prevent excess vibrations. I actually really enjoy the feel of the barrel grip design and think it has some distinct advantages over a D-handle that I am eager to compare more closely.

The Click N Go blade change is quick and easy, providing little effort to install a fresh blade. I love that it is on the 12V platform, giving easy portability and lightweight performance. I absolutely think this tool is a solid member of the Bosch 12V lineup and one at this point I would recommend. It is reasonably priced, has great performance, and a whole lot of great features that you quickly find to be useful.

Bosch is easily one of my favorite tool brands for several reasons. I have never had a tool let me down, and that is saying a lot in a time where the market is flooded with options. Bosch is known for their high-quality tools and innovations in everything from Laser Levels and LDM’s to Concrete Tools and quite a few of their tools favor the Woodworker as well, which was what originally drew me to the brand.