Bosch Barrel Grip Jigsaw Review

Bosch Barrel Grip Jigsaw Review

Review Summary-

Features-

  • Barrel-Grip
  • Dust blower
  • LED light on/off switch
  • Tool-free quick blade change
  • Variable Speed Dial
  • Aluminum Footplate with plastic outer shoe
  • Runs on Bosch’s 18V Batteries
  • Electric blade stop

Specs-

  • Speed from 550 to 2700 strokes per minute
  • 1-inch stroke length
  • Adjustable footplate for bevel cuts up to 45 degrees
  • Cup capacity- 4-1/2 in wood and 7/8 inch in aluminum
  • 4 orbital settings
  • Compatible with T-shank blades
  •  

The Bottom Line-

Bosch has been a leader in Jigsaws for a long time and their newest addition certainly brings their legacy to the forefront of brands to turn to. The newest Bosch 18V Barrel Grip Jigsaw is a powerful, compact, and well-rounded tool that is a joy to use in the shop or on a job-site.

-Sarah Listi

Bosch has been a leader in the world of Jigsaws for a long time, and it’s no wonder why. With a slew of models under their belt, their lineup has remained a top pick for professional users for a long time. Today we will look at their newest Jigsaw in the Bosch Barrel Grip Jigsaw Review.

 

Tool Focus-

Bosch Barrel Grip Jigsaw Review

Bosch Barrel Grip Jigsaw Review

The debate of Barrel Grip vs D-handle Jigsaws is one for the ages. Ask ten people and half will say one, half will say the other and likely all will have different reasons for their opinion. For me, Barrel Grip Jigsaws offer increased control, as your grip is closer to the workpiece. As well, applications like coping for trim and cutting tight radiuses is very easy with a barrel grip.

I have owned several Jigsaws from Bosch, both corded and cordless, and both D-Handle and Barrel Grip. This is one of the many great things from companies like Bosch, they offer both styles of Jigsaws and are easily among the best in the business.

 

Standout Features-

Bosch Barrel Grip Jigsaw Review

Bosch Barrel Grip Jigsaw Review

First, this model from Bosch is a Barrel Grip Jigsaw, offering incredible control for the user over D-Handled jigsaws.

 

 

Bosch Barrel Grip Jigsaw Review

One key detail in this model is the use of an on/ off switch vs a traditional trigger.

 

Bosch Barrel Grip Jigsaw Review

Onboard speed dial allows for precise speed in operation.  This provides very consistent cutting results and allows the user to focus on the cut itself vs controlling the speed via the trigger.

Bosch Barrel Grip Jigsaw Review

The LED light can be switched off for users when desired but provides excellent visibility when desired.

 On-board dust blower moves dust out of the way throughout cutting, offering cleaner cut visibility and improved accuracy by removing debris in use.

 

 

Bosch Barrel Grip Jigsaw Review

There are four orbital settings to allow the user to customize the cut and stroke length of the tool based on the application.

 

Bosch Barrel Grip Jigsaw Review

The Multi-directional blade clamp provides increased versatility for the user to position the blade in any direction. This also provides fast blade changes that remain secure and tool-free.

 

Where to find it-

Bosch Barrel Grip Jigsaw Review

The Bosch GST18V-47N can be purchased from Amazon Bare Tool for $149.00. 

 

My Thoughts

Bosch Barrel Grip Jigsaw Review

Bosch Barrel Grip Jigsaw Review

Jigsaws are one of the most versatile tools imaginable. You can cut virtually every material using different blades. Up until about 5 years ago, I wasn’t a huge fan of jigsaws, but with the addition of brushless motors and improved performance, they have become one of my favorite tools to use. There is more stability and control than the jigsaws of many years ago. Whether cutting out details in hardwood or PVC for plumbing, or even metal, they’re just wildly handy.

I used this Bosch Jigsaw on a wide range of applications while working on my custom pantry build-out. One thing that stands out on this jigsaw is the balance. The weight is incredibly well distributed throughout the tool-making more detailed cuts a breeze. The orbital settings are well designed for varying applications and the onboard speed dial gives you incredible control during use.

Where the Barrel Grip Jigsaw shines for me is in coping or intricate cuts. As expected, this model from Bosch was phenomenal at getting into tight corners and responding to user direction. I loved the LED Light, remaining bright and crisp throughout use, something well appreciated on most sites as poor lighting is a common obstacle. The dust blower is also remarkably effective and is a great bonus for keeping cut lines visible too.

All in all, this Bosch Jigsaw is a phenomenal addition to the Bosch lineup and has certainly earned its place in my permanent lineup. For accuracy, precision, and power this tool is a perfect choice.

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