Features and tips for choosing Metabo jigsaws

Few know that for the creation of the jigsaw, mankind should thank the Swiss Albert Kaufman. His observations of the operation of the sewing machine led to the idea of ​​replacing the needle with a cutting tool. Engineering thought came true in 1946. A year later, the industry mastered the production of this tool.

Modern jigsaws are produced by a variety of manufacturers. Metabo brand products are very popular among them.

The German company Metabo offers customers several dozen jigsaws. Hand tools are available in cordless and electric models for household and professional use.

The jigsaw is in demand when working with various materials:

• wood (board, timber);
• ceramics;
• slabs (OSB, fiberboard, chipboard);
• floor coverings - laminate and parquet;
• drywall;
• composite materials;
• plastic;
• soft metal aluminum and thin-walled products from it (pipes, corners).

Metabo tools are capable of performing not only straight cuts, but also circular, curved and bevel cuts. The parallel stop allows you to make a cut strictly parallel to one of the sides of the workpiece being machined. Corner cuts are created by turning the sole. For cutting inside the sheet, as a rule, a hole is drilled for the entry of the jigsaw file.

The main difference between the tools is the way they are fed. Jigsaws are powered by a household electrical network with a voltage of 220 V.

The motors of accumulator models are driven by a charge of removable batteries (accumulator batteries). The former can work only where there is electricity, the latter are not tied to a place, they can be moved without worrying about the length of the power cord and the presence of voltage in the network.

Wireless devices are capable of operating for a long time without recharging. A charger and two batteries make up the jigsaw kit. To recharge the battery, a 220 V network is required.

All Metabo products are characterized by:

• accuracy;
• accuracy of the cut;
• power;
• reliability;
• ergonomics.

German jigsaws are maximally adapted for comfortable work. The tool is easy to transport.

The classic design includes several elements.

• Frame. The sole of the case is endowed with the ability to turn right and left at an angle of up to 45 degrees. This makes it possible to perform bevel cuts.
• A plastic pad attached to the sole protects from various damages and chips of the material. The protective plate performs a similar task.
• Convenient location of the switching and travel controls.
• The engine that powers the tool is located inside the housing. Electric motors are equipped with self-switching off brushes. Brushless motors are powered by rechargeable batteries with unlimited recharges.
• A special system called "Metabo Quick" allows you to quickly change the cutting tool (files).
• The dust generated during operation is captured by a special pipe. The working area is always clearly visible to the operator.
• The backlight can be switched on to make cuts in low light conditions.
• The multi-stage pendulum stroke provides excellent results when working with workpieces from a variety of materials.
• The protective shield is made of durable transparent material. Providing safety to the person, it does not reduce the view.

The choice of model depends on the needs of the buyer. It is worth evaluating a number of the main characteristics of the equipment.

For example, for household needs: carrying out repairs, performing a one-time construction, periodic use, you should not buy an expensive high-power tool - up to 700 watts. A strong engine is able to withstand regular continuous loads, it is useful for professional use. For home work, a power of 400 watts is enough.

Versatile tools are ready to cut different materials. A similar ability appears when adjusting the stroke rate.

In addition to technical indicators, convenience should be considered. Metabo jigsaws are available with two types of handles. Someone is more comfortable to work holding on to the D-shaped handle, while others choose a mushroom specimen. Tool management worth trying - Convenience of using the on / off buttons, switching the steps of the pendulum stroke, as well as feeling the weight with a rechargeable battery or a power cord.

If you want to work with the greatest comfort, you should choose a device with illumination and automatic removal of sawdust from the cutting zone.

In order for a functional tool to be used 100%, you need to choose the right files for it. Jigsaw operations are easy when the cutting tool is securely in the holder and fits the material being cut. Different saws have different shanks - parts of the body of the cutting blade intended for fastening in the tool. The universal fastening mechanism is adapted for any shanks, so a jigsaw with this type of mechanism is the best option.

One file type is designed for one material. When changing the size and hardness of the workpiece, select the appropriate blade.

The canvases differ not only in the shape of the shank, but also in:

• size and shape;
• width and length;
• pitch of teeth;
• the grade of material from which the tool is made.

The material of jigsaw files has markings, which determine the capabilities of the blades.

Abbreviation "HSS" indicates the manufacture of alloy steel files. This tool can be used to cut brick, concrete and metal.... Hard blades work at high speeds, do not collapse under significant heat from friction.

Blades marked as "BIM"... Bimetal material is easy copes not only with wood. It is ideal for processing ceramic, laminate and plexiglass tiles.

High carbon steel cutting tools (HCS) sawing plastics and woodif it is not particularly hard. Sawing soft materials such as fiberboard and chipboard should be done with blades marked "CV".

The shape of the teeth of the cutting blades has a significant effect on the cut quality. With a fine-toothed saw, the work is done slowly, the cut is smooth and neat. A coarse cut is produced by using coarse-toothed knives.

Now that you know the principles of choosing a tool and its equipment, you can safely go shopping.

In the next video you will find an overview of the Metabo STE 100 Quick jigsaw.