Jigsaw (tool)

A jigsaw is a tool used for cutting arbitrary curves, such as stenciled designs or other custom shapes, into a piece of wood, metal, or other material. It can be used in a more artistic fashion than other saws, which typically cut in straight lines only. In this way, it is similar to the rasp and the chisel. Although a jigsaw can be used to cut arbitrary patterns, making a straight cut is more difficult.

Modern jigsaws are power tools, made up of an electric motor and a reciprocating saw blade. See jigsaw (power tool).

In the past, what are now usually called scroll saws were often referred to as jigsaws.

History

Jigsaws first emerged in the 19th century. Early jigsaws used a treadle mechanism to move the blade.

In 1947, Scintilla AG (later acquired by Bosch) started producing electrically powered jigsaws.