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I decided to go off on a whim, and eventually replace my old, slowly dying, jigsaw. I saw the Black & Decker Smart Select Jigsaw on offer, and thought – what’s the worst that could happen? It’s safe to say; I was not disappointed. Instead, I was massively pleased with this tool! I mainly used it for small woodwork, balsa wood with the odd piece of hardwood – and it delivered an amazing performance at a very competitive price.
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Smart Select
The Black & Decker Smart Select Jigsaw features patented technology, which automatically optimizes the jigsaw depending on what you are using it for – eliminating the need to optimize the tool before you begin cutting manually.
Variable Speed Dial
However, you can manually optimize the tool with the variable speed dial, which features a very generous range of 800rpm to 3000rpm, allowing the user to take it slow, and achieve the perfect cut; or alternatively, crank up the speed for rough cuts.
Versatility
This tool is hugely versatile, possessing the capability to cut metal, plastic, and standard wood. This is a great addition, which overall saves you money – as you won’t need to purchase another tool to cut metal. The tool also can make curved cuts, if you wish it to.
Motor
The motor within this jigsaw isn’t the most powerful. However, it does still perform well. With a 5.0 Amp rating, it’s suitable for light work. However, it is incredibly efficient – which allows you to be still able to cut metal, which many jigsaws with ratings as high as 7.0 Amps cannot. The motor delivers a maximum of 3,000rpm to the blade, allowing for ultimate cutting power.
Design
The design of this tool is excellent, and it’s rather chunky – but extremely ergonomic. With a partly rubberized handle, to dampen vibrations originating from the motor, along with ergonomic Smart Select dial placement, allowing you to change the mode mid-cut using your thumb. I cannot express in words just how ergonomic the design of this tool is, it’s so simple and comfortable to use, even for extended periods.
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The included blade is fairly good. It’s strong enough to cut through wood, metal, and plastic without wearing down too quickly. However, it will need regularly replacing if the jigsaw is used in an industrial environment.
Another thing to note about the blade is that the Black & Decker Smart Select Jigsaw features a tool-less blade changing mechanism, allowing for maximum productivity.
Black & Decker Smart Select Features and Specifications
- 5 Amp Motor – (800 – 3000rpm)
- Ergonomic Design
- Tool-less Blade Changing Mechanism
- SmartSelect Technology
- Product Size – 13.1 x 4.9 x 9.7 inches
- Product weight – 5.8 pounds
Customer Reviews
While this tool is fairly large, it is amazingly built. It is one of the most solid jigsaws currently on the market, and feels sturdy and controlled, even when cutting metal. Even after extended use, the heat from the motor is not transferred to the handle, allowing for maximum cutting time. Here are some customer reviews
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Conclusion
If you are looking for a new orbital jigsaw, I cannot recommend the Black & Decker Smart Select Jigsaw enough. The patented technology included within this tool, along with the excellent design, all help to create the most enjoyable user experience.
The cutting quality of this tool is also high, even when done quickly – blades can effortlessly be changed, which is especially important if the tool is used in an industrial environment.
Hi, I am Jay. I am the creator of Knife Guides, your one-stop site for everything related to knives. I am a computer engineer by profession, knife aficionado by passion. Here I work with a group of people who’ve always had a passion for knives and blades. Over the years we’ve kind of become experts and decided to share our knowledge and ideas. I am also an avid hiker and enjoy offshore gamefishing.