A few earlier reviews have complained that this jig saw does not make 90 degree cuts. Curious, I tried my saw (purchased in June 2000) with a variety of blades and materials and found that its cuts are always vertical. Then I checked the display model at Lowe's (Sep 2001) and--lo and behold--their saw leans to the right by a few degrees. So this problem is something new and a definite quality control problem at the Bosch factory. Although not an ideal solution, if your saw has this alignment error, the footplate can be tilted by a few degrees to ensure that the blade and footplate are truly perpendicular.I have used this jig saw for various projects, cutting aluminum, steel, PVC, plywood, pine, and hardwood, and have been very pleased with the results. The saw cuts cleanly, quickly and accurately. I found blade installation to be quick and simple, if you follow the directions carefully (though it usually takes me more than 3 counter-clockwise turns of the change knob before insertion of the blade is possible). With 7 plunger speeds, 4 blade orbit settings, and at least 10-15 different blade choices, the main problem becomes figuring out which combination is best for the task at hand.

I received my 1587AVSP yesterday and played around with it. I mainly wanted to see if the blade locking mechanism was as difficult as some had written about. The first try proved a little difficult, but the second was a breeze. There's one simple step that needs to be done before loosening the blade clamp. Push the blade clamp as high into the housing as it will go to clear it away from the roller. That's it.pPutting things simply, the locking mechanism is like any other screw type clamp. The number of turns needed to lock the blade in place depends on how open it is and how thick the shank is. After the click, if it isn't aligned with the handle, keep clicking.pI must agree with everyone that said the saw was smooth. There is going to be some vibration, but I'm very impressed by how little there is. I've used a jig saw made by BD before and there is not comparison. The Bosch is balanced to be used all day.pAs for the blades that came with the set, a pretty good selection is provided. I'm not sure if all packages carry the same set of blades, but this is what came with mine.p T345XF - all-purpose - Progressor, BiM, 5 1/4"br T234X - wood - Progressor, HCS, 4 1/2"br T123X - metal - Progressor, HSS, 4"br T144D - wood - HCS, 4", 6 TPIbr T118A - metal - HSS, 3", 24 TPIbr T118G - metal - HSS, 3", 36 TPIbr T101AO - wood - HCS, 3", 20 TPIbr T101BR - wood - HCS, 4", 10 TPIbr T101DP - wood - HCS, 4", 6 TPIpHope this helps and thanks to all who reviewed.

The saw is extremely robust. However, there is some learning to be done on the type of blades to use for different applications. Several reviews I read about the AVSP and the AVSK pointed to the fact that people had some trouble cutting along straight lines. Well I had that problem too. Turns out I was using the wrong blade. Thinner the blade the more it tends to move away from a straight line. Especially if you are trying to use a rip fence. There is always some inclination between the blade and the longer edge of the shoe. While this does not matter much for a circular saw because any inclination in a circular blade would result in a thicker albeit straight cut, in a jigsaw this tends to turn the blade in one direction. Since the saw itself cannot turn (due to the fence), the blade starts to bend especially if it is a thinner one. So in addition to a not so straight cut, you also get a degree or two of bevel. Solution was to use a thicker blade. pThe second problem that I had encountered was the saw jumped quite a bit. This happens then you are trying to move the saw faster than the rate at which the blade can cut. So the solution would be to cut slower. Alternately, I found that for straight cuts, what worked best is thick progressor blades. They truly cut 3/4 or 1 inch stock like butter. Regular blades cut on a down stroke and cause the saw to jump if you are moving too fast. Progressor blades that I got with AVSP cut on the upward stroke. The saw is pulled towards the stock during the stroke keeping the shoe firmly placed on the stock. The only disadvantage is splintering. For people trying to just cut down stock it does not matter because the splintering happens either on the top or bottom depending on the type of blade used. Anti splintering insert might work. pTo summarize : For straight cuts for thicker stock (1" and above) use thick progressor blades. For scrolling type applications use thinner regular blades.

Two months ago, I bought a Dewalt 318. I was really dissapointed at it. My cuts were unacceptably way off. At first I thought it was the blades(Dewalt)that came with, so I bout u shank Bosch blades but there were no changes in the results. I tried my friends Bosch 1587AVS, and I discovered a big difference in the feel and power. I noticed that the blade changing mechanism were a little cumbersome but I got used to it. Eventually I bought the 1587AVSP, I've used it in many projects in the last 5 months and ever since have been very satisfied. Most people tell me about the superior quality of Bosch all the time and after this tool I was convinced. pMy advice would be to carefully choose your blades. The accuracy of cuts depend a lot on the type of blades used for specific applications.

I recently rented this saw to see if I would like it (hint: rental places usually have good equipment, so if you want to buy some sort of tool, look at the rental places and see what they use). pThe Bosch had an impressive amount of power - it could go through plywood faster than a sawzall and did not have a problem cutting 1/8" steel. pWith the appropriate jigs (no pun intended) you can cut straight, and cutting at a 45 deg. angle is also possible. I made a tea box (with edges cut at a 45 for looks) and although it did not come out perfect, it was better than expected. Even though the blades are mean looking, if you go slow you can get incredibly smooth edges - much smoother than a circle saw will give you. pyou can also cut tight curves in 3/4 plywood. With ease I cut a circle of 1 1/2 " diameter. There was no grabbing when I went around the turn like you get with most blades.pThe orbital action is also nice. You can really rip, but it's hard to cut straight without a jig.pThe speed control was excellent. You can adjust the maximum speed with a dial and also adjust the speed by how far you pull the trigger (the dial actually just limits the motion of the trigger). pThe dust blower was a nice feature, but it did not work too well at low speeds. pvisibility was very good. The only time that it was hard to see the line was when I was cutting at a 45. pThis saw did not shake. It's not like a sawzall where your arms go numb after a while. pcutting curves in 1/8" aluminum was possible but difficult (but then again aluminum is a pain to work with, anyways)pThe saw did cut at a slight angle when set at 90 degrees. This was annoying but it can be corrected by adjusting the base. I suspect that the cast aluminum base will fix this on the newer models - the steel plate was not flat on the older model I used. pFor occasional use, this saw will replace a circle saw if used with the appropriate jig (I clamp a piece of 1 x 4 to the table and use it as a guide)pI highly recomend this saw to anyone who is interested in starting woodworking. I previously had no interest in the hobby, but using this thing was such a pleasure that I think I may start. Ths saw along with a drill press and sand paper is your key to a large number of fun projects. pFor metalworking, a punch press would be a million times better but also 30 times more expensive. For the home user, it will work alright for cutting rectangular, square, etc. holes in metal.

If you harness the accuracy of a scroll saw, with the smoothness of a bandsaw into something that you can control, and I do mean control, with one hand, you have the Progressor jig saw.
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br /I have kept amazing tolerances in finish work, and powered through sheet goods and metal (with proper blades of course) with ease.
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br /The smoothness of this saw cannot be overstated. Having grown up with single speed saws that chatter, hop, skip and keep about an 1/8" tolerance to your desired cut, the Bosch simply cannot be compared.
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br /The blade change took a bit of getting used to. Usually when you hear that type of "click" you have broken something. Like the others, after a few times it's easy and becomes second nature. I can never imagine going back to allen wrenches to change anything.
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br /My saw is over 3 years old and is still as feisty and accurate as was new. Buy it once, cry once (over the price), and then give it your kids so they can give it to their grandkids. This one is a keeper.

Two years ago I was looking for a new jigsaw. Because of a couple of the reviews here, I purchased the Bosch 1587 AVSP Progressor. This is no doubt the best jig saw I have ever used. It handles anything that I ask it to cut. I am a Carpenter and have been in the business since 1980 and used and abused a lot of jigsaws. Nothing compares to this saw in my judgement. This one takes all the punishment you can dish out and comes out shining. The easy change blade is great and the fact that whatever type blade you need for whatever job -- is available. Even for super tight tolerance finish work, this saw comes through. Buy it, you'll love it.

Bosch sets the standard for this type of tool. It is easy to handle and makes great cuts. It's heavier than I expected, but that turns out to be a plus, as it makes the saw less likely to tip or bind (the workpiece supports the weight anyway). After a quick look at the manual, I got the hang of the blade installation - its pretty simple once you do it the first time. I followed the manual's recommendation for blade type/orbit setting and got nice smooth edges. Initially, I had some tearout on 3/4" plywood, but once I put the anti-splinter insert in and ran at maximum speed, I had no problems. I really like the molded case this kit comes with too - it makes storage easy and makes it simple to take the saw to the work area.

You can use this tool all day because it is so well balanced. It cuts fast, smooth, has less vibration, and easy to control. The T shank blades are stronger than any other competitive design. Maybe that's why you see so many on jobsites. pI have yet to find another tool by any manufacturer that impresses me as much as this tool. pBosch also has the best blade selection in the industry. I'm impressed everytime I use it. Highly recommended!

...pLast night I wanted to see the power of my new tool. I grabbed a piece of seasoned 2x12 fir scrap, fitted in the aggressive tooth progressive blade that came with the unit and proceeded to cut right through the stock without applying hardly any forward force. The blade practically cut through that fir by itself, and lo and behold, it was a perpendicular cut, like I had used my circular saw. Hmmm, impressive, I thought. Next I decided to put some turns into the cut. I turned a tight S curve through the material and the blade did not slow down at all! My old jig saw would have vibrated to a halt and possibly snapped the blade with such a maneuver.pAnd this Jig Saw is a beauty to behold, has a nice heft to it, feels like an extension of your hand (maybe this is a guy thing!). I have used the Porter Cable, BD, Skil, Craftsman and they all pale in comparison. If you use this type of tool on a frequent basis, this is the ONLY one to have!

The saw functions fine once you get a blade in, so I won't talk about that. The blade changing system is very awkward. Every other jig saw made (even cheap ones) have much more convenient ways to get a blade in and out. This saw requires you to pull up on the black thing on top of the handle, turn it three times CCW, insert the blade sideways, rotate the blade straight, turn handle three times CW until is snaps (it sounds like it's broken). Now even this might be tolerable, except that the black thing on the handle does not snap down good and spins around while you'r trying to use the saw. It also is prone to just breaking off (seen several). Go somewhere else for a saw. This one is not worth the trouble.

I bought this saw for my electrical contracting business. While it only gets occasional use it has performed very well. After the previous comments about the poor blade angle I checked and mine was OK. With the appropriate blade I can make tight cuts but usually take a few passes to get a corner sharp on a box cut-out. It will also zip through a piece of "2 By" if needed. Recently I used it to widen the opening between wall studs. I cut a half inch out of each stud for 18 inches. It was hard to do but the saw did well. The less than 5 star is becuase of the blade changes. They can be a hassle if you dont get the release knob lined up right. On solution is to buy the barrel type saw without the top handle. Blade changes on that model are simple.

I purchased my Bosch 1587 on ebay, so I did save quite a bit, but I was fully prepared to pay the full price. For the price it can't be beat. I had done quite a bit of research and I chose Bosch. Working with 1587 is like cutting soft butter. You don't realize that you're holding a "jig saw" in your hand. I have to admit I would have prefered the Milwauke type blade changing mechanism. But, the Milwaukee didn't feel comfortable in my hand. So my advise is: hold both Bosch 1587 and Milwaukee in your hand and buy the one that feels the best, if you can't afford them...save your money and buy it later, after working with a BD for several years...it's the difference between Yogo and Lexus.

Bosch has done it again. After all, they did invent the jig saw; of course it's the best. I have cut every thing with this saw, from 2x4's to rebar, and I'm impressed every time. Changing the blade takes a little getting used to, but after a couple of times it's easy. This is a very useable saw. Highly recommended.

I have or used jig saws from just about every manufacturer and this saw is hands down the best one on the market. I too am a reader of reviews about products and what everyone is saying about this saw is true. Great power, cuts thru most everything with ease, blade changing is easy, and comes with the best-in- the-business extra Bosch blades. I think that anyone that needs a saw that will do just about anything you ask of it could not do any better than this saw. I too, use it for things that most jig saws would fail at. Use it when I should be using my DeWalt circular, and it always makes me glad that I bought it. I own a saw that is red, and the first two letters are Sk... and this Bosch puts it to shame. I hate the "red saws" tooless blade changing system. It has this bad, unsafe, spring loaded system that is terrible. Was never quite sure the blade was in and I could not cut a straight line with it. I could not keep any of the blades I used from wanting to go off to the side no matter how much pressure I applied to try and keep it straight. No kinding. Not so with the Bosch. The blades, once in, are secure and you fell like you could cut anything with them. Never have to do anything but guide the saw and it cuts straight or curved every time. As I mentioned earlier, Bosch makes the best blades too. Even if you don't buy the saw, get some of the blades. Might help you get by until you buy the saw. If you can get only one saw to do everything, get this one. You will not find a better one.

I bought this saw after trying two others and I have to say I am impressed. The blade change although tricky, holds the blade perfectly and the saw has very little vibration. It is the perfect weight, and best of all I can make a straight line free hand because it cuts so well, and doesn't pull to one side or bind in the material. The progressive blades are excellent and there is a pamphlet that tells you the proper application for use. It cut through 3/4" plywood like butter and through a sheet of Lexan plastic without any difficulties. This saw is a pleasure to use!!

I bought this saw through Amazon and was so impressed that I purchased one for my Father-In-Law. This is nothing like the old B&D or Sears sabre saws that would beat you to death or vibrate your workpiece to pieces. I was building an Arbor and it cut effortlessly through wet 2x6's. Like a hot knife through butter. The only down side to the saw (for me) was that I found blade changing to be very challenging. I have become better with experience but initially it was difficult.

I bought this for a Christmas present to myself after reading the reviews on this site. What a tool! The progressor blades are incredible. I quickly stopped alternating between the jigsaw and circular saw and just went with the Bosch. I'm extremely pleased with my purchase, and the positive feedback was right on.

... but you get what you pay for. I love mine. I've cut aluminum with it-not a problem. The wood cutting I've done has been very good. There's been a lot of comments about the tooless blade changing. After reading the instructions that came with the saw, It took about 5 minutes for the lightbulb in my mind to click on. It is very easy and makes perfect sense to me now. Again I Love my Bosch.

This is an absolutely fantastic saw. I purchased it to replace a not-so-old Skil that repeatedly chewed up trim I'm installing. The Bosch saw, by stark contrast, cuts smoothly and solidly. No shaking or vibration, even with the thickest and most intricate cutting. I feel in control of the Bosch; there's no question that the Skil model controlled me. Now I need to replace all the trim I installed using the Skil - there's that much of a difference.
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br /Like other reviewers I was a little surprised at how (1) easy it is to change the blade and (2) how tight the blade locking process is. You can't miss the click...so keep cranking 'til you get there.
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I have a small cabinet shop and recentely purchased this saw to replace a Sears. This is one sweet saw. It's quit, and flat out cuts...in a straight line. Blades are easy to change. It just plain feels good in your hands.
br /I'd recomend it to anyone, and you can't beat Amazon's pricing.

All of the raves about this saw are true - it's the best I've ever used. BUT, what was Bosch thinking when they designed the plastic carry case? First, they used those cheap plastic snaps that make it impossible to open the case unless you have 3 hands; there is no place to store blades, the spare footplate and the splinter shields that come with this kit; you have to remove the sawblade to put the saw in the case; and lastly, trying to get the power cord back in the case and close it is like trying to get toothpaste back in the tube. In frustration, I threw out the case and bought my own. A larger case with metal latches and some storage space would be ideal or else a soft carry case that has some pockets

I've used several jig saws thru the years but this has to be the best one. No tool blade change, adjustable speed,adjustable air flow to remove saw dust,tilt blade for angle cuts and a lot of power. You won't go wrong if you purchase this jig saw.brRick FreemanbrN. Carolina

All of the Bosch jigsaws receive high praise for their cutting performance, so I thought I'd provide some info I would have appreciated before making this purchase (which I in no way regret.)
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br /First this tools "low" points, which keep it from being a perfect tool:
br /1. Blade changes are a bit involved. Not at all what I would call difficult or confusing, but it's certainly not like changing a quick change drill bit or Milwaukee Sawz-all blade. This is more like a three step process rather than one step. This seems to be the main item Bosch improved for the 1590/1591 jigswas, so if it's a major concern might be worth the extra 50 bucks.
br /2. The case. This case suffers from the same fault as so many tool cases, there is limited space to store the power cord or to store additional blades. One has to carefully organize the cord in the case and hope it will fully close every time. Not the worst case in this sense I've ever had, but certainly not the best. At least the tool can be put in the case without removing the blade, but it will need to be in the upper half of it's stroke for a normal length blade.
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br /Finally, I thought I'd list the blades that come with this version, to see if it's worth the 7 dollars over the 1587AVSK. Especially since there are a couple typos in the official list of included blades. Price per five blade pack for each is listed.
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br /T101AO - Wood blade, specifically for curved cuts, splinter free. 5/64" - 3/4" material. (6.05/5)
br /T101BR - Wood blade, downward cutting (splinter free on top surface.) 3/16" - 1 1/4" material. (8.49/5)
br /T101DP - Wood blade, specifically for angled cuts. 1/4" - 2 3/8" material. (8.36/5)
br /T118A - Metal blade, basic straight cuts. (7.00/5)
br /T118G - Metal blade, straight cuts in thin material. 1/16" - 3/64" material. (6.97/5)
br /T123X - Metal blade, fast and long life, Progressor toothing for use in thick and thin material. 3/64" - 3/4" material. (9.78/5)
br /T144D - Wood blade, straight and fast cuts. 1/4" - 2 3/8" material. (7.87/5)
br /T234X - Wood blade, straight fine cuts. Progressor toothing for thick and thin material. (9.02/5)
br /T345XF - Wood with nails or metal blade. Progressor toothing for thick and thin material. 3/16" - 3 5/8" material. (13.89/5)
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br /So that's 15.49 in blades... 1587AVSK comes with 3 blades instead of 9 (and the less expensive blades at that)... so I'd say there is an extra 11 dollars worth of blades in this kit.
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I forgot my trusty old Craftsman jigsaw one day on the job and had to borrow another carpenters Bosch 1587 to trim some 7 quarter mahogany. I couldn't believe how smooth and accurate the Bosch cut. I was ready for the vibration to start and it never did! On my lunch hour I went and bought my own. This tool is a joy to use, and handles woods and metals with ease. I have had this saw for almost 4 years and she still cuts sweeeeet. The only gripe I found was the blade release, which is a little finiky and gets pulled off once in a while if I pull a little too hard. The saw cuts so good that you can overlook the release though. I just ordered the new version with the ejector release, which should reach perfection status. I have not used it yet, but will post a review when I get a few tons of sawdust made with it.

The jig saw cuts wood ok. Everything advertised was fairly accurate, except for the installation of the blade. I found it very difficult to load the blade and removing it.

This is a great Jig Saw very powerful and easy to control. The only criticism I offer is regarding how you change blades. I find it very awkward to have to "pull up" and turn the knob at the top of the handle. It is difficult to tell how much is enough and on more than one occaision the knob has come off in my hand. The newer Bosch models have a better way.

This is probably the most universal tool I own. Ever ripped a 2x6x8 with a jigsaw by eyeball? I did and will still be amazed for months to come. This is a fine tool for those who need a quick grab and go saw. The progresser blades are evil and will cut through almost anything. Choose a T101DP blade for a smoother cut though. Bosch sold me on their products with this saw. I have yet to find another tool by any manufacturer to impress me as much. I gave it a 4 because of the locking handle makes me feel like I'm doing damage on every blade change. And although it is a good saw and probably worth the $, it's still an expensive jigsaw.

THe Bosch jigsaw worked beautifully right out of the box. Very satisfied with the performance after using it several times. Very clean cuts using the progressor blades that came with the saw.

I owned the Bosch 1581vs for 20 years before it finally played out (the blade hold mechanism wore out). I looked at other brands (Dewalt, Porter Cable)but decided that the Bosch is the best series available because of blade control and balance. I looked at both the 1590 and the 1587 and had an opportunity to use them in the field before deciding. These are the best two on the market, and both have their pluses and minuses. The deciding factors for me were 2:
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br /1-Weight: The 1587 is lighter and therefore eaiser and more precise to control. I use my jig saw 60% of the time for coping joints. The weight of the 1590 makes it awkward when trying to turn and rotate as you need to do to cope with a jig saw. (I don't use a Collins coping foot).
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br /2-Distance from handle to blade. The 1590 has a taller handle . In addition the blade does not project quite as far as the 1587. This doesn't make much difference until you are using the tiny scroll blade (119 bo) that i need for coping.
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br /The 1590 blade changing mechanism is just simply the best out there today. If I could have combined the two I would have given the result 6 stars! It is also very powerful. Great cabinet shop tool for cutting out sinks, etc. But for the precise work I have to do with a jig saw, I prefer the 1587.
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br /Hope this helps.

Pro's
br /- Great balance and feel
br /- Super accurate cutting
br /- Quick blade changes
br /- Solidly built - very high quality. I just dropped it from the surface of my table saw onto concrete and it barely scuffed the housing.
br /- Nice storage case
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br /Con's
br /- Blade change lever doesnt really seat itself - just kind of flops around. This really seems out of place as everything else on the tool is so solid.
br /- The speed dial is right on bottom of the trigger. In the process of cutting I find myself accidently changing the speed sometimes. Would like to see it offset a little.

I'm not a hard-core tool kind of person -- I tend to buy tools (mostly) based on need. I had my trusty Craftsman that gave me many years of service -- it finally broke and I needed a replacement. I just happened to see the Bosch on sale at Amazon and others seemed to like it, so I bought. I was struck by how smooth and quiet it was (relative to the Craftsman) -- so much so that I thought I had a defective unit. I made a test cut into a piece of wood and quickly realized this was a terrific power tool. It's balanced and easy to guide. At first I was a bit disappointed becasue the speed control was by trigger, rather than the 10 position dial on my Craftsman (yes it was a very old Craftaman). After about 2 minutes of use I realized that the dial system was hopelessly outdated. So, in case you can tell, I like it very much and am very pelased with my purchase.

I've had this saw for quite a few years. After reading some of the reviews about the blade changing it was confusing. I thought the directions said to turn the blade release handle CCW a certain number of turns then take out the blade. Reverse the procedure, turning CW until it clicks, then push it back into place.
br /The saw cuts smoothly with little vibration. The adjustments allow for cutting different materials. Agressive cut to fine cut.
br /It performs better than others I've tried. It seems to be high quality but this one I have is older and maybe they are no longer made the same way or in the same place.
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Ah... I love using this saw. It is so well balanced, quiet, precision made, and will cut through just about anything without flinching. It's a piece of cake to change blades, although it sounds like the blade removal handle is going to break when you tighten in the blade [it makes a loud "click"]. The orbital cutting action will move the saw through thick stock extraordinarily fast. It is definitely a nice tool to use. I highly recommend it.

The unit is rugged and doesn't wander. I've used it for 6 months now and changing blades is a breeze. The adjustable orbital cut allows for fine cuts as well as aggressive cuts. It's a dream to use compared to the cheap wanna bees. I didn't know that you could control a jig saw until I bought this one.

I used several different jig saws for a few months and this is by far the best. Bosch invented the jig saw and they build the best. The counterbalancing makes for the smoothest operation ever and the blade locking system is easy and quick. The progessor blades also cut nice and clean.

This is an excellent JigSaw. I borrowed my neighbor's and liked it so much that I had to have one. I looked at a number of JigSaws, and Bosch has not usually on the top of my list when looking for powertools, but this saw is definitely one of a kind. I would recommend this jigsaw for anyone looking for topend jigsaw at a great price. Also the Progressor Blades are great. They are strong and never bind.

The best of my 3 jigsaws. What else can I say. The "click" system works, and it is easy!! So, if you are contemplating another jigsaw in the same price range. You might want to select this jigsaw. Oh, and it even says Made in the USA - I only buy tools with USA on the label.

I grew up using a plastic jigsaw. Until I read about and bought this saw, I was unaware of the differences that existed between jigsaws. This thing is built tough and has a good motor.
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br /I really like that if you want to cut slow, it doesn't bog down and stop as soon as it hits force. A cheap jigsaw may run slow in the air, but you can't control it when you are cutting. This thing will run slow in the air and barely bat an eye when you bring it in contact with plywood all at a slow RPM. (I make a lot of slow cuts to keep the temps down)
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br /The forward-back action of the blade (optional setting) really chews a fast line through a board.
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br /I've made 24" cuts though quarter inch steel to the point that the motor was dangerously hot (too hot to touch) and it kept on going.
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br /The blades are not hard to change, I don't understand why all the fuss about that. It is easiest with the carriage all the way in the up position, but I can get them in there either way.
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br /The metal base is rigid and sturdy, unlike all plastic saws, which are lousy and wiggle all around.
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br /I recommend this product highly. As far as I am concerned, I never want to have to make a cut with any other jig saw.

I go out of my way to find reason to use this saw. It is simply a wonderfully designed machine that doesn't just do the job, it makes the job fun.

Just like most of the other reviewers here, I think this is an incredible tool. I never thought a jigsaw could cut so smoothly and so quickly. I have bad memories of jigsaws chattering away while making crooked rough cuts. It is well worth the money. Before buying the Bosch, I read the numerous comments about the difficulty of changing the blade. A co-worker has owned a similar Bosch for several months and he showed me a simple trick. He said eventually you can do it simply by feel, but initially you have to do a little more. Most people lift the blade change handle and turn it, but they get frustrated because nothing happens and then the blade change handle falls off. The trouble is the blade change handle hasn't been engaged correctly. As you turn the blade change handle, look underneath it. The handle has a black tube that is around an inner white tube. You have to make sure that when you turn the blade change handle, the white tube is engaged and is turning also. Just move the blade change handle up and down slightly until you feel it engage the white tube.
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br /Also, when I ordered this jigsaw an option to purchase a 5-pack set of Bosch T234X Progressor Wood Blades popped up. They look like good blades but be warned the package says to use them with cordless jigsaws. I returned mine.

GREAT Saw, can be used in lieu of a circular saw and can cut through anything ! But the blades take practice changing !
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br /The secret is the blades and Bosch now makes the blades available for different manufacturer jig and saber saws.
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br /Let me say there has never been any piece of wood or board this thing hasn't been able to rip through, I've even cut down mid size tree and the stump with the rough wood blade.
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br /The variable speed trigger is smooth so you can use this saw for fine craft work too.
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br /Just like every other reviewer, I have to reiterate the blades are tedious to change, it is a tool less system that has to be finessed. TIP: When it arrives and you've made a few cuts, practice removing and replacing the blades until you have the routine down. This is important because the blade will warble if it isn't tight, this happened to us but no one was injured.
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br /If you already have a nice jigsaw and want the same cutting power, see if Bosch is offering their blades for your model, the bi-opposition teeth design is the real secret.

I absolutely love this jigsaw, so much that I actually try to come up with projects requiring its use. Plenty of power, rock solid cutting, easy-enough blade changes, and with the Progressor blades, amazing cutting speed with great smoothness. I was, like many people moving up to this kind of tool, replacing a older Ryobi-Craftsman -- one that I thought was pretty decent -- but there's just no comparison. The Craftsman got sold at a yard sale for $4. The newer Bosch 1590 model has gotten some wishy-washy reviews, so I went with the proven performer and I don't regret it a bit.

I bought this saw yesterday at Lowes. I tried it out on several pieces of scrap lumber and don't see how a jig saw could be any better. I have not had problems with blade changing. Something that may help is when you insert a new blade and begin to rotate the teeth to the cutting position also pull forward on the blade. This helps the blade get into the guide wheel that the back of the blade rides on.
br / (...)When you bring up a type of blade you will see 4 headings. Three of which are Key Specifications, Additional Specifications, and More Info. Be sure to click on all of these. The More Info section gives a short summary of the blades. I printed out all this information and put it in the carring case with the saw.
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For years Bosch has been known to have the best jig saw for your money. But recently Makita came out with a new model for 2003 (4340FCT). Since I was in the market for a new jig saw I thought I would try them out head to head. I felt that since Makita's was a newer model that it would have some improvements over the Bosch.pFirst let me start by saying I am not an professional woodworker, so in no way is this a scientific study. I just chose things to compare that were important to me. I am just a home enthusiast who likes to get very good tools the first time around, and don't mind paying the extra money for them. I have no bias towards Makita or Bosch. I own some of their other tools and am happy with all of them.p- Tool Weight: Each tool weighs about the same.br- Weight Distribution: The Bosch was weighted more evenly, Makita weighted a little too much towards the front - Winner: Bosch.br-Feel: The Bosch fit a little nicer into my grip, particularly the trigger - Winner: Bosch.br-Vibration: Both of these units had very little vibration, even at high speeds - Winner: None.br-Sight Line: When using a jig saw, I like to view the blade while cutting since usually it is more detailed work I am doing. The Bosch has its blade set more forward, so it is easier to see from above. Where the Makita's is a little more set back - Winner: Bosch.br-Blade System: The Makita has a new blade installation system that is very, very nice to use. However it is spring loaded so I am curious as to its long term durability. - Winner: Makitabr-Start Up: Both are variable speed saws. The Makita has a smooth start, where the Bosch has variable speed built into the trigger system. I like the Bosch better. You can slowly bring the tool up to the speed it is set at. The Makita is smooth, but it immediately kicks up to the set speed - Winner: Bosch.br-Features: Bosch has a variable chip blower (Makita has chip blower too, just not variable). The Makita has a little light. I don't think the light is very effective, but I also didn't notice much difference in the chip blower settings on the Bosch.br-Cost: Bosch $10 less (at review time)pConclusion: I went with the Bosch. Makita's blade system was so nice it almost won out, but because of the variable start-up and sight line on the Bosch I ended up going with that.

Though this jigsaw may seem costly, it's worth every cent. The case is well laid out and contains plenty of space for accessories. The extra blades are nice as well. Some people have complained about the blade changing system. I had no problems picking it up and it quite easy to change the blades quickly.pThe saw itself is powerful and smooth. I have cut some thick long boards with it easily and accurately. If you buy one, get the jigsaw table. It's very nice to have.

I'm sorry to say Bosch over estimated the durability of the plastic, on top of the saw. The locking mechinism that turns and clicks for a tool free bit exchange is a serious let down.br The saw is rugged with a great motor otherwise. The plastic swival contraption they used for locking blades is a bad choice for a professional tool. It twisted and fell off. The Milwaukee is my next choice.

this is a smooth cutting saw. I do have to say the blade changing takes a little getting used to, I own a cabinet and countertop company so my saw is used most days. we have used it on sheet stainless steel,alluminium, wood and plastics as well as the laminate countertops it makes a straight cut through the material( no side to side wander of the blade) because of the blade support bearing in the rear of the blade. the only bad thing I have to say is the blade tensioning handle keeps coming off the saw when I am changing blades. That is why I only give it 4 stars.

You can't buy a better jigsaw without buying an industrial grade tool. Even then, I would have my doubts that you would be getting a better saw. The average working Joe will not live long enough or use it often enough to wear this puppy out.

Most of the other reviews share this complaint: the blade change function is difficult and cumbersome. The black handle on top the saw flops around and won't stay in place. I advise others to look elsewhere for a quality saw.

It is the best jigsaw I have ever owned and I have owned a few. It is the truest cutting jigsaw I have ever owned and I enjoy using it. My only cumplaint with it is the blade changing. It is a little difficult but nothing that is not manigable.

Originally bought a different jigsaw at a retail store for about $70, but it didn't work well at all. So, I bought this saw to build a poker table and it couldn't have made better cuts. I highly recommend this product and the 101AO 20 TPI blades to go with it.

It's a known fact that Bosch is #1 especially when it comes to Jig Saws and this saw is no exception. This is one great product!! Buy it

- I have used them all Porter Cable, Dewalt, Makita , Craftsman But this tool had to be created by God. I use this tool to fabricate counter tops, to make openings and stair case runs. It is eforlessly smooth, powerful and above all mosly vibration free. And last but not least did I forget to mention unbelievably durable. The porter cable is quite heavy and not to metion pricey, The Dewalt well its ok. The Makita is ok too the Craftsman well it is a Bosch too literaly. Sears recognizes quaity when it sees it too. For the price It is the best and it definately will get the job done over and over and over again.

Unfortunately, my experience with this jig has been a negative one. Bosch tools (rotary/demo hammers,drills and especially jigsaws)have always been very highly regarded in my area of work(which happens to be glazing/metal fab etc but whateverget on with the review,right?);so anyway, I buy this saw...for HOME use only,and had to return it TWICE!! before I continue let me just say that I know how to follow directions,especially when it comes to power tools(which can be kinda bad if you dont)but this did'nt seem to matter because the quick change lever(or whatever) failed twice on 2 separate models...If you could not keep a thumb on it while cutting(God forbid you had to use your free hand to hold the material you're cutting to avoid binding etc)it would spin around and the blade would come loose....not cool.... this happened on 2 different brand new never used saws. I only used the saws (both saws)for less than ten applications. ... I liked everything else about the saw;that's why I gave it 3 stars.Anyway I ended up going with the more expensive metabo jigsaw,which was actually my first choice were it not for the pain ... to get it here both timewise and pricewise. In summary,, too bad, would have been an excellent saw if not for that ... quickchange gimick

I really liked my bosch jigsaw quiet smooth strong but!!!!! between putting new triger switches in it and my bosses bosch drills a fellow could go to the poor house when i first bought the jigsaw trigger went bad in first month boss has jig saws and drills all have had trigger switch problems bosch charges a hefty price for repair no more bosch tools in our shop back to dewalt always dependable