German engineering proves, time and again, to be the logical choice. I have used Bosch's quick-change jig saw extensively and in every way, the Metabo is it's superior. It's 6 amp motor, overpowers Bosch's 5 and 5.5. The Metabo quick-change is less cumbersome and quicker than that of the Bosch. Metabo's electronic variable speed is much more user-friendly and far more adjustable than the trigger adjustment others use. Though Amazon does not show it, this model does come with a case, an anti-splitering insert, and a blade. It takes a the t-style quick change blades (so you won't have to hunt for special blades). This saw cuts faster and cleaner than anything I've ever used and it's definately worth the extra money.

Like the previous reviewer, I had also used and liked the Bosch jigsaw. I am not a pro nor do I have access to testing equipment. Still like the Bosch, but IMHO this Metabo saw beats it hands down. br Did do a side by side, and the sound is less high pitched and thus less painfull to the ear. The cuts are smooth and steady, but so are the cuts with the Bosch. The Metabo is a bit bigger and heavier, but I like that just fine. Hooks up perfectly to my Fein shop vac and doesn't leave but a speck or two of dust to pick up. Blade changing is simpler and more secure - I never liked that turn the top of the handle till it clicks and clicks feature on the Bosch.br Sometimes things and opinions become accepted as fact without any further discussion, the Bosch being a perfect example. While it was the first and probably the best for many years, most people it seemed to me, assumed it is the best without seriously checking the entire competition, including the new Metabo, Fein and Festool jigsaws. br While it has become a cliche that German engineering and manufacturing is the best in the world, I believe there is more than a bit of truth here. And I am a USA guy all the way.br Maybe this jigsaw isn't for everyone, but it's worthy of a serious look for anyone in the market for a world class saw.br Bob Marino

I own the barrel-grip version of this jigsaw and really like it; although, I had to buy it from Tools Plus since Amazon doesn't carry it. I especially like the 12' long cord.
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br /I use the barrel-grip version of this jigsaw for a variety of remodeling tasks, but it's invaluable as a coping tool, particularly when working with hardwood crown moulding. To use the jigsaw for coping, I highly recommend replacing the factory foot with the Collins Coping Foot (from Collins Tool Company), which allows you to make all sorts of extreme cuts. The saw is held upside down so that it's easy to see the blade and accuratly follow the coping line, and this is where the barrel-grip version of the jigsaw comes in handy because it's so easy to grip upside down. There's no handle to get in the way. I'd give the barrel grip version 5 stars without reservation.
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br /The other day I was dismayed to see the exact same saw as the top handle Metabo jigsaw for sale at Home Depot. The only difference was that it was marketed under the Ridgid brand and cost about $30 less than the Metabo. I looked at the Ridgid very carefully and it was identical to the Metabo in all ways except color. I suspect there must be a shared product licensing deal between Ridgid and Metabo. The good side of Ridgid selling the same saw is that accessories like the anti-splinter insert should be widely available wherever there's a Home Depot. The 4 star rating is because Metabo charges $30 more than Ridgid for the exact same jigsaw.
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br /Update: compared to the newer jigsaws that other companies have put out, this Metabo clatters and vibrates too much. It's good enough for rough work, but I can't recommend it for finer projects. Go with a Bosch.

I ended up buying the barrel handle version from Tools Plus because Amazon didn't carry it (I did ask Amazon if they could get it). As others have said, it's very smooth, the blade changing mechanism is better than Bosch's, and it feels sturdier than the Bosch which I was able to pick up at Home Depot. While I was cutting a rail for a sliding tub door, the blade jammed into the aluminum, but the body of the jigsaw absorbed most of the shock.pIf you use the vacuum extension, dust doesn't fly all over the room. It lands in a neat pile directly under where you cut. The blower also keeps the blade clear so you can see what it's cutting. The included cord is nice and long. The case is humungous; no idea why they made it so big.pThe biggest plus the Bosch has is you can get parts for it anywhere. The Metabo takes Bosch blades, but it takes some digging to find the anti-splintering inserts, etc. Metabo has a bunch of other accessories that no one seems to carry in the US (ask the MetaboUSA.com folks for the catalog page), like a really expensive edge guide, no mar feet, etc.

This is without question a great jigsaw, better than the old Bosch reliable. However, if you're in the market for very high end jigsaws, you'll have to also consider the Fein (also from Germany) and which you'll probably need to special order. The one downfall of Metabo, which you need to be aware of, is that if it breaks, it's a pain in the [rear] to get it fixed. (In America, at any rate.) Good Luck!

Anybody using power tools realises the benefit of having power enough to do the job and some to spare, it's a good feeling to realise that the machine is not going to tear its guts out inspite of it being pushed. Well this machine gives me that feeling when I'm cutting 2x timber with the orbital mode switched on to max. all the other features are just a plus, as far as I'm concerned, I want that work done well. That's not to say I don't appreciate the efficency of dust collection, or the low decibel of the motor whine. So go out and buy this machine it may be a few bucks more ... but it will not disappoint

This is a great saw. I like that it has a blower so i can see where I,m cutting without the saw dust blocking my view. The blade changing isn't as good as the Milwaukee but its still pretty easy and alot better than the Bosch.I have a good view of the blade while I'm cutting which I didn't have with the Milwaukee. It has plenty of power and handles very good. It's worth the few extra bucks.

This is the same saw as the rigid (Home Depot). I paid $149 for the first one I got. They went down to $99 with a lifetime warranty. I bought another. They are excellent. I also have a Bosch. These are just as good.