What is the stroke length of the jigsaw?
The cutting ability of a jigsaw is determined by two factors: stroke length and stroke rate (measured in strokes per minute, or strokes per minute). The stroke length of a jigsaw is the distance the blade moves up and down when cutting. It can vary from 18 mm (¾ inch) to 26 mm (1 inch). | |
The longer the stroke of the jigsaw, the faster it can cut. This is because more of the blade's teeth come into contact with the workpiece in one stroke. | |
Longer stroke jigsaws are more suitable for cutting thicker materials. The longer stroke allows any resulting filings or chips to be more efficiently removed from the cut. As a result, there is less stress on the blade, so it will likely last longer before needing to be replaced. The most efficient jigsaws have a stroke length of 25-26 mm (1″). | |
On the other hand, jigsaws with a shorter stroke (about 18 mm or ¾ inch) produce a smoother but slower cut. Because they are less efficient than longer stroke saws, the user is more likely to use these jigsaws, which can overload the tool's motor. | |
However, saws with slightly shorter strokes give the user more control because the saw produces less vibration when the blade is moved a shorter distance. This allows these jigsaws to cut sheet metal more efficiently, which can be difficult to cut accurately if the blade vibrates a lot. | |
While shorter-travel jigsaws are fine for occasional chores around the house, if you use your power tool regularly, a longer-travel jigsaw will better suit your cutting needs. | |