Festool Carvex Jigsaw – Techniques

The jigsaw is ideal for making cut-outs and cutting curves, but it can cut straight lines with the help of a straightedge. Some sawing tips are shared here.

Jigsawing Tips

For better results, let the jigsaw blade cut without jamming it into the workpiece. Here are a few more suggestions on how to get more out of your jigsaw.

1) Blade Drifting

Every time you install a blade, remember to adjust the blade guide properly to ensure the blade stays straight and true in the cut. A loose blade in the guide will result in imprecise or non-perpendicular cuts (Photo 5). To avoid that, tighten the adjustment screw on the blade guide securely and then back off by a quarter turn (Photo 6).

Photo 5

Photo 6

2) Guiding the Saw for a Straight Cut

Like guiding a cut using a handsaw, with some practice, you can use your thumb against the jigsaw base to help make the jigsaw cut straight (Photo 7).

Photo 7

3) Making a Precise Entry Cut

If you find it challenging to position your jigsaw to a cut-line precisely while it is running, try this trick. Set the speed to the A setting, and without switching on the jigsaw, place the saw blade up against the cut-line on the edge of the workpiece (Photo 8). Hold the jigsaw firmly, and turn it on to start the cut (Photo 9). You won’t miss the cut-line this way because you begin the cut on the cut-line.

Photo 8

Photo 9