Skil Orbital Action Jigsaw

The Skil Orbital Action Jigsaw, model 4395-01, has quickly become a staple in my workshop. With its powerful 5.5 Amp motor and a host of convenient features, this jigsaw is designed to handle a variety of cutting tasks with ease and precision.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the Skil jigsaw feels sturdy and well-built. The stable foot design immediately caught my eye, promising better control during cuts. This design feature is particularly beneficial for those who are new to using jigsaws or for anyone looking to achieve more accurate cuts. The tool feels balanced in hand, which is crucial for maintaining control, especially during intricate cuts.

Performance

The 5.5 Amp motor provides ample power, making it capable of cutting through various materials, including dense woods like cedar. The variable speed trigger, which ranges from 800 to 3200 SPM (strokes per minute), allows for precise control over the cutting speed. This is particularly useful when transitioning between different types of materials or when making detailed cuts.

One of the standout features is the 4-position orbital cut control. This allows you to adjust the aggressiveness of the blade's movement, making it easier to tailor the jigsaw's performance to the task at hand. Whether you need a smooth, clean cut or a faster, more aggressive cut, the Skil jigsaw can handle it.

Ease of Use

Changing blades is a breeze thanks to the tool-less blade change system, which accommodates both T and U shank blades. This feature saves a significant amount of time and hassle, especially when you need to switch blades frequently for different types of cuts. Additionally, the tool-less foot adjustment for angle changes is another convenient feature, allowing for quick and easy bevel adjustments.

The custom molded tool rest is a thoughtful addition, designed to protect your materials when the jigsaw is not in use. On-tool storage for blades ensures that you always have spare blades within reach, which is a small but appreciated convenience.

Cutting Experience

Using the Skil jigsaw for various projects, including installing a laminate floor and building out a camper van, I found it to be incredibly effective. The jigsaw's grip is comfortable, reducing fatigue during extended use. The cuts were smooth and precise, thanks in part to the stable foot design and variable speed control.

However, one area where the jigsaw could improve is dust control. During use, I noticed that sawdust tends to blow up into my face, even when wearing safety glasses. This can be a bit of an annoyance, and it might be worth considering additional dust control measures if you plan on using the jigsaw extensively.

Customer Service

It's worth mentioning that Skil's customer service is top-notch. In one instance, a user received a jigsaw with a factory defect, but Skil promptly replaced it with a new, better model. This level of customer service gives me confidence in the brand and its commitment to quality.

Value for Money

For its price, the Skil Orbital Action Jigsaw offers excellent value. It boasts a range of features typically found in higher-end models, such as variable speed control, orbital cut control, and tool-less adjustments. The inclusion of a carrying bag is a nice bonus, making it easy to transport and store the jigsaw.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Skil Orbital Action Jigsaw is a versatile and powerful tool that performs exceptionally well across a range of tasks. Its user-friendly design, combined with robust performance features, makes it a great addition to any workshop. While the dust control could be improved, this is a minor drawback in an otherwise outstanding tool.

I would highly recommend the Skil Orbital Action Jigsaw to both DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. Its combination of power, precision, and ease of use makes it a valuable tool for a wide variety of cutting tasks. Whether you're working on home improvement projects, woodworking, or any other task that requires precise cutting, this jigsaw is up to the challenge.