Craftsman Jigsaw Blades, U-Shank Set

When you’re tackling a variety of cutting tasks, having the right jigsaw blades on hand can make all the difference. I recently had the chance to test out the Craftsman Jigsaw Blades U-Shank Set (model CMAJ2SET12), and I must say, this 12-piece set brings a lot to the table. Designed for both wood and metal cutting applications, this set promises versatility, but how does it hold up under real-world conditions?

First off, the variety of blades included in this set is impressive. You get blades with different teeth per inch (TPI) counts, ranging from 6 TPI for fast wood cutting to 24 TPI for fine metal cutting. This range is particularly useful for anyone working on diverse projects, from rough carpentry to more delicate metalworking. The set includes:

• (2) 6 TPI blades for fast cuts in wood
• (2) 10 TPI blades for down cuts in wood
• (2) 10 TPI blades for general wood cuts
• (2) 12 TPI blades for scroll cuts in wood
• (2) 14 TPI blades for metal cuts up to 3/32 inches
• (2) 24 TPI blades for metal cuts up to 1/8 inches

The high-carbon steel construction of these blades ensures they are robust enough for most standard tasks. However, I did notice some variability in performance depending on the material being cut and the type of blade used.

In terms of cutting performance, the wood blades performed admirably. The 6 TPI blades made quick work of 1/2-inch plywood, slicing through it with ease. The 10 TPI blades provided cleaner cuts, which is great for projects requiring a finer finish. The 12 TPI scroll-cut blades were particularly useful for more intricate work, such as cutting curves and shapes for decorative projects.

When it came to metal cutting, the results were more mixed. The 14 TPI and 24 TPI metal blades worked well on thinner materials such as aluminum sheets and soft steel. However, I found that they dulled relatively quickly when used on harder metals. For short, occasional cuts, these blades are sufficient, but for more intensive metalworking, you might want to look into more specialized blades.

One thing I appreciate about this set is the clear and easily readable markings on each blade. This makes it straightforward to pick the right blade for the job, even if you’re in a hurry. The blades come in a convenient plastic case, which is a nice touch for keeping them organized and protected. This case is compact and fits easily into a toolbox or a drawer.

However, not everything about this set is perfect. One issue I encountered was with the fit of the longer blades. They were too thick for my jigsaw’s chuck, which meant they couldn’t be securely fastened. This necessitated some disassembly and cleaning of the chuck to confirm the size mismatch. While higher TPI blades fit without issue, this was a bit of a hassle and could be a dealbreaker for some users.

Durability is another area where these blades show some inconsistency. While the wood-cutting blades held up well over multiple uses, the metal-cutting blades seemed to wear out more quickly. In a few instances, the teeth wore down noticeably after only a few cuts, which is disappointing. If you’re planning to do a lot of metal cutting, you might find yourself needing to replace these blades sooner rather than later.

Despite these drawbacks, the Craftsman Jigsaw Blades U-Shank Set offers good value for the price. The variety of blades included means you’re well-equipped for a wide range of tasks, and the quality is generally reliable for most standard applications. The convenience of having a compact, organized case is also a significant plus, especially for those who like to keep their tools neat and accessible.

In conclusion, I would recommend the Craftsman Jigsaw Blades U-Shank Set for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts who need a versatile set of blades for occasional use. The assortment of blades covers a broad spectrum of cutting tasks, and the overall quality is suitable for most light to medium-duty applications. However, if you’re a professional or someone who frequently works with tougher materials, you might want to consider investing in higher-end blades that offer greater durability and performance.

For its price point and the convenience it offers, this set is a solid addition to any home workshop. Just be mindful of its limitations, particularly when it comes to fitting issues and the durability of the metal-cutting blades. Overall, it’s a practical and economical choice for most everyday cutting needs.