Black & Decker Jig Saw, Cordless, Compact

A tool that has recently caught my attention is the Black & Decker cordless compact jigsaw, model LPS7000-A. As someone who values the convenience and versatility of cordless tools, I was eager to test this jigsaw and see if it lives up to its promises of maneuverability and ease of use in tight spaces.

Design and Build

The first thing that struck me about this jigsaw is its compact and lightweight design. Weighing just 2.1 pounds and measuring 8.4 inches in length, 7.8 inches in height, and 2.8 inches in width, this tool is easy to handle and maneuver. The ergonomic grip allows for comfortable use over extended periods, and the compact size makes it ideal for working in confined spaces where a traditional jigsaw might be cumbersome.

The tool comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that boasts a remarkable ability to retain its charge for up to 18 months. This is a significant advantage, especially for those who may not use the jigsaw regularly but still want it to be ready for action when needed. However, it's worth noting that the battery is not included in the package, which means an additional purchase is necessary.

Performance

In terms of performance, the jigsaw is designed to cut through wood up to 1 inch thick, and it can handle a variety of other materials, including plywood, branches, dowels, corrugate, PVC, and metal pipes. During my testing, I found that the jigsaw performed admirably on light-duty tasks. Cutting through 3/4 inch branches and 1/4 inch plywood was a breeze, and the tool handled these materials with ease and precision.

One of the standout features of this jigsaw is its keyless blade change system. This allows for quick and easy blade swaps, which is a significant time-saver. Initially, I had some trouble locating the blade release lever due to the somewhat unclear instructions, but once I figured it out, the process was straightforward. The ability to use standard jigsaw blades is another plus, as it means you don’t have to invest in specialized blades for this tool.

Versatility

The jigsaw’s versatility is one of its strongest points. It’s designed to be hand-held like an electric drill, which allows for use at various angles and in different orientations. This makes it particularly useful for tasks that require a high degree of maneuverability, such as cutting in tight spaces or making curved cuts.

However, it’s important to recognize the tool’s limitations. While it excels at light-duty tasks, it’s not suitable for heavy-duty cutting or precise carpentry work. The jigsaw struggled with making smooth, straight cuts in thicker materials, and the faceplate around the blade can make it difficult to cut flush against surfaces like tree trunks.

Battery Life and Charging

The lithium-ion battery's long charge retention is a significant advantage, but the actual battery life during use is another crucial factor. In my experience, the battery held up well for short tasks, but I would recommend having a spare battery on hand for longer projects. The separate charger plugs into the base of the handle, making it easy to recharge the battery when needed.

Durability and Reliability

Durability is always a concern with cordless tools, and the Black & Decker jigsaw had mixed results in this area. While many users, including myself, found the tool to be reliable and sturdy for light-duty tasks, there were several reports of issues with the battery not accepting a charge. This seems to be a recurring problem and could be a deal-breaker for some.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the Black & Decker cordless compact jigsaw is a versatile and convenient tool, ideal for light-duty tasks and situations where maneuverability in tight spaces is crucial. Its compact design, ease of use, and quick blade change system make it a valuable addition to any toolkit. However, its limitations in power and cutting precision mean it’s best suited as a supplementary tool rather than a primary cutting solution.

Would I recommend this tool? Yes, but with some caveats. If you’re looking for a lightweight, portable jigsaw for occasional use on small projects, this tool is an excellent choice. Its compact design and versatility make it particularly useful for DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists. However, if you need a jigsaw for more demanding tasks or professional use, you might want to consider a more robust model. The battery issues also warrant caution, so be prepared to test the tool thoroughly upon purchase and ensure it meets your needs.

Overall, the Black & Decker LPS7000-A jigsaw is a handy tool to have for specific applications, and its convenience and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for the right user.