Ryobi Variable Speed Jig Saw

Navigating the world of jigsaws can be a bit of a challenge, especially when you're looking for a balance between performance and affordability. Recently, I had the opportunity to work with the Ryobi Variable Speed Jig Saw (model JS651L1), and it provided an intriguing mix of features and quirks worth discussing.

Right out of the box, the Ryobi jigsaw impresses with its robust 6.1 Amp motor. This power is immediately noticeable, as it effortlessly slices through a variety of materials, from plywood to laminate countertops. The variable speed dial, ranging from 600 to 3,200 strokes per minute (SPM), offers excellent control. This feature is particularly useful when transitioning between different types of cuts and materials. The SpeedMatch selector allows you to fine-tune the speed and orbital action settings, ensuring that you get the right balance between speed and precision for your specific task.

One of the standout features of this jigsaw is the integrated LED light. For someone whose eyesight isn't what it used to be, this was a game-changer. The light does an excellent job of illuminating the cutting area, making it easier to follow your cut line accurately. Accompanying this is a built-in dust blower that keeps the cutting path clear. The combination of these two features significantly improves visibility and accuracy, which is often a challenge with other jigsaws.

The tool-less blade clamp is another feature that adds to the convenience. Changing blades is a breeze, which is particularly helpful when you're in the middle of a project and need to switch blades quickly. The Ryobi jigsaw accepts standard T shank blades, making it versatile and easy to find replacements—although this has been a point of contention for some users. In my experience, as long as you stick with high-quality blades, you shouldn't encounter any issues.

Ergonomics are always a consideration, and the Ryobi does fairly well in this department. The grip is comfortable and provides good control, even during extended use. The lock-on button for continuous operation is a thoughtful addition, reducing finger fatigue during longer cuts. However, the weight of the tool, at 5.5 lbs, might be a bit cumbersome for some users, especially when making intricate cuts.

The die-cast aluminum base with bevel capability adds another layer of versatility. The base can be adjusted from 0° to 45° both left and right, allowing for beveled cuts. However, the angle indicator is somewhat buried underneath the handle, making it difficult to read. This could be a minor inconvenience if you frequently need to adjust the bevel angle. Additionally, the non-marring shoe is a nice touch, as it protects your work surfaces from scratches.

One area where the Ryobi jigsaw fell short was in cutting curves. While it excels at straight cuts, the blade tends to jump out of the roller blade guide when attempting curved cuts. This can be frustrating, especially if your project requires a lot of intricate shapes. I found that going painfully slow and turning off the oscillation helped somewhat, but it still wasn't perfect.

Another notable downside is the vibration. The tool has a noticeable amount of vibration, which can affect the precision of your cuts, especially over extended periods. While this isn't a deal-breaker for occasional use, it could be a significant drawback for more demanding projects.

The dust management system, including the integrated dust collection port, is effective but not perfect. While it does a decent job of keeping the work area clean, it doesn't completely eliminate debris. If you're working indoors or in a confined space, you might still need to do some cleanup afterward.

Storage and portability are also considerations. The included carrying case is a sturdy fabric bag, which does the job but isn't as protective as a hard case would be. It's convenient for storage and transport, but I would have preferred a more robust solution to protect the tool from potential damage.

One of the more frustrating aspects of this jigsaw is the difficulty in finding replacement blades. While it accepts T shank blades, not all T shank blades fit perfectly. This can be a hassle, especially if you run out of blades in the middle of a project. It's something to keep in mind if you decide to go with this model.

In conclusion, the Ryobi Variable Speed Jig Saw (JS651L1) offers a lot of features that make it a strong contender in the mid-range jigsaw market. Its powerful motor, variable speed settings, LED light, and tool-less blade change are standout features that enhance its usability. However, the issues with cutting curves, vibration, and difficulty in finding replacement blades are significant drawbacks.

Would I recommend this tool? For the average DIY enthusiast or homeowner, the Ryobi jigsaw provides excellent value for the price. Its versatility and ease of use make it a solid choice for a wide range of projects. However, if you require a jigsaw for more precise or professional work, you might want to consider other options that offer better performance in cutting curves and have less vibration. Overall, the Ryobi JS651L1 is a capable tool that delivers on many fronts but isn't without its flaws.