Jigsaw Power Saws vs Rotary Saws
If you’re looking to cut wood or other materials but want a neater edge than you’d get with a chainsaw, there are various different kinds of power saw that will do the job. Usually it will be fairly clear which kind you’re after, as they are fairly distinct in the kind of power, accuracy and fine detail they offer.
Jigsaws
Jigsaws are best for light and detailed work, hence the name. The thin blade oscillates up and down and can be inserted into a drilled hole, making it possible to start in the middle of a sheet of wood.
Jigsaws are useful for cutting fine curves, but it is not easy to cut long straight lines with them without a guide. They are not suitable for thicker materials, and the blade can be prone to blunting or breaking. Sabre saws work the same way as jigsaws, but are larger, more robust and make rougher cuts, and are best suited to cutting into vertical surfaces.
Rotary saws
Circular saws use a circular, toothed blade that rotates at high speed. They are hand-held power tools good for heavy-duty work like cutting through beams, and may be either battery-powered or corded (in which case, avoid the lead). The depth of cut can be adjusted by changing the height of the collar around the blade.
For more accurate work, mitre saws can be used. These are rotating blades set on a stand. The blade is lowered on a sprung hinge and can be adjusted to cut specific angles.
Radial arm saws are also mounted on a frame and can be used to make precision cuts at different angles and depths. Radial arm and mitre saws are particularly useful if you are putting together wooden frames and need the components to fit together accurately.
Pic credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/rintakumpu/
