A jigsaw is a much-needed tool for every workshop not only the woodshop. A coping jigsaw is a very versatile and firm tool just like a handheld band saw for cutting in bevel angles, also allowing changing angles while cutting.
Aside from their effectiveness in creating intricate designs, patterns, and shapes, coping saws have the ability to cut about any shape really, from circles to S-shapes in the middle of the wood, shaping molding edges, and crafting joints.
However, We at SAWBUZZ always recommend buyers research different models before making the final purchase, which we are here to help with this article.
10 Best Jigsaws For Coping Reviews 2022
One can easily get confused with the variety of jigsaws out there, so here we will help you to get to know the jigsaw describing its features pros, and cons, with a detailed buying guide.
Here is our recommended list of top-rated Jigsaws for coping as per our recommendations;
1. DEWALT (DCS331B) Jig Saw – Overall Powerful Battery Saw
DEWALT DCS331B is a powerful cordless jigsaw operated on a 20 Volt max 3Ah battery pack to get your work done with an efficient and smooth cutting experience. The small LED light indicates the battery level hence giving you a real-time status of your tool.
The powerful motor is equipped with variable speed control to set anything in between 0 to 3000 strokes per minute while the innovative design allows the speed change through the trigger. The DEWALT DCS331B is a versatile and powerful jigsaw design for perfection and accuracy.
It also has 4 unique settings of orbital movements which allow the blade to move in a pattern replicating a hand saw. The standard t-shank blades provided along with the jigsaw are efficient at cutting wood, plastic, and even nonferrous metals.
The blade change is designed in a tool-less mode to enhance the ease of blade change while ensuring accuracy and precision. It features an all-metal shoe with a maximum bevel capability of 45 degrees and positive detents at the most common angles of 0, 15, 30, and 45 degrees.
Although it weighs almost five a half pounds, the handle is lined with an anti-slip grip for comfort. It also has an adjustable dust blower to clear out the sawdust and chips from the line of cut. The provided standard blade is of good quality and the anti-slip grip over the handle adds comfort during cutting.
2. Makita XVJ01Z Brushless Jigsaw – Premium Quality Jigsaw
The most dependable name in brushless motor technology, Makita’s XVJ01Z is designed for power, efficiency, and performance. The 18 Volt LXT Lithium-ion battery pack is a standard in the Makita universe with the ability of fast charging and compatibility with any Makita cordless tool.
The efficient and powerful BL brushless motor is specifically designed with electronic control for optimized usage of battery so that XVJ01Z offers a 50% longer operation time while simultaneously being cooler thus a long life. This saw offers a longer run time with fast charging.
The unique intelligent electronic control allows for drawing a varying amount of power from the battery pack depending on the demand. It is equipped with a speed control dial with 6 distinct stroke rates varying between 800 SPM to 3500 SPM.
The trigger is accentuated with double ambidextrous lock-on and on-off buttons. It also has additional 3 settings for orbital movement making the cutting quicker, easy, and more similar to the traditional hand saw. The heavy gauge aluminum base can be swiveled to ± 45 degrees for enhanced cutting performance.
The design also includes several additional features including tool-less blade change, dual-LED lights to brighten the work area, and an integrated dust blower. Despite weighing over 5 pounds, the ergonomically designed barrel grip makes the cutting experience a pleasure.
3. Bosch JS470EB Corded Barrel-Grip Jig Saw – Tough Long-lasting Built
It also has 4 settings of orbital movement making the cutting quicker and more natural similar to a hand saw. It features the sophisticated Constant Response Circuitry which is a patented system designed for delivering appropriate torque to the blade.
This system conveniently allows a soft start and delivers a consistent velocity by adjusting the torque depending on the toughness of the workpiece. It is also equipped with fully counterbalanced internal precision controls and plunging systems designed for very low vibrations.
Its unique multidirectional T-shank blade clamp is designed for an excellent grip with a blade ejection lever which eliminates the need to physically touch the hot blade for a quick change midway through the cutting. Its large die-cast aluminum footplate is made for tool-less bevel adjustments for up to 45 degrees.
An insulated cover lines the aluminum gearbox for added convenience. Although it weighs around 6 pounds, this jigsaw has an ergonomically designed upfront handle with a soft barrel grip. The addition of an onboard dust blower enhances the ease of trimming by removing the sawdust and chips away from the line of cut.
4. DEWALT (DCS334B) Jigsaw – Highly Recommended Pro Tool
DEWALT DCS334B is a pro-level compact cordless jigsaw operated on 20 volts max battery packs. It is powered by a super-efficient brushless motor that is able to move the blade at a maximum no-load speed of 3200 strokes per minute (SPM).
With the assistance of innovative electronics, it can change the amount of power being withdrawn from the battery and safeguard against any voltage drop or friction during the cutting of tougher materials. This feature alone makes it highly desirable as it multiplies the battery time and elongates the service life of the jigsaw.
DCS334B is designed with a unique variable speed trigger that can change the stroke rate of the jigsaw from 0 to 3200 SPM without needing to turn it off. In addition to the stroke rate control, the jigsaw also features 4 position orbital movement settings which allow the T-shank blades to move in a circular motion.
Depending on the nature of the cut you are making, you can choose the aggressiveness and/or precision to suit your job. The jigsaw features an all-metal design with a tool-less, lever-action control for quickly releasing the T-shank blade from the clamp.
Also, the all-metal base plate provides you the sturdiness and smooth cutting operation along with the adjustable bevel shoe. With the push of a lever, the bevel can be changed from 0 to 45 degrees with positive detents at the most common angles.
Weighing only 4.2 pounds (including battery pack), DCS334B is a lightweight, compact yet sturdy tool with a top handle grip. It also includes some additional features of LED lights for illuminating cut lines and an integrated dust blower to ease off your cutting experience.
5. PORTER-CABLE (PCC650B) Jig Saw – Every Situation Practical Tool
Porter-Cable’s PCC650B is a low-cost yet excellent cordless jigsaw designed for efficiency and accuracy. The jigsaw is operated by a powerful motor running on a 20 Volt max battery pack within the Porter-Cable universe so you can use the battery from any other Porter-Cable tool to run this jigsaw.
The industrial design jigsaw is capable of moving the blade up to 2500 strokes per minute (SPM) whose speed can easily be controlled by the variable speed trigger. This allows quick and clean speed change even during the cutting. A powerful controlled tool, suitable for every situation.
It also features 3 settings of orbital movement allowing more circular-like motion of the blade for your aggressive cuts. The design features a tool-less mechanism for quick and easy blade release which adds to your working speed.
Industrial level built quality and high performance are two things that best describe this jigsaw. It also has a tool-less bevel adjustment system which allows you to swivel the base plate up to 45 degrees with positive detents at most common angles.
It is supplied with a 4-inch wood blade with a T-shank design which is firmly clamped and yet easily released with a simple flick of a switch. PCC650B also has an additional feature of an integrated dust blower which comes very handy to keep your line of cut clear from any sawdust or chips.
6. BLACK+DECKER (BDCJS20C) JigSaw – Highly Recommended for Beginners
A trusted name since 1910 well known for designing power tools and other outdoor pieces of equipment adding versatility and precision in your fish mouth joint. BDCJS20C comes with a 20V MAX Lithium Jigsaw delivering powerful 2500 SPM and a 3/4-inch stroke length ideal for medium-level tasks.
The variable speed dial allows adjusting the speed according to the type of material you are cutting with a maximum of 2,500 strokes per minute. Along with providing great cutting power, this saw offers portability all in one. The 5.5 lbs saw comes with an LED light to illuminate the workspace.
The compact, lightweight design of the saw accepts both U and T shank blades perfect for detailed curves and precise tight corners, offering you the convenience of cutting a multitude of materials. The 45 degrees bevel shoes move both to the left and right allowing perfect angled, plunged, and curved cuts.
The battery and charger are part of the black+decker 20V max* system and can be interchangeably used with all its products you already own. The tool comes with a 1.5 AH battery powerful enough to easily handle weird tasks around the house and on the job site.
The saw has a tool-less blade change system to efficiently and quickly change the blade eliminating the task’s downtime. Comes with awesome features including a built-in dust blower to blow the dust away from the cutline keeping the workpiece clean and the provided clear wire guard makes the line of sight visible.
7. Bosch JS260 Top-Handle Jigsaw – With heavy-gauge steel footplate
The jigsaw in general is a handy tool to have at your disposal, and if it is Bosch then it is safe to say that it is one of the best whether you’re in your home workshop or on the job site. JS260 comes with a unique four-mode orbital action trigger that varied the blade’s strokes for smooth to aggressive cutting.
The versatile 6.0-ampere motor delivering a maximum of 3100 strokes per minute (SPM) can be adjusted with the variable speed control trigger with the dial for maximum speed and the accelerator to efficiently control the operating speed to adapt to several cutting applications.
Bosch’s low vibration mechanism has the capability of providing improved accuracy and the precision-machined plunging system delivers smooth working operations. For steady control and maximum user comfort, the saw is equipped with an ergonomic top handle, an ambidextrous lock-on trigger, and a two-finger button.
For the superior grip of blades, the saw features a multidirectional clamp system that accepts the T-Shank blades but sadly doesn’t accept U-shank. Also comes with an in-built dust blower to keep the cut line clear of dust and debris and a keyless blade change mechanism.
The saw is equipped with a heavy-gauge sturdy steel footplate that helps keep the blade consistent at the same angle throughout the entire cut, providing longevity. Also comes with a clear anti-splintering insert to prevent the articles from splintering when being cut.
8. Hitachi CJ18DGLP4 Jigsaw – With Lifetime Tool Warranty
When focusing on a battery-operated tool, you cannot expect them to be as powerful and efficient as the corded ones, But Hitachi CJ18DGLP4 will not disappoint. This battery-operated saw comes with a three-mode orbital action along with the straight cuts allowing accurate and precise tight corner joints cutting for your coping project.
This 4 pounds lightweight 18V Lithium-Ion power tool offers 3 times more battery life than the traditional NiCd ones and is compatible and interchangeable with Hitachi all 18V Lithium-Ion slide-type batteries. The saw delivers a powerful 2400 SPM no-load speed going through a variety of applications.
The variable speed control along with the 45 degrees bevel angle cutting adjustments adds further versatility to your cuts. A smart saw with an impressive performance is a relief for ears as it isn’t very noisy; the only issue is that it doesn’t come with a dust blower which is a necessity when doing woodwork.
The saw features a keyless blade replacement system for quick blade ejection and installation while reducing the overall downtime, and the on-board blade holders easily hold 6 both “T” and “U” shank blades for easy access. CJ18DGLP4 is a sleek cordless jigsaw that epitomizes maneuverability.
Enjoy comfort and convenience with the ergonomic D-shaped grip providing users maximum control without exhausting them and the LED light improves precision by illuminating the cutline. This saw is more suitable for light material cutting where you wouldn’t have to run the tool for a long time.
9. SKIL 4495-02 Orbital Action Jigsaw – Great Power Cutting
One of the cheapest saws with a great reputation and quality performance. A compact yet powerful 6.0 amp motor with a 4 position orbital action along with the variable speed controls that adjusts the cut speed to tackle the various task, ensuring smooth quick corners and curved designs.
A feature you wouldn’t find in a lot of saws is the laser, SKIL 4495-02 comes with a built-in laser guide to improve the cutting, a great learning tool for beginners to make accurate straight cuts, improving the precision while reducing the chances of error.
It is also an extremely lightweight and user-friendly saw with the additional benefit of portability. The custom-molded tool design prevents the blade from damaging the material while your work is in progress. This corded tool has a sturdy low vibration built with an added precision factor.
From straight to curved, deliver multiple cuts using the saw’s unique foot design that provides more stability and control when shaping the end of a molding doing cope. Overall it is an excellent saw for home based as well professional projects that obviously include coping.
It might not be the most versatile saw but it surely has a lot of perks and features you usually don’t find at this price including the great power source, the laser projection, the LED light, and orbital mechanism, making it a worthy mention.
10. Blue Ridge BR2802U Cordless Jigsaw – Best Budget Saw
Though Blue Ridge is last in our list but comes with outclass features, so not including it in this rundown wouldn’t be fair. This versatile saw comes with a heavy-duty 20 volts Max battery to cut through a variety of materials. The batteries are interchangeable with its other power tools.
Also comes with an adjustable base allowing the user to adjust the angle of the blade when beveling, spinning, and pitching the blade to cut various applications. Equipped with an LED light that illuminates the darker surroundings for flawless cutting.
The best part is the keyless blade change system and the 4 stage orbital speed action or pendulum settings adjust the speed for improved cutting speed or accuracy, allowing the carpenter to back bevel irregular lines. The removable vacuum adaptor simply slides in and out of its place keeps the workplace pristine clean.
Its simple operation and low cost make it suitable for both beginners and professionals. Being cordless means it can be used anywhere the users wish to shape the material. When cutting curves in thicker boards, be vigilant since Jigsaw blades appear to bend, leaving a beveled edge rather than a square one.
This jigsaw will work perfectly, just make sure to read the manual carefully to understand its cutting capacity, but a general rule is not to cut softwood thicker than 1-1/2 inches and hardwood thicker than 3/4 inch. Along with coping, this efficient jigsaw is also capable of doing scroll cutting.
The Buying Guide of Best Jigsaws For Coping Work
If you are looking for a jigsaw that can help you in coping, the following section can guide you through the technicalities that you should know before making a decision. Description of some of the key features is as follows:
- Jigsaw Power & Power Source
As with any other power tool, your requirement for the power of a jigsaw will depend on your required cutting functionality along with its usage. As you may have already known from our article on Jigsaw for Thick wood, you can find power ratings of jigsaws in a range of 350 to 1000 watts.
Since the crown molding especially coping uses relatively softer materials, it is pointless to go for the most powerful jigsaw if you want one for coping. Therefore, a 500 watts jigsaw should be able to cater to your crowning requirements.
Similarly, the power source may also add to the functionality of your jigsaw which may be corded electric or battery powered. You can find a jigsaw with appropriate power in either power source categories easily and it all boils down to your needs of maneuverability and/or off-site jobs.
- The Blade
As the most important section in a cutting tool, the blade usually is the most emphasized thing. From our buying guide on Jigsaws for Hardwood, you may have known the material as well as the types of the blade. You can choose either a U-shank or a T-shank blade made of high carbon steel for your coping work.
Generally, if you only require this jigsaw for coping, you might not need the high-speed steel blade or the tungsten carbide blade used for cutting hardwood, metals, steel, and concrete. The design of the blade which includes the teeth per inch and direction as well as pitch of the teeth is also another factor.
It is advisable to look for a blade with larger TPI while bi-directional teeth allow the blade to cut on both upward as well as downward stroke. This design will help you a lot since you would be using the jigsaw in both upward and downward directions for effective removal of material under the MDF surface.
- Variable Speed / Stroke Rate
As you would have correctly guessed that variable speed setting has its own benefit of letting you adjust the stroke rate per minute (SPM) for materials of different toughness and brittleness.
When talking about coping, the specific trimming operation requires a delicate balance of power and sturdy hands and therefore we recommend operating the saw at an intermediate speed.
- Orbital Action
Since coping is all meant for perfectly cut joints, you may not want to utilize the orbital action feature of the saw which essentially rotates the blade in a pendulum-like motion causing rougher edges and an aggressive cutting. If you are buying the jigsaw only for coping, this feature might not be needed at all.
- Depth of cut and Stroke Length
Depth of cut is another measure of the cutting capacity of a jigsaw. It is a measure of how much thick material a jigsaw can cut. Typically, jigsaws can be found with a cutting depth capacity of 1.5 to 6 inches.
The coping work however might not require this extreme cutting depth. Also, the extra length of the blade has a chance of bending or even snapping in case of any accidental sideways pressure.
Most of the casual users and DIY’ers only tackle wooden and ply sheets that are thinner than 45 mm and hence any entry-level/basic model jigsaw can work for them.
For regular users, contractors and professionals, there are a lot of options with cutting depth as large as 140 mm (5.5 inches) and an appropriate tool can be selected based on the compromise of different requirements.
Further, the stroke length of a saw needs to be viewed carefully as a smaller stroke length means a slower cut with less vibration to offer greater control on the cutting lines during coping.
- Additional Features
Along with these key parameters, there are also some additional features that add to your overall cutting experience and enhance your comfort.
These value-added features include LED light for illuminating the work surface to help you clearly see the cut line in low visibility. Laser cutline marker is also another feature that comes in very handy.
These LED lights or laser markers however also pose a difficulty when you try to clear out the trims in coping work with a saw held upside down.
Additionally, personal safety features such as auto stop/blade brake, trigger lock, etc. are also meant for increased efficiency and safety in the work environment.
Wrapping Up
Coming to the end of this article, you must have comprehended that the Top jigsaw for coping comes in quite affordable and handy for everyone. However, cordless jigsaws are more comfortable and easy to use in cutting the wood or other materials in curves.
The dome-shaped coping foot helps carpenters as well as the DIY’ers a lot in curved shape cutting and is widely used for back beveling irregular appearances. Good luck choosing the best one out of the top 10 reviewed jigsaws, out of which all are best for coping.
Good Luck Coping!!!
People Also Asked About Coping Jigsaws
I have compiled the most asked questions that people ask about at different platforms;