As with almost any tool, being aware of a few "tricks of the trade" will make the use of your jigsaw both easier and safer. Here are a few tips that may help:
1. Wear safety goggles or glasses when using your jigsaw. You won't be doing a lot of "jigsawing" in the future if you hurt your eyes. In addition, if you will be cutting materials that generate a lot of dust, wear a dust mask.
2. Before beginning a cut, make sure that your cutting line is clearly marked. Simple but important for a good job!
3. If you will be cutting small pieces of material, be sure and fasten down (e.g., with a clamp or clamps) the pieces before you begin cutting. Otherwise, the piece of material will probably slide and mess up your cut. Also, if the material you will be cutting is soft, place a small square of cork or similar material between the clamp and the soft material you will be cutting to prevent the tightened clamp from marring the material's surface.
4. To ensure a smooth and accurate cut, be sure and use the correct jigsaw blade.
5. After turning your jigsaw "on", let the jigsaw come to the full speed you have it set for before beginning your cut. Additionally, in selecting what speed to set your jigsaw on, the general rule of thumb is faster speeds for softer materials and slower speeds for harder materials.
6. Only move your jigsaw blade forward with enough forward pressure to engage the blade with the material and to allow it to cut steadily. Never force your jigsaw blade forward! Let your blade do the work.
7. When cutting metal or other hard materials, you can apply a thin line of lubricant alongside the cutting line to help control cut particles.
8. Always disconnect your jigsaw from its power source before beginning any sort of maintenance or cleaning.
9. Periodically during extended use, wipe off both the jigsaw handle/grip to help ensure your safe control of the jigsaw.
10. Do not use gasoline, carbon tetrachloride, or ammonia to clean your jigsaw as these chemicals may damage your jigsaw's plastic parts.
11. When removing a blade or accessory from your jigsaw after prolonged use of the jigsaw, be careful not to touch the blade or accessory with your bare fingers as the blade/accessory will probably be extremely hot. Either let it cool off or put on protective gloves before you try and remove the blade or accessory.
12. Do not lift or carry your jigsaw by its cord as this may damage your jigsaw's cord connection. Damage to the jigsaw's power cord connection is best done by the jigsaw's factory service center.
I hope these tips help!
