Let’s Talk About PORTER Cable 20 Volt Max Lithium Bare Jigsaw
The PORTER Cable 20 Volt Max Lithium Bare Jigsaw promises cordless convenience and cutting power for a variety of projects. As someone who’s spent years building everything from deer stands to custom fishing rod holders, I’m always on the lookout for tools that balance performance and portability. PORTER Cable, while perhaps not the first name that springs to mind for hardcore tactical gear, has a long history in the tool industry, and I was interested to see how their cordless jigsaw stacked up.
I decided to try this jigsaw because I was tired of dragging extension cords around my property for small projects. My old corded jigsaw was powerful, but a pain to set up for quick cuts in the field. Upon unboxing, the PORTER Cable 20 Volt Max Lithium Bare Jigsaw feels relatively lightweight and the overmolded handle seemed comfortable enough.
Compared to my corded DEWALT jigsaw or a Milwaukee M18 FUEL jigsaw, the PORTER Cable felt a little less robust, especially without the battery attached. But I was particularly interested in the tool-free blade change and the orbital settings. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; I hoped the performance would match the promised convenience.
Real-World Testing: Putting PORTER Cable 20 Volt Max Lithium Bare Jigsaw to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was building some shelving units for my shed; I needed to cut plywood and some 2x4s. The PORTER Cable 20 Volt Max Lithium Bare Jigsaw handled the plywood with relative ease, the dust blower providing decent visibility. Cutting the 2x4s was a bit slower, and I definitely noticed the motor working harder.
I used the jigsaw to cut some curved pieces for a small woodworking project outdoors in slightly damp conditions. The variable speed trigger gave me enough control to maneuver through the curves, although I wished the base plate felt a bit more solid on the material. After about an hour of intermittent use, the battery (a PORTER Cable 20V MAX battery I already owned) was showing signs of drain.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use on various projects, the PORTER Cable 20 Volt Max Lithium Bare Jigsaw has become a handy tool for quick tasks. It’s not my go-to for heavy-duty projects, but it’s perfect for trimming, shaping, and making smaller cuts where convenience is key. I did notice some minor scratching on the base plate after cutting some rough lumber.
The jigsaw is relatively easy to clean with a brush and a damp cloth. I’ve noticed that the blade release mechanism can sometimes be a little finicky, requiring a few tries to eject the blade. Compared to my more powerful corded jigsaw, the PORTER Cable lacks the raw power and runtime, but it wins hands-down in portability and ease of use for smaller jobs.
Breaking Down the Features of PORTER Cable 20 Volt Max Lithium Bare Jigsaw
Specifications
The PORTER Cable 20 Volt Max Lithium Bare Jigsaw runs on the PORTER Cable 20V Max battery platform. This is essential to know, as it’s a bare tool and requires a compatible battery and charger.
The jigsaw offers a variable speed range of 0-2,500 SPM (strokes per minute). This allows for adjustable cutting speeds for different materials.
It features three orbital settings for adjusting cut aggressiveness. Orbital action moves the blade forward and backward as it cuts, increasing cutting speed in certain materials.
The beveling shoe allows for cuts from 0 to 45 degrees. This feature is useful for creating angled cuts in woodworking and other projects.
The tool features a tool-free blade release. This is a convenient feature that makes blade changes quick and easy.
Performance & Functionality
The PORTER Cable 20 Volt Max Lithium Bare Jigsaw performs adequately for light to medium-duty tasks. It excels at cutting plywood, thin lumber, and other softer materials.
It’s not the most powerful jigsaw on the market, so it struggles with thicker, harder materials like hardwood. The variable speed trigger provides good control, but the motor can bog down if pushed too hard.
Design & Ergonomics
The jigsaw is lightweight and relatively comfortable to hold, thanks to the contoured overmolded handle. The dust blower helps to keep the cut line visible, but it’s not always effective in all situations.
The bevel adjustment is easy to use, but the markings on the base plate could be clearer. There’s a slight learning curve to finding the optimal orbital setting for different materials.
Durability & Maintenance
The PORTER Cable 20 Volt Max Lithium Bare Jigsaw seems reasonably durable for its price point, but it’s not built for heavy abuse. The plastic housing feels somewhat flimsy, and I wouldn’t want to drop it from a significant height.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the blade holder. The tool-free blade change is a plus, making blade replacements quick and easy.
Accessories and Customization Options
The PORTER Cable 20 Volt Max Lithium Bare Jigsaw doesn’t come with any accessories beyond the tool itself. You’ll need to purchase blades separately, and there are a variety of T-shank jigsaw blades available on the market that are compatible.
There are no significant customization options for this jigsaw. It’s a basic tool designed for simple functionality.
Pros and Cons of PORTER Cable 20 Volt Max Lithium Bare Jigsaw
Pros
- Cordless convenience allows for easy portability and use in areas without power outlets.
- Tool-free blade change makes blade replacement quick and easy.
- Variable speed trigger provides good control over cutting speed.
- Lightweight design reduces fatigue during extended use.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible for budget-conscious buyers.
Cons
- Lacks power compared to corded models.
- Plastic housing feels somewhat flimsy.
- Battery and charger not included.
Who Should Buy PORTER Cable 20 Volt Max Lithium Bare Jigsaw?
The PORTER Cable 20 Volt Max Lithium Bare Jigsaw is perfect for homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone who needs a portable jigsaw for light- to medium-duty tasks. It’s an excellent choice for quick cuts, trimming, and shaping materials in workshops, garages, or on job sites.
This is not the tool for professional contractors or those who require heavy-duty cutting power for thick or hard materials. Those users should invest in a more robust corded or higher-voltage cordless jigsaw. A must-have accessory is a selection of quality jigsaw blades to match various materials.
Conclusion on PORTER Cable 20 Volt Max Lithium Bare Jigsaw
The PORTER Cable 20 Volt Max Lithium Bare Jigsaw is a decent, affordable option for those seeking cordless convenience in a jigsaw. Its lack of raw power and somewhat flimsy construction are trade-offs for its portability and ease of use.
The price is justified for the functionality it provides, especially for users already invested in the PORTER Cable 20V Max battery platform. I would recommend this jigsaw to casual users who prioritize portability and ease of use over heavy-duty cutting power.
If you’re looking for a basic, no-frills cordless jigsaw that gets the job done for smaller projects, the PORTER Cable 20 Volt Max Lithium Bare Jigsaw is worth considering. Go ahead and give it a try!