Bosch recently introduced a jigsaw, model 1590EVSK, that has two features I quickly learned to appreciate: easy blade changing and effective blade support. Adding a blade is simply a matter of inserting it into the chuck until it snaps into place. To remove it, push a button and swing a lever just above the blade. The blade immediately ejects, without any need for pulling or tugging. Indeed, it can be done with only one hand. Anyone who has ever tried to remove a hot or broken jigsaw blade will appreciate this system.

I also liked the unique precision-control blade-guide system, which is designed to prevent the blade from wandering during a cut. The blade sits in a three-point blade holder, similar to earlier Bosch jigsaws, but this one also has two small arms that come down and clamp the blade as close to the cutting surface as possible. This enabled me to turn corners—even in hardwoods—without the blade wandering too much.

The rest of the features are fairly standard. Speeds are adjustable from 500 to 2,800 strokes per minute. The jigsaw has constant-response circuitry, so when you run into knots or dense wood, the 6.4-amp motor maintains the selected speed. I ran this tool through every piece of wood I came across—countless feet of plywood, 2x4s, and 1-in.-thick oak and cherry—and it never bogged down.

To protect worksurfaces, the Bosch saw comes with a nonmarring overshoe for the foot. Also, an antisplintering insert helps prevent tearout. Inserts like these are common on jigsaws nowadays, and they do make a difference. For the cleanest cuts, turn off the orbital action (there are four orbital settings) so the blade cuts straight up and down, and pop the insert in place.

After using this saw, I had two minor complaints. The action of the lever to adjust the foot for bevel cuts was a bit clunky. Second, the lock-on switch, located conveniently above the power switch, often required two or more tries to get it to lock into position.

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