Written by Jeff
I've had my fair share of jig saws over the years, but the Woodstarter 18V Brushless Cordless Jig Saw truly takes craftsmanship to the next level. From the moment I unpacked it, I could tell this tool was built with pros in mind. This expanded review will cover all the details of my experience.
Unboxing and Ergonomics: Built for Comfort and Control
Right out of the box, the tool feels substantial and well-balanced. The rubberized grip is comfortable and provides excellent control, which significantly reduces fatigue during longer projects. The weight is distributed perfectly, so the jig saw doesn't feel front-heavy, allowing for stable and precise guidance along the cut line. Vibration is surprisingly low for a tool with this much power, another testament to the quality of the brushless motor and internal mechanics.
In-Depth Features: Power and Versatility
This is where the cordless jig saw truly shines. Woodstarter packed it with features that deliver professional-grade results.
- Powerful Brushless Motor & Variable Speed Trigger: The brushless motor is a game changer. It delivers consistent, lag-free power up to 2900 strokes per minute (SPM). The variable speed trigger is incredibly responsive, allowing you to gently start a cut with precision and then ramp up the speed smoothly.
- 4-Orbital Settings Explained: This feature makes the tool incredibly versatile. I used Setting 0 (straight action) for cutting laminate countertop, which resulted in a perfectly clean edge with zero chipping. For aggressively cutting through a 2x4, I switched to Setting 3, which powered through the wood with incredible speed.
- Tool-less Blade Change & Bevel Adjustments: The quick-release, tool-less blade clamp is a massive time-saver. It holds the T-shank blades securely with no wobble. Additionally, the base plate bevels up to 45 degrees in both directions for angled cuts, with a clear gauge and solid positive stops at common angles like 0, 15, 30, and 45 degrees, ensuring accuracy.
Designed for a Clean and Efficient Workflow
Woodstarter clearly considered the user experience. The integrated dust blower is fantastic, keeping the cut line constantly clear of debris. For indoor work, I attached my shop vac to the vacuum port, which captured nearly all the sawdust, making cleanup minimal. These features aren't just gimmicks; they genuinely improve accuracy and efficiency.
Battery Life and Real-World Performance
The included 18V 2000mAh battery offers impressive runtime. I made a series of complex curved cuts in a ¾-inch sheet of plywood and numerous straight cuts before noticing any power drop. The battery features a helpful charge indicator, and the fast charger brought it from empty to full in just under an hour.
For my tests, I pushed the tool further than just the initial fence slat. It executed flawless, tight curves in plywood, resawed oak with minimal blade deflection, and even cut cleanly through PVC pipe. In every application, this jig saw performed like a premium corded model, but with total freedom of movement.
Final Verdict: A Must-Have Jig Saw
The Woodstarter 18V Brushless Cordless Jig Saw perfectly balances raw power, ergonomic design, and intelligent features. It eliminates any performance anxiety you might have about cutting the cord. Whether you're a weekend warrior building furniture or a seasoned professional on a job site, this tool is a no-brainer investment that delivers exceptional value.
I’ve already recommended it to a few buddies, and I’ll keep doing so. It's a top-tier performer that won't disappoint.
