Bosch JS470E Top-Handle Jigsaw Review

The name Bosch stands out as a symbol of quality and durability in the world of power tools. And among their impressive lineup, the Bosch JS470E Top-Handle Jigsaw is a shining star that deserves every bit of its praise. Whether you’re a professional craftsman or a DIY enthusiast, this tool promises to change your perception of what a jigsaw can do. Let’s dive deep into this masterpiece.

Specifications:

• Amperage: 7.0
• Bevel Range: 45 degrees
• No Load SPM: 500-3,100
• Rating: 120V
• Stroke Length: 1″
• Weight (lbs.): 5.90

As soon as I held the Bosch JS470E, it was evident this wasn’t just any power tool. Its sleek, ergonomic design spoke of countless hours spent ensuring every curve and grip felt natural in my hands. The top handle sat comfortably, promising a sense of control and reduced fatigue during those long hours of work.

What’s In The Box

Opening the Bosch JS470E package felt like a festive celebration. Not only did the molded case catch my eye with its sleek design, and promising quality even before I explored its contents, but the thoughtful inclusions inside truly impressed me. The robust carrying case hinted at countless adventures together, ideal for those times I’d need to transport my cherished jigsaw to different locations.

Inside, the ensemble of accessories was both functional and generous. An array of blades was neatly tucked away, ready for different tasks. The anti-splinter insert, plastic overshoe, and bevel wrench stood testament to Bosch’s dedication to a craftsman’s varied needs.

But what set the JS470E apart was its innovative design features. The ambidextrous lock-on button, a rarity in many jigsaw models, showcased the thought given to user comfort. This ingenious button effortlessly switched the handling orientation, catering to both left and right-handed users alike.

Furthermore, the integration of a diecast steel insert and on-board bevel bench was a masterstroke. Gone were the days of bulky jigsaws, burdened with add-on components, trying to balance functionality with usability. Bosch had effortlessly married the two, offering a tool that was both comprehensive in features and elegant in design.

Unleashing the Power Within

The first time I activated the Bosch JS470E, its 7.0-amp motor came alive with vivacious energy, echoing the might of a wild creature. With an adjustable strokes-per-minute range spanning from a meticulous 500 to a robust 3,100, I found myself in command of a versatile tool. It smoothly carved intricate patterns into softwood, and with equal finesse, sliced straight through sturdy metal sheets. The experience evoked a sense of controlling a formidable creature that danced gracefully, like a ballerina, to every twist and turn I dictated.

Diving deeper into its prowess, the JS470E astounded me further. While its motor and SPM range efficiently handled wood sections of up to nearly 6 inches in thickness, the real challenge came with metals. Aluminum, even varying in thickness up to 7-8 inches, proved a manageable adversary. Only when I pushed it beyond did the jigsaw begin to strain.

My curiosity took a step further when I tried the jigsaw on mild steel. Though more resistant than its aluminum counterpart, the jigsaw managed to etch its way through steel sheets, maxing out impressively at about 3 inches. This was an endeavor where many jigsaws faltered, but the Bosch JS470E held its ground, further solidifying its stature in my toolkit as both a beast in power and an artist in precision.

Safety and Simplicity: Changing Blades like a Pro

Remember the days of fumbling with tools and fearing those accidental cuts when swapping jigsaw blades? Well, those days are history with the Bosch JS470E. With a twist of a knob, and voilà! The old blade pops out, and you can slide in a new one with ease. No fuss, no stress – just a simple and safe blade change. It’s an innovation that makes every DIY enthusiast feel like a pro.

Ease of Use

In a market crowded with jigsaws, the Bosch JS470E stands out, distinguishing itself with remarkable user-friendly features. When placed side by side with other notable models like the Porter Cable PCE345 or the SKIL 4495-02, the JS470E’s ergonomic considerations come to the forefront.

Firstly, the design is immediately noticeable for its lightweight build, a boon for those long crafting sessions where a heavier tool might strain the hand. This ease of handling is enhanced by its soft rubber handle. Crafted meticulously, the handle contours comfortably to the user’s grip, reducing the fatigue often experienced with harder, less forgiving grips.

Yet, the crowning feature, and perhaps the most talked-about, is the intuitive blade change system. Gone are the days of fumbling with tools and complicated mechanisms. With the JS470E, Bosch introduces a sheer touch of genius: a front-release button that allows for instant blade changes. With a simple press, the blade drops out, ready to be replaced. This system shines even brighter when compared to models like the Makita 4329K, where changing a blade could become a chore, filled with minor frustrations and time-consuming adjustments.

In designing the JS470E, Bosch hasn’t just made a tool; they’ve crafted an experience, prioritizing the user at every turn and ensuring that even the minutiae of blade swapping become as seamless as the jigsaw’s cuts.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Powerful Motor: With its 7.0-amp motor, the Bosch JS470E is powerful enough to handle a variety of cutting tasks efficiently.
2. User-friendly Blade-Change System: The tool-less blade change system is intuitive, allowing for quick and easy blade swaps.
3. Variable Speed: The jigsaw boasts a variable speed setting, enabling users to adjust the strokes per minute (SPM) according to the material and the desired cut.
4. Ergonomic Design: The soft rubber handle and the top-handle design make it comfortable to use, reducing user fatigue during extended sessions.
5. Constant Response Circuitry: This ensures that the jigsaw maintains consistent speed under load, providing cleaner and more accurate cuts.
6. Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials, the JS470E is designed to last, even with frequent use.
7. Reduced Vibration: The design minimizes vibration, offering more control and reducing the risk of jagged cuts.

Cons:

1. Price: Some users might find the Bosch JS470E a bit pricier than other jigsaws in its category.
2. 45-degree Bevel Limit: The beveling angle maxes out at 45 degrees, which may not be enough for certain specialized tasks.
3. Blade Alignment: There have been occasional reports of blades not being perfectly square to the shoe, requiring adjustments.
4. Dust Collection: While it has a dust blower to keep the cutting line clear, the absence of an integrated dust collection system might be an issue for some.
5. Weight: Although it’s designed ergonomically, some users might find it a tad heavy for overhead or extended use.

The Orbital Speed Change System?

Have you ever dreamt of effortlessly transitioning between power speeds to match the cadence of your woodworking? The Bosch JS470E jigsaw brings that vision to life, taking a leaf out of the playbook of masterpieces like the Dewalt DCS331M1. A sleek dial, intuitively designed, invites you to toggle among four distinct speed modes. Simply choose the pace that sings to your current project, and watch as the blade’s SPM dances in response.

What sets the Bosch JS470E apart is its seamless integration of the conventional orbit with a ‘constant response circuitry’. Picture this: every stroke harnesses the full power of 120V, ensuring that each glide of the blade is consistently smooth. It’s as though Bosch has sculpted a symphony, dedicating every ounce of this tool’s energy to the maestro – the woodworker. No shortcuts, no skimming over complexities.

However, it’s worth noting a minor choreography challenge. The jigsaw offers a generous bevel angle of up to 45 degrees. Any aspirations to tilt the main housing beyond this angle would be a dance move too audacious. So, as you weave through your masterpiece, be mindful of this angular boundary. The Bosch JS470E is a tool that offers power and precision, but it too has its own rhythm to respect.

Conclusion: My Trusty Sidekick in Crafting

All in all, the Bosch JS470E Top-Handle Jigsaw has transformed my woodworking experience. It’s more than just a tool—it’s my partner in every project, ensuring each cut, each curve, and each design comes out just the way I envisioned. If you’re on a quest for perfection, take it from me: this jigsaw is the ally you need by your side.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What kind of blades does the Bosch JS470E use?
   The Bosch JS470E uses T-shank blades, which offer tool-free blade changes and enhanced cutting performance.
2. Is the bevel adjustment tool-free?
   Yes, the Bosch JS470E has a tool-free bevel adjustment, making angle cuts more convenient.
3. How does the “Constant Response Circuitry” feature benefit users?
   The “Constant Response Circuitry” ensures that the jigsaw maintains a consistent speed under varying load conditions, allowing for smoother cuts and minimizing the chances of stalling or burning the material.
4. Does the Bosch JS470E have a dust collection feature?
   While the JS470E has a built-in dust blower to clear the cut line, it doesn’t have an integrated dust collection system. However, it can be attached to a shop vacuum with the appropriate adapter.
5. What’s the maximum cutting capacity of the jigsaw in wood and metal?
   The Bosch JS470E can cut up to 5-7/8 inches in wood and up to 7/8 inch in aluminum. For mild steel, its capacity is up to 3/8 inches.
6. Is there an LED light to illuminate the cutting path?
   The Bosch JS470E does not come with a built-in LED light. Users might need to ensure sufficient lighting in their workspace for clarity.
7. Can the Bosch JS470E handle both straight and curved cuts efficiently?
   Absolutely! With its variable speed settings and robust design, the jigsaw can handle both straight and intricate curved cuts with precision.

We’d love to hear from you! Share your personal experiences and insights about the Bosch JS470E Top-Handle Jigsaw in the comments section below. Your feedback could help fellow craftsmen and DIY enthusiasts make informed choices!