One of the staples for your toolbench is going to be a jigsaw. But of the jigsaws on the market – which is the best jigsaw for gourds? Let us see if we can’t help narrow it down.
When we were evaluating the jigsaws we looked at these criteria:
Clean Cuts – Perhaps more of a function of the blades that you are using, as opposed to the saw itself – it is important to have a saw that will provide nice clean even cuts. You’ll likely be sanding down later, but you don’t want to have cuts that will splinter the gourd that you are working with.
Variable Control – When working with detail cuts, the ability to vary the speed can be important. We want to have a saw that can maintain a good cutting speed with enough power to make clean cuts, but also allows you to “slow your roll” and make precision cuts when the time is right.
Versatility – Are gourds not the only craft item that you are working with? We looked at saws that offered multiple uses to provide the most bang for your buck.
Durability – We reviewed both blades and the saw itself. With proper use, you should get plenty of usage out of both the saw and the blades it uses.
Ease of use – Lastly, we considered how easy is the tool to use – This could come down to personal preference, but factors such as weight, the base plate, and vibration are factors that play into that.
Jigsaw Comparisons
Clean Cuts – Of the the three we felt like the Micro Lux provided the cleanest cuts. The blades are slightly smaller, which provides higher detail and less jagged edges on detail cuts. The trade off, is that the Micro Lux isn’t well suited for thicker gourds.
Variable Control – All of the saws require a secondary transformer for variable control – We did like that the Proxxon has an optional foot pedal you can purchase.
Versatility – The Proxxon is definitely the most versatile. The Gourd Saw and Micro Lux are a bit smaller and aren’t generally suited for larger cuts (though the Gourd Saw gets an edge of the Microlux). The Proxon is the larger of the three saws and does just a bit more. Said one Amazon user:
There are many methods for cutting gourds with precision. I have tried many of them, and just discovered the definitions of ease and control. The Proxxon Jig Saw is perfect for gourd artists! From detailed patterns for lids and other openings to simply cutting the gourd open for cleaning, this a tool worth trying.
I bought mine together with a Heavy Duty Transformer and Foot Switch, and couldn’t be happier. This tool opens the door to new levels creativity!
The Micro Lux blades won’t work with the Gourd Saw or Proxxon and vise versa – Both the Proxxon and Gourd Saw can use the same style of blades.
Durability – All seemed to equally handle the normal wear and tear you’d expect on a gourd jigsaw.
Ease of use – The fact that they all require an additional transformer means that there is another set of cords you have to navigate. The Proxxon is the largest, and you may tire from it easier because of the weight. The Gourd Saw doesn’t use a guard. That is a bit of a mixed bag – on one hand, it makes it easier to see what you are directly cutting on, – on the other hand you loose some stability when making cuts -and there is a bit of a safety factor as well.
Name | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
 Microlux Jig Saw | Light Duty, not recommended for thicker cuts. |  |
|
 Proxon 28534 | Best all around saw on the market. | |
|
 Gourd Saw | Will handle both thicker and smaller cuts. Lacks guard. | 69.95 | |
Best Jigsaw for Gourds – Video Demostrations
Here are some additional thoughts and video demonstrations on the saws we talked about.
The Gourd Saw
MicroLux Jig Saw
Proxxon
Best Jigsaw for Gourds Summary
- Size Matters – Both the size of the jigsaw and the size are the blade are going to impact you cutting. Larger saws will make your arm tire quicker than you may first realize. Larger blades will work through thicker materials – but you sacrifice on detail.
- There are other model out there. We’ve only picked three to look at – but there are countless jigsaws on the market. These jigsaws are smaller in nature well suited for working on gourds. If you are looking for jigsaws for other small crafts here are a few:
- Make sure you size and purchase proper blades properly. MicroLux won’t use the same blades as The Gourd Saw and Proxxon
- Safety First – Dust and possible gourd fragments will be produced while using the saws. Make sure you are taking necessary precautions.
What jigsaw do you use – what do you like about it – leave us a comment or Contact Us directly. Also checkout our Gourd Woodburner Review as well.
Best Gourd Woodburner
Best Gourd Woodburner Review