TOOLS
Kreg 20V Ionic Drive Barrel Grip Jigsaw
Carl Duguay
For hobbyists and DIYers who already rely on Kreg’s cordless platform, this jigsaw is a logical and capable addition — for anyone else it's a well-thought-out cordless jigsaw that’s worth a closer look.
A good jigsaw is one of those tools that earns its place in any workshop or home toolbox. Whether you’re cutting curves in plywood for a furniture project, trimming countertops for a sink installation, or notching flooring around a corner, a jigsaw offers the kind of precision and versatility that few other saws can match.
Around the home, a cordless jigsaw is ideal for jobs that require detailed or awkward cuts where a circular saw would be overkill. You can use it to cut openings in drywall, trim shelving to size, or make quick adjustments to door jambs or baseboards. In the workshop, it’s perfect for shaping parts, cutting templates, or following curves drawn on a workpiece. Because a jigsaw uses a narrow, reciprocating blade, it can easily make inside cuts — something you can’t do with most other saws. Just drill a starter hole, insert the blade, and you’re good to go.
Manufacturer: Kreg Tool
Model: KPTJS100A
Price: $149.99 US (tool only)
Warranty: 3 year limited
Source: Where to buy
Key Features:
- 3,800 strokes per minute
- 6 speed settings (6,000 to 10,000 RPM)+ auto mode
- 0º – 45º degree bevel
- 4 orbital positions
- Tool-free blade change and bevel adjustment
- Vacuum port and dust blower
- Dual LED lights
- 3-year limited warranty
The new Kreg 20V Ionic Drive Barrel Grip Jigsaw brings many of the features you need in a top-performing tool together in a well-balanced, cordless design built around Kreg’s 20V Ionic Drive system. It’s powered by the same 20-volt “Blue Ion” lithium battery that runs the rest of Kreg’s growing tool lineup, paired with a high-efficiency brushless motor for consistent power and longer runtime.
Many woodworkers prefer the barrel grip because it gives better control when following a line, especially on curved cuts. I found that the barrel grip is comfortable and feels natural in hand, with an ergonomic rubber overmold that offers secure control when following tight curves.
In use, the jigsaw maintains steady speed even under load — something I noticed right away when cutting through 3/4″ ash. The variable speed dial, which has 6 settings from 6,000 to 10,000 RPM, lets you fine-tune the rate for different materials — slower for metal or plastics, faster for wood. There is also an auto (A) setting — where I usually keep the speed setting dial parked. In auto mode the jigsaw starts slowly at the beginning of a cut, then accelerates through the rest of the cut. I think it helps to deliver a cleaner cut line (assuming you’re using a good quality blade).
The four-position orbital control — when the blade also moves slightly forward on the upstroke and back on the downstroke — gives flexibility between clean and aggressive cuts. The higher the orbital setting, the more aggressive this motion becomes. I use the orbital control turned off (set to 0) when cutting hardwood. It gives me the smoothest and most precise cuts and helps minimize tear-out. When cutting MDF or plywood I move up to the 1 setting as I get a good balance between cutting speed and control. I only use the higher settings for making quick, rough cuts that I’ll later fair with a hand plane, spokeshave or sander.
Both the LED work light and the integrated dust blower help keep the line of sight clear. In fact I find the blower so useful that I keep it on all the time. The saw comes with a dust extractor accessory that enables you to hook up to your dust extractor or shop vac. The extractor has a 1-1/4″ diameter port, which means it won’t connect directly to a number of popular brands of dust extractor hoses – you’ll likley need to purchase an adapter (which Kreg currently doesn’t sell).
Blade changes are super quick and tool-free, and the adjustable base makes bevel cuts up to 45° straightforward. There are visible detents at 0°, 22.5°, and 45°. At 0° the base is perfectly square to the blade.
What stands out most about Kreg’s new jigsaw for me is how refined it feels in use. The motor runs smoothly with minimal vibration and the trigger response is excellent. For hobbyists and DIYers who already rely on Kreg’s cordless platform, this jigsaw is a logical and capable addition — and even if you’re just looking for a reliable, well-thought-out cordless jigsaw, it’s one that’s worth a closer look.
