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JIGS &

Accessories

Improve the performance of this jack-of-all-trades tool with these handy accessories

▲ Not Just an Edge Guide. The Milescraft Saw-Guide keeps your jig saw parallel to an edge while cutting straight lines (above) and also holds the line when cutting perfect circles (top).

A jig saw is one of the most versatile tools you can own. It can rip, crosscut, and cut intricate curves — truly an all-around saw.

With all that capability, you might wonder how you can make a jig saw even better. The answer to improving its performance is to add the accessories shown here. And you can find out where to get these add-ons by referring to Sources on page 51.

EDGE GUIDE

One of the drawbacks of any saw is the difficulty in keeping the blade on the layout line while cutting. To help with this, the Milescraft SaiuGuide makes it a snap to make straight cuts (inset photo) or circles, as shown in the main photo.

Universal Fit. The SaiuGuide has two main parts — the guide base and an attachment bar. (The package comes with four bars to fit just about any jig saw.)

The metal end of the bar, which has a scale etched in it for quick setup, attaches to your saw through the slots in its shoe, or base. The other end of the bar has a plastic tab, which is notched at increments. Once you slide the tab into the guide base, you can fine-tune the saw blade's alignment to match your layout lines.

Circle Cutting. But what really sets this guide apart is its ability to cut circles. To provide accuracy and adjustability, it has two rows of pivot holes in the guide base

that are offset from each other. The first step to setting things up is to tap a nail at the center of the circle you want to cut. Then, simply determine which hole gives the desired radius. After slipping the guide over the nail, you're all set to cut a circle to size.

SPLINTER GUARD

Another problem I've experienced when using my jig saw is chipout and splintering, especially in plywood. One way to reduce this is to install a splinter guard (top left photos on opposite page).

Zero-Clearance. A splinter guard works like a zero-clearance insert on a table saw. It fits around the blade, providing pressure against the kerf to prevent the wood fibers from tearing out.

Custom-Fit. But unlike the SawGuide, which will fit any jig saw, splinter guards are custom-fit to each saw. So, if your saw didn't come with one, you'll need to check with your local retailer.

12 ShopNotes No. 95