Professional Guide

Best Jigsaw for Woodworking in York: 2025 Expert Review

DR Joinery

Expert Joiner & Bespoke Specialist

Published 12 December 2025

If you live in one of York's period properties, you already know the truth: nothing is square, nothing is plumb, and straight lines are a myth. Whether we are fitting a bespoke wardrobe or installing skirting boards in a terrace off Bishopthorpe Road, the jigsaw is the primary weapon against awkward gaps.

While a circular saw is for straight cuts, the jigsaw is for 'scribing'—the art of shaping timber to fit perfectly against an uneven wall. In joinery, distinct from rough structural carpentry, the finish left by your jigsaw matters. It's the difference between a seamless built-in look and a messy caulk-filled gap.

In this review, I'm looking at three very different options: a professional cordless unit for site work, an all-in-one kit for beginners, and a specific 'budget' accessory that transforms how a jigsaw behaves for coping joints.

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Specs vs. The Real World

The Spec: "Laser Guides & Straight Lines"

The Theory

"Many jigsaws boast laser guides for perfectly straight cuts."

The Reality

In reality, if you need a perfectly straight long cut, use a circular saw or track saw. A jigsaw blade naturally wanders in the grain. Jigsaws are for curves, notches, and scribing.

The Spec: "Cutting Depth Claims"

The Theory

"Budget saws often claim 55mm+ cutting depth in wood."

The Reality

While the motor might spin, budget blades often deflect (bend) at that depth, resulting in a cut that is square at the top but angled at the bottom.

My Top 3 Recommendations

Three options to cover different needs and budgets

Coping Foot, Professional Plated Steel Coping Foot for Jigsaw

Budget Pick

Pissente

While not a jigsaw itself, this coping foot is a game-changer for anyone doing joinery work. Ideally suited for scribing skirting or cornices, it replaces the standard flat plate of your jigsaw (check compatibility) to allow curved copying.

Price£8.99 (at time of writing)

MaterialPlated Steel

FunctionCurve/Coping Specialist

The Good

Transforms a standard jigsaw into a precise coping tool
Essential for intricate scribing on skirting boards
Solid steel construction resists wear

The Bad

Requires installation (removing existing shoe)
Not a standalone tool—you still need the jigsaw

Installer Tip:

When fitting bespoke wardrobes against complex mouldings, attach this foot and use a fine-tooth coping blade. It allows you to undercut the timber slightly (back-cut), ensuring the front edge makes perfectly tight contact with the wall.

Priced at £8.99 at the time of writing

Check Price on Amazon

DEWALT DCS334N-XJ Cordless Jigsaw - XR 18V Brushless

Quality Pick

DEWALT

This is the tool you'll find in the back of most joiners' vans in York. The brushless motor provides consistent power even through hardwood like Oak, and the cordless freedom is vital when working on fitted wardrobes in finished bedrooms.

Price£144.74 (at time of writing)

Power Source18V Cordless (Battery not included)

MotorBrushless

FeaturesDust Blower, LED Light, 4-Position Pendulum

The Good

Brushless motor ensures longevity and power efficiency
Dust blower keeps your cut line visible (essential for scribing)
Tool-free blade change is excellent

The Bad

Sold as a 'Bare Unit' - requires separate battery and charger
Premium price point

Installer Tip:

Use the 'pendulum action' setting carefully. Turn it to zero for fine finish cuts on melamine or veneer to prevent chipping. Turn it up to max only for ripping through rough softwood studwork where finish doesn't matter.

Priced at £144.74 at the time of writing

Check Price on Amazon

Electric Jigsaw Tool: DEKOPRO 400W Power Jig Saws

Problem-solving Pick

DEKOPRO

If you don't own a saw and have a one-off project, this is the problem-solver. It's a complete kit including the tool and blades for a fraction of the price of a pro unit. It solves the 'entry barrier' problem for DIYers.

Price£21.24 (at time of writing)

Power400W Corded

Speed0-3000 SPM

Kit Includes8 Blades, Allen Wrench

The Good

Incredible value - includes 8 blades
Bevel cutting capability up to 45 degrees
Lock-on switch reduces fatigue

The Bad

Corded design can be restrictive in tight spaces
400W motor will struggle with thick hardwoods compared to pro tools
Vibration levels will be higher than premium brands

Installer Tip:

This saw is 400W, so let the blade do the work. If you force it through thick timber, the blade will deflect, and your cut won't be square. Take it slow, especially on curves.

Priced at £21.24 at the time of writing

Check Price on Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best blade for cutting melamine wardrobes?

For melamine or pre-finished wardrobe panels, you need a 'down-cut' or reverse-tooth blade. This pushes the fibres down on the visible face rather than pulling them up, preventing unsightly chips along your cut line.

Why do my jigsaw cuts always lean to one side?

Blade deflection is common. It happens when you push the saw too hard, forcing the thin blade to bend inside the wood. Use a sharp blade, reduce your forward pressure, and let the motor do the cutting. In thick timber (over 40mm), a jigsaw will almost always wander; use a circular saw if possible.

Can I use a jigsaw to scribe a filler piece?

Absolutely. It is the best tool for the job. Use a compass to trace the wall profile onto your timber filler, mask the cut line with tape to reduce splintering, and cut slightly away from the line (leave 1mm). Then, use a distinct back-cut (angle the saw) to ensure the sharp edge meets the wall perfectly.

Is a cordless jigsaw worth the extra money?

For site work in York, yes. Maneuvering around a fitted wardrobe installation without a trailing lead knocking over your tea or scratching a newly painted wall is worth the investment. However, for a bench joiner, a corded tool offers unlimited runtime.

What is the difference between joinery and carpentry?

Carpentry usually refers to structural work (roofs, stud walls, joists) where strength is priority. Joinery, like the work we do at DR Joinery, focuses on the finish—doors, windows, stairs, and fitted furniture—where precise joints and aesthetics are paramount.

Do I need professional installation for fitted wardrobes?

If your room is perfectly square, a flat-pack might work. But in York's older properties, walls are rarely straight. Our Bespoke Fitted Wardrobes service ensures the units are scribed perfectly to your walls, ceiling, and floor, maximising storage without ugly gaps.

Need Professional Bespoke Fitted Wardrobes?

Our team at DR Joinery specializes in Bespoke Fitted Wardrobes across York.

Get a free quote for professional installation.

View Our Bespoke Fitted Wardrobes Service