How To change a Jigsaw Blade? a Clear 2 Minute Guide

Changing a jigsaw blade may initially seem like a daunting task, but fear not! With the right tools and a little know-how, it is a relatively simple process that anyone can learn.

In this article, I will provide you with a clear and concise guide on how to safely and effectively change a jigsaw blade, allowing you to quickly get back to work on your project.

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional woodworker, mastering the art of jigsaw blade replacement is crucial for keeping your tool in optimal condition. By following the steps outlined here, you’ll ensure that your jigsaw continues to create perfect, sharp cuts while running smoothly.

Throughout this guide, you will find practical tips and easy-to-follow instructions that will demystify the process of jigsaw blade replacement. We’ll cover everything from selecting the right blade for your needs to safely removing the old blade and installing a new one.

By the time you finish reading this article, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to effortlessly change your jigsaw blade whenever necessary. Say goodbye to any concerns or uncertainties you may have had in the past and embrace the convenience and efficiency that comes with this essential skill.

So, let’s dive in and explore the world of jigsaw blade replacement together. By the end, you’ll be well-prepared to handle this task with ease, allowing you to focus on your woodworking projects without interruption. Get ready to unleash the full potential of your jigsaw and achieve professional results every time!

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When Should You Replace a Jigsaw Blade?

You should replace a jigsaw blade when it becomes dull , bended, or damaged. As a general rule, it’s a good idea to replace a jigsaw blade after every few uses, or whenever you notice that it’s not cutting as cleanly or smoothly as it used to. This will help ensure that the jigsaw is working at its best and will prevent any damage to the workpiece or the jigsaw itself.

You can recognize a dull saw blade by 4 symptoms that I describe in my article, How Do I Know If My Jigsaw Blade Is Dull (4 Simple Ways). This is definitely worth reading so that you know perfectly when the limit has been reached to replace a jigsaw blade and to keep the quality of your work high.

Be sure you use the right blades

When replacing a jigsaw blade, it is very important to pick a new blade that is not only suitable for the type of material you want to cut , but also for which type of jigsaw the blades should be used. Also keep in mind you choose the right blade for the jigsaw cutting depth you want to use.

There are different types of jigsaw blades that are suitable for cutting wood, plastic, metal, and even ceramic tiles. Festool has the handy color codes yellow for wood, red for plastic, and blue for metal. Well-thought-out by the people at Festool and that is also the reason I am personally such a big fan of this brand.

In addition , you have to be aware of the different types of blades depending on the jigsaw. Some jigsaws can only handle U-shank blades, while in other jigsaws only T-shank blades can be mounted.

The main difference between U-shank and T-shank jigsaw blades is how they can be attached to your jigsaw.

Remember that U-shank blades have a U-shaped slot at the top. These will fits onto a corresponding pin on the jigsaw, while T-shank blades have a T-shaped slot that fits onto a groove on the jigsaw.

U-shank blades are generally considered to be more secure , and less likely to come loose during use, while T-shank blades are easier to remove and replace. T-shank blades are also more commonly used in newer jigsaw models, while U-shank blades are more commonly used in older jigsaws.

Overall, the choice between U-shank and T-shank blades will depend on the compatibility with your jigsaw, changing from brand to brand. It’s generally a good idea to use the type of blade that is recommended by the manufacturer of your jigsaw.

To help you finding the best jigsaw blade for your jigsaw blade replacement, I recently wrote a handy guide. Go check out my article, Choosing the perfect jigsaw blades in 3 simple steps now

How to change a keyless jigsaw blade

Replacing a jigsaw blade on keyless tools is actually a very simple process which most people can do on their own. To help you with this, I have listed a few simple steps you’ll need to follow (pictures below):

1. First, unplug the jigsaw. if it is cordless, you better remove the battery. This is a precautionary action to prevent the jigsaw from accidentally turning on while you are working on it and hurt yourself.
2. Next, Locate the release lever or button on the side of the jigsaw or just above the jigsaw blade. This is the mechanism that holds the blade in place, and you have to push or flip it to remove the old blade.
3. When the blade release lever is pressed, the blade should come free of the jigsaw. Lift it out carefully, being careful not to touch the blade’s teeth. Please keep in mind that I know from experience that the blade really pops out at Festool, so point it away from you. The benefit is that you don’t have to touch the knife and pull it, potentially injuring yourself.
4. Then, take the new blade and place it in a notch or groove that fits a matching pin on the jigsaw, so make sure you line it up properly.
5. Push the blade into the blade mount until it clicks into place after alignment. You may need to use some force to do this or turn the blade a quarter turn like with the festool jigsaws, but be careful not to overload the blade or jigsaw.
6. Check that the blade is properly seated and that the blade release lever is fully engaged once firmly in place. If everything looks good, you can reconnect the jigsaw or replace the battery and test.

And that’s it! With those six steps , you should be able to easily replace a jigsaw blade on your own. Just remember to always exercise caution when handling the blades and to keep your work area clean and free of clutter.

How to Change a Jigsaw Blade That Is Locked in Place with Screws

Some brands, or older models, still rely on screws to keep the blades in place. There is nothing wrong with this; you just need to spend a little more time replacing a jigsaw blade. You must also ensure that the blades are properly installed. I knew that possibility existed with my old jigsaw , which also had this type of clamp. Incorrectly installed blades can cause breakage or other issues.

Below I show you how you can easily replace a jigsaw blade with this type.

1. First unplug the jigsaw or remove the battery if it is cordless. you don’t want the jigsaw to accidentally turn on while you are working with the saw blade.
2. Usually you will find a screw, or even two screws,on the head where the jigsaw blade meets the jigsaw. These are often Allen bolts. Loosen it with the appropriate Allen key.
3. If the bolts are loose enough , the blade will come off. Be careful when you grab the blade and pull it so as not to injure yourself. Usually the upper teeth are still quite sharp and intact.
4. Then take the new blade and place it in a notch or groove that fits a matching pin on the jigsaw,so make sure you line it up properly.
5. After checking whether the blade is properly in place , you can tighten the screws until the blade is stuck in its place. If everything looks good, you can plug the jigsaw back in or replace the battery and test.

Now you know how to change a jigsaw blade , it is important you can make the cleanest cuts. I’m sure my article, How to Avoid Jigsaw Splintering (5 Powerful Tips) will come in handy for you, and I suggest you visit this article next.