Last Updated on 2022-02-10 by Harry Masterton
Tool designs are constantly updating, showcasing the latest in improved performance and ease of operation. Control and ergonomics are at the heart of a well-designed power tool handle. Highlighting differences between a barrel grip jigsaw vs top handle product allows you to determine which will fit your needs.
In A Hurry? Go Straight To The Barrel Grip Jigsaw Reviews You're Looking For
DEWALT DCS335B 20V MAX Cordless Barrel Grip Jig Saw
Makita 4351FCT Barrel Grip Jigsaw
Makita XVJ01Z 18V LXT Cordless Barrel Grip Jig Saw
Bosch JS470EB 7.0 Amp Barrel Grip Jig Saw
Bosch GST 18 V-Li S Professional Cordless Barrel Grip Jigsaw
Milwaukee 2737B-20 M18 Fuel Cordless Barrel Grip Jigsaw
DIYers, amateur woodworkers, and those looking for comfort will find top handle designs more comfortable than a cordless barrel grip jigsaw. Emphasizing comfort should not be an issue for you if you fall into those user categories, and you can use the jigsaw for rough-cutting your projects. Serious crafters and manufacturers may still find the top handle products a better match for cutting thick materials since cordless barrel grip jigsaw designs will be more problematic.
Barrel Grip Jigsaw vs Top Handle
Construction work, cabinetry, and high-end manufacturing that require more precision will prefer a cordless barrel grip jigsaw over other handle designs. A cleaner cut means little to no cleanup, and you can hold the jigsaw in any position while you work, including upside down. The cordless barrel grip jigsaw has a larger diameter, making it less comfortable to hold for many, and the proximity near the motor means that heat will transfer into the handle as you work.
If you are trying to decide between a barrel grip jigsaw vs top handle model, the differences come down to control and comfort. Top handles offer better ergonomics compared to that found on cordless barrel grip jigsaws. The handle on a cordless barrel grip jigsaw provides more user control than a top handle does, though.
We need to stress that either will be fine for cutting or trim work. It is just that you will likely select between barrel grip jigsaw vs top handle designs based on what is more important to you and your work.
What is a barrel grip jigsaw?
Those new to power tools are not the only ones who may not know what a barrel grip is. The design is comparatively new to the older top handle designs. Understanding what it is will allow you to compare barrel grip jigsaw vs top handle models to determine which is right for you.
The barrel grip design does not have a handle that extends above the tool's housing. Instead, you grip the jigsaw around the motor housing. That places your hand closer to the workpiece and allows you to exert more control.
A lower profile can fit into tighter spaces to work on pieces that are already in place. You will find that cordless models have the battery pack located at the back of the motor housing, opposite the reciprocating blade.
Both corded jigsaw and cordless barrel grip jigsaws will be longer than most top handle products.
Is barrel grip jigsaw better?
It will depend upon the work you are doing. While both are adequate for any job, there are areas where the barrel grip is better as well as lacking:
The pros of a barrel grip jigsaw vs top handle
- Better control during cut
- Better view of cut line and jigsaw blade with a straight cut
- Lower profile allows cuts in tighter spaces
- Can be used in almost any position, including upside down
The cons of a barrel grip jigsaw vs top handle
- Less ergonomic for longer sessions
- Heat transfers from the electric motor
- Wider diameter grip compared to a top handle
Barrel Grip vs D-Handle Jigsaw
Should you buy a barrel grip or d handle jigsaw? It is a decision based on more than appearance. We believe that a selection between barrel grip vs d handle jigsaw products should consider:
- Ergonomics;
- Control.
D handle vs barrel grip jigsaw: Ergonomics
The traditional d-handle has a smaller diameter, making it a favorite for those with small hands. That is the only advantage of a d-handle vs barrel grip jigsaw design. As a woodworker, your fingers will become more fatigued the longer you work.
For most applications (and users), handle diameter is not a factor when deciding on a barrel grip or d handle jigsaw. Most cuts take less than a minute, and the advantages a barrel grip offers with control outweigh potential finger fatigue.
Barrel grip vs d handle jigsaw: Control
Control favors the barrel grip vs d-handle jigsaw. Its lower profile can reach into places a d handle can not. You can also see your cutline easily, allowing you to make more precise cuts.
The control you can get makes us rank the barrel grip as the best option. A d-handle comes in second (except for fabrication settings where you might use the jigsaw all day long, in which case ergonomics favors a d handle vs barrel grip jigsaw).
DeWalt Barrel Grip Jigsaw vs Top Handle
DeWalt has built a reputation for durable power tools, and the DeWalt Jigsaw range is no exception. When looking to compare body grip or the dewalt barrel grip jigsaw vs top handle products from DeWalt, you will note the company offers only one electric jigsaw corded model (the top handled DW317K). DeWalt does offer several different cordless “tool only” or kits that include top handle designs as well as a single barrel grip jigsaw the DCS335B.
DeWalt understands that DIYers and hobbyists are the target audience of this type of power tool. Therefore, DeWalt jigsaws provide users with:
- Adjustable motor speeds with variable speed trigger mechanisms
- A T Shank blade configuration
- High cutting capacity with option bevel cuts
- Outstanding battery platforms
Jigsaws are not bulky tools, and the materials used provide durability without adding too much weight.
- Most designs offer adjustable speeds ranging from 0 to 3,200 Strokes Per Minute (SPM).
- T-shanks are the most recent reciprocating saw blade design and are easy to use.
- The cordless models use DeWalt's 18V and 20V MAX battery platforms.
DEWALT DCS335B 20V MAX Cordless Barrel Grip Jig Saw – Tool Only
DeWalt's DCS335B has a tool weight of 4.5 pounds, which is impressive considering its durable construction. A tool height of 7.2-inches allows you to work between housing studs, and the 10.4-inch length will not prevent you from working in most spaces.
4.7 out of 5.0 starsDEWALT DCS335B – features
The first thing worth noting about this product is that it represents the only barrel grip jigsaw that DeWalt offers (corded or cordless). It runs off of the 20V MAX battery platform, allowing you to match up with a wide range of DeWalt cordless power tools.
DeWalt uses a brushless electric motor on this jigsaw. It will run more efficiently and last longer than motors that use brushes. The variable-speed electric motor can adjust from 0 to 3,200 Strokes Per Minute (SPM).
It has bevel angle detents at 0, 15, 30, and 45-degrees for quick adjustments. You can change out T-shanks quickly with the keyless blade camp as well.
DEWALT DCS335B – Things We Like
- The XR on this product indicates that DeWalt uses a brushless motor for this jigsaw. A brushless electric motor is more durable as it has fewer parts that will wear out over time.
- It has a four-position orbital action adjustment. You can adjust the blade from straight up and down motions to adding various degrees of orbital movement for faster cutting through wood.
- A no-mar shoe cover is added to the base of the jigsaw. The cover helps to prevent nicks and scratches on the workpiece from the jigsaw.
DEWALT DCS335B – Not So Good
- The price point on this product is higher than DeWalt's cordless top handle products using the same battery platform. That means you are paying more just for a handle design.
- A taper added to the handle portion of the jigsaw will tend to push your hand down the barrel. Users with smaller hands may find themselves needing to readjust hand positions during long cuts.
Install A Coping Foot On A Dewalt Barrel
The jigsaw base provides support through surface contact. It eliminates movement as you cut, which is ideal for most situations. There are times when altering angles during a cut is desired, and the DeWalt barrel grip jigsaw coping foot can help.
As this video demonstrates, installing a DeWalt barrel grip jigsaw coping foot is not difficult. Replacing your standard base with a DeWalt barrel grip jigsaw coping foot will allow your jigsaw to remain in contact with the workpiece for support while making angle adjustments in the middle of a cut. That can be valuable for spiraling cuts on the job or in the shop.
Collins Tool Company Jigsaw Coping Foot
4.7 out of 5.0 stars
The Collins coping foot is an accessory that you can use in place of the standard foot or base plate on your jigsaw. It is a jigsaw coping foot that works with a variety of jigsaws, including most:
Collins Coping Foot – compatible brands (with notable exceptions)
- AEG
- Bosch – Except 1590 and 1591
- DeWalt
- Festool Jig Saw – Festool Jigsaw 300 model and earlier
- Milwaukee
- Makita
- Metabo
- Rigid
- Hilti
- Hitachi
Why is a coping foot worth considering? Professional tradespeople and manufacturers can freehand cuts. That allows them to cut without adjusting where they cut from or the bevel position on the shoe. It will save you lots of time.
The Collins coping foot turns your current jigsaw into a coping saw. It could be more difficult to lock on a coping foot to cordless jigsaws. That includes the wire finger guard that you may have to remove to use this product.
Dewalt vs Makita Barrel Grip Jigsaw
One thing that you will notice when researching barrel grip jigsaw vs top handle jigsaw designs is availability. Most manufacturers offer more top handle designs than barrel grip products. Makita does have more selections than DeWalt does, however.
Makita is a pioneer in cordless power tools, releasing the first rechargeable power tool (a drill) in 1969. The company continues to improve designs, including lighter and less-bulky battery packs. They tend to focus on ergonomics and ease of use over durability.
Makita products provide plenty of durability for DIYers and hobbyists and offer the latest in design technology.
Makita 4351FCT Barrel Grip Jigsaw
The product in this Makita 4351FCT review weighs 5.5 pounds, which is heavier than the DeWalt cordless reviewed previously. It is still light when you consider the electric motor size. The tool length is 10.75-inches, and the height is approximately 14-inches.
4.7 out of 5.0 starsMakita 4351FCT – features
One thing that this corded model does offer is power. It uses a 6.3 amp electric motor that provides a variable speed range between 800 and 2,800 Strokes Per Minute (SPM). The top SPM range is lower than that of other models in this class, but the only noticeable effect will be that it takes longer to cut through softwoods than a motor with a higher SPM range.
Most Makita 4351FCT review articles fail to stress is control circuitry. The jigsaw includes soft start as well as electronic speed control.
One accessory worth mentioning in this Makita 4351FCT review is the anti-splintering device, which novice woodworkers and DIYers will appreciate.
Makita 4351FCT – Things We Like
- The jigsaw is equipped with a 6.3 amp electric motor. It should maintain a consistent stroke speed through most materials, with metals and thick lumber only slowing it down a little.
- Makita has attempted to reduce tool vibration with this design. It generates approximately 40-percent less vibration than other models in the same class.
- Electronic speed control circuitry helps to maintain a consistent cutting speed. You can use the same feed rate through the cut, preventing burns and reducing splintering.
Makita 4351FCT – Not So Good
- The Strokes Per Minute maximum range is lower than other models. That will make cutting through softwoods take longer but is fine for denser woods.
- Makita is known for its adaptability, so a jigsaw that only uses T-shanks is surprising. New power tool users will not mind, but anyone with older jigsaw blades might have to start their collection over.
Makita XVJ01Z 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Barrel Grip Jig Saw
Those familiar with the overseas market will have read about the similar Makita DJV181Z 18V brushless jigsaw. The Makita cordless barrel grip jigsaw reviewed here weighs 5.5 pounds with the battery. It has an overall length of 11.75-inches, which is slightly longer than the DeWalt product.
4.8 out of 5.0 stars
Makita XVJ01Z – features
The electronic motor and battery pack are similar to those on the Makita DJV181Z 18V brushless jigsaw. It has a six-speed control dial that ranges between 800 and 3,500 Strokes Per Minute (SPM). The top end of that range compares favorably to similar designs from other manufacturers.
The Makita cordless barrel grip jigsaw has a heavy-gauge aluminum base that sits flat on your workpiece. Like the Makita DJV181Z 18v brushless jigsaw, the XVJ01Z has three orbital settings to provide extra cutting speed when applied.
You are provided with plenty of bevel options with this product, as it adjusts to the left or the right. Angles range up to 45-degrees on either side.
It accepts T-shank saw blades, and you will not need tools to swap them out. Makita includes a dual-LED light system that provides visibility in low-light conditions.
Makita XVJ01Z – Things We Like
- A six-speed adjustment control provides quick settings. That is more preset positions than found on similar models from other manufacturers.
- Button controls are sealed. That helps to prevent dust from entering the buttons and interfering with debris build-up.
- Its aluminum base can adjust in both directions. You can create bevels to the left or right up to 45-degrees.
Makita XVJ01Z – Not So Good
- You do not get a hard case to store your jigsaw. One might expect one at this price, but it will only matter to those traveling with their power tools.
- A prominent seam runs down the middle of the entire jigsaw housing. It can collect dust and, in some cases, will create a ridge where your hand sits.
Bosch vs Makita Barrel Grip Jigsaw
Of the “big name” brands in power tools, Bosch likely has one of the largest selections of jigsaw designs on the market. The company offers corded and cordless models in both top handle and Bosch barrel grip configurations. That is beneficial to you when researching barrel grip jigsaw vs top handle jigsaws side-by-side.
Bosch jigsaws use a unique clamp system that is multi-directional. It offers a stronger hold on the saw blade as it moves up and down. That prevents saw blades from coming loose, which can happen on cheaper designs in budget-friendly categories.
Bosch cordless designs are shorter than some of the Makita models but tend to have a taller profile. Makita barrel grip designs are ideal for smaller hands that may find the thicker barrel on a Bosch uncomfortable in comparison. Bosch also offers smaller battery platforms for their barrel grip Bosch jigsaw line, which may entice DIYers and casual woodworkers.
Bosch JS470EB 7.0 Amp Corded Variable Speed Barrel Grip Jig Saw
The Bosch jigsaw JS470EB is a corded product that weighs 5.9 pounds. Its slight increase in weight compared to others is due to the motor size. The cord connection point makes it effectively 15-inches in length, and it stands just under 14-inches.
4.8 out of 5.0 starsBosch JS470EB – Features
The stand-out feature in most Bosch JS470EB review articles is the power offered. It uses a 7.0 amp electric motor that will power through hardwoods and metal without bogging down. The additional speed control circuitry maintains a constant stroke speed, even when cutting thick stock or dense materials.
You will get 3,100 Strokes Per Minute (SPM) from the electric motor. It does not have variable speed controls, but the set speed should be fine for most projects. The addition of the anti-splinter accessory prevents hardwoods from chipping at the cut line.
Many Bosch JS470EB review write-ups fail to mention the thicker handle. It is an important consideration, especially if you have small hands. It does not taper like Makita's barrel grip jigsaws.
The ergonomic coating is comfortable, though. It absorbs much of the vibrations generated during a cut and prevents your grip from slipping.
Bosch JS470EB – Things We Like
- The material used for the rubberized grip is comfortable. It also provides a non-slip surface that keeps the jigsaw in your hand while you work.
- Design elements keep the electric motor cool. Large vent openings on the jigsaw and aluminum help to dissipate heat faster.
- Controls and grip are ideal for using upside down. You can hold the jigsaw with greater pressure due to the barrel size.
Bosch JS470EB – Not So Good
- Plastic levers are used for some adjustments. These are located on the side of the barrel and are prone to damage during use.
- A bulky barrel handle is more difficult to grip comfortably. That can be an issue for users with smaller hands especially.
Bosch GST 18 V-Li S Professional Cordless Barrel Grip Jigsaw
The Bosch cordless barrel grip jigsaw is lightweight, at only 4.4 pounds. You can use this to make cuts all day long without getting worn out. The Bosch GST 18 V LI professional is longer than other cordless designs, measuring over 17-inches.
4.8 out of 5.0 stars
Bosch GST 18 V-Li S – Features
The Bosch 18v barrel grip jigsaw uses the manufacturer's Professional 18V battery platform. It is the go-to for most Bosch products, allowing you to swap batteries with multiple Bosch cordless power tools within the product line.
The Bosch cordless barrel grip jigsaw generates speeds between 550 and 2,700 Strokes Per Minute (SPM). You might not cut through softwoods as quickly as with other models, but it has a decent operating speed for most materials.
You can perform blade changes on the Bosch GST 18 v LI professional with one hand. It comes with an anti-splinter guard to offset the slower top-end speeds, as well as two saw blades.
Bosch GST 18 V-Li S – Things We Like
- The stand-out feature of this product is the ability to make blade changes with one hand. That is convenient when you are working in tight spaces or off of the ground.
- It is a lightweight design. At 4.4 pounds, you will not be fatigued using it throughout the workday.
- The 18V battery pack is remarkably thin. It has a smaller footprint at the end of the jigsaw when compared to standard pack thickness.
Bosch GST 18 V-Li S – Not So Good
- The design is over 17-inches in length. That can limit its use in tight spaces compared to shorter jigsaws.
- A bit of heat will transfer from the motor as you work. It should not be an issue unless you are continuously cutting.
Milwaukee Tool Barrel Grip Jigsaw
One thing you will notice if you read any Milwaukee barrel grip jigsaw review is the variety of power options. You will find corded and cordless tool products in both handle configurations, and the cordless products operate on either 12 or 18V battery packs.
Milwaukee D Handle vs Barrel Grip Jigsaw
The barrel grips on these jigsaws are thinner than those found on Bosch products. Material construction is a highlight in any Milwaukee barrel grip jigsaw review, as these tools will withstand the harsh conditions of a construction site. Cordless products use one of the “M” series battery platforms, which charge quickly and provide consistent output.
Milwaukee 2737B-20 M18 Fuel Cordless Barrel Grip Jigsaw
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel barrel grip jigsaw weighs only 4.59 pounds. It measures only 11.7-inches in length. A profile of 7.3-inches means that you can fit into tighter spaces, allowing you to cut materials in place inside of walls and shelving.
Milwaukee 2737B-20 – features
Most of the Milwaukee M18 Fuel barrel grip jigsaw review posts highlight the electric motor, which is brushless. It uses the M18 Fuel battery platform, which is the standard for Milwaukee's top cordless power tools. That battery can charge fast, preventing lots of downtimes, even if you forget to charge before work.
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel barrel grip jigsaw inserts the battery from a bottom position. That lessens the torque on the back of the handle and allows the pack to hang. It does stick out at the back, but there is plenty of hand room along the barrel.
Something worth mentioning in this Milwaukee M18 Fuel barrel grip jigsaw review is the cutline blower. It is on/off controlled, meaning it is on when the jigsaw is, and it provides adequate air power for moving dust and small debris.
Milwaukee 2737B-20 – Things We Like
- Made from impact-resistant plastics. These materials will handle fall from short distances and absorb everyday wear without breaking or cracking.
- Uses a brushless electric motor. The design runs cooler and more efficiently, extending the life of the jigsaw.
- Controls located to the left of the barrel. That is an ideal location for right-handed use.
Milwaukee 2737B-20 – Not So Good
- Milwaukee does not offer a 20V Max for this jigsaw. The voltage will be the same, but a 20V MAX platform has more potential storage for longer run times.
- A higher price point than other products in this size category. That is something to consider for a tool-only purchase if you are on a budget.
Milwaukee 2445-20 M12 Jig Saw
The jigsaw is one of the lightest around, coming in at just 4.1 pounds. It is just over 7.25-inches in length, which means you can get into tight spaces to cut materials inside of walls. The Milwaukee M12 jigsaw is designed for light workloads and is easy to store, features that homeowners seek from their power tools.
4.7 out of 5.0 stars
Milwaukee 2445-20 – Features
The Milwaukee 2445-20 uses the M12 Fuel battery packs, providing enough power for cutting through sheet goods, 2 x framing lumber, and lighter metals.
It is a variable speed design that produces between 0 and 2,800 Strokes Per Minute (SPM). That might seem like a lower top speed, but it is adequate for a 12-volt system.
A feature that stands out on this Milwaukee M12 jigsaw is the fuel gauge. You can keep an eye on battery power levels and not be caught by surprise when your battery runs low.
Milwaukee 2445 20 – Things We Like
- It is very lightweight, at 4.1 pounds. That makes it easy to use for almost anyone, big or small.
- A compact body allows it to fit into places that other jigsaws can not. That can be handy, especially if you are cutting inside of shelves and similar spaces.
- It is designed for the DIY market. The product caters to casual users who need something cut quickly without adjustments and accessories.
Milwaukee 2445 20 – Not So Good
- Power output on this product is low compared to other jigsaws. It uses only 12V battery packs, so it operates best in light-duty applications.
- The compact design will build up heat quickly. That means you will feel the heat at the barrel, where you hold it.
Barrel Grip Jigsaw vs Top Handle – The Final Piece Of The Puzzle
When selecting a jigsaw, deciding between barrel grip jigsaw vs top handle model is not just about looks. As our research has shown you, the handle placement affects the level of operating comfort and cutting blade control.
Top handle jigsaws provide a natural hand position and are considered more comfortable to use. Barrel grip products offer more control during the cut, which becomes more critical the tighter the curve is. Barrel grips also allow you to see the cutting line more clearly, which can be a hassle for beginners using a top handle design.
Look for features like a variable speed dial, and a simple blade ejection lever for fast blade change.
When selecting between a barrel grip jigsaw vs top handle, you will not have to sacrifice power sources, as both handle designs come on corded or battery-powered jigsaws.
Compact bodies, advanced control circuitry, and ease of use make battery-powered models user-friendly between barrel grip jigsaw vs top handle. That makes them an option for DIYers, hobbyists, as well as craftspeople, and the trades.
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