Thread: HELP!! Jigsaw blades keep bending...

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I'm trying to cut shapes out of 3/4" plywood and my jigsaw blade keeps bending as I cut, so instead of getting a perpendicular angle to the plain, I'm getting a skewed angle (see pic).



This is really frustrating and I've tried to compensate by going slower, or using a finer-toothed blade, but I still get "the bends". I can't use a skill saw because the designs are just a bit too detailed for such a large blade.

Do I need to go purchase thicker blades?

Thoughts? Suggestions? Recommendations?

looks like you're pushing your tool foward to hard,, let the saw do the work, not your arm. Also, be sure that the blades you are using are sharp,,, 3/4 ply is tough as you are also cutting through alot of pressed glue. Depending on what type of blade you are using,, a thicker blade may need to be called upon. GL with your project!!!! you only have 222 dayz left!!!! (in my world,, i'll be strectching it to get things done this year,, ive got a hefty list thanx to this forum)

I've cut an awful lot of plywood with the same results and agree with everything the Reaper says. Take it from someone how knows, the best thing you can do is buy good quality blades and replace them often. It'll cost a little more but save time and money spent on new plywood later. You may also need to overcut in short tangents and smooth with a file if the suggestions don't work.

Those are great suggestions. Now let me go back to the garage and give it a try!

If you are having this problem going around corners then you may also have better luck by going to a smaller blade - this will allow you to turn tighter corners.

I've seen that alot as the blade gets warmer from cutting and also not as sharp it tends to bend while turning. Try pushing slower like Reaper says. I've found slower cuts always seem to come out cleaner and straighter.

Slow and steady seemed to do pretty good. What wasn't "perfect" sanded out real nice.

Happens to my band saw all the time.

Oh geez yes! do NOT force the blade ever, let the tool do the work OR buy blades with more aggressive teeth for "ripping". There are blades for just about every cutting need, ripping, cross-cutting, metal, tile and the list goes on. Make sure you have the correct blade in your Jig saw and if you can, keep either air or suction on the work area to clear the chips and dust to keep from binding in the gap. Also don't forget the eyewear.....SAFETY FIRST!!!!

With 3/4" plywood you might also want to try making a template out of masonite or luan and us a router with a beaded straight flute. The bead or bearing will be on the upper end of the bit and will ride against the template. You will get a much straighter, cleaner edge than a jigsaw is capable of, just a thought. Keith