Jig Saws: Cheap B&D vs. Makita 4340 FCT

I recently replaced a cheap “homeowner’ grade Black & Decker jig saw with the Makita 4340 FCT. Quite a change!
The B&D, which almost certainly cost less then $40 new, served me reasonably well for many years. Yet, there were a few issues that needed to be addressed.
First of all, the advent of tooless blade change is a real step forward. One gets quickly weary of fussing over little screws …
Even when new, an even a moderately curved cut was cut at a bevel … the blade deflected very easily.
Finally, the base, over time, began to resemble a contour map of Montana, making it harder to control your cuts, and making it so much easier to mar the surface.
At an ‘open house’ at a local tool store last March, I had the chance to look at many quality tools. Some makers seemed to try to make their tools as big as possible – not a plus in my book. The Makita felt better in my hand than the Bosch, and the built in LED light was a plus. (OK, I really like the lasers some cheap jig saws have, but I’ll settle for the light!) The blade change resembles the device on my Reciprocating saw, so I was comfortable with that.
In use, the Makita was exceptionally smooth, and vibration free. This, in turn, led to impressive control over the cut. I was cutting sheet metal on the “not at all orbital’ setting, and it was the best ‘feel’ at that task as I’ve ever felt … bringing back memories of a “pro grade” B&D I used at a steel door shop, back in the 70’s. (THAT long-lost saw sold for $250, even back then!)
The Makita really threw the chips; this is the first such tool that has caused me to reach for the safety glasses. (OK, so I’m a bit lax in that area ….) I suppose that my cuts were overhead didn’t help matters ….
Price was $170, before tax. A check of the web showed very little variation from this price. The saw has a blow-molded case reminiscent of a cordless tool, and came with an assortment of 6 blades.
The cheap saw has been inadequate for some time; only the fact that I very rarely use a jig saw delayed my buying a replacement. Still, I chickened out a few times, because of the price. The new saw made for a better job, performed much more quickly …. and the work was a pleasure to perform.
Value? Had the price been $30 less, I would have had far fewer reservations about buying it. Still, I have no regrets, and recommend it even for the occasional user.
I have a very early cordless Makita jig saw, one that needed Makita blades to work right. Suffice it to say that cordless tools have come a very long way since then! This new Makita saw uses the same common blades as Bosch uses.
With this tool, Makita has hit a home run.
Replies
I too have a cheapie B&D as well as a Makita(4304, barrel grip) and like you, I was amazed at the difference between these 2 tools. The B&D is great for #### jobs like cutting outlet box openings in lath and plaster walls!