Craftsman R&P Brushless Jigsaw Review: Smooth Power for Everyday Cutting

Introduction

The Craftsman R&P Brushless Jigsaw is a large-format, D-handle style saw rather than a compact barrel grip, and that sizing decision shapes the whole experience. With 3200 SPM, a 1-inch stroke length, an adjustable orbital mode, and a variable speed trigger that has drawn frequent comparison to DeWalt’s well-regarded jigsaws, this model positions itself as a serious full-size option for anyone already invested in the Craftsman line.

After working through dimensional lumber, hardwood, thin pine, plunge cuts, and even sheet metal, the consistent theme is control. This saw feels smooth, predictable, and comfortable in ways that make it easy to recommend.

Who This Product Is For

This jigsaw suits DIYers and woodworkers who want a full-size tool with real power for structural lumber and detailed work alike. If you cut 2x material regularly, need dependable blade control for curves, and value a trigger that lets you dial speed precisely, it fits the bill. It is also a natural pick for Craftsman battery users who want to extend an existing platform.

Power and Cutting Performance

The headline spec is a brushless motor delivering up to 3200 strokes per minute with a 1-inch stroke length. On a test cut through a wide, wet, and sappy piece of dimensional lumber in full orbital mode, the saw powered through with no visible strain, holding a straight line the whole way.

That kind of performance on heavy stock is where this saw separates itself from smaller barrel-grip models. The adjustable orbital setting, controlled by a dial on the side, adds aggressive cutting for straight work while allowing you to back off for finer cuts. Across different blades, the saw exhibited very little blade movement and produced consistently straight cuts.

Comfort and the Variable Speed Trigger

Comfort is where this Craftsman genuinely earns its reputation. The rubber overmold is generous, the grip is easy to hang onto, and vibration transfer is close to nothing. You can cut for long stretches without hand fatigue.

The variable speed trigger is the standout. It ramps smoothly from zero up to the full 3200 SPM, and that level of control makes delicate starts and intricate work far easier. A trigger lockout adds a sensible safety measure for transport and storage. Overall, the feel recalls premium competitors in the best way.

Bevel Adjustments with Positive Detents

The base bevels to 45 degrees in both directions, with positive detents at 0, 22.5, and 45 degrees. You can also lock the shoe at any intermediate angle you like. Audible and tactile clicks at each preset make setup quick, and the mechanism locks down solidly once positioned.

The non-skid plate on the bottom clips on both sides. It takes a bit of effort to remove with one hand, but once installed it stays put extremely well, and removing it entirely for bevel work is straightforward.

Blade Changes and LED Lighting

Blade changes use a simple lever: lift it, pull the blade out, push the new one in. The process is fast, positive, and genuinely pleasant to use, which matters when you swap between rough-cut, clean-cut, and narrow scroll blades frequently.

The built-in LED light is bright enough to clearly illuminate the cut line, which helps with accuracy on intricate work. One omission to note: there is no dust collection port on this model.

Intricate Cuts and Blade Control

With a narrow wood blade installed, the saw tracked curves with excellent blade control. Cut quality on that particular blade showed some tear-out, which is more a function of the blade than the saw. On 3/4-inch pine with a clean-cut blade, the top surface came out very clean with minor tear-out underneath, and the saw held its line beautifully.

Plunge cuts in lighter pine were comfortable and easy to manage, reinforcing how little vibration this tool transmits. A quality clean-cut blade, the saw showed, makes the difference: with a premium blade, it cut through oak with a sharp, clean edge.

Metal Cutting and Everyday Versatility

Metal cutting is not this saw’s primary mission, but it handled a hefty metal blade through sheet stock with no issue, producing a clean, controllable cut. Running the trigger at partial speed is wise here, since pushing speed on metal can generate significant heat.

Things to Consider Before Buying

The single real trade-off is dust collection. This model does not offer it, and for the small group of users who depend on integrated dust management, that is a genuine limitation. Most people can get by with a vacuum running nearby, but it is worth knowing before you buy.

Buying Advice

For the vast majority of buyers, this jigsaw will cover everything they need. The combination of zero perceptible vibration, a buttery variable speed trigger, strong power through 2x lumber, easy blade changes, and well-thought-out bevel detents makes it one of the most complete jigsaws in the Craftsman range and a close match for premium competitors. If dust collection is not a hard requirement for you, this is an easy recommendation.

Conclusion

The Craftsman R&P Brushless Jigsaw delivers the fundamentals superbly: smooth power, excellent control, comfortable ergonomics, and thoughtful details like dual bevel detents and tool-free blade changes. Its only shortcoming, the lack of dust collection, is easy to work around for most users. If you are in the Craftsman ecosystem and want a high-quality full-size jigsaw, this one deserves a close look.