D Handle vs. Barrel Grip Jigsaws: Which Is Better for Cutting Straight?

I'm totally on Team Barrel Grip! I used a D-handle before, but I won't go back after experiencing the M12 barrel grip—it's like holding a perfectly balanced tool. The M18 barrel grip feels awkward and bulky to me, though. I also prefer the switch over a trigger; it helps me focus better on my cuts.

Cutting straight with jigsaws can be tricky in general. The blades tend to heat up and bend, which doesn't help. One downside to barrel grips is often they lack a trigger, so you need one hand on the grip and the other to turn it on or off. They can also be longer, making them tough to maneuver in tight spots. But on the bright side, D-handle jigsaws let you control the speed with the trigger using one hand, which can make things easier.

I agree, the M12 barrel grip is super comfy to use! My only gripe is the lack of a variable speed trigger, which can make adjusting cutting speeds a bit of a hassle.