Those of you who own a Bosch jig saw already (as I do) know that any new product stepping into that family has a big reputation to fill. The 1590EVK fulfills its family pedigree with grace. I recently got my hands on one just in advance of the International Builder’s Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, and was positively impressed. When I walked through the Bosch booth at the show, this new tool was a big hit with a very discerning contractor crowd.
Bosch’s Jim Stevens told me that this saw has been several years in development. The upshot is that the 1590EVSK has several slick new features. The big three are: 1. A one-touch blade changing system (first seen on their cordless jigsaws last year). 2. A tool-less foot bevel system that lets you change the angle of the cut without a wrench screwdriver. And the biggest of the big three: 3. The Precision Control Blade Guide System. It is basically a blade guide that clamps together, very much like the guide blocks on a band saw, which helps control the saw blade much closer to the work surface. You can disengage it for coarse cutting, but it is recommended for about 90% of the work that a jigsaw is asked to do. Currently available in a top handle model, Jim told me that a barrel handle version will be coming out later this year.
The 1590EVSK also enters the market with the biggest motor (6.4 Amps) available in a handheld jig saw. That motor also features constant response circuitry, for added control and cutting accuracy.
I found the tool for sale on the Net for around $170.00 with a carrying case, no-mar shoe, anti-splitter insert and three saw blades. A good price for a great pedigree!
