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Rockwell's Jigsaw in a Box

Tom McKenna, senior editor

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Some of you may recall a blog post from last year by associate editor Matt Kenney, where he mounted a jigsaw under a slab of plywood to create a bandsaw of sorts. Well, Rockwell Tools has taken that idea a step further, with the introduction of the BladeRunner.

A few weeks ago, Rockwell’s reps visited the Fine Woodworking office and showed off a few of the company’s new tools, aimed for the woodworking market. Among the group was the BladeRunner. I have to admit that I was skeptical of this tool, but when one of the editors at the presentation said, “Hey, this could be an entry-level bandsaw,” I wondered whether I was being shortsighted and snooty.

I realize it will never replace a serious bandsaw in a woodworker's shop, but could this tool be a gateway for a homeowner or do-it-yourselfer to start getting serious about woodworking and furniture making? Check out the video, and let us know your thoughts.

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Comments (5)

moseibel writes: I just received this tool as a gift.
Unfortunately, its fit and finish are relatively terrible. The table on mine had a crease running about 9 inches - doesn't affect the machine's function, but if that got through their quality control, it doesn't say much for their quality control. If you don't mind a little slop in the angles that are cut, then this may be an acceptable tool. Personally, however, I will never be inclined to spend a penny with this company when there are many more worthy competitors. I also have always gone by the dictum to buy the best that you can afford - quality does frequently equate with price.
Posted: 7:44 pm on January 22nd

epirnik writes: In my humble opinion - it's not a great tool for woodworkers per-se, however, for the ocassional DIYer or craftsy-types - this looks like a potential winner.
Posted: 12:25 pm on August 2nd

audiorecluse writes: If the quality is there this would be a nice addition. The quick blade changes for different materials is the reason it could be a nice addition to my bandsaw. I would use it for metal and jigsaw cuts and leave my resaw blade on my bandsaw.

My question is quality and power? Is it underpowered and under precise? The table seems a bit short on the feed side of the blade.
Posted: 1:21 am on August 2nd

michael2160 writes: I was thinking: Did I make a mistake getting the new Rikon 10" bandsaw instead of this tool? Nope.

While I can see this in a homeowner's garage, I think a small bandsaw in a woodworker's shop is a better investment.
Posted: 9:33 pm on August 1st

mvflaim writes: Looking at this tool as if I were not a woodworker who owns hundreds of tools, I think it would be really handy to have around the house. $160.00 is not a bad price either.

I do question it's scroll capabilities. The scroll blade looked pretty thick.
Posted: 9:23 pm on August 1st

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