Many woodworkers among us would want a top of the line and consequently expensive saws in our collection if we all could. But if we are quite strapped for cash, then that does not necessarily mean that we are deprived of getting the most value out of our money.
Take the SKIL 4495-02 6.0, for instance. It’s budget-friendly, but I’ve found it to be a trusty sidekick in the workshop. Granted, to hit that price point, there are some trade-offs, but it’s proven its worth in helping me execute meticulous cuts. Plus, it comes with a few intriguing bells and whistles – like a laser feature – something I’d usually expect on pricier models.
Interested? I have detailed a few more things to know about this SKIL product before you decide to buy it online. It was also featured in our top jigsaws comparison.
PRO TIP:
SKIL 4495-02 6.0 can be tough to find in the market these days.
For the same value for money, you might like our #1 choice for a budget jigsaw, the Black+Decker BDEJS300C. Check our review below!
What I Like
- The 6-amp motor on this thing is robust, reaching up to 3,200 SPM.
- The speed adjustment controls are easy to use.
- Using this jigsaw feels intuitive and smooth.
- SKIL did a commendable job focusing on comfort and precision, reducing noise and vibration.
- The asking price for the jigsaw is very reasonable and without compromising the quality of its blades.
- It comes with a laser guide not common in its price range that helps improve accuracy.
What I Don't Like
- SKIL's warranty isn't as generous as some other brands out there.
- I noticed there's no dust blower, which can be handy.
- It offers no protection against overheating.
- It's great for personal and home projects, but not beyond that.
- Durability-wise, it doesn’t quite measure up to some other jigsaws I've used.
Skil 4495-02 Jigsaw Features
Comfortable round design
Among the first things one would notice about the SKIL 4495-02 is its unusual design; not many jigsaws in the market come with a round shape just like what you would see here.
Taking this form has its advantages of course, such as easier transport, and having too big or too tiny hands is a non-issue for this SKIL jigsaw. The handle that makes a firmer grip possible would work well regardless of the size of your hand. That extra grip will also be able to guarantee safer use of the jigsaw.
Power
Despite its affordable price point, this jigsaw model offers impressive power. With a 6-amp motor capable of reaching up to 3,200 strokes per minute (SPM), it provides ample cutting capability. What’s particularly commendable about SKIL here is how they’ve managed to balance power with precision. Even when I ramp up the speed, I feel confidently in control of every cut.
The jigsaw comes with a variable speed trigger and then a 4-position orbital cut control to aid in creating the work you have in mind. There is also a speed trigger lock system designed to keep the velocity of the blade within the desired limits.
Stable and precise cutting
Speed is in the SKIL 4495-02’s side, but so are stability and precision. One of the features that make this possible is the jigsaw’s foot design. With it, the user is given more control of the machine and in the process keeps jagged cuts from happening. There is also a molded rest feature that prevents any unintentional cuts on your work.
Another thing that helps in precision is the laser. Granted, this is not considered a necessary feature and many still rely on the old pencil or pen trick. But for what SKIL is asking for the jigsaw, we would assume that there would be very few who would not be curious over how it works. The laser guide supposedly helps achieve straighter cuts.
Bevel Cuts
And then there is the adjustment system that requires no tools. With it, you can set the jigsaw as desired to achieve your envisioned bevel cuts. Doing so is easy for the SKIL 4495-02 because of the achievable angles of the machine, the 45 and 22.5 degrees. The cuts on wood, for instance, are surprisingly precise for its price range. The jigsaw can also do this in opposing directions, which is even more impressive. Making accurate and precise cuts is the advantage of jigsaws over saber saws.
Vibration and noise-free operation
One thing I’ve come to appreciate about the SKIL 4495-02 is its quiet operation; it’s gentle on the ears. The minimized vibrations don’t just make for a comfortable experience; they’ve often led to more precise cuts and a consistent performance throughout my projects.
Quality blades
Not all manufacturers include blades in their packages, and even if they did, one would not be assured of its quality. That is not the case for SKIL, or at least with its 4495-02 model, and these are of two different sizes. The blades provided by the brand feel like they are especially designed for the jigsaw as they are intact when installed and would not destroy your product, especially with a custom molded area in place.
In my experience with the jigsaw, you have some flexibility with blade compatibility: both U-shank and T-shank blades fit, depending on what suits your project best. I’ve also put the machine through its paces, cutting through various materials like wood, plastic, and metal with ease.
Easy installation and storage of blades
You may have already observed that efficiency is a priority in this model. The good news is that that extends to the existing blade change system in the jigsaw. It is a key-less process that lessens the time required to shift from one blade to another, although we have a minor complaint that the system is not as easy when the blades turn out to be very hot for touch after use.
There is also a handy storage feature so that the blades you need for the machine can be secured without the need for another tool belt or box.
Accessories included in the package
Your order will come with blades and an instruction manual.
Warranty
SKIL offers a limited 1 year warranty for the SKIL 4495-02.
SKIL 4495-02 6.0 Review Conclusion
This jigsaw has a powerful 6-amp motor that can go up to 3,200 SPM. It is also versatile and can cut through wood, metal and plastic with either T-shank or U-shank blades. It boasts of precise and smooth cuts even with fewer vibrations and noise without breaking the bank.
The SKIL 4495-02 may not be designed for longtime, extensive use, but it can do the job and even impress with its straight cuts. It is an affordable jigsaw which is also better suited for personal use rather than on constructions, and the warranty would not cover damages from the latter.
For large and heavy cutting, you can consider the best woodworking vise listed here. Read next!
Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
