Best Jigsaws for Curves (2026): Barrel-Grip and Cordless Picks

The Bosch JS572EBK barrel-grip jigsaw redefines cut-line visibility with its grip positioned directly in line with the blade, allowing the user to sight down the cut path the way a pencil aligns with handwriting. This geometry eliminates the offset angle inherent in top-handle jigsaws, making freehand curves, tight radius cuts, and intricate patterns significantly more accurate. The 7.2-amp corded motor delivers consistent power through hardwoods, stacked materials, and long cuts without the torque variation that accompanies battery depletion. At $308.30 with a carrying kit, this targets professional woodworkers, pattern makers, and finish carpenters where cut accuracy justifies the investment. The stroke control system provides variable speed with a constant-speed dial, orbital action in four positions, and a soft-start trigger for controlled entry cuts. Blade changes use a tool-free system compatible with all T-shank blades. At 6.2 pounds, the barrel-grip is noticeably heavier than the DeWalt DCS334B listed here ($135, lighter), but the additional weight contributes to reduced vibration during extended cutting sessions. The corded format eliminates runtime concerns that affect battery jigsaws during long sessions but limits mobility compared to the cordless Milwaukee 2737-20 ($169) or DeWalt alternatives. The Milwaukee 2737-20 and both DeWalt models on this page are cordless top-handle designs suited for general-purpose cutting and job site mobility. The JS572EBK is a different tool class: workshop-bound, high-precision, and optimized for users who prioritize cut accuracy over portability. For luthiers, furniture makers, sign cutters, and craftspeople who make dozens of intricate cuts per session, the barrel-grip geometry justifies both the corded format and the $308 price. For contractors who move between job sites or need the jigsaw for occasional rough cuts, the cordless top-handle alternatives offer better practical value.

The Milwaukee 2737-20 earns the Best Cordless badge on this page with a PowerState brushless motor that reaches 2,600 strokes per minute -- the fastest cutting speed in the cordless jigsaw category. For curved cuts, speed translates to cleaner entry into the material and smoother arc completion without the blade binding that occurs at lower SPM when the cut resistance increases mid-curve. The anti-vibration system reduces transmitted vibration to the handle, which matters most on extended intricate work: a scroll pattern or compound curve requires consistent hand position for minutes at a time, and fatigue from vibration is what causes drift. At $169 without battery, this is the premium cordless option on this page. The all-metal keyless blade clamp holds T-shank blades securely at high stroke rates without the wobble that plastic clamps exhibit when changing cut direction. For curves, this matters -- blade wobble during a direction change produces a ragged edge that requires additional sanding. The D-handle design provides a natural grip angle for steering the saw through arcs, and the RedLink overload protection adjusts power delivery when denser grain or knots increase resistance mid-curve. Compared to the Bosch JS572EBK barrel-grip ($308.30, corded), the Milwaukee trades barrel-grip sight-line precision for cordless mobility. The barrel-grip is the better choice for bench-bound scroll work where visibility is paramount; the Milwaukee wins for job site curved cuts where a power cord is a liability. Versus the DeWalt DCS334B ($129, rank 4), the Milwaukee costs $40 more but delivers better vibration damping and heavier build quality that justifies the premium for anyone doing extended curve work. For M18 battery owners, this is the natural choice.

Barrel-grip provides maximum control for freehand curves Corded — limited by cord length on job sites Keep in mind: no led work light. Compared to the Milwaukee 2737-20 M18 FUEL D-Handle Jig Saw at $169 on this page, the Bosch Bosch JS470EB Corded Barrel-Grip Variable Speed Jigsaw costs $20 more but may offer additional features or brand support worth considering for serious users.

The DeWalt DCS334B surprises on a curves page: its brushless XR motor reaches 3,000 strokes per minute, higher than the Milwaukee 2737-20 ($169) at 2,600 SPM, at $40 less. For curved cutting, high SPM means cleaner arc entry and smoother direction transitions. The four orbital settings give fine control over aggressiveness -- orbital setting 0 or 1 is optimal for tight-radius curves where blade deflection would cause inaccuracy, while higher settings handle sweeping arcs in softwood faster. At $129 without battery, this is the value cordless pick on this page. The keyless T-shank blade change supports quick swaps between fine-tooth blades (10+ TPI for finished curves in hardwood) and coarser blades (6-8 TPI for rough-cut sweeping arcs). The 20V MAX battery platform covers over 100 DeWalt tools, making this a natural addition for existing DeWalt users. Brushless XR efficiency extends runtime per charge compared to brushed alternatives. Where the DCS334B falls short of the Milwaukee: vibration management. The Milwaukee anti-vibration system is noticeably more effective during extended intricate work, and hand fatigue accumulates faster with the DeWalt on sessions exceeding 20 minutes. For occasional curved cutting -- a project here and there -- the $40 savings are real and the DCS334B is fully capable. For production furniture or cabinetwork involving sustained curve cutting, the Milwaukee earns its premium. Note that the DCS331B (rank 5, $135) is a brushed predecessor to this tool at a worse value; new buyers should choose this DCS334B over the DCS331B at any equivalent price.

The DeWalt DCS331B is a proven brushed-motor jigsaw with 7,926 Amazon reviews backing its reliability record. At $135, it sits $6 above the brushless DCS334B (rank 4, $129) -- an awkward pricing position that makes the DCS331B the harder recommendation for new buyers. Where the DCS331B earns its place: existing owners of older 20V MAX batteries who find this tool discounted, or buyers who specifically want the older, battle-tested design over a newer model. The 2,500 SPM variable speed handles curved cuts in plywood, hardwood, and softwood without issue. For curves, the orbital action settings function the same as any modern jigsaw: orbital 0 for tight-radius detail work, orbital 1-2 for sweeping cuts in softwood. Keyless T-shank blade change is standard. The brushed motor is the primary limitation -- it draws more power per cut than brushless, meaning shorter runtime per charge and a motor that will wear sooner under sustained use. For occasional curved cutting on a weekend project, this difference is academic. For production furniture work, it accumulates. The honest recommendation: if prices are equal, choose the DCS334B (rank 4) for brushless efficiency and higher SPM. If the DCS331B is $20 or more cheaper at purchase, the gap narrows enough to justify it. Either DeWalt is a competent cordless jigsaw for curved cuts in wood; neither matches the Milwaukee 2737-20 for sustained precision work or the Bosch JS572EBK for sight-line accuracy. The DCS331B finishes at rank 5 on this page because the hardware is sound but the value proposition requires a price advantage to win.