Shop Garden Tools & Accessories >

FREE Delivery Over £99

Next Day Delivery

Finance Available

FREE Delivery Over £49

Next Day Delivery

Finance From £150

What is Pendulum Action on a Jigsaw?

Posted by Katy | Toolstop on 1st Jan 2021

This Toolstop guide has been created to show you the importance of pendulum action as well as what exactly a pendulum jigsaw does. Sometimes confused with orbital action, we will explain the differences between the two and how a pendulum works.

This Toolstop guide has been created to show you the importance of pendulum action as well as what exactly a pendulum jigsaw does. Sometimes confused with orbital action, we will explain the differences between the two and how a pendulum works.

what is pendulum action on a jigsaw

What is a Pendulum Jigsaw?

This Toolstop Guide explains The Importance of Pendulum Action on a Jigsaw and how it different from orbital action. Pendulum action is often confused with orbital action, and it’s an easy confusion to fall into as both terms essentially refer to the same thing. Essentially it’s a technology built into modern jigsaws that give you the ability to move the blade in a circular motion. Because simply put, the blade moves up and down (of course), but with pendulum action, it also moves backward and forwards.

As explained in our Cordless Jigsaw Buying Guide, this means you can cut into thicker, harder materials quicker. That equates to longer motor life, longer blade life, and less work time - Bonuses all round!

Bosch have kindly explained and shown in more depth how a pendulum works on this GST140 BCE Jigsaw:


To learn which cordless jigsaws have pendulum action, take a few moments to browse our cordless jigsaw buying guide. So, what do you typically use your jigsaw for? And how has pendulum – or orbital – action helped you? We'd love to know!


Cordless Jigsaws at Toolstop:

Bosch 2608596132 CYL-1 Drill Bit For Masonry
Bosch 2608596132 CYL-1 Drill Bit For Masonry
Bosch 2608596132 CYL-1 Drill Bit For Masonry
Bosch 2608596132 CYL-1 Drill Bit For Masonry

Explore the Toolstop Blog...