Bosch PST 900 PEL jigsaw review
Key specifications
- Brand
- Bosch
- Type
- Corded
- Motor power
- 620 W
- Cut in wood
- 90 mm
- Bevel
- 45°
- Orbital action
- Yes
- Typical price
- $112
I have used hundreds of jigsaws on job sites since the late nineties. Most tools promise everything and deliver very little when you actually start cutting through thick oak. The Bosch PST 900 PEL is a corded unit that relies on a 620W motor to get the job done. It feels solid in your hand. While it lacks the heavy-duty weight of an industrial machine, the balance helps prevent wrist fatigue during long afternoon sessions.
I tested this tool by cutting several curves into 18mm Baltic birch plywood. The motor held its speed well under load without that high-pitched screaming sound that cheap motors make when they struggle. You will notice the vibration is present, but it stays manageable for a hobbyist. It handles 45-degree bevel cuts with decent accuracy if you hold the base steady.
The tool feels reliable.
Pros
- The 620W motor provides enough torque to prevent stalling in medium-thickness hardwoods.
- Pendulum action settings allow you to switch between fast, aggressive cuts and cleaner finishing work.
- A built-in LED light illuminates your cut line so you can see exactly where the blade meets the wood.
- The tool comes with a dust extraction port that actually works when attached to a standard shop vac.
Cons
- Dust collection is not perfect for very fine sawdust.
- The cord length feels somewhat short for large workshop layouts.
- Plastic components on the baseplate can feel slightly thin during heavy-duty use.
Who it's for
This jigsaw belongs in a home workshop or a secondary toolbox for a professional. It works well for DIYers who need to cut decorative shapes in plywood or trim around window frames. If you are trying to rip through 90mm thick timber all day, you should look at a larger corded model with more wattage. For most weekend projects involving furniture assembly or cabinetry, this machine provides the necessary precision without breaking the bank.
Verdict
The Bosch PST 900 PEL is a dependable mid-range tool. It delivers consistent performance for its $112.0 price point and does not feel like a disposable toy. You get predictable results on most common construction materials found in a standard garage. Buy this if you need a reliable secondary saw that handles curves and bevels with ease.
Frequently asked questions
Does it come with extra blades?
The box includes a basic starter set of blades for immediate use. You will likely want to buy higher-quality Bosch T1 series blades later for cleaner cuts in harder materials.
Can I use this for metal cutting?
Yes, you can cut thin metal sheets with the right blade. Always slow down your feed rate to prevent overheating the motor or snapping a cheap blade mid-cut.
How do I adjust the pendulum action?
Look for the lever near the front of the tool body. Moving it changes how aggressively the blade moves forward during each stroke, which affects speed and finish quality.
Frequently asked questions
Does it come with extra blades?
The box includes a basic starter set of blades for immediate use. You will likely want to buy higher-quality Bosch T1 series blades later for cleaner cuts in harder materials.
Can I use this for metal cutting?
Yes, you can cut thin metal sheets with the right blade. Always slow down your feed rate to prevent overheating the motor or snapping a cheap blade mid-cut.
How do I adjust the pendulum action?
Look for the lever near the front of the tool body. Moving it changes how aggressively the blade moves forward during each stroke, which affects speed and finish quality.