The Festool PS 300 EQ is one of the most professional advanced jigsaws available today. Festool, a German power tool manufacturer, is widely known for high-end power tools. Festool tools are used mainly by professional woodworkers. The PS 300 EQ jigsaw is designed in both top handle and barrel grip models. In our jigsaw reviews series we tested the barrel grip version.
The PS 300 EQ was manufactured with a 6 amps (120v) powerful motor. There will be little difficulty cutting into 4-3/4″ wood (according to Festool). In our tests we ran it using Festool’s own jigsaw blades, S105/4 FSG, cutting through 3-1/2″ of softwood (pine).
Powerful and Very Precise Deep Cuts
The jigsaw blade on this model remains perfectly straight because the carbide blade guide system acts like a “hook” from behind . This guide system prevents blade wander, which is usually a big problem when cutting very deep. This jigsaw blade guide, together with an electronic control that maintains a constant speed enables the Festool trion to cope with even the steepest cuts into hardwood.
The variable speed adjustment maintains the stroke rate between 1000 and 2900 strokes per minute. This allows great precision and efficient cutting of plastics, steel and other metals easily. The 4-step orbital setting guarantees fast cuts if needed.
Fast Blade Change
The trion jigsaw comes with a quick blade change mechanism, called Fastfix. Your jigsaw blade is quickly changed with the flip of lever, allowing you to insert and fix a new blade without the need of any other tool.
Handling of the Festool PS 300 EQ Trion jigsaw
We reviewed the barrel grip version. I personally favor barrel grip jigsaws over top handle saws since they give me greater maneuverability and control. This may be because the palm of your hand is located closer to the workpiece. The Festool ps300 with its very slim-line motor body is exceptionally easy to guide. Besides all that I appreciate the sliding protective insert for the cast foot, which makes the saw responsive and precise to handle.
The foot of the PS 300 EQ is by itself a real masterpiece. It combines the protective plastic subbase, with the addition of air-flow channels leading to the built in dust extraction hose connector. Additionally, it allows for an anti-splinter insert to be snitched near the blade that prevents ‘tear out’ when cutting. Very clever and solid design all around the base.
Festool PS 300 EQ Trion Jigsaw Review Barrel Grip Version | |||
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Motor Power | 6 Amp – 120 V | ||
Depth of Cut (in Wood) | up to 4-3/4″ , (we tested up to 3-1/2″” ) |
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Blade Guide | Rear U-Shape Carbide Jigsaw Blade Guide | ||
Jigsaw Blade Change | Quick Blade Change – Keyless | ||
Orbital Action | 4 – Step Setting | ||
Jigsaw Foot | Cast foot with plastic surface protection | ||
Bevel Adjustment | Keyed – Allen Key | ||
Anti Splintering | Plastic Insert | ||
Dust Extraction Hose Integrated | Fully Integrated | ||
Variable Speed Electronics | 1000 – 2900 Strokes Per Minute | ||
Constant Speed Electronics | Yes | ||
Softgrip Handle |
No | ||
Extra Light on Cutting Line | No | ||
Laser Line on Cutting Line | No | ||
Metal Gear Case | Yes – Covered by plastic for heat protection | ||
Motor Housing | Single Part Housing | ||
Accepts T-Shank Jigsaw Blades | Yes | ||
Circular Cutting Guide Accessory | Available as accessory | ||
Parallel Cutting Guide (Rip Fence) | Available as accessory | ||
Carrying Case | Yes – Festool Systainer System | ||
Review Rating for Festool PS300 EQ Trion Jigsaw: |
My rating for the Festool PS 300 EQ Trion Jigsaw: 5 of 5
This is a powerful jigsaw with an excellent blade guide system that guarantees precise straight cuts and no blade wander. It’s integrated dust extraction hose makes this Festool trion ps300eq jigsaw extremely easy to connect with any vacuum. This a real advantage when cutting on a cabinet installation work-site for example. If there is anything at all that could prevent the Festool ps300eq jigsaw attaining a true market leader position within the jigsaw segment, is its very hefty street price of around $310 !