Symptoms
- Cut curves away from the marked line, especially in thicker material
- Blade appears to lean or angle during the cut
- Straight cuts come out slightly wavy
- Problem worse near the end of long cuts
Likely causes
- CommonFeeding too fast for the material thicknessPushing hard makes the thin blade deflect sideways.
- CommonDull blade requiring more forceA dull blade needs to be pushed harder, increasing wander.
- CommonBlade too thin or flexible for thick materialThicker stock needs a wider, stiffer blade to track straight.
- PossibleOrbital action set too aggressive for the cutHigh orbital settings can pull the blade off a tight line.
- PossibleNo guide for long straight cutsFreehand jigsaw cuts drift more easily over distance.
What to do
- Slow your feed rate, especially in thicker material, and let the blade cut at its own pace.
- Switch to a sharp, wider blade rated for the material and thickness being cut.
- Reduce or turn off the orbital action setting for tighter or more precise cuts.
- Use a clamped straightedge guide for long straight cuts instead of cutting entirely freehand.
- Check that the blade is installed straight and fully seated in the clamp.
- Make practice cuts on scrap to dial in feed speed before cutting the final piece.
Tools and parts
- Jigsaw
- Sharp blade for material
- Straightedge guide
Wide jigsaw blade for straight cutsSearch: “jigsaw blade wide for straight cuts”
When to call a pro
If a sharp blade and slower feed rate don't fix drifting, a repair shop can check the blade guide rollers for wear.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.