Metabo STEB 135 Plus-Top Handle Jigsaw

by Metabo

Product Description

From the Manufacturer

This new heavy-duty jig saw features a new ergonomic body design with top handle and aluminum die cast gear housings for better heat dissipation. Metabo motor technology, electronic speed control and precision construction make this the fastest, smoothest jig saw available. Variable speed and five-stage orbital saw blade movement adds versatility. Quick blade clamping system allows changing blades without tools for maximum productivity. The die cast aluminum shoe may be locked in at 15 degrees, 30 degrees or 45 degrees either direction for bevel cutting. The specially low mounting position of the blade support roller ensures the blade is accurately guided for precise cuts and a longer life. One full year parts and labor warranty and 30 day risk free performance protection. Standard equipment includes allen wrench for shoe adjusent, jig saw blade, plastic case, and anti-splintering insert.

Product Description

Includes STEB135 Plus 1-in 5-Stage Variable Speed Jig Saw - 611000980, Allen Wrench - 344161530, Jig Saw Blade, Anti-Splintering Insert - 623665000, Carrying Case - 625446000

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 10.5 x 2.5 x 8.8 inches ; 6.2 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 10.3 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
• ASIN: B00004YBX8
• California residents: Click here for Proposition 65 warning.
• Item model number: 10600
• Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (13 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #166,004 in Home Improvement (See Top 100 in Home Improvement)
  • #92 in Home Improvement > Power & Hand Tools > Power Tools > Saws > Jig Saws

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

33 of 33 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars HANDS DOWN! The best jig saw on the market., February 14, 2001

By 

Todd Frahm (Carbondale, IL USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Metabo STEB 135 Plus-Top Handle Jigsaw (Tools & Home Improvement)

German engineering proves, time and again, to be the logical choice. I have used Bosch's quick-change jig saw extensively and in every way, the Metabo is it's superior. It's 6 amp motor, overpowers Bosch's 5 and 5.5. The Metabo quick-change is less cumbersome and quicker than that of the Bosch. Metabo's electronic variable speed is much more user-friendly and far more adjustable than the trigger adjustment others use. Though Amazon does not show it, this model does come with a case, an anti-splitering insert, and a blade. It takes a the t-style quick change blades (so you won't have to hunt for special blades). This saw cuts faster and cleaner than anything I've ever used and it's definately worth the extra money.

24 of 24 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars WHAT A SAW, November 15, 2001

By 

ROBERT MARINO (Glen Ridge, New Jersey) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Metabo STEB 135 Plus-Top Handle Jigsaw (Tools & Home Improvement)

Like the previous reviewer, I had also used and liked the Bosch jigsaw. I am not a pro nor do I have access to testing equipment. Still like the Bosch, but IMHO this Metabo saw beats it hands down.
Did do a side by side, and the sound is less high pitched and thus less painfull to the ear. The cuts are smooth and steady, but so are the cuts with the Bosch. The Metabo is a bit bigger and heavier, but I like that just fine. Hooks up perfectly to my Fein shop vac and doesn't leave but a speck or two of dust to pick up. Blade changing is simpler and more secure - I never liked that turn the top of the handle till it clicks and clicks feature on the Bosch.
Sometimes things and opinions become accepted as fact without any further discussion, the Bosch being a perfect example. While it was the first and probably the best for many years, most people it seemed to me, assumed it is the best without seriously checking the entire competition, including the new Metabo, Fein and Festool jigsaws.
While it has become a cliche that German engineering and manufacturing is the best in the world, I believe there is more than a bit of truth here. And I am a USA guy all the way.
Maybe this jigsaw isn't for everyone, but it's worthy of a serious look for anyone in the market for a world class saw.
Bob Marino

18 of 20 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars The barrel grip vesion shines, but see Ridgid for top handle, March 5, 2004

By 

Christopher Kennel "remodel carpenter" (Denver, CO United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Metabo STEB 135 Plus-Top Handle Jigsaw (Tools & Home Improvement)

I own the barrel-grip version of this jigsaw and really like it; although, I had to buy it from Tools Plus since Amazon doesn't carry it. I especially like the 12' long cord.

I use the barrel-grip version of this jigsaw for a variety of remodeling tasks, but it's invaluable as a coping tool, particularly when working with hardwood crown moulding. To use the jigsaw for coping, I highly recommend replacing the factory foot with the Collins Coping Foot (from Collins Tool Company), which allows you to make all sorts of extreme cuts. The saw is held upside down so that it's easy to see the blade and accuratly follow the coping line, and this is where the barrel-grip version of the jigsaw comes in handy because it's so easy to grip upside down. There's no handle to get in the way. I'd give the barrel grip version 5 stars without reservation.

The other day I was dismayed to see the exact same saw as the top handle Metabo jigsaw for sale at Home Depot. The only difference was that it was marketed under the Ridgid brand and cost about $30 less than the Metabo. I looked at the Ridgid very carefully and it was identical to the Metabo in all ways except color. I suspect there must be a shared product licensing deal between Ridgid and Metabo. The good side of Ridgid selling the same saw is that accessories like the anti-splinter insert should be widely available wherever there's a Home Depot. The 4 star rating is because Metabo charges $30 more than Ridgid for the exact same jigsaw.

Update: compared to the newer jigsaws that other companies have put out, this Metabo clatters and vibrates too much. It's good enough for rough work, but I can't recommend it for finer projects. Go with a Bosch.