Metabo STA 18 LTX 150 BL: low blade guide, metaBOX

Accuracy features

Metabo lists low lying saw blade guidance for precise cuts. Supporting the blade close to the workpiece reduces bending in thicker timber, which keeps edges square. The listing also mentions a chip blowing function to keep the cutting line clear.

The specs list a speed of 3,500 strokes per minute, and the cutting angle reaches 45 degrees.

Blade changes

Metabo Quick allows blade changes without tools and with automatic ejection. You flick the lever and the old blade drops out, so you do not need to touch it while hot. That makes switching between wood, metal and laminate blades quick during a job.

Handling

Metabo describes the ergonomics as the best in all working positions, with a soft grip surface for handling and safe guidance. The listing gives a weight of 1.9 kg, among the lighter saws in our guide. It does not state the handle style or the number of orbital settings.

For anyone cutting worktops or sheet goods, a light saw with a soft grip also makes it easier to follow a line slowly without wandering, which is where most jigsaw cuts go wrong.

A well stocked box

Three jigsaw blades, an extraction nozzle, a plastic guard plate and a chip guard plate, protective glass and a metaBOX 145 L case are included. The guard plates protect delicate surfaces and reduce splintering. The metaBOX stacks with Metabo's other cases. No battery or charger is included.

Against the competition

The Bosch GST 18V-155 BC offers similar blade guidance with a bow handle, but no case. The DeWalt DCS335N has a clearer description of pendulum settings. The Metabo stands out for the amount of kit included with the tool.

For Metabo owners, that bundled kit means the saw is ready for wood, metal and laminate on day one, with only a battery to add.