Has anyone been using the Trion PS 300 jigsaw for metal?

[Greg in Memphis]

I had a chance to use the PS 300 at an open house event at Colco's here in Memphis. These saws will turn on a dime.
At work I use a DeWalt to cut through raised flooring panel (2' x 2' linoleum top + 1/2" MDF + 1/8" metal plate + 18 ga convoluted metal bottom) in computer rooms. The DeWalt has worked fine, but it's getting old and needs a replacement.
Ordinarily, I would use a porta-band for most metal, but I have to make square holes in the middle of plate metal and those floor panels at times, which a bandsaw will not do.
I know most of you out there use the 300s for wood, but I'd like to hear from you folks that have been cutting some metal.
Also, I've been using a D-handle on the DeWalt. I really like the feel of the PS 300 (straight handle) on wood cuts, but I don't know how well it might work out on metal compared to a D-handle.
 
Thanks in advance for any help in these areas

Greg

 

[Programmergeek]

I have used it on alumin and it has worked fine.  The thing I like over my bosh is it tends ot hold the blade better during turns so I don't bend as many blades.  I don't hink it will beat a bad saw but if you need a jig saw I think it is the best you are going to do.

 

[semenza]

Hi,

    I have used the Trion for cutting sheet metal roofing, and a little bit of 1/8" steel bar stock, a few bolts , etc.  Worked fine for all of that but that is not really what you are wanting it for. I am pretty sure that Festool offers a blade type to cut the type of multi material panels that you need it for. Check the blade guide in the catalog or on the internet.
    Also when I cut metal I found that coatings, rust etc would rub off onto the plastic base. So I bought a second base. One for metal and rough stuff, and one for wood. That way I don't have to worry about transferring bits of metal and what not onto some good wood.

Seth

 

[brandon.nickel]

I used mine for cutting steel sire shelving and round curtain rods.  Worked just fine using Bosch 32 tpi blades.  I didn't have the best setup and discovered that if the blade binds it will cause the saw to jump up and give you a nasty whack in the chin.  I would recommend caution in leaning over the saw while cutting.  I can't speak to cutting thick (>0.125") stock.  I imagine it would work the same way.