Rotozip vs. Jigsaw for cutting MDF board?

Question

I need to cut a 1ft x 1ft square hole out from a 1/2 inch thick MDF board. I've used a hand held jig saw and it works pretty well but I was wondering if the Rotozip can do it any faster in comparison since it uses a rotating cutting bit instead of a straight blade. Also, which cuts cleaner? The jigsaw always leaves strands. Thanks guys.

Answer 1

No brainer - Dewalt jigsaw for the best results!

Answer 2

As for all the assessments that MDF is ****, just remember that it has its place. It is not here to replace solid wood, but for those jobs that is is good for, it out preforms solid wood.

As far as rotozip vs. jigsaw, no question, jigsaw is the better choice. The rotozip is likely to just break blades, would be way slower and still would not cut straight. If you want the best edge in MDF, use a saw to cut close to the line (jig saw or any other) then clean up the line with a router using a guide. If the router is only cutting a small amount, you won't have nearly as much dust and a standard router can handle the cut. (3hp plunge routers are great, but expensive). You will find that MDF also takes all router edge bits very cleanly leaving smooth paintable edge.

Answer 3

Yes: A router would work well. You may want one heftier than a Roto-Zip for 1/2" MDF. If you use a pattern, you should end up with straight lines, and a clean cut. However: You will not be able to cut square corners, (there will always be a slight radius), and the dust will be enormous. MDF dust always irritates me, it is so fine.
Personally I'd prefer to use the jig saw.

Answer 4

I personally am not a fan of the Roto-zip tools for most applications. I would put a down stroke cutting bit in my jig saw so that the fibers on the visible face are pushed toward the support of the MDF. The motion of the Jigsaw vs. the Roto-zip will allow you to cut a straighter line with the jigsaw without the use of a template. I find the rotozip to bulky for most things that need a small rotating cutter, and too wimpy for things that need a large rotating cutter, I prefer a porter-cable router for big jobs and a dremel tool with flex shaft for small jobs.

Answer 5

How To Cut Mdf

Answer 6

Give it to Steve in NC. I'll agree and tell you why.

First of all the Roto might not run any faster?; and in essense you have to be right in your face to see the line; and to guide the tool is more difficult just in the leverage differences if nothing else.

I own a full gambut of Roto Zip stuff; but use it so specifically it's hardly worth having for any carpentry work.

Without knowing at all your intent; why not just use fine tooth metal cutting blades, pace yourself; and sand a smooth rounded radius edge after the fact?

MDF is essentially what I like to call "GLIT" a combination of glue and SH** (pardon that). It's like floor scrapings that have been recycled and sold to us as WOOD...BIG SIGH. On a personal level I won't go near it. It's very form and substance INVITES flaking and chipping.

Steven Wolf

Answer 7

My best results for 'clean' cuts in MDF are using a straight edge and first scoring the cut line with a sharp utility knife, then either a circular saw using a drop cut, or the jig saw. I do however agree with the other assesment of the product, and really like the new name! 'Glit'

Answer 8

jigsaw
use the proper blade
and you get smooth straight cuts
rotozips are not meant to cut really straight lines and are difficult to keep straight under load

either that or use a 3 1/2 HP plunger router with a 3/4 straight bit
( after you make a pilot hole foe the bit to start )
then the hole will be cut easy and square edged )

Answer 9

Rotozip Blades

Answer 10

1

Answer 11

Roto-Zip or Jigsaw: I would use a jigsaw more power, you could burn up a roto-zip on MDF......