One rite of summer is the portable power tool introduction events at Stanley Black & Decker, Milwaukee Tools and Bosch, some of which will be on view at the 2012 International Woodworking Fair Aug. 22-25 in Atlanta. Bosch will show the JS572 top-handle and barrel-grip jig saws.

A patented control system uses a double-roller blade guidance assembly, more accurate than the previous version, says Bosch product manager Jim Stevens. An additional upper roller minimizes deflection above and below the lower roller; an auto-centering function self-adjusts to help keep the blades firmly within the rollers, even during strenuous cuts.

Switchable LED work lights and a switchable dust blower improve visibility while in action. A tool-less blade change system allows faster insertion of T-shank blades; a blade ejection lever means you avoid touching a hot blade.

Both saws feature a variable-speed dial; the top-handle saw’s accelerator trigger speed adjusts from the saw’s lowest speed to the operating speed as set on that dial. A counterbalancing mechanism reduces tool vibration. A tool-less die-cast magnesium footplate facilitates bevel cutting. 

The barrel-grip saw includes an upfront softgrip area, which Bosch says is the smallest on the market. Both saw kits retail for around $299, including transport box, dust collection kits and steel footplate overshoes. (Just the saw with simpler list of add-ons is available and retails for about $249.) They are at Home Depot Bosch for Pros; find other dealers at boschtools.com.