Playing With the New AXIS 1–2 Saw from WORX Tools
A couple of weeks ago, WORX TOOLS emailed me and asked if I would be interested in partnering up to feature their new AXIS 2–1 [jig-reciprocating] saw throughout my social media platforms.
“So, now you’ve come here to brag. Is that it?”
No, not at all… it just says in my contract that I have to disclose this as a sponsored post 🤷🏼♂️. May I continue now?
“🙄… go on.”
Before working with any sponsors, I always ask myself two questions:
- Does this product aline with my company’s purpose: To provide others with the opportunity to live a more individualized lifestyle by providing a service that is handcrafted, with care.
- Will I be able to use this as an opportunity to giveback to my [online] community?
The WORX TOOLS team nailed number two by allowing me to host an Instagram giveaway for one lucky person to receive their very-own AXIS Saw. The WORX team even added a little “cherry on top”, if you will, by providing me with a 10% OFF + FREE SHIPPING coupon code [AXISMARK] to share with my readers.
“Sounds great, but where does the whole individualized, handcrafted, service — or, whatever that was, come into play?”
I’m glad you asked! I’ve been wanting to build a very special project that I have been thinking about for awhile now: a flat, folding, sawhorse.
“So, instead of spending $14 on a pair of sawhorses that already fold, you’re going to waste a bunch of time building a more expensive version?”
Basically.
But, I work out of a one car garage-shop, where space is VERY limited. Or, often times, I’m working on a residential job site — where space is even more limited. I also have a tonneau cover on the back of my truck which makes transporting all of my tools/ workbenches very challenging. So, the goal behind building these sawhorses was to have them take up as little space as possible when they are not in use. In theory, by using 3/4” thick material, I would be able to lay a 3’ x 6’ work surface area (top) and two 3’ wide supporting sawhorses in the bed of my truck and only take up 1 1/2” of space. If successful, I would do up some “how to” plans and release them for download to anyone whom may be interested in building a set for themselves.
“Right. And, the AXIS comes into this how, exactly?”
Well, I knew the jigsaw feature would work perfectly to cut out all of the sawhorses folding components. While working on the design for my flat folding sawhorse, I stumbled across plans online for just that: a pair of sawhorse horses made of 3/4” thick material that folded flat. The hinge system within these plans called for 1/4” metal rods to be inserted into the material, allowing the pieces to swing into position. As soon as I saw this requirement, I knew I could use the AXIS reciprocating saw to cut these metal rods to size. So, I purchased the plans, grabbed my AXIS and headed out to the shop to start cutting.
Actually, that’s a lie. I also grabbed my camera to document the process and made sure the battery on the AXIS was fully charged.
“Not important.”
You’re right.
Here are my initial thoughts on the AXIS saw, right out of the box:
Likes:
WEIGHT: The saw is super light weight. Now, this is compared to my current, corded, jigsaw — but, I was still very impressed.
SIMPLICITY: It is extremely easy to change between tools and change blades: everything is tool-less. Push a button and the tool goes from reciprocating saw to jigsaw [you can even use one hand].
NO MORE CORDS: It comes with a 20V battery that is a part of the WORX “PowerShare” Platform. Meaning, this battery can be used in other WORX tools like drills, multitools, lights, hedge trimmers, weed whackers, leaf blowers, etc.
EASY TO STORE: The saw is nice and compact and even the battery charger footprint is nice and small, so it doesn’t take up any room on a shelf, or, in a drawer/ toolbox.
CONVENIENCE: It comes with 4 blades: (1) reciprocating blade and (3) jig saw blades. And, the Axis saw is compatible with any reciprocating saw blades and “T-shank” jigsaw blades. Which means, no special blades are required.
BEING ABLE TO SEE YOUR CUTLINE: There’s a dust blowing feature when in jigsaw mode to help remove debris and dust which increases cutting visibility. This was a huge win for me, as this is a feature that my corded jigsaw does not have.
Concerns:
LOCKOFF SWITCH POSITIONING: While in jigsaw mode, I found the position of the “Lockoff Switch”, which prevents the saw from accidental starts, takes a little getting used to. Now, my corded jigsaw is an older model and doesn’t have this feature either, so my initial discomfort could, very-well, be from not being familiar with this process.
BATTERY LIFE: As mentioned, the tool comes with a 20v, 2ah battery. I typically use 2ah batteries in small tools like radios/ drills/ nailers and lights. When using battery powered tools that require a lot of power, like a saw, I usually like to use, a-least, a 4ah battery. So, my initial concern around this 2ah battery was wondering how much runtime I’d get from it while using both features of this saw.
Here are my thoughts on the AXIS saw, after cutting the sawhorse template out of 1/2” plywood:
Pros
FREEDOM: not being confined to a cord is life changing!
CUTS: were very good and the dust blower is a big help to see your reference line.
COMPATIBILITY: I needed a metal reciprocating saw blade for this project and was relieved to find that my current blades fit into the saw, nicely.
SAFETY: the Axis saw has an auto-stop feature, so when you release the trigger, the saw stops running. You would think that’s common sense, but my current jigsaw is not capable of stopping right away, so this was a nice surprise.
Cons
BATTERY PERFORMANCE: I managed to make 8 cuts through 1/4” thick metal bolts with the reciprocating saw and had about a 15 minute runtime in jigsaw mode, cutting through 1/2” plywood before the battery needed to be charged.
“Sooooo, is that good?”
I’ll be honest, it’s to be expected with a 2ah battery on a very powerful tool. Also, I’m taking into consideration that it was well below zero outside on the day of my testing and I know that batteries do not perform their best when cold.
Overall, this is a great tool for the average DIY/ hobbyist/ home owner. I’d definitely recommend purchasing an additional battery if you aren’t currently on the WORX platform. If you already have WORX tools, I feel like you would enjoy the Axis 2 in 1 Saw. As of today (January 2019), the Axis is available on Amazon, at Lowe’s and Canadian Tire for a price ranging from $149.99 — $179.99 CND (plus tax).
Currently, the Axis is listed for $133.65 CND (plus tax) on the WORX website. And, as “thank you”, WORX TOOLS has offered my readers 10% off + free shipping. Click here to be taken to the WORX TOOLS website and purchase your Axis 2–1 Saw.
Remember, there are a million ways to learn something, and I am no where near an expert. But, I have had the pleasure of learning lessons the hard way. By sharing them with you, I’m just hoping to make the journey a little easier for you and/or someone that you care about. So, If you liked this post, or know of someone that could benefit from it, please feel free to share it.
If you have any questions or concerns, I am always willing to talk shop and offer some suggestions where I can. So feel free to leave a comment, or connect with me on Instagram and Facebook: Mark Rason
Talk soon,
Mark
@remarkableworks
