The Festool PSC 420 EB Cordless Carvex Jigsaw, Model Number 576522, is a barrel-grip cordless jigsaw built for accurate curved cutting, trim work, and clean finish cuts in wood and light metal. This is a cordless jigsaw designed for precision cutting, curved cuts, and finish-sensitive work. In this BASIC version, you get the tool, blades, accessories, and Systainer storage, but no battery or charger.

What makes this saw matter is how much control it gives you in real use. The brushless motor is built to deliver the same level of performance Festool expects from its corded Carvex platform, while the 18 volt setup gives you freedom to work where a cord is a hassle. The variable speed system automatically adapts to the style of cut, and the stroke rate range of 1,500 to 3,800 strokes per minute gives you the speed to move through wood while still backing off when the material or cut quality demands it. Add the four-stage pendulum action and you have a jigsaw that can be tuned for fast rough work or slower, cleaner finish cuts.

Accuracy is a big part of why people buy into the Carvex line. Festool calls out its triple saw blade guide for better curve handling, and both Tool Nut and Acme highlight the carbide blade guidance system that helps keep cuts perpendicular. That matters if you are cutting visible trim, scribing filler pieces, making sink or outlet cutouts, or following a line in material that cannot afford much cleanup. The included splinterguard is not a throwaway accessory either. It is there to help reduce tear-out on finished surfaces so your cut edge needs less rework.

The barrel-grip body is built for close control with your hand lower to the work, which a lot of experienced users prefer for detailed cutting. Festool also adds SoftGrip surfaces to help keep the tool planted in your hand when you are working at awkward angles or following a tight pattern. Another smart feature is the stroboscopic LED lighting. The LEDs sync with blade motion to visually freeze the blade during operation, which makes it easier to track the cut line without losing sight of where the blade actually is. On a jigsaw, that is not a gimmick. Better visibility directly affects cut accuracy.

From a jobsite standpoint, the tool-free multi-base platform is one of the bigger reasons this model stands out. You can swap bases and inserts without slowing the job down, which is useful if your day moves between finished surfaces, specialty cuts, and general carpentry. Festool also built the cordless Carvex to stay practical in the system: the BASIC version ships in a Systainer3, and Festool notes that the insert accommodates the AirStream charger and batteries. Storage, transport, and stackability are a real part of the value if you are already working in the Festool setup.

Compatibility is straightforward and useful. This saw runs on an 18 volt Festool battery platform, and Festool states that its 4.0 Ah lithium-ion battery packs can be used across cordless tools in the same class. It also uses universal T-shank jigsaw blades, which is a practical advantage because blade availability is broad and you are not locked into an odd interface. If you already own Festool cordless tools and chargers, the bare-tool format makes sense. If not, factor battery and charger cost into the buy.

This is a strong fit for finish carpenters, cabinet installers, remodelers, millwork crews, and serious DIY users who care more about cut quality and control than just raw speed. It is also a smart choice for anyone who prefers a barrel-grip jigsaw and wants cordless freedom without stepping down in performance. If your work includes visible cuts, tight curves, or material where a sloppy edge becomes extra labor, this tool earns its keep fast.

Festool PSC 420 EB Cordless Carvex Jigsaw: a real precision-first barrel-grip saw

This is the jigsaw you buy when cut quality, control, and line visibility matter more than just getting through the board.

• Who it's for: Finish carpenters, cabinet installers, remodelers, and experienced users who want a cordless jigsaw for clean visible work and tight curves.
• Why it stands out: The brushless motor, stroboscopic LED lighting, blade guidance, and tool-free base system make it feel purpose-built for accurate work instead of general-purpose compromise.
• Worth knowing: This is the BASIC bare-tool version, so plan on buying a battery and charger if you are not already on the Festool 18 volt platform.

• Does this jigsaw include a battery and charger? No. This BASIC version is sold as a bare tool and does not include a battery or charger.
• What blade type does it use? It uses universal T-shank jigsaw blades.
• What is the maximum cutting depth in wood? The listed cutting depth in wood is 4-3/4 inches.
• Can it cut metal? Yes. The listed cutting depth is 3/8 inch in steel and 3/4 inch in non-ferrous metals.