Goldblatt Folding Jab Saw: Compact 8-TPI Bi-Metal Drywall Saw with Soft Grip

Overview

The Goldblatt Folding Jab Saw is a compact hand saw designed for precise cutting in drywall, wallboard, plywood, plastic panels and PVC. Built around an 8 TPI bi-metal blade and a foldable, lockable design, it aims to combine control with portability for quick on-site work. On the paper, it looks like a pragmatic tool for DIY enthusiasts and tradespeople who value a trusty companion for trimming and shaping materials without dragging out larger saws.

What makes it stand out

The triple-ground teeth on the blade are meant to deliver clean, fast cuts with minimal effort. The 8 TPI bi-metal blade can cut in both push and pull directions, which helps when you’re working in tight corners or awkward angles. Deep gullets are designed to reduce clogging, keeping the blade moving smoothly through drywall and similar materials. The hardened blade (HRC 62–68) should offer longevity in regular use and rougher tasks alike.

Comfort and handling

A soft, anti-slip handle is described as comfortable and designed to fit a range of hand sizes. This can translate to reduced fatigue during longer sessions and more stable cuts, especially when you’re working overhead or in confined spaces. The folding mechanism adds a layer of safety and portability, letting you open and close with a single button and stow the tool compactly in a bag or pouch.

Technical snapshot

Total length: 310 mm, handle length: 177 mm, blade length: 133 mm. The anti-slip grip and lock system are meant to offer secure operation and prevent the blade from closing unexpectedly mid-cut. The blade’s durability is supported by the bi-metal construction and the hardness rating (HRC 62–68), which signals good wear resistance for common wallboard and plywood tasks.

How it performs in real use

If you’re trimming drywall around outlets, adjusting sheetrock edges, or cutting small openings, the 8 TPI blade should manage fine detail without requiring a larger tool. The combination of a sharp tip and deep gullets can help with initial penetration and steady progression through the material. However, as with any folding saw, the cutting speed and precision depend on keeping the blade perpendicular to the workpiece and maintaining consistent pressure.

What to watch out for

Not every task benefits from a compact jab saw. For very dense materials or long straight cuts, a dedicated utility saw or a more robust blade might be preferable. Also, folding tools require mindful handling to avoid accidental closure while you’re still cutting, make sure the locking mechanism fully engages and always retract the blade safely when not in use. While the grip aims to be comfortable, users with particularly large hands could notice the feel isn’t oversized—so it may not be ideal if you routinely work with bulky gloves.

Who it’s for

This saw seems well suited for DIYers, hobby renovators and tradespeople who need a portable, reasonably capable tool for drywall, sheetrock and similar materials. It can be handy for small finish work, quick internal cuts or occasional openings where you don’t want to carry a larger saw kit.

When it makes sense to buy

Consider this model if you value portability, a foldable safe-closure design and a blade that works in both pushing and pulling motions. It’s a practical choice for keeping in a tool bag for quick jobs around the home or on small renovation projects where space and weight matter.

When to look elsewhere

If your work involves frequent heavy cross-cuts or you demand maximum durability for continuous daily use, you might prefer a saw with a larger blade and a more substantial grip. Likewise, if you prioritise ultra-fast cutting through thick materials, a model with a higher tooth count or a different blade geometry could suit you better.

Before you buy

• Check the blade length and overall length to ensure it fits your typical work spaces.
• Test the locking mechanism to confirm it secures the blade reliably during use.
• Consider whether the soft grip suits your hand size and whether you expect extended use without fatigue.
• If you often work with very thin or very dense materials, ensure the blade type and tooth configuration align with those tasks.

Practical vs alternatives

Compared with larger fixed blades or non-folding models, this saw offers convenience and portability at the expense of raw cutting stamina. It sits in the middle ground: more precise and compact than a general utility saw, but not necessarily the best option for heavy-duty framing or frequent long cuts.

Is it worth it?

Is it worth it? If you prioritise a compact, versatile drywall saw that travels well and provides decent control for everyday tasks, it makes sensible sense. You’ll likely value the safe fold-away design and the ability to cut efficiently in both directions. Not perfect for every job, but it can solve the common finishing and trimming moments without opening a larger toolbox.

FAQ

• Q: Can this saw cut through plywood and PVC effectively? A: The description suggests yes for sheetrock-like materials, with stated wide cutting applications including plywood and PVC.
• Q: How does the folding mechanism affect longevity? A: The tool employs a lock system to prevent accidental closure, proper use should help maintain safety and blade alignment.
• Q: Is the handle comfortable for long sessions? A: The anti-slip, ergonomically designed handle aims to reduce fatigue, though individual comfort may vary by hand size.