Best 10 Reciprocating Saws

Cutting through wood can be a hassle task and may take a lot of time if done manually. Hence, to save time and trouble, you need to upgrade your cutting tools. The best replacement for your regular saw will be a reciprocating saw. Also known as ”Sawzall”, this saw is a handheld tool that delivers remarkable cutting performance.

The use of a reciprocating saw is not just limited to cutting or slicing wood, but it can also be used to rip off plastic and metal. These saws are commonly used for difficult tasks like demolition work or house renovation.

If you have some power tools at your home, like a chainsaw, circular saw or plunge saw, but are not exactly cut out for the job you want them, you can always add this one to your collection and finish your project in no time! If you are looking to purchase the best one, here are some things that you definitely need to know beforehand. Keep reading to pick the right one.

What is a Reciprocating Saw?

This saw is an awesome cutting tool, also known as sabre saws, that are powered by electric input or batteries. The tool uses the push and pulls movement of the blades to deliver smooth and uniform cutting of the material, no matter if it is wood, metal, PVC or any other. They are great if you plan a major renovation project as they can make any demolition feel like a walk in the park. When hammers and crowbars are not enough, here comes the reciprocating saw (for short) and get the job done! Perfect for cutting and ripping out the materials around doors and windows or cutting through plasterboard and joists.

There are countless brands like Tacklife, Bosch, DeWalt and more that offer a plethora of products. They all vary based on countless factors such as blade size, number of blades, motor power or blade changing ability. You need to take into consideration all these factors to make the best choice. 

Types of Reciprocating Saws

There are two types of these saws to look out for. Here is a list of them to help you choose the one that will suit your needs. 

Corded Saws

These are the basic version of reciprocating saws. The wired models need an uninterrupted power supply to ensure that they deliver the required functionality. Most of the wired reciprocating saws deliver a high power, which means you can use them for heavy-duty jobs like hardwood pruning. The only drawback is that you can use them only near an outlet, so pay attention to the cable’s length if your job site is large or consider opting for a wireless model if you want autonomy.

Cordless Saws

Cordless models, unlike corded versions, give you the freedom of movement and are easy to carry around as they do not have any cable. They offer a mess-free operation without cables tangling as they are battery-powered. But, they may not be fit for heavy-duty jobs. If they are employed in heavy-duty jobs, they may lose their power quickly, making you stop and charge them after short time intervals. The only drawback of these saws is that they have a shorter runtime.

Why do you need a Reciprocating Saw?

Now that you know what a reciprocating saw is, let’s talk about why you do need one. There are so many reasons why investing in this saw is the best decision for you. 

1. Handy Design

The key reason for getting a reciprocating saw is its design. Most of these saws have a lightweight design that ensures effortless handling. Plus, the saw’s manoeuvrability is simpler and more controlled as these saws are known for their lightweight design. 

2. Powerful Operation

Another reason for which you should invest in a reciprocating saw is the power. As compared to the manual saw, the physical effort required to use this is minimal. Also, the power delivered by the saw will help you finish your project faster than ever. 

3. Versatility

These saws can be used to cut various materials such as rebar, metal, wood, plastic and more. Hence, they can undoubtedly be used on more than just one occasion making them super useful. Renovations require tackling a lot of different tasks that involve cutting. What better way to do them than with a reciprocating saw? They help you from cutting the frame around your doors to ripping out the materials around your windows in no time with very little effort. 

4. Durable

One add-on that you get on buying a reciprocating saw is its durability. Most of the saws are made from metal, plastic or a combination of both. Investing in such a powerful tool can be proven useful in more than just one project over the years. Keep it with you and tackle any task with no fuss no muss. 

What to look for when buying a Reciprocating Saw?

Let’s have a look at a few crucial factors that you need to analyse while making your pick for the best saw. Here is our list:

1. Power

The key factor that determines the functionality of the reciprocating saw is the power. Almost all the reciprocating saws are backed by electrical power. So, it depends on you and your needs for which you want to opt for. You can go for wireless versions if you only tackle lightweight tasks. On the other hand, you can go for a corded saw with a high amp motor if your tasks are heavyweight. DIYers could consider going for a cordless model. 

2. Speed

The second critical factor that you need to check is the speed of the saw. Most of the saws that are available online have speed in the range of 2000-3200 rpm (strokes per minute). For wood, you need to switch to high speed, whereas, for metal, the speed should be slow. Keep in mind the task you want to handle and choose accordingly.

3. Stroke Length

This is one of the key factors that you need to check as the performance of the saw depends on it. The range of stroke length you will get in most saws varies from 10mm to 25mm. As per the general rule, the more the stroke length, the easier it is to cut through the material.

4. Handling

Although most of the saws come with anti-vibration features, it is still necessary for you to ensure that the saw is easy to handle. Some saws may be tough to handle due to their weight, so always look for a comfortable and cushioned grip. It will not only enhance handling but it will also keep your hands in place and safe.

5. Blades

Blades are the heart of the saws. Hence, it is necessary for you to check if they are suitable. There are various types of blades that a saw has and comes with as add-ons. If you want to deal with metal cutting, go for the one with fine-tooth blades. On the other hand, if you want to cut rough surfaces like wood, go for the coarse blade.

6. Miscellaneous Features

Here are some additional features that enhance the saw’s overall functioning and make one value for money!

• LED light: An LED light is a great add-on that you can get. It will keep your work area illuminated and allow you to perform your job even on dark corners. 
• Pivoting shoe: This shoe is guard fitted in the front around the blades. It is basically used to make different types of cuts while increasing the life of the saw.
• Orbital action: This is the characteristic that allows the shoe to cut side by side apart from up and down. It is best for aggressive cuts.
• Blade changing: As you will be required to cut different materials, it is best to have a saw that allows for easy blade changing. Hence, look for the one that does not need tools.

Can you use a Reciprocating Saw as a Jigsaw?

As they both operate on almost the same working principle, we can say that the reciprocating saws can be used as a jigsaw only to some extent.

You may not get the required precision in the cutting with the reciprocating saw. Jigsaws have a shorter stroke length; hence they cannot be used for demolition work as a reciprocating saw can be.

Also, a jigsaw can be used for other precise tasks like working along within tight places, making straight edge cuts, bevel cuts, and cutting into plasterboards. A reciprocating saw cannot do these operations.

Tips on how to cut straight with a Reciprocating Saw

Cutting wood may seem easy, but it always seems easy in the hands of a professional. If you were to make a straight cut with a saw, you need to follow the following tips:

Horizontal Cutting

• Ensure that the piece to be cut is fitted firmly to the fence rail with a C-Clamp. This is to avoid vibrational errors.
• Mark the place you want to cut with a thick marker pen.
• Set up the pivoting shoe head perfectly to get the desired cut.
• Avoid applying too much pressure on the machine.
• It will be best if the surface you are cutting it on is flat for maintaining consistent pressure.

Vertical cutting

• The only difference in this type of cutting is that you need to screw the wood board on the vertical structure rather than using the C-Clamp.
• This helps in the better straight cutting of the wooden surface.
• Make sure that the fence rail is thick enough to avoid any slippage from the holding surface.

Can a Reciprocating Saw cut through thick surfaces?

Yes, a saw can cut through thick surfaces. But, you need to be sure about some things such as:

• The type of blade. The coarse blade is used in most cases for wood cutting.
• Keep changing the angle of the blade to reduce the surface area. It reduces friction and makes cutting faster.
• Keep the shoe tight against the cutting surface.

Safety Tips for using a Reciprocating Saw

If you want to make your experience with the saw safe, here are some tips that you need to know. Keep all of these in mind to ensure safe operation.

• Be careful while cutting near finished walls; you might cut through wires and pipes.
• Keep the saw unplugged when changing blades or any other accessories.
• Wear safety glasses and ear guards while cutting through metal or any other material.
• The blades of the saw may get extremely hot after some time of operation. Avoid touching them to prevent any burns.
• Don’t cut wood while being high on a ladder. You may experience a kickback if the saw gets stuck.

How much should you spend on a Reciprocating Saw?

Sawing is an activity that needs a powerful machine. A saw that can deliver powerful operation is not that easy to find if you have a tight budget. If we have to arrive at a range within which you may get the best and lightest saw, it will be around £50 to £200.

This is just the range within you will find many products with the required features like speed, power, brushless motor, low noise, and many more. It all comes down to what you need and where you plan on using it. You may even need to spend a bit more than £200 to get your pro power tool with that in mind.

Final Words

A reciprocating saw can be a great assistant for you whether you are a DIYer or a professional. There are countless reasons to support the fact that it is a great investment. If you are in the pursuit of buying the best saw, this article has some of the best choices that you can consider. Also, to help you further, we have also curated some engaging informatory sections. 

Pick the best reciprocating saw on the market and start that reno you have been putting off for so long! Happy demolition and DIY projects!