Whether you’re a professional or a DIY enthusiast, a reciprocating saw is a valuable investment for your work.
Unlike other saws that demand a very high degree on the accuracy, a reciprocating saw, on the other hand, won't require a high degree of precision. Therefore, it is undoubtedly the right tool for the sawing job.
Other than accuracy, reciprocating saws cut through swiftly regardless of the kind of material. All you need is to fit the product with the right blade, and it will get the job well done.
In this article, we have reviewed the best reciprocating saws. Keep reading.
Top 10 Reciprocating Saws Comparison Table
Image | Product Name | Manufacturer | Stroke Length | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Cell | DEWALT DCS387P1 | DEWALT | 1-1/8 Inch | |
Cell | Milwaukee 6538-21 | Milwaukee | 1-1/4 Inch | |
Cell | BLACK+DECKER BDCR20B | BLACK+DECKER | 7/8 Inch | |
Cell | DEWALT DW310K | DEWALT | 1-1/8 Inch | |
Cell | WORX WX550L | WORX | 3/4 Inch | |
Cell | PORTER-CABLE PCC670B | PORTER-CABLE | 1 Inch | |
Cell | Milwaukee 6519-31 | Milwaukee | 1-1/8-Inch | |
Cell | Makita JR3050T | Makita | 1-1/8 Inch | |
Cell | Bosch CRS180B | Bosch | 1-1/8-Inch | |
Cell | SKILSAW SPT44A-00 | SKILSAW | 1-1/8 Inch |
10 Best Reciprocating Saws Reviews:
Having powerful reciprocating saw at your fingertips is a guarantee of outright success. However, choosing the right tool might be a little bit overwhelming since there’re plenty of brands available in the market.
Take a look at our selection and choose your best. Let’s get down to it:
1. DEWALT DCS387P1 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit
The top on our list is DEWALT DCS387P1 that boasts of a compact and lightweight design. It also fits between studs that let you make seamless cuts even in the most confined places.
Part of the reason this product ranks amongst the best is its innovative four-position blade clamp.
This feature enhances positional versatility and flush cutting under challenging angles. Thus, it’s a multi-use saw that we also consider as the best reciprocating saw for pruning.
Apart from this, Dewalt reciprocating saw has a lever-actuated blade changing mechanism, and therefore, you don’t need any tool for changing blades.
We need to mention that its 1-1/8" stroke length delivers impressive faster-cutting speed. Not to mention the variable speed trigger, which delivers up to 2,900 strokes per minute with a reasonable blade control.
Better still, this outstanding saw comes with a pivoting shoe for increased versatility during sawing. At the other end of the scale, the LED light illuminates dark work areas to enhance visibility. You can rest assured of safe cutting experience.
Still, way better, Dewalt DCS387P1 is a cordless reciprocating saw. Consequently, it gives you the freedom to get your work done anywhere.
The product has an amazing brushless motor that provides up to 2.5 times more runtime, yet it will get the job done at a breakneck and efficient speed.
We highly recommend this product for its keyless, lever-action 4-position blade clamp that allows you to effortlessly change blades in four directions for a variety of applications.
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Cons
2. Milwaukee 6538-21 15.0 Amp Super Sawzall Reciprocating Saw
Sawzall is our next choice of the best reciprocating saw due to its impressive speed and longevity. Besides, Sawzall is the first reciprocating saw to include constant power technology that maintains continuous speed and power.
Further, this product’s 15.0 amp motor provides the industry's uppermost overload protection that prevents motor failure.
Also, its patented gear protecting clutch extends the motor’s life by preventing the high impact forces caused by unexpected blade lock-ups. Additionally, the Quik-Lok™ Blade Clamp provides fast and tool-less blade changes.
Apart from that, this patented counterbalance device reduces user vibration. Thus, it’s no secret that this product will deliver the ultimate smooth running and comfort during the operation.
We need to mention that the product’s manufacturer is a US-based company, and this acts as a guarantee for unmatched sawing performance.
In terms of sophisticated technology, this Sawzall is powered by a constant power technology that maintains consistent speed under load to deliver a remarkable cutting performance.
Milwaukee is a renowned brand in the reciprocating saws market. We recommend it for professionals and DIY’ers for its reliability, resilience, and power.
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Cons
3. BLACK+DECKER BDCR20B 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw - Best Reciprocating Saw Under 100
Every professional enjoys working with a versatile, lightweight, and easy to use saw. Pick this reciprocating saw that features a powerful 3000 strokes/minute motor while the adjustable speed trigger and electric brake offer supplementary control.
Unlike other reciprocating saws, Black +Decker BDCR20B will cost you less for its quality. As one of the best reciprocating saw under 100, you may not have to increase your budget much, and you'll not forego premium quality either.
Notably, Black + Decker features a lithium battery as standard. We like to mention that these categories of batteries are more powerful and have a habit of holding a charge longer compared to other standard batteries.
On the other hand, this product boasts 20 volts of power; as such, it has the potential to deliver unmatched cutting performance. Luckily, though, this fantastic reciprocating saw is lightweight and only weighs 3.8 pounds. For this reason, it is easy to carry it everywhere and navigate hard to reach areas as well.
Similarly, with its tool-free blade cover, you can easily change blades, while the pivoting shoe and a variable speed trigger enhance controls to enable you to deliver exceptional cuttings.
What’s more, the 7/8-inch blade has an impressive cutting precision and control with less kickback compared to the longer blades.
Best of all, Black & Decker goes out of the way to offer a dampening technology for reduced vibration. Indeed, this lets you work comfortably.
We recommend the product due to its new dampening technology that enhances a smooth cutting experience with minimal vibration. Yet, its lightweight features make this saw easy for anyone to handle.
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Cons
4. DEWALT DW310K 12 Amp Heavy-Duty Reciprocating Saw Kit
Get this amazing 12.0 Amp reciprocating saw kit with 2,700 strokes per minute and 1-1/8" stroke length for incomparable power on heavy-duty applications. The product is exceptionally long-lasting and efficient.
Moreover, the 12.0 Amp motor is versatile, and it does not only deliver increased power for heavy-duty applications, but it is also fast and efficient during the cutting.
Further, this product features a keyless stainless steel blade clamp for quick, straightforward blade changes and increased reliability.
Additionally, the keyless adjustable shoe seamlessly adjusts the depth of cut and prolongs the blade’s lifespan. Accordingly, its adjustable speed trigger allows you to control speed instantly.
You will love its anti-slip grip to help you keep control of the device; therefore, you’ll be in total control of the saw and, at the same time, open to adjustments even in the middle of a job.
Dewalt DW310K has a corded source which makes it easier to plug into a wall and attach an 8-foot cord. And this allows you to maneuver even the hard-to-reach areas.
It’s worth noting that Dewalt DW310K saw boasts an adjustable speed trigger with a variety of choices of up to 2700 strokes per minute.
We highly recommend this product because of its keyless blade cover, which allows you to make changes with ease while working. Yet the anti-slip grip lets you keep control of the tool completely.
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Cons
5. WORX WX550L 20V AXIS 2-in-1 Reciprocating Saw and Jigsaw
This Worx WX550L ranks among our top best reciprocating saws due to its outstanding feature of 2-in-1. You can effortlessly turn it from a reciprocating saw into a jigsaw.
Generally, reciprocating saws are for cutting out intricate shapes with lots of twists and turns. The manufacturers of this saw had this idea in mind. It is incredibly lightweight, compact, and cordless. Thus, this feature allows you to manoeuvre and get into tighter spaces to take down drywall, pipes, and many more.
Apart from that, this tool flips into action with a twinkle of an eye; just push the big red button to unlock the head and flip it up or down, and it will lock into place.
Besides, it features two fully-featured saws in one. As a result, it not only saves you the extra expense of purchasing a separate saw but also gives you the convenience of having fewer tools to carry to the worksite.
What’s more, this tool comes with a dust blower to keep dust and debris away from the surface of your cut. Therefore you’ll get clear and better visibility of the cut and a more enjoyable working atmosphere.
To put the icing on the cake, with this product, you’ll have the pleasure to do it all with the same battery, thanks to its WORX Power Share feature.
Surprisingly, this is the only cordless tool platform that uses the same battery to power 20V and 40V tools.
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Cons
6. PORTER-CABLE PCC670B 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw - Best Sabre Saw
Reciprocating saws for pruning have grown popular over a couple of years. For this reason, we found porter cable PCC670B to be one of the best for its high-performance and aggressive cutting speed.
If you need the best reciprocating saw for metal, the Porter-Cable is an excellent choice.
This robust saw for pruning has a compact design that allows you to reach tight spaces at only 14.5" in length. Besides, its tool-free blade release offers quick and easy blade changes.
Additionally, the incredible variable-speed trigger feature provides more control for cutting all sorts of materials, including metals. At the same time, the pivoting shoe helps you to keep continuous contact with the material.
Moreover, this product has a contoured over-moulded handle – customized to increase your comfort.
We absolutely love the fact that this product is part of the 20V Max System. As the Best Sabre Saw, it is famous for offering a high-performance cordless platform.
Also, this reciprocating saw features a high-performance drivetrain that delivers a maximum of 3,000 strokes/minute for incredible aggressive cutting speed.
In summary, this compact, cordless saw makes the cutting experience extremely easy with a lot of power and precision sawing.
Similarly, it has a high-performance motor and one-inch stroke length that makes it ideal for general contractors, do-it-yourselfers, or beginners. Thus, this saw suites, anyone, at any level of experience.
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Cons
7. Milwaukee 6519-31 12 Amp Corded Reciprocating Sawzall
Next on our list of best reciprocating saws is Milwaukee 6519-31 12 AMP. You’ll consider this product for its high-impact rated polyurethane case included for secure storage for your tools.
Part of the reason we chose this product, is its incredible laden behemoth that can handle anything you throw in its way.
Notably, this saw is designed for more rugged environments, thanks to its internal components that keep essential areas, such as motor, protected from worksite abuse.
Further, the saw has a gear protecting clutch to absorb high impact forces expected from a saw of this calibre.
No kidding! The amazing clutch not only keeps the motor and surrounding gears protected, but it also improves their life span.
Luckily, this saw comes loaded with the Quik-Lok system; you won’t need any tool to switch the blades. All you need it to do is pull the latch to replace the blade.
Due to its counterweight mechanism that reduces vibration, you’ll enjoy a smooth cutting operation with high accuracy and precision in your cuts.
Additionally, its redesigned front grip area provides the best in class ergonomics. That lets you work without accidents.
Lastly, Milwaukee is a famous and trusted brand in the reciprocating saws market. Thus, this reciprocating saw is suitable for professionals, experts, and beginners, thanks to its reliability, durability, and high-performance.
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Cons
8. Makita JR3050T Reciprocating Saw
As a professional, you’re probably looking for high precision in a reciprocating saw for metal before you part with your money. This Makita saw won't disappoint you, and you’ll get value for your money.
In our observation, Makita combines a powerful 11 AMP motor with less weight (7.3 lbs.) for all-day use to deliver high-performance cutting operation.
Notably, the 11 AMP motor comes loaded with an adjustable speed of up to 2,800 strokes per minute and has a 1-1/8 inch blade stroke for efficient cutting.
Indeed, the product is ideal for metal cutting, wood cutting, drywall and plaster, plastics, remodeling, and demolition applications. You’ll love its versatile design for a variety of applications.
The JR3050T also boasts an internal dust blower system to clear debris from the line of cut for enhanced visibility during operation.
Similarly, with a heavy-duty shoe and tool-less blade change, this product lets you change and remove the blade with ease.
We need to mention that this incredible metal saw comes loaded with two larger-finger triggers with a lock-on button for added convenience.
Also, the soft grip and handle offer you increased comfort and stability during work.
Ideally, the product boasts an innovative tool-less adjustment feature that lets you change the blade and shoe quickly and painlessly.
To crown it, it’s worth mentioning that the ball and needle bearings extend its service life while the externally accessible brushes ease the maintenance process of the tools.
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Cons
9. Bosch Bare-Tool CRS180B Reciprocating Saw
The Bosch CRS180B 18-Volt Reciprocating saw stands out due to its capability to deliver the best power-to-weight ratio in its class.
And the main reason we settled on this product is its unique ability to handle heavy-duty cutting where other saws can't reach.
Also, this robust reciprocating saw has two-speed settings; for this reason, professionals like plumbers or electricians can ease into the cut.
You’ll love this product since it is an excellent choice for challenging cutting jobs. Moreover, this saw provides a long cutting stroke and a secure blade-change system.
That aside, this saw comes loaded with a variable-speed trigger in a way that you can ease the saw into the material without having to worry about kickback.
Best of all, it has a two-speed range between 0-2,400 SPM and 0-2,700 SPM. And this lets you match the functioning speed of the product according to the application.
Part of the reason we picked Bosch CRS180B, is it’s a resilient feature; reciprocating and compact design.
You’ll notice that it’s only 17.4 inches long and weighs only 7.6 lbs. And this lets both plumbers and rehab professionals cut through sturdy material even in the tightest of areas.
Also, this incredible saw features the Lock-Jaw blade holder. And this is among the most straightforward blade-change system in class.
Here is the kicker, this system also allows for fast, one-handed blade changes. Overall, it is an excellent match for experts who already have a battery and charger.
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Cons
10. SKILSAW SPT44A-00 13 Amp Reciprocating Saw
If you’re a tech-savvy, then the SKILSAW 13 AMP Reciprocating saw is the ideal choice for you. It joins the SKILSAW lineup to outperform any reciprocating saw in the market.
The incredible saw features patented Buzzkill Technology to deliver unmatched vibration suppression, up to 35% higher compared to others in the market.
You’ll like its comfortability, controlled cuts that won’t wear out the tool or the user, and the 13 Amps of SKILSAW power, which swiftly shreds through even the most robust materials.
Also, the adjustable-speed trigger puts you in control, regardless of the type of material you’re cutting. Better still, its unique body design helps, in most applications, to direct dust and debris away from you.
It is worth mentioning that the product is suitable for rough cutting, like demolition and remodeling. Notably, it works with wood, heavy-duty pipe, structural steel, cast iron, wood embedded with nails, and non-ferrous metals.
When it comes to comfort, there is a soft-grip handle that not only makes it easy for you to handle but also reduces fatigue.
One last thing, it includes a manual to make it easy for you to understand which type of blade works best with what project — this makes the product suitable for learners and experts alike.
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Advantages of Using The Best Reciprocating Saws
Indeed, the reciprocating saw is a famous cutting weapon among hobbyists and woodworkers. The perfect combination of tremendous speed and powerful engine innovation comes to us as the best reciprocating saw. Do you want to know more about what unique benefits it offers to its users? Then check the list below:
- The most exciting advantage of using the reciprocating saw is you can carry it anywhere you want. They look smaller in size and weight than any other saw type. In some cases, you can take out the saw blade and make it more convenient to carry. In addition, the batteries of the reciprocating saw are also light, and you can find them in your locality easily.
- While cutting different materials, an ideal reciprocating saw will support you with its extreme moving orbital action and speed. That power control system is really useful when you maintain continuous work deals.
- Undoubtedly, safety is important to work with confidence and stay tension free from various hazards. No matter how well you prepare yourself with safety kits, you will face many problems if your saw fails to provide the proper safety measures. In that case, choosing a particular cordless reciprocating saw will ensure a cord-free and hassle-free work experience.
- Using a cordless reciprocating saw is great fun as it offers varieties of flexibility in your work. For example, If you work as a portable craftsman, naturally, you have to move here and there all day. At that moment, a cordless saw will become an ideal partner. While having it as your daily driver, you don’t need to worry about electric power sources. Instead, just put in the required power cell and then concentrate on your work.
- The most interesting fact about choosing a reciprocating saw is that it comes in a low budget range. This user-friendly budget option is relaxing for economic buyers. But they must evaluate the brand and product before selecting a device.
- Lastly, the reciprocating saw will become an excellent partner for beginners. Awesome features, reliability, user-friendly budget, and proper security setup make it a convenient device for all.
Things to Consider (Buying Guide)
If you’re interested in buying a reciprocating saw, probably this question might cross your mind, “What should I consider while purchasing a reciprocating saw?”
Undoubtedly, reciprocating saws are quite similar in appearance to jigsaws, and they almost work similarly, too. However, if you take a keen look, you’ll notice a significant difference in terms of features.
As a buyer, you need to know everything about this tool. So, in this guide, we have discussed comprehensively all the things you need to consider before you spend your money.
So, let's get started:
Adjustable Speed Control
If you want your cutting operation precise and consistent, you certainly need to be in control of the speed of your saw.
An adjustable control feature lets you adjust the speed level according to the type of material you’re cutting.
From time to time, you may need this saw for small jobs, so this adjustable speed comes in handy; likewise, if you need to use the saw for a commercial purpose, you'll still get better control of the speed while sawing.
Non-Vibration
Majority of the high-end reciprocating saw brands comes with vibration reduction feature. Since it reduces shakes in your hands while sawing, thereby delivering a smooth, precise action.
Besides, this feature significantly eliminates the strain and fatigue feeling while using this saw. Needless to say, you’ll get both comfort and safety in this regard.
If you’re planning to use reciprocating saw continuously over a long period, you should look for this feature. No doubt, with reduced vibration, you’ll be able to perform smoother cuts.
Cozy Cushion Grip
The advantage of a cushioned grip is that it makes your grip firm and comfortable. It also promotes your safety.
Often, this feature is overlooked, and it can have a significant impact if you’re planning to use the reciprocating saw for long hours. Ideally, a cushioned grip is much more comfortable compared to hard plastic or metal grip.
Stroke Length of the Saw
Indeed, the more extended the stroke length is, the faster the cutting. Obviously, shorter strokes will take you more time to finish the job. However, we need to mention that shorter strokes are preferred for plunge cuts where you have no start hole to pass the blade.
Design of the Blades and Teeth
Generally, there is a specific blade for each job and various materials like metal, wood and many others.
It is crucial to check the availability of saw blades for the particular reciprocating saw you’re purchasing.
Usually, bi-metal blades are available in various length and pitch. For example, you’ll need a fine-tooth blade to make a smooth cut as well for cutting metal. Similarly, a course blade is suitable for rough cuts and for cutting softer materials like wood.
Battery Type
In the event you choose to purchase a cordless reciprocating saw, it is also essential you get the one with a Lithium-Ion battery.
The advantage of a Lithium battery compared to Nickel-Cadmium batteries is that the Li-ion cells can hold charges for more extended periods. Yet, they’re compact and lighter. Hence, reducing the overall weight of the tool.
Automatic Stop Brushes
This is one of the most vital features to look out before you choose to purchase a reciprocating saw.
Notably, auto-stop brushes increase the life of your reciprocating saw and make it safer by stopping the saw blade immediately after cutting power to the saw, as opposed to allowing the blade to stop slowly.
Safety aside, when the brushes wear out, they automatically stop the saw, preventing further damage to your reciprocating saw’s motor.
Sturdy Construction
A durable saw will last long. The best reciprocation saw is the one made using sturdy and reliable material.
Ideally, we would recommend the saw that comes with metallic casing with heavy ABS plastic design, since this metallic build can withstand heavy-duty application and gives you an excellent experience with the saw.
Variable Shoe
A variable shoe enhances stability and control of the saw. It also delivers clear visibility to the blade and the opportunity to cut the material in different positions. Generally, this is a piece of metal that lies at the end of the reciprocating saw to let the saw cut with accurate precision and smoothly.
Part of the reason this feature is crucial is that you can pair it up with a tool-less blade model to make easy and quick adjustments in your cutting process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mainly, a reciprocating saw is a tool that comes loaded with a switch button. What you need to do is to press the safety lock button to release the saw before you power up it.
Then, press the on/off switch to get the tool on working mode.
Lastly, when you’re done working with the saw, simply turn off the saw motor by releasing the trigger. The operation is simple and straightforward.
Although a reciprocating saw is similar in appearance to a jigsaw, it’s handheld and has a saw blade at the end that is bigger than the one on a jigsaw. Apart from that, a reciprocating saw is a power tool used for heavy-duty sawing jobs like demolition jobs, remodeling work, renovation, and tree pruning.
Usually, the type of blade to use largely depends on the material you intend to cut.
Different blades are designed to cut metals and wood alike. You’ll note that blades with more teeth per inch will determine the roughness, cut, and speed.
Renowned companies make the majority of the reciprocating saws. We observed that DEWALT could be the best brand amongst the ones we reviewed here since it is compact and lightweight. It also fits between studs that let you manoeuver in most confined places.
Although both cordless and corded saws will offer the whole breadth of power level options, the majority of professionals choose corded saws. This is because they provide a consistent power level.
Also, we need to note that the power level will depend on the type of work you’re performing with this tool. For example, you’ll need more power for remodeling a house than cutting a study PVC piping.
Primarily, reciprocating saws are commonly used in the construction industry to make various rough cuts in a wide range of materials.
Apart from that, it is also used for commercial work, homework like DIY projects or small demolition jobs, home plumbing, or woodworking.
Verdict
The best reciprocating saw can cut through even the most robust materials like drywall, wood, nails, metal pipes, PVC pipes, and many others.
They’re also perfect for maneuvering through hard to reach spaces where other tools can’t get. Hopefully, you can now shop for the best product out there that will give you value and get the job done.
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