Wondering what is the best reciprocating saw available in the market. You are in the right place because, in this article, we analyze and review top-rated both corded and cordless reciprocating saws for 2019.
Reciprocating saws are also referred to as recip saws, recipro, and even sawzalls. Just like the name suggests, reciprocating saws are battery or electric-powered saws that are used to cut material by the action of pull and push i.e. reciprocating blade motion.
These sawzalls are capable of penetrating where other chainsaws or tile saws cannot penetrate. They have various uses. For example:-
- Indenting walls to place power wires.
- Making changes to PVC piping.
- Cutting nails and pins are difficult to cut with normal saws.
- Pruning small branches like coffee trees.
- DIY window fitting at home.
- Cutting different materials including metals.
There are several types and different reciprocating saw models available in the market. To choose the right one, you need to consider some factors. Below are the top three amazons reciprocating saw at the time of writing this article.
Image
Power source Battery Battery corded-electric
Voltage 20 volts 20volts 240 volts
Saw weight 1 pound 3.85 pounds 10 pounds
Check price Check Price on Amazon Check Price on Amazon Check Price on Amazon
Choosing the right reciprocating saw
Budget
The price of the reciprocating saw is very important when making a decision on what to buy. You cannot spend what you do not have or you cannot spend more on a reciprocating saw and fail to buy your dog food he needs. Depending on what you are willing to spend on a Sawzall, you can always get the best even though you should be aware that the more you spend the more you are likely of getting a good DIY or commercial tool.
For example, if you search and purchase, best reciprocating saw under 100, it can be less powerful than a Sawzall that costs over 200 dollars. Therefore, make sure you determine what you know how much you have before you begin searching and doing a comparison of different saws.
Power in and out
Most buyers actually consider only power out of the saw, which is indicated in rotations per minutes (RPM) or strokes per minute, but also power input is very important. Everyone would like a saw that takes less power but more powerful. A good Sawzall should be efficient, i.e. be able to conserve the charge especially for battery-powered reciprocating saws.
Corded –electric reciprocating saws are more powerful compared with battery-powered. Therefore, they are perfect for cutting tough material on a regular basis.
Handle design
According to Medicinenet.com, prolonged vibration exposer while using tools that vibrate leads to hand-arm syndrome with numbness, tingling, and loss of nerve sensitivity symptoms.
Reciprocating saws are some of the tools that can lead to this syndrome if their handles do not absorb the shock. Most cheap-corded reciprocating saws have handles that are made of plastic. They are not comfortable to handle and your hands absorb all the vibration.
The best-corded reciprocating saw should have an ergonomic handle that is fitted with rubber, foam or other materials that are capable of absorbing shock so that they can reduce the stress that is passed on your arms. For your own safety spend more and get the right Sawzall.
Weight
One of the reasons why people prefer using reciprocating saws to accomplish some tasks is that they are capable of reaching places where other big saws cannot reach. Saw weight is very important especially for people who have to reach overhead places while working. For such people will require a Sawzall that is light so that they don’t get tired whereas those who have a lot of work to do may prefer a heavy one so that they can reduce vibration and have more control while working.
Variable speed settings
Different tasks will require variable speed settings. For example, some working on cutting thin water pipe will use less speed compared with someone cutting through a concrete wall. Ability to change the recipro saw speed makes it more efficient and conserves power will delivering good results.
Reciprocating saw extra features
Reciprocating saw best brand should come with additional safety and working features that make it easy to use it. Some of the features that you should check out include-
- Varying Speed trigger.
- Shock absorbing features.
- Ergonomically designed handle.
- LED light indicator.
- Dust blower.
Top 10 Best Sawzall reviews
Dewalt dcs380b review
This recip saw comes with innovative features that enable you to cut through any material with great precision. In case you may have to work in the dark, bright LED, light on this Sawzall helps you in illuminating your workplace. This saw is also capable of integrating with your earlier bought batteries and blades that you are not using any longer.
One feature worth noting is four-position blade clamp, which makes it possible to change blade keyless. This feature helps in improving the saw performance and efficiency because you can flush cut and reach deep into tight areas.
Dewalt reciprocating saw 20v dcs380b also gives you total blade control and you can control the speed depending on what you are cutting by adjusting speed trigger, which is up to 3000 SPM.
Other Key features I love
- Super ergonomic handle to reduce vibration effect.
- Comes with Lithium-ion batteries.
- 3-year warranty.
- Four Position blade clamp for flush cutting.
- Powerful motor that delivers 3000 strokes per minute.
- Pivoting shoe that is adjustable and extends blade life.
- LED light to illuminate dark work areas.
My Verdict
This is the best cordless reciprocating saw that is versatile and can never disappoint you. Even though it does not come with the blade and charge plus battery are sold separately, it is a saw that is worth the purchase. Quick comparison in terms of price, this is the right Sawzall for someone looking to spend less while getting a saw that is powerful and capable of delivering.
Black and decker 20v reciprocating saw
For additional control, while cutting, black and decker reciprocating saw blades have an electric brake for stopping the strokes. Adjustable speed trigger helps to vary the frequency of the strokes depending on the work you are doing.
Black and decker reciprocating saw blade replacement is tool-free that means you will not need extra tools to add the blade. This saw also has a pivoting shoe that is used to improve the ease of use.
If you are going to buy Black and decker, Sawzall remembers that both battery and the charge are bought separately.
Other key features worth noting
- 20 volts Maximum battery with nominal voltage is 18 volts.
- Best recap saw delivering 3000 SPM.
- Stroke with a length of 7/8 inches.
- Has a switch lock-off feature that prevents accidental operation.
- Comes with Keyless blade clamp.
- Weighs only 3.85 pounds.
My Verdict
If I had less than 50USd to spend on a Sawzall, I would choose this one because it is best reciprocating saw under 50 available in the market. You can buy this right recipro saw without breaking your bank. It is perfect for small DIY tasks at home over the weekend. For someone looking for a heavy-duty reciprocating saw, this may not be a good choice consider buying Dewalt dcs380b.
Makita jr3050t review
The motor also has an adjustable speed varying from 0-2800 strokes per minute. For efficient cutting, this saw has a 1-1/8 inch blade.
Makita jr3050t has a range of features that make this saw versatile. For example, internal dust blower helps in clearing all the debris that can be stuck in the line of cutting. This improves visibility and ensures you are able to cut with precision.
You do not even have to refer to the Makita jr3050t manual because it is tool-less to change blade and shoe, which is heavy-duty.
Needle and ball bearings are for prolonging the tool life. Motor and these bearings are kept in a protected area designed with rubber boot.
All the key features
- Perfect corded electric reciprocating saw which takes in 240 volts and weighs 10 pounds.
- Ergonomically designed handle for soft grip and comfort while working.
- For convenience, there are two-finger trigger buttons are large and have lock-on.
- Double insulation to reduce shock effect.
- Comes with tool case and blades.
- Variable motor speed up to 2800 SPM.
- 11-Amp motor.
- Has built-in dust blower.
- 1-1/8-inch-long strokes.
My Verdict
This recip saw is for builders, metal fabricator and contractors looking for powerful and versatile corded reciprocating saw that costs less than 200 dollars. The fact that this is an electric saw, it can work for a whole day without having to worry about recharging the battery. This Sawzall weighs 10 pounds, which is quite a lot for overhead works.
Porter-cable Sawzall 20v
You can reach very tight spaces that are even less than 14.5 inches using this recip saw. To change the blade, you do not need any tool. It is a quick-release free blade.
Adjustable speed trigger makes it possible to vary cutting speed when cutting different materials. Pivoting shoe enables the Sawzall user to keep contact with a material that you are cutting. To increase comfort, this sawzall has a handle that is over-molded. Porter-cable Sawzall is a cordless reciprocating saw, which is 20Volts max system however; you will have to buy the battery separately.
Key features that I love
- Adjustable variable speed trigger.
- Easy blade changing with no tool needed.
- Capable of reaching tight spaces because it is compactly designed.
- Powerful motor that delivers 3000 strokes per minute.
- Battery power reciprocating saw.
- 3 years guarantee.
- Weighs 3.65 pounds.
My Verdict
Porter-cable Sawzall 20v is a tool for someone who has very simple tasks to perform at home. It is suitable for homeowners who want to prune small flower branches or cut thin water pipes. It is also affordable and comes with great features for home use.
Bosch gsa18v-083b review
Comparing this tool with other reciprocating saw reviews we have written above, it is the most powerful saw capable of delivering 3050 strokes per minute. Bosch gsa18v-083b is a compact cordless reciprocating saw that is ¾ inches long and weighs 4.4 lbs. This lightweight tool is perfect for overhead cuts.
Installing and removing the blade is quite easy. You do not require any tool; its quick and less effort is required. Lockout switch is a useful security feature that is used to prevent inadvertent start-up.
This is the right Sawzall for someone who is looking for a compact tool that is capable of cutting the toughest material in very tight areas; it is 15-3/4 inches long and weighs 4.4 lbs. This bare tool has LED light for illuminating dark places when you are working.
Other features that I loved
- Adjustable speed trigger.
- Powerful motor that delivers 3050 strokes every minute.
- Delivers 0.83-inch stroke.
- Optimized metal and woodcutting.
- Ergonomic handle that provides additional comfort.
- Lockout switch for preventing inadvertent startup.
My verdict
Bosch is a company that is popular for providing tools that are powerful and compact. Bosch gsa18v-083b cordless reciprocating saw is a lightweight perfect for overhead applications for heavy-duty works. Consider this Sawzall if you have a lot of work to accomplish.
Bare-tool Milwaukee 2625-20 m18
To make accurate and straight cuts, trigger lock and LED lights are in place to help you. Using the Quik Lok keyless latch system, you can do different tasks by easily changing the blade.
In case you want to perform heavy-duty tasks, this hackzall has an ergonomic handle that is capable of absorbing vibration, therefore, reducing fatigue. This tool comes with a motor that is capable of delivering 3000 strokes per minute.
Other key features
- This is a one-handed reciprocating saw perfect for someone working on tight conditions.
- Shock-absorbing handle for reducing fatigue.
- Light weight-weighing only 4.1 pounds therefore good for overhead works.
- LED lights for illuminating dark workbenches.
- Compatible with M18 lithium-ion batteries.
- Compact design, which allows cutting tight spaces.
My Verdict
The fact that his hackzall costs less than 100 dollars, I think it is a good choice for someone who has overhead jobs to perform. This tool is capable of cutting any material that needs to be cut in a job site. I love the LED light feature; you can work even at night.
Other best reciprocating saws you should check out
SKIL PWRCore 12V Compact Reciprocating Saw
https://amzn.to/2KefdvQ
This is an all-purpose reciprocating saw that has high performance capable of cutting through PVC pipes, metal and tree branches. It is the right tool that is can make accurate cuts in tight hard to reach places that other sawzalls cannot reach. Below are key features in this saw.
Key features
- Cordless saw that is PWR core 12 2.0Ah lithium battery.
- Has brushless motor that is compact and lightweight capable of tackling any hard project you can come across.
- Comes with a 12 volts lithium battery that can run for a very long time.
- Capable of changing in less than five minutes.
- Has variable pivot shoe that helps in smooth cutting and reducing vibration.
- Easy to change blades since you do not require any tool.
- Variable speed motor helps in switching tasks.
- LED light to illuminate dark working areas.
VonHaus 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit
You do not have to worry about arranging your items once you purchase this sawzall. It comes with a tool bag that helps you to organize everything while working.
Key Features
- No tools required for changing blades.
- Powerful motor with a speed of up to 300 strokes per minute.
- Comes with 20V max 3.0Ah lithium-ion battery.
- Accurate thin metal, wood and plastic cutting tool.
- Has adjustable speed trigger.
- Electric blade helps in ensuring your safety while using the tool.
- Ergonomically designed handle.
- Comes with four wood blades.
Mpt mcrs2105 reciprocating saw
This saw is not exceptional. Below are the key features that you will love.
Key Features
- Very light saw weighing only 5lbs.
- Powerful motor with speed of 3000 strokes per minute.
- Motor powered by 21v battery.
- Tool-free blade, which does not require any tool to change the blade.
- Perfect reciprocating saw that has adjustable speed trigger.
Tacklife reciprocating saw review
An LED light is perfectly in place to help you work during the night in dark places. You can vary the cutting speed with the trigger depending on what you are cutting. Pivot shoe is another additional feature in this saw that helps in increasing blade life and reducing vibration.
Key Features
- Rotary handle with three positions for more flexibility.
- Adjustable speed trigger feature.
- Powerful motor delivering 2800 strokes per minute.
- Speed knob to change between different projects.
- Saves a lot of time with too-less blade change.
- Ergonomic handle.
- LED lights.
Reciprocating saws related questions
What is the difference between a Sawzall and a reciprocating saw?
Most people ask what is a Sawzall is. In addition, what is a reciprocating saw?
Reciprocating saw is a handheld versatile tool that uses a blade to make accurate cuts on materials like plastic, wood, and thin metals. Once the trigger is activated, recip motor that can be battery or electric powered is activated delivering variable strokes per minute depending on its power. This pull and push motion is the one that is used to cut tree branches, PVC pipes, etc. You can switch between different projects by just changing the saw blade.
Sawzall is a registered trademark of a certain company that also makes reciprocating saws. The name of the company is Milwaukee based in Wisconsin USA. This company also has other reciprocating saw called Hackzall.
Can a reciprocating saw cut curves?
The answer is yes. However, the results will not be very precise and fine. To cut curves with reciprocating saw you need to use a thin long blade that is flexible.
Another way of making circular cuts is by using a template. Keeping the shoe of reciprocating saw pressed against the material and template.
Cordless vs corded Sawzall
Actually, there are two main types of Sawzall’s. Cordless are the ones that are battery powered whereas corded is the electric power. That means you will require a long cord to be able to work on tasks like cutting the fence.
Cordless Sawzall is gaining popularity especially among home users who do DIY tasks whereas Corded are more powerful and most preferred for heavy-duty jobs.
You enjoy several benefits once you purchase a corded recip saw. For example
Power
Corded hackzalls are more powerful compared with cordless which runs on a battery that needs to be charged every day. Corded recip saw motors are more powerful delivering more strokes per minute than their counterpart cordless saw. Using a cordless saw for heavy-duty jobs, you risk running out of charge and have uncompleted work at the end of the day.
Weight
Batteries are very heavy. Working with a cordless recip saw, which has a battery attached to it, can be a tedious task because the battery makes the saw very heavy. Corded saws are very lightweight and perfect for overhead tasks.
Cheap
A cordless saw requires more parts than a corded saw. You will be required to purchase the battery separately when you buy a cordless hackzall therefore corded recip saws are cheaper compared with cordless.
Versatility
Corded recip saws are more versatile. They are very powerful and they are capable of cutting any material by switching different blades and performing other different tasks. Therefore, a corded reciprocating saw is the best for someone who has no defined work.
Conclusion
It is my hope that this article about best reciprocating saws will help you in making the right decision of the type of tool you need. Remember there are two types of reciprocating saws i.e. corded and cordless. Cordless is less powerful compared with corded which use electric power. In this review, Dewalt dcs380b is the winner saw that is powerful and very versatile capable of cutting different materials for very long hours.
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