Best Reciprocating Saws

Review & Comparison, Last Update August 8, 2024
To make cutting jobs less tiresome and effort-taking we recommend using a reciprocating saw. Using a push-and-pull action, recip saws can cut through metal, fiberglass, masonry, wood and more without a glitch, offering you an enjoyable experience and making sure you do great work. ...Read more ...Read less
Advertiser Disclosure
BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
TYPE
STROKE LENGTH
SPEED
POWER SOURCE
USABILITY
SAFETY
BLADE CLAMP
WEIGHT
Warranty
 
PROS

The short 7/8-inch stroke gives you more precise control. With its relatively short stroke, the model enables you to access places that conventional rotary saws could never reach. Incorporating effective dampening tech, the saw massively reduces vibrations, meaning less user fatigue and increased comfort levels.

CONS

The battery and the charger are sold separately. 

OUR VERDICT

BLACK + DECKER BDCR20B is awesome. It is light and easy to handle. The saw fits into tight spaces. The ergonomic handle is really comfortable. The pivoting shoe and variable speed trigger make the model equally attractive to small-time DIYers and professional contractors.

detailed parameters
TYPE

Two-handed / cordless

STROKE LENGTH

0.875"

SPEED

0 - 3000 SPM

POWER SOURCE

20V max

USABILITY

Pivoting shoe, Variable speed trigger, Ergonomic handle with soft grip

SAFETY

Switch lock-off feature

BLADE CLAMP

Tool-less blade change

WEIGHT

3.8 lbs

Warranty

2 years limited

PROS

The RS7 comes with a tool-less blade change system, making blade installation and removal a completely swift and easy process. Dual LED lighting system allows you to cut in tight corners and low light scenarios.

CONS

Despite the compact design, the device may feel heavy to some users.

OUR VERDICT

This model from Bosch is a great choice for anyone looking to challenge a variety of sturdy surfaces with enough power and comfort to handle them all.

detailed parameters
TYPE

Two-handed / corded

STROKE LENGTH

1.125"

SPEED

0 - 2700 SPM

POWER SOURCE

11A

USABILITY

Dual LED lights, Saw hook, Variable speed trigger, Ergonomic handle with soft grip

SAFETY

Class II Construction

BLADE CLAMP

Tool-less blade change system

WEIGHT

11.1 lbs

Warranty

1 year

PROS
The internal dust blower system will remove debris. The 13-foot cord will let you work without extender. The easy accessible brushes and adjustable shoe simplify maintenance.
CONS

The saw vibration rate is rather high.

OUR VERDICT

The technologies featured in this saw allow you to accelerate cutting different materials that vary thickness-wise. This model is perfect for complex and time-consuming tasks. 

detailed parameters
TYPE
Two-handed / corded
STROKE LENGTH
1.125"
SPEED
0 - 2800 SPM
POWER SOURCE
11-Amp motor
USABILITY

Tool-less blade and shoe adjustment, Carrying case, Rubberized handle and left-hand grip, Adjustable shoe, Built-in dust blower

SAFETY
Class II Construction
BLADE CLAMP
Tool-less
WEIGHT
7.3 lbs
Warranty

1 year

PROS

The blade can be adjusted in 4 positions, so you are able to make an accurate cut even in hard-to-reach places. There is practically no play in the shaft, so you'll have no problems cutting that often necessary true line.

CONS
The saw might slip when handled with gloves on.
OUR VERDICT
This is an affordable saw for professional tasks. Thanks to the flush cutting option, this saw will do its best in the places where others are helpless.
detailed parameters
TYPE
Two-handed / corded
STROKE LENGTH
1.125"
SPEED
0 - 2800 SPM
POWER SOURCE
10-Amp motor
USABILITY

The left-hand grip is covered with an elastomer, 4-position blade adjustment

SAFETY
Class II Construction
BLADE CLAMP
Keyless lever-action
WEIGHT
7 lbs
Warranty

3 years

PROS

The model features a vibration counter balance design that minimizes the user's fatigue by reducing the power of vibrations. It also comes with a pivoting foot for additional stability when cutting through tough materials.

CONS

The model does not have any LED lights.

OUR VERDICT

The SKIL 9206-02 is a reciprocating saw that provides enough power and speed while being one of the cheapest options on the market. Despite its relatively compact design, this model will be able to cut through anything you throw its way.

detailed parameters
TYPE

Two-handed / corded

STROKE LENGTH

1.125"

SPEED

800 - 2700 SPM 

POWER SOURCE

7.5А

USABILITY

Heavy-duty metal gear housing, Counter balance for vibration control, Variable speed dial, Pivoting foot

SAFETY

Class II Construction

BLADE CLAMP

Tool-less blade change system

WEIGHT

7.2 lbs

Warranty

1 year

X

This site is a free online resource that strives to offer helpful content and comparison features to its visitors. Please be advised that the operator of this site accepts advertising compensation from certain companies that appear on the site, and such compensation impacts the location and order in which the companies (and/or their products) are presented, and in some cases may also impact the scoring that is assigned to them. The scoring that appears on this site is determined by the site operator in its sole discretion, and should NOT be relied upon for accuracy purposes. In fact, Company/product listings on this page DO NOT imply endorsement by the site operator. Except as expressly set forth in our Terms of Use, all representations and warranties regarding the information presented on this page are disclaimed. The information which appears on this site is subject to change at any time. More info

BLACK + DECKER BDCR20B

Unapologetically Mean

BLACK + DECKER BDCR20B is unapologetically mean. There are so many little details here that put the saw's competition to shame that you might start wondering why other reciprocating saws are necessary in the first place. The model offers enough cutting power, speed, and versatility to convince any serious contractor.

First and foremost, the saw is cordless. Generally speaking, these cordless models don't last that much. Meanwhile, the saw's 20V battery delivers as much as 30-percent more work output than standard cordless models. Moreover, the battery operates as efficiently even come extremely cold/hot temperatures conditions.

Of course, we don't have to mention how much more portable the model's cordless design makes it compared to the saw's corded competition. We will, however, mention that the battery and charger aren't supplied with the package, so you'll have to purchase them separately.

Review of BLACK + DECKER BDCR20B Reciprocating Saw

The Shortest Stroke

On the performance side, the saw's biggest selling point is probably the short 7/8-inch stroke. The reduced stroke length gives you more precise control that always comes in handy when delicate works are involved. With its relatively short stroke, the model enables you to access places that conventional rotary saws could never reach. 

At the same time, the saw is as lightweight as they come, barely reaching four pounds on the weight scale. Needless to say, the lightweight build makes the model considerably easier to maneuver around, especially when you have to work with the saw every single day. 

More often than not, these lightweight reciprocating saws generate excessive vibrations. That's not the case here though. Incorporating effective dampening tech, the model massively reduces vibrations, meaning less user fatigue and increased comfort levels. 

BLACK + DECKER BDCR20B Reciprocating Saw in the use

Adjust the Speed

Of course, you never want to overshoot the mark, especially when dealing with thinner woods. That's where the variable speed trigger comes in, providing precise cuts and letting you cut less aggressively at slower speeds. You can adjust the cutting speed anywhere between 0 and 3000 RPMs. These adjustments provide better control and make sure to prevent any damage to the workpiece.

All things considered, BLACK + DECKER BDCR20B is probably the best cordless reciprocating saw we've looked at. It is light and easy to handle. The saw fits into tight spaces. The ergonomic handle with its soft grip is comfortable but firm at the same time. The pivoting shoe and variable speed trigger make the model equally attractive to small-time DIYers and professional contractors. 

Detailed review of BLACK + DECKER BDCR20B Reciprocating Saw

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $49.87
Stock In stock
ASIN B00IP27DFA

 

Bosch RS7

Durable and Safe

Naturally, whenever you are in the market for a new product, what you seek first and foremost is a quality piece of technology, equipment or an item of clothing that will provide a certain kind of durability along with the aforementioned quality of the model. 

If you're interested in a new flat-screen TV, you would want it to have a considerable display size, a certain number of colors that would provide an exceptional image, and, obviously, you'd prefer it wouldn't break after a few months of being in use. 

If you're looking for a new gaming laptop, you would want that model to offer enough processing power to run all of your favorite games as well as provide you with years of entertainment instead of dying on you prematurely.

While the quality of any item is important, it would be an exaggeration to suggest that it is equally important throughout the whole spectrum of possible products. It's definitely an unpleasant experience if your cell phone or your laptop doesn't deliver the kind of quality it's meant to or stops working altogether, but it wouldn't exactly be the end of the world. 

However, if one of your home appliances or repair tools doesn't offer the kind of quality or durability it should, the potential repercussions could be much more severe and could even put your health and life in danger. 

That is the reason that the quality of household appliances and power tools is often much more important than the quality of your regular product and that is also the reason why most customers put their trust in a company like Bosch when it comes to their tools. Bosch is a German multinational engineering and electronics company that was founded over 130 years ago and is now the world's largest supplier of automotive components. So if you're looking for a reciprocating saw, the Bosch RS7 is exactly the model you should start with.
Review of Bosch RS7 1/8-Inch 11 Amp Reciprocating Saw

Cut Through Everything

The Bosch RS7 1-1/8-inch 11 Amp is a reciprocating saw that was produced and constructed in order to be able to handle cutting, sawing, and demolition of any kind of surface. The device's performance starts with an 11 Amp motor that can provide powerful cuts through the sturdiest construction materials. 

Thanks to the maximum number of 2700 spins per minute and a variable speed trigger, this device is able to deal with a large variety of applications that include cutting or sawing through plywood, drywall, cement board, laminates, metal piping, PVC, sheet metal, or rough lumber. The RS7 additionally comes with a tool-less blade change system, making blade installation and removal a completely swift and easy process.

Bosch RS7 1/8-Inch 11 Amp Reciprocating Saw in the use

Comfort and Efficiency

Of course, when it comes to reciprocating saws, power and speed are important aspects. But since you will have to be able to handle this kind of device, the design and construction aren't the kinds of things you can skimp on either. Luckily, the Bosch RS7 with just 11 pounds in weight features a compact and lightweight design that is capable of rivaling the device's power and speed. 

Thanks to the model's dual LED lighting system illuminating the cutting zone you will be able to achieve the safety and efficiency working in tight corners or in low light scenarios that you would expect from a regular environment. The product also comes with a soft, ergonomic handle that's designed to contribute support and comfort while providing a maximum grip and control during use. 

Although the Bosch RS7 is one of the best options on the market, if you find yourself dissatisfied with it, the company offers a 30-day money back guarantee and a 1-year manufacturer warranty.

Detailed review of Bosch RS7 1/8-Inch 11 Amp Reciprocating Saw

Additional Info

User Manual

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B001GIPG2C

 

Makita JR3050T

Distribute the Load

The Makita JR3050T is a two-handed corded reciprocating saw. The design of this saw allows you to distribute the load between your hands effectively and, consequently, improve the overall performance. Therefore, this saw will be able to work wonders towards letting you repair, build, or simply refresh different exterior/interior elements.

At the same time, the saw comes equipped with this particularly long 13-foot power cord, meaning that you'll be able to work far from the power socket without having to resort to using extenders. Since you won't be especially tied to the nearest AC socket, you'll be able to move around the space and have enough mobility freedom to comfortably execute and complete different tasks.

On the other hand, the saw comes supplied with this surprisingly sturdy plastic case that will pretty much ensure convenient storage and transportation.

Review of Makita JR3050T Versatile Design

Cut Any Material

The Makita JR3050T Reciprocating Saw starts with the pretty ridiculous 11-amp engine that will have no issues generating 2800 SPM. Performance-wise, that's nothing to complain about considering the product's price bracket. You'll be able to easily cut various materials, including but not limited to different wood types, metal, plastic, and concrete.

The stroke length is approximately 1.125", meaning that you'll be able to cut deep, saving time and reducing the effort required to finish the job. Moreover, you will be able to install 12-inch blades that will let you cut the thickest pieces with efficiency and ease to match.

The product's downsides are pretty much limited to the relatively high vibration rates that the saw's barely passable anti-vibration tech doesn't really manage to handle that well.

Makita JR3050T Versatile Design in the use

Blowing System

The handle and left-hand grip of this saw are covered with soft rubber. So, the saw won't slip away even when you have gloves on. The tool-less blade clamp will let you change the blade effortlessly - it is enough to press and turn the choke. Thanks to the adjustable shoe, you can choose the needed thickness and angle of cutting without replacing the blade.

What's more, the blowing system removes chips, hence you will be able to see the blade and check the cutting line. Moreover, this model is fitted with a lock button that keeps the trigger pressed when you need to cut for a long time. Class II Construction ensures safe use even under high humidity conditions.

In conclusion, the technologies featured in this saw allow you to accelerate cutting different materials that vary thickness-wise. This model is perfect for complex and time-consuming tasks.

Detailed review of Makita JR3050T Versatile Design
Last updated price $128.53
Stock In stock
ASIN B0009OR91U

VIDEO
How to cut metal with the Makita JR3050T recip saw
 

DEWALT DWE304

Work Long and Hard

The DEWALT DWE304 model falls under the corded two-handed reciprocating saw category. You can share the load between both hands, meaning that the saw doesn't necessarily strain the hands that are holding this power tool quite as much.

The relatively powerful 10-amp engine and the product's overall convenient design will give you the opportunity to work long and hard, getting the highest performance.

As far as we can tell, this reciprocating saw was designed and manufactured for professional carpenters, plumbers, builders, and different contractors first and foremost, meaning that this product will have no issues tackling heavy-duty home jobs/projects too.

It is as versatile as they come. The 4-position blade clamp enables flush cutting and increases the reciprocating saw's application range.

Review of DEWALT DWE304 Powerful motor

No Play in the Shaft

Again, the DEWALT DWE304 reciprocating saw is up there with the most powerful models within this price range. As we have already mentioned, it is equipped with this not necessarily modest 10-amp engine that will let you execute many different jobs.

The engine provides the cutting speed of up to 2800 SPM. Needless to say, this speed is enough to easily cut different wood types, glass fiber, rubber, metal, and various composites.

The stroke length of 1.125" will let you handle thick and tough pieces with ease, speed, and proficiency.

At the same time, the variable speed trigger will let you immediately access and control the saw's speed, letting you match that speed with the project's demands.

There is practically no play in the shaft, meaning that cutting that often necessary true line will prove as easy as reciprocating saws can make it.

DEWALT DWE304 Powerful motor in the use

Flash Cutting

As far as we're concerned though, the saw's biggest selling point is the adjustable blade position. Thanks to this very feature, you will be able to arrange the blade both horizontally and vertically. Moreover, you can direct the cutting edge upwards, downwards, left, or right. Hence, you can easily execute flush cutting that is necessary for various demanding jobs.

The left-hand grip incorporates these rubber inserts that reduce the vibrations' impact and let you hold the saw firmly, comfortably, and securely. Apart from that, the Class II Construction allows you to plug this saw even into an ungrounded power socket.

To sum up, this is an affordable saw for professional tasks. Thanks to the flush cutting option, this saw will do its best in the places where others are helpless.

Detailed review of DEWALT DWE304 Powerful motor
Last updated price $89.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B00ODN1CP2

VIDEO
DeWalt Reciprocating Saw Tutorial
 

SKIL 9206-02

Cut and Demolish

Taking matters into your own hands and dealing with whatever problems that may or may not arise in your household is definitely an attractive quality, but this kind of approach certainly isn't always the easiest path. Just as the number of potential items, appliances, consumer goods, and building products grows exponentially each and every year, so does the number of new and original power tools or different takes on the old technologies.

There's your array of power drills that start with the regular version and include impact drivers, stationary drill presses, and portable cordless drills. Those are generally used for the fast cutting of circular holes and their handheld versions can often be fitted with adapters so that they can drive screws, torque bolts, and even function as sanders.

Of course, you have your sanders too that are used to smooth a surface by moving another rough surface over the top of it.

There's also joiners which are the specifically designed woodworking tools that use a saw blade to cut a thin slot into a piece of wood.

Last but not least, you have your different variations of powered saws that are used to cut trees and trim branches.

However, the thing with most powered saws is that, for the most part, they are used to make precise cuts. So if you're in need of a device that can deliver some rough cuts and demolition work, you might want to look into a reciprocating saw. They deliver a lot of power to the blade, quickly slicing through materials such as metal, masonry, wood, plaster, fiberglass, stucco, composites, and drywall.

If any of these issues sound like something you will have to deal with in the near future, the SKIL 9206-02 is there to lend you a helping hand.

Review of SKIL 9206-02 Variable Speed Reciprocating Saw

Intuitive Design

Whether you are looking for a reciprocating saw for home use or need it for your workshop, whether it is a trimming task or a cutting job, the SKIL 9206-02 7.5-Amp Variable Speed Reciprocating Saw is the tool that will handle it all. 

The model is constructed of steel material that makes this device an indispensable piece of equipment for heavy-duty tasks. This saw isn't just a great choice for those that know this subject inside out but is also a great tool for rookies of this field. 

The package comes with a manual that explains everything you need in sufficiently plain language and the security instructions are printed on the bottom of the device in order to avoid the users endangering themselves. 

The blade changing system is incredibly intuitive and straightforward and the casing of the device is constructed of metal for increased durability of the tool.

SKIL 9206-02 Variable Speed Reciprocating Saw in the use

More Than Enough Power

The SKIL 7.5-Amp Variable Speed Reciprocating Saw is a kind of model that isn't going to leave you craving for more power thanks to the high-power, 7.5-amp motor. No matter what kind of surface you are facing or what kind of material it consists of, this saw can cut through all of them. 

In addition to that, the angle and the type of the cut are not a problem since this saw is capable of cutting it straight, bevel or however you want. 

The device's design also provides counterbalance that helps to control vibration and ensure precision while minimizing user fatigue. 

The variable speed dial allows you to adjust the speed of the cut according to your needs. Last but not least, this model offers a pivoting foot for additional stability when cutting through materials. 

Although it may seem small and overly compact, the SKIL 9206-02 is the perfect tool for anyone looking to cut through any kind of surface around the house.

Detailed review of SKIL 9206-02 Variable Speed Reciprocating Saw

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $70.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B008J1GNEO

 

What Is a Reciprocating Saw?

More likely than not, each of us has ever had the need to cut a pipe or make a hole. You might have tried to use a conventional saw, but the better option would be to grab a reciprocating saw. It operates similar to most other saws, yet, it’s smaller in size and more maneuverable. Its compact design and light weight allow for easy access to confined places where the other saws wouldn’t ever get to. Reciprocating saws are also safer. Combined with various saw tools, they ideally cut through different material. The reciprocating saw is often used for mounting/demounting windows and doors, replacing utility pipes, drilling holes in walls and wood. A reciprocating saw can become a great assistant for builders, carpenters, and those who constantly make repairs or rearrangements.

If you are looking for a tool to cut plane surfaces, you may take an interest in circular saws to cut straightly and jig saws to cut the curves.

Best Reciprocating Saws

What Features to Compare

If you need to choose the best reciprocating to suit your needs, you should pay attention to several important criteria.

Type

A few types of reciprocating saws are available on the market nowadays. When choosing a reciprocating saw, you should consider the type and design as saws are designed for gripping with one or two hands. If you need to cut curves or make minor repairs, you should consider one-handed models. They are very lightweight and simple, and their compact size allows for easy storing in the toolboxes. But, if you have a lot of work to do, it is better to choose a high-power model designed for both hands. This tool will allow you to cut through any materials and work continuously. Reciprocating saws may also be corded and cordless. Corded reciprocating saws are usually equipped with electric engines and are more powerful than cordless models fitted with batteries. The corded saws can be used for a considerable time since they are powered by electricity. On the contrary, the cordless models are becoming increasingly popular due to their maneuverability, a relatively long battery life, and quick charging time. Besides, when several batteries used, it's quite possible to work all day long.

Performance

Performance of reciprocating saws depends on several features. The power of a reciprocating saw plays an important role as it affects functionality and cutting time. As regards the cordless models, you need to consider the battery voltage and capacity. The higher the voltage is, the higher the performance is. A high battery capacity will provide long work on a single charge. The speed is another parameter significant for the performance. The more cutting strokes per minute the blade makes, the tougher materials it's able to cut through. Furthermore, the speed also affects the cutting time. Besides, you should pay attention to the speed adjustability as different materials require different speeds. The stroke length of a reciprocating saw determines its purpose. The longer this length is, the longer blade can be used and, hence, the thicker things you can cut. If you are going to cut support beams, metal channels, and thick door posts, it’s better to pick the model with the stroke length over 1". However, the stroke length below 1" will suit for cutting broads and thin branches of trees.

Safety and usability

Safety and usability of a reciprocating saw are also the factors of no smaller account. The double insulation of the current-carrying leads reduces the risk of electric shock and extends the service life of a saw. In addition, this feature allows you to plug a saw in an ungrounded power socket and, as a result, you may work outdoors as long as you wish. If you are keen on safety, you will be pleased to know that saws are fitted with trigger locks that don't let them start without you wanting it. As for the usability, here you should consider the mechanism of automatic blade replacement. This feature will greatly facilitate replacement of the blades. Moreover, the blade position adjustment will let you work in hard-to-reach places. Another beneficial feature - an adjustable shoe provides comfort when you deal with curved surfaces. The anti-vibration mechanism reduces the strain on your hands and rubberized handles provide a reliable grip. Regarding modern technologies, LED lighting will illuminate the cutting line so as you see this line clearly and cut more precisely. Finally, you shouldn't charge off personal protective equipment.

How to:

Other reviews
Comments
0 Comments

Your comment was successfully sent

Error! Please try again later