10 Best Reciprocating Saws – Our Top Picks and Reviews

There are several types of saws available in the market, such as jigsaw, circular saw, table saw, miter saw, and the likes. But does it make you wonder about the need for these various reciprocating saws? If yes, this article is here to answer all your questions along with recommendations for which is the best reciprocating saw.

A reciprocating saw is a handheld, machine-powered, heavy-duty saw mostly preferred for remodeling, rescue, pruning, construction, plumbing, electrical, and demolition work. The unique bimetallic blades of this saw operate in the push & pull motion and separate it from other variants.

Furthermore, you can use a reciprocating saw to cut and rip out different types of material like wood, ceramic, cast iron, plastic, and many more. Whether you are going for some daunting remodeling work or simple construction tasks, a reciprocating saw can cut down your efforts quickly in clean slices through any frame, wall, or fixing you throw at it.

But as mentioned earlier, there are different types of reciprocating saws meant for different purposes. Let’s find out more on this based on the following reciprocating saw review. Here’s a definitive guide to help you select the best saw for your next job site.

Top 10 Best Reciprocating Saws

• Best Compact: DEWALT DCS367B Reciprocating Saw
  “Compact and equipped with 2.5 times runtime, Keyless 4-position blade clamp, Bright LED light.”
• Best Cordless: BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C Reciprocating Saw
  “With amazing features such as tool-free blade change, High-capacity, Lithium-ion battery.”
• Best for Pruning: Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall
  “The Milwaukee comes with a brushless motor, REDLINK Plus Intelligence, 7/8 in. stroke length.”
• Best for DIY: PORTER-CABLE PCC670B Reciprocating Saw
  “An excellent device for all your DIY projects, Comes with 3000 SPM, A tool-free blade change”
• Best for Demolition: Hammerhead HCRS201 Cordless Reciprocating Saw
  “Comes with a 7/8″ stroke length, Over 3000 SPM.”
• Best Corded: Skil 9206-02 Reciprocating Saw
  “Equipped with a 7.5-amp motor, Certified frustration-free, Counterbalance, Tool-free blade change.”
• Best Powered: Makita XRJ05T Cordless Reciprocating Saw
  “A refined crank mechanism, LED lights with pre glow and afterglow.”
• Best Portability: GALAX PRO Reciprocating Saw
  “Euipped with amazing features such as variable speed trigger, Toolless blade change, Fast charger”
• Best for Tight Space: CRAFTSMAN CMCS350B Reciprocating Saw
  “With a 6.5-inches stroke length and 2000 strokes per minute, Steal at its price.”
• Best for Wood: PowerSmart Reciprocating Saw
  “Smart, Powerful, and Easy to use”

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1) DEWALT DCS367B

The DEWALT DCS367B 20V MAX XR Reciprocating Saw is a compact & cordless reciprocating saw that has 2.5 times more runtime than other saws. It can easily reach into tight spaces for an ultimate finish whether you are cutting or slicing.

If you are looking for a compact and cordless reciprocating saw, this model from DEWALT will surely impress you with its specifications. Besides, the brand ensures the mandatory safety standards for the operator.

Features and Benefits

The most common issue with other reciprocating saws is the difficulty in changing blades. To counter it, DEWALT has provided a keyless 4-position blade clamp that simplifies the process and improves cutting versatility. Since a higher SPM translates to better accuracy and precision while cutting or slicing, the brand equips its saw with a variable speed trigger that delivers up to 2,900 SPM.

There is also a bright LED light attached to this saw to help you work effectively in the dark. Last but not least, this is the best reciprocating saw that weighs under 5 pounds.

Verdict

The DEWALT 20V Max XR Reciprocating Saw is available at a nominal price. It’s more compact, lightweight, and high-speed compared to other contemporary models. Hence, this particular model is worth considering.

Read Full Review: Dewalt DCS367B Reciprocating Saw Review

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2) BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C

This BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C Reciprocating Saw is a high-performance, air-powered saw. It houses a massive capacity lithium-ion battery with a complimentary fast charger that recharges the battery in under an hour. This cordless reciprocating saw is a testimony to the reliability that BLACK+DECKER holds as a brand operating in the industry for several years.

Regarded as one of the best cordless reciprocating saws for beginners, it comes with a unique tool-free blade change feature. Hence, beginners can easily change blades depending on the nature of their work.

Features and Benefits

The saw comes with a lithium-ion battery and a fast charger that seamlessly powers the saw’s 24 teeth for best results. As this reciprocating saw is air-powered, you need not worry about the charge remaining in the saw.

You also get a decent 2-year warranty on the product. If you want more speed while doing difficult jobs like cutting and ripping through hard materials, its variable speed trigger will help you with exactly that.

Verdict

This particular reciprocating saw from DEWALT is the highest-selling model due to its blade change feature and variable speed trigger that provides you with tremendous speed and power depending upon your application or intended use. If you are a beginner and looking for a compact and lightweight option, add this to your wishlist.

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3) Milwaukee 2719-20 M18

The Milwaukee FUEL Hackzall is a lightweight, compact, and single handheld saw suitable for pruning. After DEWALT, Milwaukee is another brand that offers products that will surely meet or exceed your expectations. It is hands down the best to get your hands on.

For quick and hassle-free pruning at home, Milwaukee’s FUEL Hackzall is definitely the top choice. In fact, it is regarded as the best saw for pruning and other heavy-duty applications. It provides you with superior control and versatility over any standard reciprocating saw.

Features and Benefits

This Milwaukee reciprocating saw houses the POWERSTATE brushless motor, which is known for its tremendous cutting speed and power irrespective of the material’s strength. Furthermore, the product comes with the latest REDLINK Plus Intelligence feature for optimized performance.

Unlike the standard stroke length, you get a better and longer 7/8 in. stroke length with this model. This facilitates the removal of more material with each stroke resulting in faster cuts and slices. Besides, this model has three times more life and runtime than the other models.

Verdict

Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall is a power-packed reciprocating saw consisting of an improved and optimized design for better performance. If you are looking for a pruning-friendly saw, nothing can beat this. Moreover, this model has the life and runtime of the other models in the market thrice.

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4) PORTER-CABLE PCC670B

The PORTER-CABLE PCC670B 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw is popular for its single handheld design, tool-free blade change mechanism, and ability to easily reach tight spaces. It produces 3000 strokes per minute.

Are you a first-time reciprocating saw user? Do you face challenges with changing the saw blade? If the answers are yes, you must not have tried the PORTER-CABLE reciprocating saw.

Features and Benefits

While most reciprocating saws are provided with a stroke length of under 1-inch, the PORTER-CABLE reciprocating saw comes with a 1-inch stroke length. So, this saw is suitable for high-performance drivetrains. Not to forget, it’s 0-3,000 SPM for aggressive cutting speed.

To enable easy blade changes, you can take advantage of the tool-free blade release feature. For more control and precision over cutting through a variety of materials, you also get a variable speed trigger. Thanks to the pivoting shoe, the saw maintains constant contact with the material.

Verdict

One of the most common issues with huge reciprocating saws is their inability to reach into tight spaces. This Reciprocating saw nullifies the above issue, Measuring just 14.5-inch in length.

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5) Hammerhead HCRS201

If there is one reliable reciprocating saw that can rip through some of the toughest materials like wood and stone, it is the Hammerhead HCRS201 20V cordless reciprocating saw. With this saw in hand, you can work with tough materials such as fiberglass, PVC, metal, and masonry.

It has a ⅞” stroke length and produces more than 3000 SPM. It is cordless with an advanced design for a firm grip. If you regularly deal with demolition or remodeling work, you should get yourself this powerful saw from Hammerhead. If you are looking for the best saw, this product is your perfect pick.

Features and Benefits

If you don’t want to encounter difficulties while changing blades for this saw, you can be assured of its toolless and easy blade change feature that makes the process quick and seamless. Unlike other saws in the market, this model has an adjustable pivoting foot too.

It enables greater control of depth and more efficient use of the blades. Since a reciprocating saw is a heavy-duty and multifunctional tool capable of handling different projects simultaneously, the manufacturers have provided this product with a variable speed trigger and bevel adjustments.

Verdict

Power-packed with features like adjustable pivoting feet, ⅞” stroke length, variable speed trigger, and tool-free blade change mechanism, the Hammerhead 20V cordless reciprocating saw should be on top of your wishlist.

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6) Skil 9206-02

Skil 9206-02 7.5-Amp Variable Speed Reciprocating Saw is a corded reciprocating saw known for its ruggedness and durability. Its powerful and long-lasting 7.5-amp motor ensures uninterrupted service for longer durations.

If you are looking for a corded reciprocating saw, consider this model from Skil. As it comes with a cord, this saw is much simpler to use, carry, and store. Additionally, you get all the necessary features of a reciprocating saw without spending anything extra.

Features and Benefits

This saw has the tool-free blade change feature to enable easy blade changes. There is also heavy-duty metal gear that makes the saw a certified frustration-free power tool. While dealing with tough materials such as stones or metals, moderate to strong vibrations are common with this saw. However, such vibrations are now a thing of the past with counterbalance.

Verdict

If you have a tight budget and yet don’t want to compromise on the functionality aspect, the Skil 9206-02 7.5-amp reciprocating saw is what you should purchase. For such a nominal budget, you would get everything a high-end saw is known for in this Skil model.

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7) Makita XRJ05T

Makita XRJ05T 18V LXT Cordless Saw is suitable for late working hours. It consists of LED lights with pre glow and afterglow that aids you while working in the dark. This particular saw also features a refined crank mechanism designed to minimize blade deflection and vibrations.

Weighing just 19 pounds, the Makita cordless Sawzall saw is another air-powered saw with a decent stroke length and SPM.

Features and Benefits

The Makita cordless reciprocating saw comes with a variable 2-speed brushless motor that delivers 0-2300 strokes per minute at low speed and 0-3000 strokes per minute at high speed. With a stroke length of 1-¼ inches, you get unmatched cutting and slicing efficiency.

For avoiding vibrations, the saw also has a refined crank mechanism. Furthermore, there is a retractable tool hook to securely hold the tool when not in use.

Verdict

With useful components such as a retractable tool hook, refined crank mechanism, and a 2-speed brushless motor, you will certainly witness a change in your work efficiency with this reciprocating saw.

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8) GALAX PRO Reciprocating Saw

GALAX PRO Reciprocating Saw runs on an ordinary DC power source. Its variable speed trigger provides it with immense power and speed to cut through wood, pipe, or metal. Moreover, you can easily swap blades without using any external tool.

This saw from GALAX PRO is by far the most advanced and result-oriented reciprocating saw loaded with features such as fast charging and variable speed. The best thing about this model is that it is neither battery-powered nor air-powered. The GALAX PRO reciprocating saw runs on the ordinary DC power source.

Features and Benefits

The GALAX PRO reciprocating saw features a high-voltage 20V battery. You also get a complimentary fast charger in the kit that quickly charges the 2Ah battery in under an hour. In addition, this model comes with a lock-off button that prevents accidental opening of the machine by kids.

For minimizing vibrations, the saw is equipped with a soft rubber handle. What’s more, its soft-grip silicone handle is suitable for right and left-handed use. Not to mention the lever-actuated blade changing mechanism that lets you swap blades without using any external tool.

Verdict

If you are looking for an advanced and powerful reciprocating saw, the GALAXY PRO saw might complete your search. It is loaded with tons of useful features like a fast charger, variable speed trigger, lever-actuated blade changing mechanism, and lock-off button, to name a few. What more can you ask for from a saw?

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9) CRAFTSMAN CMCS350B

CRAFTSMAN CMCS350B V20 Reciprocating Saw is a lightweight reciprocating saw that has a decent 6.5-inches stroke length and over 2000 strokes per minute. It can reach tight spots in case of jobs such as demolition, rescue, remodeling, and the likes.

Weighing under 25 pounds, the CRAFTSMAN V20 reciprocating saw is a dual-mode operating saw that runs on both AC and DC.

Features and Benefits

This CRAFTSMAN saw it is a part of the V20 cordless system that is specifically designed for tight spaces due to its compact size. The best part about the saw is its high-performance motor. It produces enough speed for completing a range of heavy-duty applications from demolition to remodeling.

Much to your pleasant surprise, you also get a complimentary set of 33 impact-ready bits, 18 tooth carbide circular saw blades and 53 other bits.

Verdict

The CRAFTSMAN V20 reciprocating saw is a one-of-a-kind saw that is suitable for any heavy-duty task, known for its compact size. Besides, if your work requires extensive use of impact-ready bits, you should get yourself this masterpiece.

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10) PowerSmart Reciprocating Saw

PowerSmart Reciprocating Saw has a 20V lithium-ion battery that powers it against materials such as wood, pallets, PVC pipe, plastic, and cast iron pipe. Moreover, it has a unique lock-off button that prevents accidental opening of the machine by kids.

This reciprocating saw by PowerSmart is a power saw known for its high performance under extreme working conditions due to its sturdy build quality. Not only is this cordless saw easy to use and carry between job sites, but it is also a great tool to own if you wish to minimize efforts and job completion time.

Features and Benefits

This power saw is fitted with a 20V Li-ion battery and also comes with a tool-free blade changing mechanism. This means you can swiftly swap the blades depending on your requirements. With a variable speed trigger, you can get up to 3000 SPM for high accuracy and precision while cutting. The brand also provides a complimentary fast charger that recharges the battery in less than an hour.

Verdict

In this package, you get five blades, a fast charger, and the cordless PowerSmart reciprocating saw. Well, you can’t deny that a saw with the aforementioned features is hard to get for such nominal pricing.

If you would like to get reviews of other power tools, kindly visit our Guide page.

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Reciprocating Saw Buying Guide

Also known as a recip saw, saber saw, and Sawzall saw, a reciprocating saw is a pro tool that has tons of applications, as discussed above. If you are planning to purchase one, remember that it can be a complicated process if you are unaware of the various know-how of the saw.

For example, you must have an idea of the materials compatible with the blade, variable speed, battery life, intended use, and other aspects as such. Most importantly, you should be aware of the different types of reciprocating saws available in the market. This will help you pick the right type for yourself. To know more, check out the details as discussed below.

Corded Reciprocating Saw

Just like any other saw, a reciprocating saw comes in the traditional corded option. The two main benefits of the corded version are infinite runtime and lower costs than the cordless variant. Furthermore, a corded reciprocating saw is much lighter and heavy-duty compared to its cordless version, as the latter comes with massive batteries.

Due to its simple design, a corded reciprocating saw is easier to operate even by newbies. Hence, if you don’t want to encounter issues such as poor battery health or insufficient charge while working, get yourself a corded saw.

Cordless Reciprocating Saw

Designed for individuals who hate managing a heavy cord while working, a cordless reciprocating saw lacks the conventional cord and has tons of other built-in features. However, remember that a cordless saw is usually costly and difficult to use due to the overuse of technology and other features.

If you are a beginner with a reciprocating saw, it is recommended you go through the functions of the cordless saw before purchasing one. It requires a massive battery or two to work uninterrupted.

Compact/one-handed Reciprocating Saw

While there are different sizes of reciprocating saws available depending on their intended use, you should go with the compact or one-handed size if you are an electrician or plumber whose main jobs include cutting EMT, copper pipe or PVC. A compact saw is lightweight, easy to use, and carry between job sites than larger models.

These are the three types of reciprocating saws you should keep in mind while purchasing one. To help you further, we are also bringing you a definitive guide with all the necessary information required to purchase the best reciprocating saw. Let’s dive right in then!

What to Look for while Buying a Reciprocating Saw?

Look out for the following aspects and features if you’re planning to get yourself a good-quality reciprocating saw.

Intended Use

The main job of a reciprocating saw is demolition, which means it is used for removing material rather than installing it. For example, it is used to remove old wooden windows to install new ones in their place. A reciprocating saw is also suitable for cutting down old PVC pipes.

In a nutshell, a reciprocating saw is meant for rough cutting tasks rather than light-duty tasks or precision cuts. For the latter, you can consider any circular saw, table saw, or chop saw.

Orbital Action

By orbital action, we mean a slight elliptical pattern. That is, some reciprocating saws have blades that move in multiple directions than their standard push-pull motion. Though orbital action increases the cutting speed of the blades, it decreases the accuracy.

Blade Type

As the cutting material varies, so does the blade type. A reciprocating saw blade can be differentiated based on length, type, and accuracy. Here are the three most preferred saw blade types.

Wood

A wooden blade is used for cutting through plywood, dimensional lumber, trees, and similar objects. A standard wooden reciprocating saw blade features 5 and 10 teeth per inch (TPI). The higher the TPI, the better the accuracy and vice-versa.

Metal

Metal saw blades have more teeth per inch. A standard blade has 10 to 24 TPI that lets it rip through nails, pipes, and metal conduit.

Demolition

A reciprocating saw blade meant for demolition is slightly thicker than the other variants as it is designed for heavy-duty construction materials. A standard demolition blade has 6-11 teeth per inch arranged in a single row or two, i.e., inner half and outer half.

Vibration Control

A reciprocating saw is usually heavy and needs to be used for longer durations. In such scenarios, it leads to hand, wrist, and arm fatigue due to the continuous vibration it produces. Some saws feature vibration control mechanisms, To counter these issues. Though such saws cost more than usual, they are the best options for those who regularly work with a reciprocating saw.

Battery Life

Last but not least, you must be particular about the battery life of the saw, especially if it is a cordless model. Most saws have lithium-ion batteries that power the product for 20 – 60 minutes, depending on the intensity of the work.

Furthermore, a battery needs to be replaced every three to five years. Hence, note the life and capacity of the battery of the saw.

Frequently Asked Questions

1) What are reciprocating saws used for?

A reciprocating saw is mostly preferred for rescue, remodeling, pruning, construction, plumbing, and electrical, and demolition work.

2) Can a reciprocating saw cut a 4×4?

Yes, a reciprocating saw can easily cut a 4×4.

3) Can a reciprocating saw cut straight?

Although a reciprocating saw can cut straight, its accuracy may or may not be achieved.

4) Can a reciprocating saw cut metal?

Yes, a reciprocating saw with metal blades can cut through all metals.

5) What is the difference between a jigsaw and a reciprocating saw?

While a jigsaw is used for cutting material at different angles, a reciprocating saw can only cut through material in a straight direction. That is, angled cuts are not possible with a reciprocating saw.