Best Reciprocating Saw: Our Reviews & Buying Guide

A good reciprocating saw can be an invaluable tool for a number of different tasks. They are often used in construction, demolition and remodelling. Selecting the best tool can be a daunting task with so many different models available.

We will take a look at six of the best saws on the market. We will also cover what to look for when buying a saw and some of the frequently-asked questions pertaining to reciprocating saws. Last of all, we will cover some of the best brands in the business.

1 – Bosch PSA 700 E Sabre Saw
2 – BLACK & DECKER KS890ECN Scorpion Saw
3 – Dewalt DWE305PK-GB 240 V Reciprocating Saw

Cordless

1 – Makita DJR186Z Cordless Reciprocating Saw
2 – Ryobi RRS1801M ONE+ Reciprocating Saw, 18 V
3 – Bosch PSA 18 LI Cordless Sabre Saw

Our selection of the best reciprocating saws available in the market in 2017!

1 - Bosch PSA 700 E Sabre Saw

Bosch PSA 700 E Sabre Saw
The Rough-Cut Specialist

The PSA 700 E is perfect for making initial rough cuts. This saw is powerful and can be used with almost any type of material. If you need to cut wood, plastic or metal, the PSA 700 E can get the job done. This corded saw features a 710 W motor with enough power to tackle most jobs. Changing blades is quick, safe and easy. A wide choice of blade types makes for a very versatile tool. All standard saw blades fit this Bosch model. It can take flexible, bi-metal blades, metal-cutting blades, wood-cutting blades and more. The saw also features an electronic speed control. This provides smooth acceleration and variable speed settings. The bow-shaped handle offers a soft, ergonomic grip. This model is comfortable to handle and safe to use.

2 - BLACK & DECKER KS890ECN Scorpion Saw

BLACK & DECKER KS890ECN Scorpion Saw
Multi-Function Power Saw

This 400W saw from Black and Decker does double duty as a jigsaw and a handsaw. The saw is powerful enough to handle most materials. This includes; wood, plastics and metals. Multiple cutting modes allow for straight-line or curved cuts. The unit includes three separate blades. The construction of this tool is lightweight but sturdy. The weight makes it easier to use than some of the competitive models. Changing the blades is fast and easy with the push-button system that requires no extra tools. It features variable-speed controls that are accessed right at your finger tips. It also offers safety features such as a switch lock that prevent any accidental starting of the saw. The KS890ECN Scorpion Saw is a time saver that can get most jobs done quickly and safely.

3 - Dewalt DWE305PK-GB 240 V Reciprocating Saw

Dewalt DWE305PK-GB 240 V Reciprocating Saw
The Heavy Duty Saw

This saw model has a powerful 1100W motor that is strong enough to tackle the toughest jobs. This is one of the most powerful saws on the market, making it perfect for heavy-duty jobs such as construction, HVAC, plumbing and more. Changing blades is easily accomplished with the patented, lever-action blade clamp. The stroke length is 29mm, providing for great performance. Coming in at around 3.5 Kilograms, this model is light, compact and easy to handle. It’s good for both rough cutting through harder materials and for more detailed work. The Dewalt DWE305PK-GB also comes with a sturdy carrying case.

The Best Cordless Reciprocating Saws

1 - Makita DJR186Z Cordless Reciprocating Saw

Makita DJR186Z Cordless Reciprocating Saw
A Saw for Extreme Conditions

This model runs off of a 18V li-ion battery. This should provide plenty of power for hours of work. The Makita brand uses proprietary XPT technology to prevent debris from getting into the tool. Cordless saws are a good choice for remote locations and this model is built to stand up to extreme conditions. This is a well-designed tool with rubber grips that do a good job absorbing the vibrations while using the saw. All controls are larger and intuitive to use. The handle is very ergonomic and comfortable to use. This model has a 32 mm stroke length and a fixed show that helps with stability during heavy use. The DJR186Z model contains the main tool only. The battery, charger and blades must be purchased separately.

2 - Ryobi RRS1801M ONE+ Reciprocating Saw, 18 V

Ryobi RRS1801M ONE+ Reciprocating Saw, 18 V
A Comfortable to Use Saw

This model by Ryobi uses industry-leading technology to cut down on the vibrations a normal reciprocating saw produces. This also makes it the ideal tool for more fine cutting work. The saw is just the base model and does not include the battery or charger. It does, however, come with a wide variety of different blades. It even includes a number of sanding accessories, making the tool very versatile. It is powerful enough to work on most materials such as wood, branches, metal, pipes, plastic and more. The front shoe can be adjusted to allow for the use of the entire blade. This can help to preserve your different blades in the long run. All Ryobi ONE+ batteries are compatible with this saw.

3 - Bosch PSA 18 LI Cordless Sabre Saw

Bosch PSA 18 LI Cordless Sabre Saw
The Quick-Cut Solution

This is a great tool to use for all of your fast-cutting needs. The saw is light, compact and easily transported, thanks to its cordless design. It is powered with lithium-ion batteries. There is no self-discharge, so the saw will always be ready when you need it. This tool is best used when making fast cuts in materials such as pipes, tree branches and deck materials. Blade changes are quickly made with Bosch’s fast and easy-to-use system. The tool comes with one blade, but batteries and chargers must be purchased separately. Bosch offers an excellent warranty that covers their saws for a period of 2 years. This can be extended to 3 years if you choose to register your product.

Reciprocating Saw Buyers Guide

Reciprocating saws are very versatile tools. They can cut through a variety of materials from metal, drywall and stucco to wood and plastics. Their small size makes them ideal for construction or demolition work anywhere you would need to take them. They are excellent for pruning trees, cutting pipes and for remodeling projects. There are a some differences between saw types and an endless number of brands and models for one to choose from. With so many options, it can be difficult to make the right choice.

Before buying a saw, ask yourself what materials you will be cutting most often. Think about the places you will use the saw. Will you have outlets available? How long will you be using the saw while on the job? The type of materials you cut dictate how powerful the saw needs to be. Where you use it will dictate whether you should purchase a powered or cordless model. How long you will typically use the saw should tell you what kind of battery life to look for when comparing models. All of these factors and more can help you to decide which model is the right one for you. They can also help you to think about what type of blades and accessories you may need.

Choosing a corded or cordless model will usually be your first decision. Corded models can be more powerful and be used with no time constraints. They also tend to be lighter without the extra weight of a battery. Cordless models may be less powerful, but can be used anywhere. This is handy for use on sites where there is no access to power outlets. Or just for spaces and work where a cord may get in your way.

Next, you need to decide if you really need a straight-cut saw or an orbital saw. Straight cut saws move back and forth and are good for dense materials like metal and for slower cuts. Orbital saws are ideal for fast cutting of material where you don’t have to be too exact with your cuts. You should also think about the type of blades you will need. Many saws come with one blade, while others come with a variety. Blades with smaller teeth are best for smooth cuts and detailed work, while bigger teeth may be best for fast rough cuts through material.

Some things to look for on saw models are size, weight, variable speed, blade-change method and stroke length. The size and weight will dictate how portable and easy to use the model is. Variable speed functions will allow you more versatility. How the blades are changed can mean the difference between quickly swapping blades and spending tons of time using various tools to do the swap. This can eat into your work time and productivity. The stroke length is an indication of how fast your saw cuts. Longer lengths mean faster cutting while short lengths mean the opposite.

A few more things to look for are the handle ergonomics, features that reduce vibrations and an adjustable show. A soft grip that fits your hand will go a long way towards making your work easier. It can also reduce the vibrations felt while working. Other features and methods to reduce vibrations are often provided on higher-end models. The shoe is a part of the saw. Having an adjustable show allows for more versatility.

Last, of all, you must consider your budget. While saving money is important, it often pays, in the long run, to stick with reliable brands and quality tools. A good tool will last longer and help you to complete work quicker and more efficiently. For a good idea of what brands to check out, take a look at our top brands list at the end of this article.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions when it comes to reciprocating saws.

Question: Should I get a cordless or a corded saw?
This depends on your intended use. Corded saws are more powerful while cordless saws are more manoeuvrable.

Question: What types of material can be cut with my saw?
This depends on your specific model. Reciprocating saws, in general, can be used to cut plastics, wood, drywall, tree branches, metal, pipes and more. Consult your owner’s manual or the company website if you’re not sure about a specific material.

Question: Why do I need a reciprocating saw when I have so many other tools?
This type of saw is perfect for rough cuts and for quickly removing materials. If you need to trim some branches, cut pipes or take out an entire wall, this type of tool will make the job quick and easy.

Question: Can I make cuts with the saw upside down?
With most models this is possible. As usual, consult your manual or ask the manufacturer to be safe. Most models allow you to insert the blade upside down so that you can maintain a normal and solid grip on the handle. This would be the safest way to make that type of a cut.

Question: How long will a cordless saw run before it needs to be recharged?
This depends on the model, the type of batteries, the speed you use it at and the material you are cutting. All of the models on our list will last for several hours of work, even on the toughest jobs.

Top Brands

The following list will cover the top brands in the business. If you are shopping for a new reciprocating saw, then you can’t go wrong by choosing a model from one of these companies. Each company has been in the business of building tools for a long while. They each have good reputations for quality and customer service. They stand behind their products with good warranties and customer-oriented policies. The list is in no particular order when it comes to who is best. These are just five of the top brands in general when it comes to reciprocating saws.

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