At some point, homeowners will decide to remodel or upgrade their homes. If you are going to remodel or revamp your space, one of the best tools I can recommend for your project is the reciprocating saw.
Table of Contents
- Best Cordless: DEWALT 20V MAX XR
- Best Ultra-Low Budget: BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX
- Best For Newbies: Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall
- Best For Pros: WORX WX550L 20V
- Best Corded: DEWALT 12-Amp
- Best Value for Money: BOSCH PS60-102 12V Max
- Honorable Mention: Ingersoll Rand 429 Heavy Duty Air
- Choosing The Best Budget Reciprocating Saw For Your Needs
- Conclusion
The reciprocating saw is a handheld saw that is strong enough to be used for demolition or remodeling your home, as it can easily cut through metal, PVC, wood, or even nails. This DIY investment can range from $45 to $700.
Best Cordless: DEWALT 20V MAX XR
- Up to 2.5x more runtime**
- Compact 14.5' length fits in between studs & in other tight spots
- Only 5 lbs. in weight (tool only)
- Keyless 4-Position Blade Clamp for quick & easy blade changes & cutting versatility
- 1-1/8' stroke length
The Dewalt 20V Max XR Reciprocating saw has a 2.5 more runtime than the competitors. It is 14.5 inches in length and fits easier into small spaces. The stroke length of this saw is 1-1/8 inches, with four keyless positions blade clamp for quick. This cordless tool is a compact reciprocating saw designed to fit into small spaces.
Product Details
- Power Source – Battery
- Blade martial – High-Speed Steel
- Variable speed – 2,900 SPM
- Weight – 5 lbs
- Battery Power – 20v maximum speed
- Warranty: 3-year limited warranty
Pros
- The compact saw design fits in between studs
- Powerful 20v Lithium-ion battery
- Lightweight
- Fast and efficient
- Cordless reciprocating saw
- Built-in Led light
- VersatileCON
- It vibrates a lot
- Issues with blade clamp not locking
My opinion: The Dewalt 20V Max RX Reciprocating saw has a long battery life before it needs recharging. It is very comfortable and easy to use for an extended period. I strongly recommend this to professional handypersons who know precisely how to manage such machines because it vibrates. Excellent for demolition projects.
Best Ultra-Low Budget: BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX
- Cordless reciprocating saw features tool-free blade change
- Pivoting shoe for increased control
- Variable speed trigger for increased control
- International products have separate terms, are sold from abroad and may differ from local products, including fit, age ratings, and language of product, labeling or instructions
The Black & Decker 20V Max Cordless reciprocating saw – is a cordless battery-powered saw that allows tool-free blade change. It has a variable speed trigger of up to 3,000 strokes per minute (spm). It is priced below $100 as low as $45, which is excellent value for your money.
Product Details
- Saw Blade material: High-speed steel
- Power source: battery and charger
- Special feature: Brake (safety feature)
- Weight: 4.5 lbs
- Battery power: 20v maximum speed
- Warranty: 2-year limited warranty
- Led light
Pros
- High-speed steel blade
- Cordless reciprocating saw with tool-free blade change
- Pivoting shoe which enhances stability
- Electric brake – a built-in stopping mechanism
- Versatile and lightweight
Cons
- Low battery life
- Faulty blade lock
My Opinion: This saw is excellent value for under $100. It is ideal for short projects as the battery life is low. One plus feature I love is the safety feature which controls speed and shuts off on its own, which is excellent for beginners.
Best For Newbies: Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall
- POWERSTATE Brushless Motor: Increased cutting speed and power throught the toughtest applications
- REDLINK Plus Intelligence: The most advanced system of cordless power tool electronics; provides optimized performance and overload protection using total sysem communication between tool, battery and...
- REDLITHIUM battery technology: Superior pack construction, electronics and performance deliver more work per charge and more work over pack life than any battery on the market
- 1-Handed design provides superior control and versatitily over standard reciprocating saws
- 7/8 in. stroke length removes more material with each stroke resulting in the faster cuts
The Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 Fuel Hackzall – has excellent cutting speed and power. It has a 7/8 stroke length, which can remove more material and ensure a faster cut. This Milwaukee also has a power state brushless motor which gives it speed.
Product Details
- Saw Blade material: High-speed steel
- Power source: battery
- Special feature: Brushless motor (increases speed)
- Weight: 4.3 lbs
- Battery power: 18v
- Warranty: None
- Led Light
Pros
- Easy to use
- High-speed motor
- Optimized performance and has overload protection
- One-handed design for better control
- 3x longer tool life
- Cordless reciprocating saw
- Pivoting shoe – for cleaner cuts
Cons
- Weak blade, according to project size
- Battery overheats
My Opinion: One of the main reasons I choose this as my top for beginners is low vibration; this is very important to maintain control and avoid injury. This cordless model is also effortless, compact, and lightweight—great price and quality for small jobs.
Best For Pros: WORX WX550L 20V
- 2 SAWS IN 1: Use the pivoting, push-button head to quickly switch between jig saw and reciprocating saw modes. The jig saw is ideal for curved cuts and intricate woodworking. The reciprocating saw...
- DO MORE IN LESS TIME: The speedy reciprocating saw uses orbital action that cuts quicker than back-and-forth strokes. With a 3/4" stroke length, orbital action handles 2X the material, so you can...
- CUTS THROUGH ALMOST ANYTHING: Meet the electric saw that does it all. Easily cut through wood, metal, ceramic, tile, plastic, PVC pipe, fiberglass, aluminum, copper, thin steel, tree limbs—and even...
- SAME BATTERY, EXPANDABLE POWER: This 2-in-1 jigsaw tool is Power Share compatible. The same battery powers over 140+ 20V, 40V, and 80V lifestyle, garden, and power tools in the Power Share family
- COMPACT AND LIGHTWEIGHT: Weighing in at only 4.2 lbs., this cordless saw is light enough to hold comfortably with one hand while you work. Compact design gives you access to tighter spaces
The 20V Power Share Axis cordless reciprocating and jig saw has two saws in one, with pivoting push buttons that quickly turn the jigsaw back into a reciprocating saw. It has a speed of 3,000 rpm and a 1/4-inch stroke length.
Product Details
- Blade material: High-speed steel
- Power source: Battery and charger
- Special feature: Brushless motor
- Weight: 4.36 lbs
- Battery power: 20v max
- Warranty: 30-day manufacturer limited
Pros
- Two saws in one
- Orbital cutting – for efficiency and precision cutting
- Compact and lightweight
- Dust blower
- Works with any brand of saw blades
- Cuts many materials (cutting wood)
Cons
- The battery does not last long
- Vibrates a lot
- Very loud
My Opinion: This two-in-one saw is durable, robust, and an excellent tool to add to any professional’s kit. I highly recommend it for anyone doing woodworking or cutting trees or branches around their home.
Best Corded: DEWALT 12-Amp
- Powerful 12 amp motor of the reciprocating saw is designed for heavy-duty applications
- 4-position blade clamp allows for flush cutting and increased versatility
- Keyless, lever-action blade clamp for quick and easy blade changes
- 0-2,900 SPM and 1-1/8-inch stroke length for fast and efficient cutting
- Variable speed trigger allows user to instantly control speed
The Dewalt compact 12V amp reciprocating saw has a keyless blade clamp for quick and easy blade change. It has variable speed from 0-3,000 spm and a 1-1/8 inch stroke length to ensure fast and efficient cutting.
Product Details
- Blade material: High-speed steel
- Power source: Electric cord reciprocating saw
- Special feature: Brushless motor
- Weight: 1 lb
- Battery power: N/A
- Warranty: 3-year limited warranty
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design.
- Lever-action reciprocating saw
- Powerful 12 amp motor for heavy-duty activity
- Variable speed control
Cons
- Limits movement because it is a corded reciprocating saw
- High vibration
- Loud
- May require an extension cord
Opinion: Powerful corded reciprocating saw with a brushless motor. The different positions of the blade clamp are unique, allowing for flush, precise cutting, and increased versatility. Excellent for cutting through metal, cutting wood, plastic, drywall, fiberglass, and other demolition work. Remember that it is corded, and you may require an extension cord sometimes, but if you need more power, this saw should make your list.
Best Value for Money: BOSCH PS60-102 12V Max
- COMPACT: The Bosch PS60-102 Reciprocating Saw is compact and lightweight making it ideal for working in tight spaces. Its superior ergonomics allow for both one-handed use and overhead use.
- ROBUST: The PS60-102 reciprocating saw is tough enough to cut different types of materials including hard materials like copper and conduit. The tool also featured a fast motor brake for more safe and...
- PROTECTION: The PS60-102 features a complete protection system including protection from overheating and overloading as well as under voltage protection. Electronic Cell Protection offers linger tool...
- DURABLE: With a durable design and a front rubber wrap, the reciprocating saw provides protection for internal parts from dust, debris, and water. Its bumper design minimizes vibration.
- CONVENIENT: The PS60-102 reciprocating saw comes complete with an LED light to effectively illuminate dark work spaces as well as a battery fuel gauge to indicate capacity level.Speed:0-3,600
The Bosch PS60-102 12V Max Pocket Reciprocating saw kit with a 2.5Ah battery – is relatively small and lightweight but robust. It has variable speeds from 0 to 3,000 strokes per minute (spm), and it also has a fuel gauge which aids in easier battery management for continuous work.
Product Details
- Blade material: High-speed steel
- Power source: Battery and charger
- Special feature: Brake (for safety)
- Weight: 5.59 lbs
- Battery power: 12v
- Warranty: Limited 1 year
Pros
- 12v max motor
- Trigger lock-off switch prevents an accident
- Tool-free blade change
- Battery fuel gauge – to monitor battery level
- Soft grip, with multiple grip positions
- Cordless reciprocating saw
Cons
- Low battery life
- The more intense the project, the faster the battery dies
- Slow cutting
My Opinion: I recommend this pocket-size Bosch reciprocating saw for every household to get a must-have tool. It is compact and lightweight with superior ergonomics, allowing users to use one hand and safely work overhead. It has a durable design, wrapped in rubber, protecting the internal parts from water, debris, and dust. For easy storage, it has a carry case.
Honorable Mention: Ingersoll Rand 429 Heavy Duty Air
- Lock-Out Lever: These saws contain a unique system that prevents accidental throttle operation by utilizing a spring-loaded latch that resets each time the lever is released
- Access: With an inline configuration, these saws allow for easier access in tight spaces, so even the toughest jobs can get done
- Reliability: With a guide that increases blade life, you can count on this tool to last
The Ingersoll Rand 429 Heavy Duty Air Reciprocating Saw is versatile and cuts flat, curved surfaces. It comes with a speed trigger of 10,000 spm, and the average air compression is 8 CFM. Complete with six high-speed steel cutting blades and two hex wrenches.
Product Details
- Blade material: High-speed steel
- Power source: Hand powered
- Special feature: Versatility (cuts any surface and most materials)
- Weight: 1.32 lbs
- Battery power: Not battery operated
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- Versatile – handles various surfaces and all types of material
- Extra safety lever
- Easy access in tight spaces
- Reduced vibration control
- Durable blades
- Cordless reciprocating saw
Cons
- Pricey for the size
- Slow motor start-up.
My Opinion: In my book, this is the best all-around reciprocating saw to manage any material your project entails. It comes with extra blades and two wrenches. The Ingersol Rand is top quality, reliable, durable, and performs well. A beginner can efficiently utilize this saw with low vibration and great additional safety features. I highly recommend it to professionals for small projects and to amateurs.
Choosing The Best Budget Reciprocating Saw For Your Needs
One of the first decisions you must make when choosing a reciprocating saw is what power source you want. Secondly, decide your price range; I suggest a price range between $110 and $300. A complete kit would be a better investment instead of just the bare reciprocating saw.
Further, help in deciding the power source is outlined below. Apart from the price some other things that you should pay close attention to when choosing a reciprocating saw
Power source
There are two types of power sources you can choose from, cordless and corded.
A cordless reciprocating saw is a saw that works with a battery or is hand powered. The benefit of this is that it is portable and can even operate outdoors without an electrical connection.
A corded saw works with an electrical connection and is great for prolonged projects. The downside is that it limits portability.
Speed and stroke length
A reciprocating saw cutting speed is based on the stroke length, and the stroke length is the distance the saw blade moves up and down.
In most cases, the speed of a reciprocating saw is measured by the strokes per minute (spm). The higher the spm, the faster the speed.
Reciprocating saw stroke lengths range from 1-1/4 to 1-1/8, with 1-1/8 inches being the longer stroke length and the most commonly bought.
The stroke speed ranges from 2700 to 3000 spm, and a rate of 2900 and above is ideal for most projects. It is wiser, however, to get a saw with variable speed because it allows for greater control and is more efficient.
Orbital action
The orbital action is simply the movement of the blade in the reciprocating saw. The more aggressive the cut, the more vibration, and sound the saw makes
Orbital action increases speed but reduces accuracy. Newbies should avoid purchasing saws that have orbital motion without vibration control to prevent potential accidents.
Other features
- Blade type – some reciprocating saws only work with their brand standard reciprocating saw blades and not blades universal. Carefully read the specifications as, at times, there are no blades included in the package, but they must be bought separately. The right blade is important for certain construction and demolition work.
- Size – Every saw has a different size. Large reciprocating saws are mainly used for heavy-duty demolition and large remodeling jobs. Some are compact and can easily be managed with one hand. Handheld saws are perfect for narrow, constrained spaces. Choose the size that best fits your needs.
- Vibration control – the more a reciprocating saw vibrates, the less control you have over the saw and the more possibility for error. The lower the vibration, the more control you have over the reciprocating saw and reduce muscle fatigue.
- Tool-less blade change feature – is a convenient feature, especially for newbies. It allows you to change blades without using any tools.
- Led light – is an excellent extra feature, especially when working in dark spaces.
Conclusion
In conclusion, because reciprocating saws can be dangerous and unpredictable, I strongly recommend looking for a saw with as many safety features as possible and one that is durable. Accidents can happen at any time to anyone, no matter how trained they may be. There is no perfect reciprocating saw, but with these tips choosing one of the best reciprocating saws would be less stressful.
All the best with your demolition or remodeling project, and I hope this article makes the selection process easier.