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Do you know why you need a reciprocating saw in a tool kit?
Of course, you do, and we’ll tell you the reasons. Your works determine the need to use a typical saw.
For example, you use a jigsaw for pruning and shaping cuts, a circular saw for long and clean cuts, and miter saw for accurate bevel and miter cuts.
And you buy a reciprocating saw adding to your kit for renovation, demolition, and more jobs.
This saw can help you cut through the materials that other saws cannot perform, and it can also be used in the small nooks.
However, among many models, types, and prices in the market, which one is suitable for you?
All you need to do is to read our best reciprocating saw reviews and detailed shopping guides to quickly choose the product.
Ready? Let’s explore everything now.
Table of Contents
- What Is Reciprocating Saw ( Sawzall )?
- How To Choose The Best Reciprocating Saw?
- Best Reciprocating Saw Reviews 2024
- Best Reciprocating Saw Under $100
- 1 – PORTER-CABLE PCC670B 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw – High Performance Drivetrain
- 2 – BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C Reciprocating Saw – Best Budget
- 3 – WORX WX550L 20V AXIS 2-in-1 Reciprocating Saw and Jigsaw – 2 Great Saws In 1 Handy Tool
- 4 – PORTER-CABLE PC85TRSOK Reciprocating Saw – Efficient Crank Arm Mechanism
- 5 – SKILSAW SPT44A-00 13 Amp Reciprocating Saw – Buzzkill Technology
- Best Reciprocating Saw Under $200
- Best Reciprocating Saw Around $300
- Best Reciprocating Saw Under $100
What Is Reciprocating Saw ( Sawzall )?
Although Sawzall is a brand name, it becomes a generic term for a reciprocating saw because this saw actually “saws all.” With the right blade and capacity, you can cut through metal plates, wood, nails, tubes, plaster, and more.
To be more specific, it is a hand-held saw to cut and tear materials around windows, doors, or through plasterboard, beams, etc. The saw can accept a lot of blades designed to work through wood, metal, and plasterboard, and you can use it to cut quickly and clean through any frame, wall, or fixture.
Like a jigsaw, this saw blade moves back and forth through the engine. Therefore, many jigsaw blades match the reciprocating saw.
Note that you handle reciprocating saw differently than any other saws because it doesn’t have a flat base to work in awkward areas. Also, a saw adjustable foot slides up or down depending on the blade length to handle the cuts.
Not only that, but the saw also has a rubber boot that you hold while working to control cuts and reduce the feeling of hand vibration.
Next, keep in mind these things before paying for any saw.
How To Choose The Best Reciprocating Saw?
This saw has many features to help you know the ability, way to handle, and usage time. Check them out.
Wire Or Wireless
The cord product has more power and does not need to stop working on charging the battery. But it can be a danger when accessing power outlets at all times while working.
The battery-powered type is more portable because you can go anywhere without access to electricity or need an appropriate extension cord. However, the saw operation will decrease or stop when the battery starts to run low, and you have to charge the battery.
Saw Performance
Depending on your type of work, you need the following specifications for saw performance including:
Power
The higher the voltage is, the more energy the tool has. The trick here is to choose 11 Amp for small projects around the home and about 15 Amp for heavy tasks.
Stroke Length
The longer the stroke length, the faster you cut because of the large surface area exposed to the material. Stroke length varies from ¾ to 1 ¼”. You should identify the project you are working in order not to buy many blades.
Strokes Per Minute (SPM)
Most reciprocating saws have a range of up to 3,000 SPM. Note that the motor power is directly correlated with the strokes in a minute, and the higher the speed per minute, the faster the blade is.
Variable Speed Control
It helps you cut at different speeds for a variety of materials when your project has many types of work. To get the most out of your tool and use it for a long time, you should adjust it to different speeds for wood, plaster, metal, and more.
Other Useful Features
Your ease of use and control relates to the saw features you choose.
Here they are:
Blade Change Mechanism
You need to change your blades quite often if you use saws for different materials. Some saws require a separate wrench to remove the blade, but today manufacturers make the blade change tool as easy as possible.
Weight
Using the tool for a long time makes you lose your strength and work ineffectively, so the lightweight saw is something you need. Remember to select the saws less than 9 lbs for large models and under 5 lbs for small models.
Vibration
You cannot avoid vibration when using power tools. But some have rubber grips to reduce the impact of vibration.
Bare Tool
When you buy a bare tool, you don’t have a battery, charger, or blade. So, buy the missing items before using the saw.
Finally, you can consider a good solid case when purchasing saws for better storage and transport.
Best Reciprocating Saw Reviews 2024
| Reciprocating Saw | Motor | Power | Stroke Length | Voltage | Dimensions | Weight | Editor’s Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0-3,000 SPM | 1.5 Ah | 1" | 20V | 16.2 x 3.5 x 7.6" | 4 lbs | 4.7/5 | |
| 0-3,000 SPM | 1.5 Ah | 7/8" | 20V | 15 x 3 x 7" | 4.5 lbs | 4.7/5 | |
| 0-3,000 SPM | 4.0 Ah | 3/4" | 20V | 9 x 5 x 6.5" | 4 lbs | 4.6/5 | |
| 0-3,000 SPM | 4.0 Ah | - | 20V | 14.8 x 7.2 x 8.8" | 2.3 lbs | 4.6/5 | |
| 0-3,200 SPM | 8.5 Amp | 1-1/8" | 120V | 4.8 x 24.5 x 10.5" | 7.3 lbs | 4.4/5 | |
| 0-2,800 SPM | 13 Amp | 1-1/8" | 120V | 19.7 x 3.6 x 8" | 9 lbs | 4.8/5 | |
| 0-2,900 SPM | 5.0 Ah | 1-1/8" | 20V | 14.8 x 3.5 x 7.5" | 7 lbs | 4.7/5 | |
| 0-3,000 SPM | 4.0 Ah | 1-1/8" | 20V | 6.1 x 18.3 x 4" | - | 4.7/5 | |
| 0-3,000 SPM | 2.0Ah | 1" | 20V | 15.4 x 2.8 x 6.1" | 5.91 lbs | 4.6/5 | |
| 0-2,950 SPM | 13 Amp | 1-1/8" | 20V 120V | 6.1 x 12.4 x 20.8" | 10.1 lbs | 4.7/5 |
In the next part, we’ll walk you through the whole process of the best reciprocating saw reviews.
Best Reciprocating Saw Under $100
1 – PORTER-CABLE PCC670B 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw – High Performance Drivetrain
Also, the compact and lightweight design is ideal for access to tight spaces and prolonged use without fatigue. You do not need special tools to change the blade.
What’s more?
A variable speed trigger can cut a wide range of materials, and a pivoting shoe keeps in contact with the material.
You will love the metal motor cover protecting from damage and the contoured handle for good control and comfort.
Not only that, the saw 20V lithium battery delivers longer run times, and quality connectors prevent power outages. The charger with a fan helps you to full the battery in about 20 minutes, monitor the voltage, current, and temperature.
In terms of safety, the 180-degree arch tool and the buttons used to activate the front rotation are made of steel and hard to push to avoid accidental button press.
The only problem is that the blade is a bit sloppy in the tool.
In conclusion, PORTER-CABLE PCC670B Reciprocating saw is an excellent tool in the 20-volt max line for light duty. Go ahead and buy it.
Pros
- Plenty of power
- Powerful and fast moving
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Good batteries
- Very simple blade change
Cons
- It’s loud and vibrates pretty much.
2 – BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C Reciprocating Saw – Best Budget
First of all, with a tight budget, you can buy BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C Reciprocating Saw with battery and charger. It is really a good deal for the flexible, lightweight, and easy-to-use tool.
More than that, BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C has a powerful 3000 SPM engine, the stroke length is 7/8″ with variable speed trigger and an electric brake to enhance control. You can change the blade without tools and handle the saw conveniently with an adjustable pivoting shoe.
And you know what?
It is great to use this tool with other products of the same brand because it is a part of the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX System. Note that 20 volts is the maximum battery voltage without a workload, but 18 volts is the nominal voltage.
If you’re looking for a saw that can handle 2 x 8 or 4 x 4 lumber, this product is not a good choice. Try to select another product.
However, this two-year limited warranty saw is worth the price when you need to cut plywood or lighter lumber or small trees and shrubs.
Pros
- Fantastic tool for pruning
- Durable and sharp
- Lightweight and rugged
- Well-constructed and great performance
- Effortless to use and handle
Cons
- The saw may shake a lot.
3 – WORX WX550L 20V AXIS 2-in-1 Reciprocating Saw and Jigsaw – 2 Great Saws In 1 Handy Tool
The next benefit is the saw compact and ease of use with a weight of 4 lbs, but it can solve a variety of cutting tasks. Also, the saw has a no-load speed of 3,000 SPM and a stroke length of 3/4″.
On top of that, you can use this versatile tool with any blade brand to cut wood, branches, roots, PVC, fiberglass, thin steel, plastic, ceramic tiles, copper, and aluminum, copper.
To eliminate slip or misalignment, the WORX designs motor located on the side of the tool body, allowing the engine and the gear to rotate simultaneously to support smooth power transfer.
Another useful feature is an integrated dust blower that eliminates dust and debris, increasing your visibility when cutting. And you’ll save money when WORX WX550L uses Max Lithium 20V battery which can be shared with other 20V WORX tools.
The pivoting head switches quickly from jigsaw to saw and back while the chuck keeps reciprocating saw blades and T-Shank jigsaw blades for your safety.
At the same time, WORX WX550L has an orbital mode for challenging reciprocal missions and variable speed trigger for precise control in both modes.
Some users review that the instruction manual is not good. It has mostly pictures with little or no written explanation.
All things considered, this saw is beautiful, light, maneuverable and powerful for your light-duty works.
Pros
- Well-made and nice design
- Strong motor and battery
- Smooth and versatile speed
- Great for quick little jobs
- Handy and light
Cons
- The saw has no cutting guide and light.
4 – PORTER-CABLE PC85TRSOK Reciprocating Saw – Efficient Crank Arm Mechanism
The saw has a tool-free shoe adjustment to control the depth of cuts and also the free twist-lock blade clamp to change blades quickly.
Additionally, the orbital dial selector allows you to switch between orbital motion or straight back and forth easily.
For firm and effortless handle, this 7.3-pound saw consists of an over-molded handle and an excessively molded Clamshell boot.
Not to mention, the tool has a variable speed trigger and 6-foot rubber cord for high flexibility and durability. Because the saw is lightweight, you can hold it in one hand when needed.
The manufacturer equips the product with body housing to work well in tight corners or on walls or floors for flush cuts.
The only complaint is the front metal guide is a bit wonky and vibrates when using the saw.
Taking everything into consideration, just buy this saw and get to work. And you will be glad to buy the Best reciprocating saw under $100 for everyday use from this reliable company.
Pros
- Light, smooth, and high performance
- Good blade changer, nice handle
- Nice plastic box, long cord
- Useful and strong
- Simple to install and remove
Cons
- It is not for professionals.
5 – SKILSAW SPT44A-00 13 Amp Reciprocating Saw – Buzzkill Technology
How good is it? You may ask.
This patented technology brings unprecedented vibration suppression, 35% better than the competition’s products. You have comfortable, well-controlled cuts that don’t wear away tools or yourself.
For the saw’s high performance, you can count on the 13-amp power, which quickly destroys even the most difficult materials. Coupled with this is a variable speed trigger to adjust the saw speed for specialized material cuts and the stroke length 1-1/8″ providing maximum cutting speed.
Furthermore, the unique body design supports most applications, preventing dust and debris from users. SKILSAW SPT44A-00 is ideal for destruction and remodeling or working with wood, heavy pipes, structural steel, cast iron, wood embedded nail, duct and decoration, drywall, plastic, non-ferrous metal, etc.
Here’s something really interesting.
Using a new SKILSAW for 180 days without complete satisfaction, you can get back a full refund. And the manufacturer also offers a one-year limited warranty.
Warning: You may feel uncomfortable with the blade lock. When using this saw, a one-handed blade change is still possible, but it takes time to practice.
To all potential buyers, you should GET THIS if you’re looking for a low-vibration saw.
Pros
- Pleasant and vibration-free
- Fast and effortless cutting
- Easy to load the blade
- Excellent power and heavy duty
- Heavy and well-built
Cons
- The silver portion between the grip and the handle is plastic.
Best Reciprocating Saw Under $200
6 – Bosch PS60-102 12-Volt Max Pocket Reciprocating Saw – Fast Cutting And Compact
Best reciprocating saw under $200 comes from a famous brand with Editor’s Choice.
Firstly, this Bosch PS60-102 has a 1.5ah high-capacity battery, a powerful 3,000 SPM motor for significantly fast cutting. It is also small enough to reach narrow areas and corners.
Secondly, the tool can cut different materials, including hard materials like copper and pipes. Moreover, it has a fast motor brake for safer and more precise cuts.
The third is about comfort. The Soft-grip top and Body-multiple grip positions help you to avoid hand fatigue. Superior ergonomics allow the use of one hand and overhead.
The fourth is design towards protection. The complete protection system prevents overheating, overload as well as under voltage while the electronic cell protection contributes to longer tool life and runtime.
Along with that is durable design, front rubber cover, and bumper, so the saw can protect internal parts from dust, debris, and water and reduce vibration.
Finally, you have an LED light to effectively illuminate dark workspaces as well as battery fuel gauges to show the power level.
The only thing you may not like is that the saw cannot hold a charge long. You need to buy a backup battery.
Although this saw is not for heavy duty use, you can use it for small projects like cutting branches on trees, small pieces of wood, pipes, and more.
Pros
- Handy and good quality
- Versatile and lightweight
- The fine, sharp blade
- Easy to use
- Nice design and well-balanced
Cons
- Your hand may keep brushing the safety switch.
7 – DEWALT DCS380B Reciprocating Saw – 4-Position Blade Clamp
Let’s talk about the differences of two models. The DCS380B is about 2.5″ longer than DCS387P1. So, you use the DCS387P1 in tighter areas and better control than DCS380B.
Moreover, this saw has 3,000 SPM, slightly faster blade speed than DCS387P1. But it is not a huge gap in performance of two saws.
Both saws are perfect for professionals and amateurs thanks to their great similar features. They are stroke length of 1-1/8″ for faster-cutting speed, LED lighting for dark working areas, pivoting adjustable shoe for blade life extension and cutting depth control, and comfortable rubber molded grip.
Remember that this is a bare tool without batteries, charger, and blades.
If your need is a reciprocating saw using 20V for home improvement and at work, to buy this three-year warranty model is the right choice.
Pros
- Excellent work and easy to handle
- Hard outdoor pruning use
- Sturdy, powerful, versatile
- Excellent quality and lightweight
- Quick to install saw blades
Cons
- You can use up the batteries quickly.
8 – SKIL RS5884-1A 20V Compact Reciprocating Saw – Multi-Purpose DIY Power Saw
The exposed blade makes it easy to cut through materials in tight spaces, and compact design helps you to handle comfortably.
The saw PWRCore 20 system is supported by industry-leading technology. And the best part is the lithium battery with a temperature management system keeping the battery cool and providing power for longer running times and battery life.
Like other saws on the market, this model also has an adjustable pivoting shoe supporting excellent depth control and efficient blade use. Besides, the saw blade change without tools makes the process quick and seamless.
One notable feature to note is the variable trigger speed of this saw for maximum control in different projects. Do not forget to use the LED light to illuminate the working space by pressing the trigger.
Remember that it’ll be fine for a few cuts, but for all-day tasks like putting in a deck or fence, you’ll need to swap batteries. So, buy an extra battery.
Overall, buy this model if you want a good looking, convenient, and handy tool that works well for your needs.
Pros
- Simple to use
- Small and effective
- Solid light-med duty
- Convenient and lightweight
- Portable and nice design
Cons
- The saw has a large-sized charger.
Best Reciprocating Saw Around $300
9 – DEWALT DCS387P1 Reciprocating Saw – Compact And Lightweight Design
When it comes to the best reciprocating saw under $300, you can count on the Dewalt brand. That’s why we recommend three products from this brand.
Let’s take a closer look at the outstanding features of the DCS387P1 model.
Thanks to its low weight, you feel comfortable when holding a 7-pound saw in your hand to work in different situations. Besides, it has a soft handle to hold saw easily and promotes your effort to get the job done in a short time with more control.
Not only that, the manufacturer designs the clamping of the four positions for flat cutting and changing blades without tools. Users also can set the blade in different directions at 0, 90, 180 or 270° compared to the handle or trigger.
The best part is the short design allowing you to work correctly and access simply tight spaces. The variable speed trigger with 0-2,900 SPM changes provides increased blade control for precise cuts.
Other great features include flexible swivel shoes and the blades mounted up, down, left or right to maintain the tool in a perfect configuration when squeezing. Also, the bright LED on the front is for better visibility to illuminate dark working areas.
Lastly, this three-year warranty product has a length of stroke 1-⅛” for fast cutting speed, time, and energy savings.
Only one thing to note is a good amount of vibration when you are cutting something as big as a 4×4.
All in all, when you need a lightweight saw to hold up in small spaces, this model is the best sawzall for you.
Pros
- Good 4-way head with quick-release latch
- Handy, efficient and powerful
- Easy to carry with a short length
- Balanced feel and simple use
- Great lithium batteries
Cons
- This saw eats batteries.
10 – DEWALT DCS388T2 Reciprocating Saw Kit – Most Advanced Flexvolt Technology
The highlight is the saw’s Advanced Flexvolt Technology to help you change voltage when changing tools. The flexible battery is backward compatible with 20V MAX tools so you can quadruple the running time and also use the battery into Dewalt tools of 60V MAX and 120V MAX.
Furthermore, this saw provides an action-free blade clamp to change the blade quickly and a variable speed trigger to control the speed instantly.
Other points worth buying are the 0 – 2950 SPM and 1-1/8″ stroke lengths for fast and efficient cutting and the swivel shoes for leverage for various applications. As a result, the saw can cut up to 158 times in each charge in 2×4.
For your ease of use, the saw LED light helps illuminate dark areas, and the rubber on the molded grip enhances the user’s comfort.
One downside is no rafter hook, and it’s heavy to lug around although the extra weight is helpful during cuts.
In summary, this saw is powerful to cut effortlessly through everything you need. Do you want to buy it now?
Pros
- Long battery life, fast charging
- Powerful and heavy
- Easy to use and hold
- Quick change for batteries
- Minimal vibration
Cons
- The blade release is plastic.
It’s Time To Select Your Best Reciprocating Saw
Finally, you’ve just finished reading our post, and we believe you find the best reciprocating saw for your need.
If not, let’s see what we choose. We buy the Dewalt DCS387P1 and use it for our DIY work at home.
We love its handy design and soft handle. We can use this saw for a long time without fragile thanks to its clamps of the four positions and tool-free blade change.
How about you?
You should identify your need, then consider the saw performance, power, stroke, speed control, blade change mechanism, weight, vibration, and other useful features. And remember to check if the saw is a bare tool or not. After that, you can buy the best saw to begin your work.
Do not hesitate to ask us anything you want about reciprocating saw, like and share our post if you find it helpful for someone.