Are you feeling undecided about what reciprocating saw would be the best fit for you? It’s common to find a lot of woodworkers and construction folk having this type of dilemma because there are many types and models of reciprocating saws available on the market.
Finding the best reciprocating saw that would give you a long shelf life, accurate cuts, and produce high-end results among the maze of saws can be daunting. In this guide, we will show you the best reciprocating saw among the selected list, as well as how you can buy one when you make your decision.
Table of Contents
A quick glance of Reciprocating Saw
The Best Reciprocating Saw on the Market of 2020
1. DEWALT 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw (Our Top Recommended)
The DEWALT 20V MAX* is an easy favorite because it is one quality machine that got its features right. It comes with original technology and creative elements that make it a useful tool in your hands. This helps you to boost productivity and increase performance when on-site.
One of the features that set this saw apart from others is versatility. If you’re a professional user or just a hobbyist, this is essential because its 4-Position blade clamps help you change keyless blades as well as do flush-cutting.
Another application of this reciprocating saw is that it allows you access to reach into tight corners and areas. If you’re wondering how sturdy this saw is, or what its performance is like, this saw provides you a variable-speed trigger with up to 3,000 strokes per minute (SPM), and a 1-⅛” stroke length that speeds up cutting so that you can achieve more as you work.
Furthermore, it has a 2.88x faster application speed, 82% more power, and gives you 181% more runtime so that you have ample time to cut. The 20V MAX* system is designed to provide you with a combination of Lithium-Ion batteries as well as super ergonomics to improve productivity when you use the saw.
- It has 1-⅛-inch stroke length for faster cutting
- It has a variable speed trigger for increased blade
- You have to buy a battery and charger separately, and small batteries wear out fast
2. Black+Decker 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw (BDCR20B) (Best for the Money)
Black+Decker cordless reciprocating saw makes the list of best reciprocating saws, because it has some unique features that make your cutting experience enjoyable. With this machine, you can be in control of how your reciprocating saw behaves while you cut. The power is in your hands.
The uniqueness of this reciprocating saw is in its switch lock-off feature that helps you to prevent unintentional usage. It is easy to operate this feature; all you need to do is use the lock-off switch. With this switch in place, you no longer have to worry about mistakenly chopping off a finger or two.
As great as this saw may seem with its Lithium batteries, you must be aware of one tiny shortcoming. The batteries of the saw would not function at a particular temperature level.
If it is too hot or too cold, you would have to get it to a temperature of above 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below 105 degrees Fahrenheit to get it functioning again.
- It comes with a blade.
- It is versatile and easy to use.
- It has a hazard prevention switch.
- You have to purchase the battery and charger separately.
- It only functions at specific temperatures.
3. 13 Amp Reciprocating Saw
This SKILSAW is a heavy-duty one that delivers on fast cutting power, performance and durability by remaining functional for up to 180 days after you purchase it, with a full refund guarantee that works.
However, there is hardly any reason why you may want to return your SKILSAW because it helps you achieve more cutting in the workshop. Its unique design helps you to use it to cut different types of materials when you need to do a quick and fast project at the workshop.
If you’re one that does a lot of rough cutting, such as demolition and remodeling, you should check out this 13 Amp Reciprocating Saw. You can use it to cut through wood, heavy-duty pipes, structural steel, drywall, plastic, cast iron, among other materials.
Another essential feature of this saw is its 13 Amp motor that gives you all the electric power you would need without having to look for or change batteries. If this doesn’t boost your productivity levels, I don’t know what will!
When you’re using this saw, you shouldn’t have to worry about vibration shocks because the patented buzzkill technology feature has gotten that out of the way, helping you to make more precise and accurate cuts.
The only worry you might have about this saw is its weight. At 9lbs, you may find this saw quite heavy to carry. This is only a small challenge compared to the many great features that the saw offers you.
- Suitable for cutting different materials.
- It doesn’t need batteries for power.
- Well-built and durable.
- It’s on the heavy side.
4. Milwaukee 2720-21 Fuel Sawzall Reciprocating Saw
This piece of equipment is one that comes with equally fascinating features that might interest you. The saw delivers just like it promised, with speed cutting, adjustable shoe, carrying case, and a few others.
If you’re looking for speed as well as accuracy when making your cuts, then this M18 Fuel Sawzall Reciprocating Saw might just be the right fit for you. It helps you cut 30% faster than usual, which enables you to get your work done in a jiffy.
You can also work for longer periods because this 18-volt cordless saw has 2 times the capacity of other saws. Its Red Lithium XC 4.0 battery, which comes pre-included with the saw, gives you more run time for you to do some more work than with ordinary batteries.
These patented batteries help to make your experience and performance better, as it doesn’t overload, overheat, or over-discharge, which is typical of the usual types of batteries. Additionally, the inbuilt LED light feature helps you to illuminate your project as you work in environments with poor lighting.
Sadly, although this saw features an adjustable shoe, you might find it a little challenging to operate, especially when you collapse it to fit in the case. This is the only minute downside of this saw. Otherwise, this is a cool tool.
- Fast and accurate cutting.
- It comes with extended capacity batteries.
- Cordless and easier to carry.
- The adjustable shoe is difficult to use.
- Heavier than other saws.
5. DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw
Along with its other necessary features, this reciprocating saw introduces a double oiled seal shaft and a 3-year guarantee that ensures you use your saw to the fullest.
The introduction of the double-oil sealed shaft improves the durability of your saw because it helps to reduce and resist contamination with its dual seal design. Some more work, however, still needs to be done as regards battery life because it only offers a 24-hour average battery life.
Nevertheless, this saw helps you cut fast with the keyless 4-position blade clamp feature. You can saw through your boards and other materials faster than before. Additionally, the feature helps you to switch between blades more quickly and efficiently to help you flush cut.
You must be careful, though, if you’re going to be using this saw regularly on drywall. If you saw through drywall very often, you might find the blade difficult to remove as dust gets into the gear. Be careful so that you do not break the plastic lever.
- It comes with Lithium-Ion batteries.
- Has a 3-year warranty.
- Dust may get into the gear.
- Battery life is not so lengthy.
6. DEWALT Amp Corded Reciprocating Saw
On your search to find the best reciprocating saw fit for your use, you might want to check this one out. You can carry out heavy-duty applications using your saw’s powerful 12 Amp motor. With this strong motor, you can deliver on jobs faster using its 0-2, 900 strokes per minute, and 1-⅛” stroke length.
If you’re going too fast or too slow, you can make a quick adjustment using the variable speed trigger that keeps you in control. If you’re keen on cutting different types of materials, do not fear, this saw has a feature that caters for that.
With its keyless lever-action blade, you can easily switchblades for cutting different materials. You can use this saw to cut wood, light or heavy gauge materials, rubber, fiberglass, plaster, plastic, and a ton of other elements in your workshop.
Because this is a corded saw, its primary power source is electric, and so it doesn’t come with batteries, and you also do not need batteries. With its 120volt, it is powerful enough for you to run it for long hours.
- Lightweight and easy to use.
- Powerful motor with long running time.
- No storage casing, box, or bag.
7. Ryobi P515 One +18V Cordless Reciprocating Saw
This is a proper Sawzall that helps you with all types of cutting in the house or workshop. If you’re a handyman or professional, you will find working with this saw a breeze.
With this saw, you would find it easier to hack down branches or slice through wood and drywall better than using a circular saw. You can reach into crevices and spaces where other types of saws cannot get to.
One unique feature of this reciprocating saw is that you do not need any tool before you can change the blades. All you need to do is unlatch the front of the saw, and the blade will pull out easily. This allows you to change your blades quicker while you work.
In addition to the variable speed trigger feature, you can use this saw with One+ batteries. These batteries include the different types of Ryobi 18V batteries, P100 up to P108. This means that you can use these batteries with your saw, you don’t have to worry about running out of power.
However, you would need to buy these batteries separately as your saw wouldn’t come with batteries.
- Rubber overmold for good grip.
- Anti-vibration handle to quell rattling and give precise cuts.
- It is very lightweight.
- It doesn’t come with blades or batteries.
8. WORX WX550L 20V AXIS 2-in-1 Reciprocating Saw and Jigsaw
This is a reliable power tool that houses two of the best reciprocating saws in one machine. Its unique dust blower feature helps to give you a more pleasant working environment.
Unlike other saws, this one features an integrated dust blower that allows you to work without dust entering into your eyes and nostrils. It keeps dust and debris away from your workspace, helping you to see better and enhance the accuracy of your cuts.
If you’re one that quickly gets tired from cutting in one direction for long periods, you could try out this saw. Its orbital features cuts in a slightly circular motion instead of back and forth as usual. This works to help you get the job quicker and tires you out slower than before.
Additionally, WORX Reciprocating Saw allows you to use whichever type of blade you own that is pre-designed for a reciprocating saw. A standard reciprocating saw blade or Tshank blades will work well with your saw.
Finally, the most exciting thing about this saw is the feature that makes it a 2-in-1 saw. The unique pushbutton head feature allows you to switch your saw from a jigsaw to a reciprocating saw and back again in an instant. This way, you don’t have to get a separate saw to use as a jigsaw, you can do both with this tool!
Although this saw delivers in almost every other aspect, there is yet one aspect for it to get right. The battery life is somewhat weak, you might need to get a battery with a higher capacity if you want a lengthier run time.
- It is very lightweight.
- It is versatile.
- Easy to use and maneuver.
- The battery doesn’t last very long.
9. Black+Decker 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw (BDCR20C)
This lightweight saw is among the best reciprocating saws for your cutting needs. Its versatility helps you produce more results as you cut up boards, cut down branches, and cut into drywalls in the workshop.
Its tool-free blade feature allows you to change blades as quickly as possible while you work. If you have to make a different type of cuts on a particular project, this feature would be useful for you.
At 3000 strokes per minute and a ⅞” stroke length, you no longer have to worry about delivering on projects because you can now cut faster and more efficiently. It comes with a variable trigger and electric blade that gives you maximum control over the speed of your saw.
Unfortunately, the only glaring disadvantage this saw has is the need for a more reliable battery. Being a battery-powered saw, 18v with a maximum of 20v, will not be sufficient to do lengthy projects. This may cause delays when you have to wait to recharge them.
- It is not heavy.
- It comes with Lithium batteries.
- It makes long and fast cuts.
- It rattles a lot during use.
- Its batteries have a short lifespan.
10. Ryobi P5 16 Cordless Reciprocating Saw
In your quest for the best reciprocating saw, The Ryobi P5 saw is one that would be necessary for you if you’re big on easy blade swapping. This saw helps you to get difficult jobs done with its features that help with your cutting needs in the garage as well as the garden.
Essentially, you can easily swap out blades for different uses with the lever-activated system feature. The blade swapping feature of this saw is activated at the front, helping you to fit in other blades even from a different model.
However, you might want to take advantage of the extra blade feature that is in your kit. You may use these extra two blades to cut different materials. One is for cutting metal, while you use the other to cut wood.
This saw also allows you to make more precise cuts because of its anti-vibration handle that drowns out and absorbs the vibration from the motor of the saw. The non-slip Ryobi rubber grip supports this feature by allowing you to hold this saw tight at all times.
One small disadvantage of this saw is that it is hungry for electricity. It quickly drains batteries, so you may wish to get high capacity and high power batteries for your work. Thankfully, these battery replacements are easy to find.
- It has a tool-less blade changing mechanism.
- It can work with different types of Ryobi Lithium-Ion Batteries, including the One+ system to early blue Series.
- It has an anti-vibration shock-absorbing handle and a non-slip handle grip for a steadier grip.
- It doesn’t come with batteries.
Buying Guide
reciprocating saws are practical and very convenient to use. In place of a manual saw, a reciprocating saw can get your job done way faster, up to 3 times faster than usual. In addition to getting your work done more quickly, reciprocating saws help you make accurate and precise cuts. This is because they can get into intricate and more complicated designs where other saws are unable to access. With the varied blade patterns that accompany your saw, your work becomes easier, faster, and more precise.
How to Choose the Best reciprocating Saw
Important aspects to look out for when you want to buy your reciprocating saw should check this list:
- Look out for speedA reciprocating saw’s Speed Per Minute is considered fast between the rate of 1200 – 1800 SPM, while 400 – 800 SPM rate is low.
- Look out for FunctionalityWhat are the significant features of the saw, and how do they meet your cutting needs? Try to check the features of the saw, so see how well the machine works and if its performance matches your needs.
- Look out for Flexibility and VersatilityA good reciprocating saw should allow for flexibility in use. It should have features that will enable you to adjust and control performance, such as speed or cutting rate. You should also have features that allow you to switch blades to suit the type of work you are doing.
- Other featuresou may also wish to look out for reciprocating saws with a broad platform for work, anti-vibration technology, LED lights, and magnifiers.
What’s Your Budget?
This was saved for last because it is not only imperative; budgeting is also quite tricky. After you have gone through the list of best reciprocating saws in the review, it would be difficult to make a choice which saw to buy.
They all have great features, but what you would go for largely rests on how much you have set aside for the saw and whether it matches your needs.
However, for beginners or hobbyists, you should get a saw within the range of $150, while professional workers may go for one with a higher price than this.
Conclusion – The Best Reciprocating Saw, Our Choice
After reviewing these quality reciprocating saws and accessing each of their features, one reciprocating saw stands out as the best reciprocating saw of the bunch; The 13 Amp Reciprocating Saw.
In comparison to the other reciprocating saws in the list, this saw has the least challenge and efficiency glitch, which is that it is somewhat heavy. When you look at its functionality, flexibility, versatility, and speed features, this saw tops the list.
It provides you with a 13 AMP motor for power, anti-vibration technology, a versatile speed trigger, the ability to cut through different types of material, and a generous 180days trial period.
If you’re looking to make the most of your money’s worth as well as enjoy prolonged saw use, then this saw is the perfect match for you.
*We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by linking to Amazon.com.
