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When you need the force of a saw to cut down wood, metal, or pipes, you can rely on a recipro saws.
They won’t give precision cuts like jigsaws or circular saws, but they are tough and cut through anything but rocks.
Using one is a lot of fun when you’re doing downright demolition work. Being light, cordless, and tough makes them the perfect tool to use when you want to slash through stuff.
But as much as we love them, the number of choices and brands still confuse us. Hence, we’re talking about the best reciprocating saw – cordless, emphasizing the latter word.
How Does It Work?
As the name suggests, the saw works in a reciprocating manner. In this case, the blade moves back and forth.
As a result, you can hold it in place, and the saw will do the work for you. That is why these are highly recommended for demolition work. The reciprocating saw does the hard work for you.
However, unlike regular saws, the recipro saws have a drill like a shape. This was intended to provide more balance and grip. The blades are sharp, and the last thing you’d want is to lose grip.
Furthermore, it can’t make curved or crosscuts like jigsaws. Recip saws work horizontally, making straight cuts.
The Benefits of Using a Reciprocating Saw
A reciprocating saw doesn’t have one specific use. Once you have one, you will see it can be used on a variety of projects.
Trimming Branches
You can prune through overgrown branches with precision using this. It’s much easier than using a chainsaw or other kind of saw because it’s smaller and cordless.
Demolition
Remodeling projects require a lot of demolition. And as you can change the blades according to the material you’re sawing through, these are ideal for it. For instance, there’s a blade specifically for the job of cutting through wood with nails embedded in them. So, you can easily cut out railings, sidings, and doors.
Plumbing
Plumbers use this saw for cutting pipes, holes, and notches. This helps to get the pipe through a structure without damaging it. As a result, you will see that most plumbers carry a reciprocating saw.
Plunge Cuts
You don’t just cut small pieces with this saw. You can use it to plunge through a surface as well.
For instance, you can use this to cut into a wall. You can also use this to make frames that need detailed designs. This will help you to chip accurately.
5 Best Reciprocating Saw Review in 2022
All the products chosen for this have the best ratings, feedback, and were tested by our experts so that you get a thorough review.
DEWALT 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw
Dewalt has always been the professional’s best friend. Their tools make our lives much more comfortable, and they keep on getting better and better.
As such, we couldn’t but put this anywhere but the top as it is their best cordless reciprocating saw to date.
What makes this superior to the other devices is it’s up a notch in every criterion.
It is a compact device that’s both lightweight and doesn’t vibrate off your hands. The kickback is relatively lesser than the other models we have tried out. We can’t put the vibration on rank, but this has the least of it.
So, who is this saber saw for? Well, anybody looking for an easy snipping and trimming tool will enjoy using this.
Professionals like plumbers, framers, remodelers, etc. will also find this easy to carry around with.
In terms of features, we like to test how efficient blade changing is. And this one has a seamless blade clamp that can be set in 4 positions.
On top of that, it allows you to change the blade without a key. But it is still substantial once you have changed it.
The four positions are perfect for flush cutting and framing work.
You get precision cuts like in circular saws, which makes this more versatile in application.
With the variable speed up to 3000 strokes per minute, you know that its compact size hasn’t reduced its performance.
It’s a rigid device that can cut through most materials. But where this wins, the show is the 2.88x faster speed. The rapid application is just what you need to meet the deadlines.
Finally, the bonus of Dewalt is you can use the batteries and chargers from other similar devices. So, if you have got spares, you will like the fact that it’s a bare tool.
PROS
CONS
Related Guide: Best Chop Saw
Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall
As usual, Milwaukee has a unique name for their saws, and this one goes by the name Hackzall.
Milwaukee produces heavy-duty professional tools. Their products usually focus on power and battery life so that once you start your work, you can finish it smoothly.
That’s precisely what this Hackzall is about. It is a well-balanced tool that feels good in your hand and has the power to cut through wood and nails seamlessly.
What they have worked on in this version is they have improved the cutting speed. This saw has some of the highest power we have seen in a cordless saw.
But with high power, we always have to check the comfortability of the device.
These are meant for one-handed use, so you’d want it not just to be powerful but safe too.
That’s why this has the dual gear counter balancing mechanics to reduce vibration up to 4x times.
As a result, you won’t wear out when using this and get faster and smoother cuts. Less vibration also means you get more delicate cuts.
Another important consideration is the battery. At the same time, you should keep spares, but if batteries keep draining every few minutes, it becomes a hindrance.
But that’s why we always have liked the Redlithium battery that Milwaukee has.
It’s constructed with an idea to provide higher work per charge. Alongside that, this has also optimized its performance by ensuring the tool doesn’t overheat or overload over a more prolonged period of use.
Lastly, when you look at the shape of the saw, you notice it’s balanced not to strain your hand and also has the pivot shoe for smooth and fine cuts.
PROS
CONS
HYCHIKA Cordless Reciprocating Saw
This is our surprise pick of the list. All our products are more or less high-profile professional tools, and they have a hefty price.
But this one is in a league of its own coming for a very reasonable price. It’s probably the only one you get well under $100.
So, is it worth the hype? Well, the defining criteria of a saw are its cutting speed. And the motor on this unit can get you as high up to 2800 SPM, which isn’t frankly the best we have seen, but it’s within the same range as high power tools.
You must be wondering if it’s enough to cut through materials like metal and wood.
And the answer to that is, yes, it can. With a capacity of cutting 11.8-inch wood and 0.6 inches of metal, you know this can handle the hard materials.
Furthermore, it has all the features which make it a reliable product. One in particular we love is the quick blade changing quality.
You don’t need other tools to change the blade. Simply rotate the chuck clockwise to change blades.
However, that doesn’t mean it’s any less safe. This includes an additional safety switch to make using this safer.
We tried the LED light and was expecting it to be quite dim. But to our surprise, the LED light illuminates the work surface enough to make working in the hard corners easier.
So, professionals like plumbers, remodelers, and electricians are sure to find this helpful.
PROS
CONS
Suggested Guide: Band Saw Review
Makita XRJ07ZB Recipro Saw
When it comes to power tools, choosing a brand like Makita is always a wise choice. Their range of cordless and corded tools makes using the tools very convenient.
You can use the batteries, the charger of similar products, and save yourself some additional expense.
And on top of it, you are never worried about not finding a spare part when needed.
This is one of the most compact tools on the list. It has an attractive shape that makes the best of it by adequately dividing the balance and making it ergonomic.
Hence, it’s not too heavy on the hands and can be operated single-handedly if needed.
Even with the battery attached, this weighs a measly 5.7lbs, which makes working with it pretty convenient.
But as you’d expect from one of the top brands, they don’t shy away when it comes to power.
This can deliver a powerful 3000 Strokes per minute, with the length being around 13 to 16 inches.
It shows how this is a device for professionals who are doing more than pruning and trimming.
One of the things they have upgraded since their previous versions is the shoe.
The shoe gives better support when working, making the use of the blade much smoother.
On top of that, the LED light that features before and afterglow are still new to us, but we think it does increase the work experience.
Since this is a professional tool, it has additional measures to protect against overloading, dust, and water.
Still, the XPT technology of Makita is quite the technological leap in making the device more resistant to moisture and dirt. A service that plumbers and other professionals are sure to appreciate.
PROS
CONS
Makita XRJ05Z 18 Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Recipro Saw
This is one of Makita’s and this list’s priciest products. While all the products we have reviewed have been high power-wielding tools, this one is the only one to feature both high and low powers.
However, this is priced higher than the rest as well, in fact almost double the price of the others, that too as a bare tool.
So, if you have high expectations, this is the tool to meet those standards.
One of the standout features of this saw is, it has two modes.
The high-power mode will give up to 3000 SPM, and the low mode will reach a good 2300 SPM. The stroke length is also suitable for fast cuts and varying the speed.
Now, let’s talk about the other features. It weighs a little more than other products.
But this is a heavy-duty saw for all your professional works. This was made to be durable and sturdy.
Next, there is the soft-start feature, which you only see the importance of once you see it. The soft-start will make using the saw much more comfortable.
Furthermore, the LED light isn’t just a dim namesake light. The LED will justly illuminate your workspace.
On top of that, the battery, too, displays a LED to show the charge level of your device, making it easier to know how to pan out your work.
The blade changing is one of the most straightforward mechanisms we have seen. It takes minutes to change and doesn’t need extra tools.
When using this, you get the grip and feel of a well-crafted tool. Starting from the soft hold of rubber handle to the crank design that prevents blades from deflecting and, in turn, lowered vibration, everything on this just feels balanced and proper.
PROS
CONS
Features To Consider Before Buying
You may know it as a saber saw or a recipro saw, but there’s very little doubt that you don’t know of it.
The adverse number of work that this can accomplish makes it a tool not only wielded by professionals but also hobbyists or homeowners who want to prune some branches.
Hence, there are so many different kinds of recipros to fit all these different kinds of requirements.
But in the end, they all should have some standard features. We’ll talk about them to help you choose the best reciprocating saw cordless.
Tool-less Blade Changing
Before the recent upgrades, most recipro saws required extra tools to unscrew the clamp and change blades.
The process was both times consuming and challenging to do when in the middle of a job. Some even came with unlocking keys to remove blades.
But thankfully, those days have passed, and now you can easily change blades without getting into all that.
Simply rotating clockwise and anti-clockwise will be enough to change blades. But still, the previous kinds are out in the market, and you should check before buying.
Weight
This is a common thing to check. Although these tools are to be wielded single-handedly, they still weigh quite a bit.
But more than that, they vibrate, and you need both hands to keep the device steady.
With that in mind, you don’t want extra weight to carry. Hence, we recommend looking for lighter devices.
Vibration
Vibration is one of the main factors to look at before buying a recipro saw. Because you can’t determine it unless you use it, with that in mind, you want a tool with reduced vibration.
The higher the vibration, the riskier it becomes to use the device. High vibration can also lead to accidents.
Soft Start
This is a feature you see in high-end saws. But regardless, they are significant.
Having the option to soft start makes easing into the work possible. You don’t have to deal with the kickback from the sudden burst of power.
On the other hand, this also means you get more control and can precisely make a cut.
If you need to make precise cuts like beveling or flush cutting, then a soft start can make the work easier.
Variable Shoe Positions
This is mostly about preference. Some people like a fixed shoe because it gives them a sense of distance when using the saw.
But others like having the variable shoe options so that they can make the best of their blades.
In order to make the best of your blades, you will want variable shoe positions so that you can use the blades for longer.
Handle
Having a firm grip on the handle is fundamental. If it’s slippery or too big or small for your grip, then the tool will not be useful for you.
As we said before, recipro saws have some kickback, and you will need a firm grip to keep your work neat.
Lighting
For professionals who have to work in difficult positions, you might not have the best lighting to use it. So, having an LED light will give you more confidence.
So, this is a feature that is needed for people working on specific things. But still, once you have it, only then will you notice it makes quite the difference
How to Take Care And Maintain?
A recipro saw is one of the many saws that you can find in the power tool section.
And it has a particular set of activities that it can do. So, taking care of it also requires you to adhere to those jobs.
Using it for the Right Job
As we have said, there are many kinds of saws, such as circular saws, jigsaws, and so many others. They all have their job.
So, the first thing you can do is make sure you’re using it for what it’s meant to do, like pruning and demolition. And also, make sure you’re using it on the materials it’s intended to cut.
Keep It Dry
If you’re doing plumbing or demolition work, chances are the tool will come in contact with water.
These aren’t highly waterproof tools. So, dry it off if it gets wet. Keep it dry at all times.
Check Before Using
Before you start using it on the material, check whether it’s running smoothly or hitching. Check whether the batteries are adequately charged.
Use Only when the Batteries are Charged
Using the device on low running batteries frequently will wear out the device over time.
So, occasionally using it on a low charge is alright but don’t make a habit out of it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it right to use a higher speed all the time?
No, it will drain out the battery faster. But more importantly, using high stroke power on weaker sheets can deform the material or cause a sudden movement.
It is recommended to adjust the speed in accordance with the thickness and toughness of the material.
Can I use Recipro saw in place of Jigsaw?
You can use a recip saw, but jigsaws are generally more precise. To get the same results, you will have to firmly place the sheet and use your hand to get the more delicate cuts right.
But if you’re going to do a curved cut or crosscuts, you will need a jigsaw.
Why is it called reciprocating saw?
Since the blades are exposed outward, and the blades are always moving back and forth, it’s called a reciprocating saw.
It’s potent and meant for harsh and rough cuts rather than finer cuts.
Do I need variable shoes?
Having a shoe is essential for having leverage when cutting. Going straight in can result in zigzag cuts.
Having adjustable shoes gives you more options on how to use your blade.
Do the batteries take a long time to charge?
No, depending on the tool, it should take an hour or two to charge fully. Our recommendation would be to keep spare batteries because one doesn’t last too long.
Final Words
This was our review for the best reciprocating saw – cordless category. However, these are the brands to look at for other kinds of saws too, cordless or corded.
All the reciprocaing saws recommended are the finest within their standards. So, we hope you agree with our choices.
We recommend when buying cordless power tools, you choose a brand to buy from because then you will be able to use the supplies interchangeably.