If you are looking for the best reciprocating saw to add to your construction tool essentials, you came to the right place. This hand-held device is indispensable and can offer a variety of benefits to a contractor, avid DIYer, or handyman.
Additionally, it also has plenty of uses when it comes to installing HVAC systems, doing plumbing work, demolishing small structures, and doing electrical jobs. Think of it as the jack-of-all-trades when it comes to saws.
There are many brands offering the best reciprocating saw. We made the work easier for you by choosing those from reputable and reliable brands and those saws with many helpful features. Read on to find out which products we highly recommend.
The Best Reciprocating Saws Are:
Product | Details | ||
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1. Worx WX550L 20V Axis 2-in-1 Reciprocating Saw | Top Pick |
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2. Tacklife Reciprocating Saw with Rotating Handle |
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3. Black+Decker BDCR20C 20V Max Reciprocating Saw |
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4. SKIL 9206-02 7.5 Amp Variable Speed Reciprocating Saw |
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5. Porter-Cable PCC670B 20V Max Reciprocating Saw |
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6. Dewalt DCS380B 20V Max Reciprocating Saw |
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7. Makita JR3050T 11-Amp Reciprocating Saw |
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1. Worx WX550L 20V Axis 2-in-1 Reciprocating Saw
This is a 2-in-1 saw that works as a reciprocating saw and a jigsaw. It comes with a pivoting head that you can use to convert it to the kind of saw you need in mere seconds. Interestingly, its motor is positioned on the side, thereby reducing the chances of slipping or misalignment. You get smooth operations and efficiency all the time.
You can use just about any reciprocating saw or jigsaw blade out there. Replacement is easy to find. It even comes with a blower integrated into the machine to keep dust and dirt away from your work area. This unit can be used as a reciprocating saw and a jigsaw. If you need both tools but do not have the money or space for both, get this 2-in-1 equipment instead.
The positioning of the motor ensures more consistent results. You do not have to deal with slipping anymore. The Max Lithium 20V battery it comes with can be used with other WORX tools that have 20V of energy needs. You can save a lot of money this way. The built-in dust blower maintains good visibility as it keeps puffs of dust at bay.
Specs
- Speed: 3,000 SPM
- Power Source: Battery-Powered
- Weight: 4.2 pounds
Pros
- You can use it as a reciprocating saw and a jigsaw
- It delivers more consistent results
- It is lightweight and very easy to handle
- It maintains great visibility, thanks to the dust-blower
Cons
- It is a little bit more expensive
2. Tacklife Reciprocating Saw with Rotating Handle
This unit is in the middle when it comes to price range. With its 7 amps of power, you can get most cutting works done. You can also benefit from its variable speed motor feature. It features 0-2,800 strokes/minute and 1-1/8-inch of stroke length. You can control the speed through an easy-to-use trigger.
It has been designed in such a way that excess motions are distributed, so you do not have to deal with many vibrations. It also offers more flexibility, thanks to its rotating handles. It comes with built-in LED lights to let you see better when working in dark conditions. In addition, since this is made from durable materials, you can be assured that its motor will last for a long time.
This unit has a variable speed setting that you can easily control through its variable speed trigger. It is easy to control with its rotating handles and good design that prevents too much vibration. The handles can be rotated in three different ways for more flexibility. It comes with a high-impact polyurethane case to store this unit and prevent it from deteriorating easily.
This is one well-built reciprocating saw. There is durable protection installed around the motor. It comes with a 6T and a 14T blade, but you can use just about any blade brand in the market. There are also tools included that you can use to replace the blades with ease. There is a pivoting shoe to adjust the cutting area. It has a light to easily see your work area. It eliminates the shadows that are created when you use the work light.
Specs
- Speed: 0 to 2,800 SPM
- Power: 7 amps
- Power Source: Electric-Powered
- Weight: 9.55 pounds
Pros
- It features a variable speed setting
- It comes with a rotating handle that makes it easy to control
- There is durable protection installed around the motor
- It comes with a working light to provide you with more visibility
Cons
- Some users said the handle needs some improvement
3. Black+Decker BDCR20C 20V Max Reciprocating Saw
Here is another unit that comes with a variable speed setting. There is a trigger you can easily control to change the speed of the saw. Unlike other reciprocating saws out there, you can change the blade of this unit without requiring additional tools.
It features a 3000 SPM motor that packs a punch when it comes to power. One interesting thing about this saw is its electric brake that allows users to get a lot of control over their unit.
This is a versatile tool that you can use to cut through any kind of material. It is lightweight and easy to maneuver and control. You can use its variable speed trigger to change how fast or how slow the cutting will go. It eliminates the chances of losing control over the saw because of its electric brake.
It comes with a 2-year limited warranty. It is a cordless unit that makes use of a lithium-ion battery. Many said the battery is long-lasting and can get a lot of cutting work done. The package of this unit includes 1 BDCR20 reciprocating saw, 1 reciprocating blade, 1 20V max lithium battery, and charger.
Specs
- Speed: 3,000 SPM
- Power Source: Battery-Powered
- Weight: 4.5 pounds
Pros
- It is highly versatile
- It is very easy to control and maneuvers, thanks to its lightweight
- Electric brake system for added safety
- It comes with a long-lasting battery
Cons
- There is a report that it shakes a lot.
4. SKIL 9206-02 7.5 Amp Variable Speed Reciprocating Saw
Get more cutting jobs done with this powerful unit that has 7.5 amps of motor power. Like the previous one, you can also replace its blades without requiring extra tools. The exterior housing of this gear is made from heavy-duty material, so you can be assured of durability and longevity.
You can subject it to rough handling without worrying that it will get damaged. Gain more control over extra vibrations with the help of its counterbalance set-up.
This unit features a variable speed setting and it is capable of handling the most demanding applications in wood, metal, and masonry. This reciprocating saw also comes with a pivoting foot that increases its stability when using it to work on wood or other materials.
If you are looking for the best Sawzall for trimming, carving, cutting, and other applications, then this is one of the best options to consider. It is great for small projects around the home. It is highly durable, and it is going to serve you for years.
It is also super lightweight, as it weighs only 2.81 pounds. With such weight, you can use this saw to work for hours without feeling fatigued. It wouldn’t strain your arms and shoulders.
Specs
- Speed: 0 to 2,700 SPM
- Power: 7.5 amps
- Power Source: Electric-Powered
- Weight: 2.81 pounds
Pros
- This is one of the most affordable reciprocating saws out there.
- There is a pivoting foot that you can use to get more stability when cutting materials.
- It works fast and efficiently.
- You can change the blades without needing more tools.
- It is a good all-around-tool in the household.
Cons
- Some said it is not for bigger carpentry works.
5. Porter-Cable PCC670B 20V Max Reciprocating Saw
The fifth reciprocating saw on our list is the Porter-Cable PCC670B 20V Max Reciprocating Saw. This is one of the best reciprocating saws on the market and it is very powerful. This unit comes with a lot of power and it is lightweight. It also comes at a pocket-friendly rate, making it a great option for many DIYers and homeowners.
This is a battery-powered reciprocating saw and it comes with a 20V battery. The battery is durable and it delivers great power. It comes with a variable speed trigger and the speed range is from 0 to 3,000 SPM.
With this feature, you can adjust the speed of the blade to suit the material you are cutting. It comes with a tool-free blade release system, which means you do not need any tool to remove the blade. This feature comes in really handy, as it helps to reduce downtime.
The Porter-Cable PCC670B features a compact design that makes it easy to reach tight and awkward spaces. You can use this saw to work for hours without feeling fatigued, thanks to its lightweight and ergonomic design. This unit weighs only 4 pounds.
However, the downside to this reciprocating saw is that it does not come with a battery and charger. This means you have to purchase the battery and charger separately. It is also not the most durable reciprocating saws on the market, which means you need to apply caution when using it if you want it to serve you for long.
In all, it is a great reciprocating saw that delivers great performance. It also comes with a contoured over-molded handle for increased comfort. The overall length of this unit is 14.5 inches.
Specs
- Speed: 0-3,000 SPM
- Power Source: Battery-Powered
- Weight: 4 pounds
Pros
- Variable speed trigger for increased control
- Tool-free blade release for easy and quick blade change
- High-performance drivetrain for aggressive cutting
- Affordable price
Cons
- You have to purchase the battery and charger separately
6. Dewalt DCS380B 20V Max Reciprocating Saw
The Dewalt DCS380B reciprocal saw is a cordless saw that uses a 20v battery. This reciprocal saw is from one of the most respected brands in the power tool industry.
If you have made up your mind to settle for a cordless reciprocal saw, then this is one of the best options to consider. This tool comes with Dewalt’s black and yellow appearance, a design that you can use to identify any product from this brand.
This saw comes with a very powerful motor that delivers great speed. It has a variable speed dial with a speed range from 0 to 3,000 SPM. With such a speed range, you can cut through wood and metal with ease.
This saw has a long stroke length of 1.125-inch, and this enhances the cutting speed. For increased positional versatility and flush cutting, this unit comes with a 4-position blade clamp. This unit delivers faster-cut speed and increased blade control.
Dewalt also designed this tool to extend the lifespan of your blade, thanks to the pivoting adjustable shoe. However, this unit does not come with a blade, which means you have to purchase it separately. The charger and battery are also sold separately. Besides that, this tool is a great addition to the toolbox of professionals and hobbyists alike.
It is also highly versatile and it can handle a wide range of applications. The 20v max system delivers up to 82 percent more power, 2.88 times faster applications, and up to 181 percent more runtime. This unit weighs only 6 pounds, making it very easy to use and control.
Specs
- Speed: 0-3,000 SPM
- Power Source: Battery-Powered
- Weight: 6 pounds
Pros
- Variable speed trigger for more control
- Powerful and highly efficient
- Long-lasting battery for more runtime
- Soft, over-molded grip for comfort
Cons
- It does not come with a blade, battery, and charger
7. Makita JR3050T 11-Amp Reciprocating Saw
The Makita JR3050T is another fascinating reciprocating saw out there. This reciprocating saw comes with a very powerful 11-amp saw that is capable of handling heavy-duty tasks. You can use this machine for a variety of applications. This saw offers better handling and performance, and it weighs just 7.3 pounds.
It also has a variable speed dial with a speed range from 0 SPM to 2,800 SPM. For efficient and effective cutting, this unit comes with a blade stroke length of 1.125 inches.
This tool is great on metal, drywall, wood, plastics, demolition, and remodeling work. It also comes with an internal dust blower that helps to clear your workspace from debris and provide you with more visibility. This helps to boost your precision when cutting.
You can also change the blade of this tool without any tools, as it comes with a tool-less blade system. For fast-changing convenience, this tool comes with a heavy-duty shoe.
Makita also designed this tool to serve you for years and it comes with a 1-year warranty. The packaging of this unit includes a 6” 6TPI reciprocating saw blade, 6” metal cutting reciprocating saw blade, 18TPI (723054-A-1), and a tool case.
Makita also engineered this tool with all ball and needle bearings to extend the life of the tool. It comes with durable body design. The protective rubber boot seals the bearings and motor from debris and dust.
Specs
- Speed: 0-2,800 SPM
- Power: 11 amps
- Power Source: Electric-Powered
- Weight: 7.28 pounds
Pros
- It is very powerful and efficient
- It is lightweight and very easy to use
- An 11-amp motor that can handle a wide range of applications
- A tool-free blade system
Cons
- The quality of the blade lock can be improved
Why You Should Have A Reciprocating Saw
As mentioned above, there are plenty of uses for the reciprocating saw, or Sawzall. But here are some of the reasons why you should have one in your tools:
It Is A Portable Tool
Portability is one of its strongest suits. Reciprocating saws come in corded or cordless forms. The cordless ones offer more portability since they run on batteries and there is no cumbersome cord to deal with while working but the corded ones are still compact and lightweight enough to be considered portable.
It Is A Versatile Tool
As mentioned earlier, there are plenty of uses for the reciprocating saw. They are flexible enough to cut through different cuts of materials using different motions.
You can cut vertically as well as horizontally. This can be used for cutting through plumbing materials or electrical components. It is small enough to make intricate cuts on wood. You can rely on it to make cutting work easier.
It Offers Variable Speed Settings
Most of the reciprocating saws you can find today have a variable speed-setting feature aided by orbital action function. This allows you to get complete control over your saw, so you can achieve the best results.
If there are more difficult cutting patterns you are trying to achieve, change the speed setting, so you can get the results you want.
The Strokes It Can Deliver Have More Depth
Longer strokes are faster while the shorter ones can be used for making plunge cuts. You can make strokes as long as 1 ¼ inch and as short as ¾ inch.
It Is Convenient To Use
Since you can cut effortlessly into any kind of construction material, a reciprocating saw is basically convenient to use. It is even powerful enough to cut into drywall and bricks.
Which One Should You Get?
All these products are great options but let us help you decide on the best one that suits your needs:
Great For Multiple Projects: Worx WX550L 20V Axis 2-In-1 Reciprocating Saw
Since this saw functions as a reciprocating saw and a jigsaw at the same time, you can do many different projects with this one. You can dispense the need to buy a separate jigsaw, so although this unit costs a lot more money, you are actually essentially saving more by getting two tools in one.
Packed With Features: Tacklife Reciprocating Saw With Rotating Handle
This one has many useful features including a variable speed setting and a built-in light to make it easier to see what you are cutting through. All these features are included in a well-built saw that can last for a long time.
Has An Electric Brake: Black + Decker BDCR20C 20V Max Reciprocating Saw
What sets this apart from the others is that it comes with an electric brake, which works well with its variable speed setting. This actually allows you to get more control over your reciprocating saw.
Great For Household Usage: SKIL 9206-02 7.5 Amp Variable Speed Reciprocating Saw
If you only need a saw for household use, this should have the features you need to get the job done. It also has an affordable price tag.
Great For Diyers And Homeowners: Porter-Cable PCC670B 20V Max Reciprocating Saw
If you are looking for the best Sawzall for carving, trimming, and cutting, then this is one of your best options. It is one of the best options for homeowners and DIYers.
Best Cordless Reciprocating Saw For Prolonged Use: Dewalt DCS380B 20V Max Reciprocating Saw
With this reciprocating saw, you can get extra 181 percent runtime with its 20V battery. The highly durable battery allows for prolonged use.
Best For Heavy-Duty Tasks: Makita JR3050T 11-Amp Reciprocating Saw
If you are looking for the best electric-powered reciprocating saw for heavy-duty tasks, then this is your best option.
You may also want to add a couple of sawhorses to use with your reciprocating saw. You may also want to learn about other types of saws. Check out these roundup reviews:
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- Best Circular Saw Reviews
- Best Track Saw Reviews
What To Look For When Buying A Reciprocating Saw
To make sure you are buying the best reciprocating saw, here are some key features you need to look for:
Amps
The amp rating of the reciprocating saw will tell you a lot about the depth of its cutting action. If there is a higher amp rating, you usually get more cutting power. If you are cutting through thicker types of materials, it makes sense to get a reciprocating saw with a higher amp.
Variable Speed Setting
Find out if it comes with a variable speed feature. Not all reciprocating saws will have this feature. If it does, make sure you check the different speed settings available. It changes the number of strokes the saw can do in just one minute.
Orbital Blade
Find out what orbital movement it offers. This is the one responsible for the saw’s cutting action. The elliptical blade is essential when it comes to making precise cuts on materials such as wood.
If you work with wood a lot, make sure you check the orbital blade movement and see if it offers the features you are looking for.
Corded/Cordless
Decided whether to get a corded saw or a cordless one? A corded saw can have a lot of benefits such as not worrying about running out of power.
On the other hand, cordless units are more portable, and they can be used anywhere, even when there isn’t a power source nearby or even if there is a power outage. There is also no cumbersome cord to get in the way of achieving those more intricate cuts.
Ergonomics
Another thing you have to consider is the hand grip. Look for a reciprocating saw that features non-slip handles, so they are easier to work with.
Make sure the handles are big enough to hold without suffering from hand fatigue. It should be easy to hold and maneuver, so you can get the cuts you want.
These are just some of the features you need to look for. Generally, the more expensive the reciprocating saw, the more features you can get. If you fancy getting one packed with features, be prepared to spend more money.
How To Use A Reciprocating Saw
What’s Next?
Are you looking for more tools to add to your construction materials? Head to our homepage to read more product reviews. Check out our buying guides to help you find durable tools that will last for a long time.
Conclusion
With the reviews and buyer’s guide in this article, choosing the best reciprocating saw for your needs should no longer be an issue. Our top pick for the best reciprocating saw is the Worx WX550L 20V Axis 2-in-1 Reciprocating Saw.
This is a 2-in-1 reciprocating saw that you can use as a reciprocating saw and a jigsaw. It delivers more consistent results; it is lightweight and very easy to use.