Reciprocating Saws are one of the main power tools used when it comes to demolition and renovation projects. Reciprocating Saws are renowned for their durability which allows them to carry out heavy-duty tasks on big projects and why so many tradesmen rely upon and trust them. Recip saws can cut through many materials such as wood, metal, PVC, and even nail-embedded material depending on the saw blades you use. Due to the ability to cut a variety of materials, reciprocating saws are very popular with tradesmen, especially carpenters and plumbers. Reciprocating Saws are also known as recip saws, sabre saws and Sawzall (Milwaukee Reciprocating saws).
Reciprocating saws are favoured for their ability to make quick, rough cuts in spaces where precision is less important than the speed and flexibility of the cut. When buying reciprocating saws you will have options of corded or cordless sabre saws that will have many features such as adjustable speed settings, tool-less blade changes, and anti-vibration technology to enhance user comfort and efficiency during operation. We will take a look at the best cordless & corded reciprocating saws along with the best professional recip saws from Milwaukee Sawzall to DeWalt FlexVolt and the Makita 40v range. We will also take a look at the best budget saws for home DIY projects that offer you plenty of power to get the job done but at good prices.
Cordless Reciprocating Saws
Cordless reciprocating saws are powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, providing the ultimate in mobility and convenience. They allow you to work in areas without access to electrical outlets, making them ideal for outdoor projects or in construction sites where power may not be readily available. The freedom from cords enhances safety and ease of use, especially in confined spaces or when working at height. However, their performance depends on battery life, which can vary based on the battery’s capacity and the intensity of use. Modern cordless saws with lithium-ion batteries (such as Milwaukee M18 High output batteries) offer longer runtime and faster charging, but for prolonged jobs, having spare batteries on hand is recommended.
Corded Reciprocating Saws
Corded reciprocating saws must be plugged into an electrical outlet, which can limit mobility but provide consistent power delivery for extended periods. They are typically more powerful than their cordless counterparts and can sustain high-intensity work without the need for battery changes or recharges. This makes corded saws a preferred choice for heavy-duty demolition work or when working close to power sources where the cord’s limitations are less of a hindrance. The uninterrupted power supply ensures that corded saws can handle tougher materials and prolonged use without a drop in performance.
Best DIY Reciprocating Saws
Draper Storm Force 20V Reciprocating saw 89459
The Draper Storm Force 20V Cordless Reciprocating Saw is one of the most versatile power tools in the Storm Force 20V Power Interchange series. Designed for precise and efficient cutting, this recip saw features a quick-change blade system for fast and easy blade swaps, enhancing your workflow. With its lockable and adjustable soleplate, you can achieve optimal cutting angles and stability for various materials. The soft grip handle ensures comfortable operation over extended periods, while the variable speed control provides precision across a range of cutting tasks. Compatible with the Draper Storm Force 20V interchangeable battery system, this cordless Reciprocating Saw allows you to use a single battery across any tool within the 20V Storm Force series, offering unmatched versatility and convenience. Please note, batteries and chargers are sold separately, allowing you to customize your toolkit based on your specific needs. With a no-load speed of 0-3000rpm, this Reciprocating Saw boasts impressive cutting capabilities: up to 115mm in wood, 10mm in aluminium, and 6mm in steel, making it suitable for a wide array of applications. The 22mm stroke length further ensures clean and efficient cuts every time.
Specifications
| Battery | 20V Stormforce Li-ion |
| No Load Speed | 0-3000rpm |
| Stroke Length | 22mm |
| Cutting Capacity Wood | 115mm |
| Cutting Capacity Aluminium | 10mm |
| Cutting Capacity Steel | 6mm |
| Batteries Per Item | Sold separately |
| Supplied in Case | No |
| Motor Type | Brushed |
Einhell 18v 100mm Cordless Reciprocating Saw 4326300
The Einhell TE-AP 18/22 Li-Solo, a versatile cordless reciprocating saw that stands as the ultimate tool for a wide range of sawing and cutting tasks. Ideal for general-purpose use, this compact and durable saw is an essential addition to your toolkit for home refurbishments and various DIY projects. Despite being the smallest in its class, it doesn’t compromise on power or durability.
Specifications
| Cutting Depth Steel | 6 mm |
| Cutting Depth Wood | 100 mm |
| Idle Speed Max. | 2600 min^-1 |
| Lift Height | 22 mm |
| Motor Type | Brush Motor |
| Motor Voltage | 18v |
| Number of Batteries Included | None |
| Number of Chargers Included | None |
| Number of Saw Blades Included | 1 pcs |
| Saw Blade Holder Type | T-shaft |
| Saw Blade Support Max. | 1.6 mm |
| Saw Blade Support Min. | 0.6 mm |
| Product Weight | 1.6 Kg |
| Motor Type | Brushed |
Sealey 20v SV20 Series Cordless Reciprocating Saw CP20VRS
The Sealey Reciprocating Saw 20V SV20 Series CP20VRS is a powerful yet lightweight cordless tool designed for efficient cutting of wood, board, and soft metals. Housed in a durable composite casing, this reciprocating saw offers the perfect balance of robustness and user comfort, thanks to its soft grip feature. Equipped with a built-in quick blade change system, it allows for hassle-free switching between tasks, enhancing your workflow. The variable speed control trigger switch ensures precise cutting across various materials, giving you complete control over every job. This saw comes supplied with two cutting blades, one for wood (6tpi) and another for metal (18tpi), ensuring you’re prepared for a range of cutting tasks.
Specifications
| Battery: | 20V 2Ah – 6Ah Lithium-ion (not included) |
| Consumable Parts: | SBS3150 – Reciprocating Saw Blade Set 3pc, CP20VBP2 – 2Ah Battery, CP20VBP4 – 4Ah Battery, CP20VBP6 – 6Ah Battery |
| Cutting Specifications: | |
| Wood: | 115mm |
| Metal: | 10mm |
| No-Load Speed: | 0-3000spm |
| Stroke Length: | 22mm |
| Replacement Parts: | CP20VMC – Mains Charger (not included) |
Best Professional Reciprocating Saws
Milwaukee M18 Heavy Duty Sawzall M18BSX
The Milwaukee M18 Heavy Duty Sawzall M18BSX is engineered for superior performance, combining a high-powered 4-pole motor that maximizes both power and the power-to-weight ratio. This saw is equipped with Redlink overload protection electronics in both the tool and battery pack, ensuring unparalleled system durability. Featuring a patented Fixtec clamp, this Sawzall allows for quick and easy keyless blade changes, significantly enhancing work efficiency. Its counterbalance mechanism is expertly designed to reduce vibrations to 15.2 m/s² when cutting wooden beams, providing a smoother operation and reducing user fatigue. With a 28.6 mm stroke length and the capability to deliver up to 3000 strokes per minute, this tool is optimized for extremely fast cutting through a variety of materials.
Specifications
| MAX. CUTTING DEPTH IN ALUMINIUM (MM) | 25 |
| MAX. CUTTING DEPTH IN METAL PIPE (MM) | 150 |
| MAX. CUTTING DEPTH IN NON-FERROUS METAL (MM) | 25 |
| MAX. CUTTING DEPTH IN SOFT-WOOD (MM) | 300 |
| MAX. CUTTING DEPTH IN STEEL (MM) | 20 |
| NO LOAD STROKE RATE (SPM) | 3000 |
| STANDARD EQUIPMENT | Blade |
| STROKE LENGTH (MM) | 28.6 |
| SOUND POWER LEVEL MEASURED (DB(A)) | 93,9 |
| SOUND POWER LEVEL MEASURED UNCERTAINTY (DB(A)) | 3,0 |
| SOUND PRESSURE LEVEL (LPA)(DB(A)) | 82,9 |
| SOUND PRESSURE LEVEL UNCERTAINTY (DB(A)) | 3,0 |
| VIBRATION CUTTING WOODEN BEAM (M/S²) | 15,2 |
| VIBRATION CUTTING WOODEN BEAM UNCERTAINTY (M/S²) | 1,5 |
| VIBRATION SAWING OF WOOD [M|S²] | 18,0 |
| VIBRATION SAWING OF WOOD UNCERTAINTY [M|S²] | 1,5 |
DeWalt 54v FlexVolt Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit DCS389T2-GB
The DeWalt 54V FlexVolt DCS389 Cordless Reciprocating Saw stands out as a powerhouse, providing corded tool performance with cordless convenience. Equipped with a brushless motor, it ensures extended runtime, reliability, and durability, making this sabre saw a go-to for demanding projects. Featuring an intelligent variable speed trigger and a lock-off switch, along with a two-position blade clamp, this tool is designed for flush cutting and enhanced versatility, adapting to a wide range of cutting tasks with ease.
Specifications
| Voltage: | 54v XR FlexVolt |
| Power Output (Max Watts Out): With DCB546 Battery: | 1740W |
| Power Output (Max Watts Out): With DCB547 Battery: | 1874W |
| Stroke Length: | 29mm |
| Speed: | 0-3,000 |
| Tool Length: | 466mm |
| Shoe Style: | Pivot |
| Weight: | 3.5kg |
Makita 40v Max XGT Reciprocating Saw JR001GZ
The Makita 40V XGT Reciprocating Saw is engineered to withstand the rigorous demands of professional tradespeople. Its brushless motor delivers sustained power and speed, coupled with an extended runtime, making it an essential tool for intensive use. Featuring dual electric speeds, it offers versatility in cutting through different materials: the low speed optimizes metal cutting, while the high speed efficiently powers through wood. Blade changes are swift and effortless, thanks to the tool-less blade ejection lever, ensuring minimal downtime and maximum productivity.
Specifications
| Strokes per Minute (Hi / Lo) | 0- 3,000 / 0- 2,300 spm |
| Battery Type | Lithium-ion |
| Body only machine | Yes |
| Voltage | 40 v |
| Capacity in Wood | 255 mm |
| Capacity in Mild Steel Pipe | 130 mm |
| Stroke Length | 32 mm |
| Noise sound pressure | 85 dB(A |
| Noise sound power | 96 dB(A) |
| Noise K factor | 3 dB(A |
| Vibration K factor | 2.0 m/sec² |
| Vibration: Cutting Wood | 19.5 m/sec² |
| Vibration: Cutting Chipboard | 18.0 m/sec² |
Milwaukee M18 Fuel Super Sawzall M18FSX
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Super Sawzall redefines efficiency, matching the cutting speed of corded saws and powering through 150 pieces of 290 mm x 45 mm pine on a single 12.0 Ah battery charge. It’s bolstered by the High Output system, enhancing both performance and runtime to seamlessly integrate with High Output batteries. Its orbital action feature quickly removes debris, facilitating faster wood cuts. Capable of 3000 SPM and boasting a 32 mm stroke length, this saw easily cuts through a variety of materials. It offers 5 adjustable speed settings (1500 SPM to 3000 SPM) for tailored control over different materials. The keyless Fixtec blade clamp allows for rapid blade changes, enhancing workflow efficiency. With its robust metal rafter hang hook and an adjustable shoe for optimized blade use, this saw is an indispensable tool for professionals seeking reliability and precision.
Specifications
| MAX. CUTTING DEPTH IN ALUMINIUM (MM) | 25 |
| MAX. CUTTING DEPTH IN METAL PIPE (MM) | 150 |
| MAX. CUTTING DEPTH IN NON-FERROUS METAL (MM) | 25 |
| MAX. CUTTING DEPTH IN SOFT-WOOD (MM) | 300 |
| MAX. CUTTING DEPTH IN STEEL (MM) | 20 |
| NO LOAD STROKE RATE (SPM) | 0 – 3000 |
| STANDARD EQUIPMENT | Saw Blade |
| STROKE LENGTH (MM) | 32 |
| SUPPLIED IN | Kitbox |
| SOUND POWER LEVEL (LWA)(DB(A)) | 100.9 |
| SOUND POWER LEVEL UNCERTAINTY (DB(A)) | 3 |
| SOUND PRESSURE LEVEL (LPA)(DB(A)) | 89.9 |
| SOUND PRESSURE LEVEL UNCERTAINTY (DB(A)) | 3 |
| VIBRATION CUTTING BOARDS (M/S²) | 22.2 |
| VIBRATION CUTTING BOARDS UNCERTAINTY (M/S²) | 1.5 |
| VIBRATION CUTTING WOODEN BEAM (M/S²) | 21.9 |
| VIBRATION CUTTING WOODEN BEAM UNCERTAINTY (M/S²) | 1.5 |
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