Reciprocating Saws
Reciprocating saws are one of the most versatile power tools out there. While they may not be the most elegant tools in your collection, they are effective at cutting a huge variety of materials and are a valued addition to almost any type of tradesman’s tool collection. Commonly used in construction, demolition, and renovation the sabre saws have a blade that moves back and forth in a rapid, reciprocating motion, making it ideal for cutting through a variety of materials including wood, metal, and plastic. With its ability to perform plunge cuts and work in tight spaces, it’s perfect for jobs that require cutting through walls, pipes, or timber.
Certain models like the Milwaukee Super Sawzall also oscillate (or move in a circular motion) giving you greater cutting potential. The Milwaukee Hackzall and other one-handed reciprocating saws are great for mechanic workshops or breakers yards.
Reciprocating saws are generally used for cutting through different materials that are stubborn or difficult to cut with other types of saws and blades. Recip saws are worth purchasing for their robust design and their versatility. They are ideal if you work in demolition or need to cut something that has already been installed such as old rotted timber or a piece of pipe that is jammed in at an awkward angle.
How useful is a reciprocating saw?
Reciprocating saws are extremely useful for awkward jobs that other saws just wouldn’t be able to do. You can use a reciprocating saw at dynamic angles, and it is more portable with better access than a circular saw or a jigsaw which may wind up being clunkier to use. A reciprocating saw is particularly useful for demolition, builders and carpenters, but they’re also great for any homeowner to have for odd jobs around the house.
What is a reciprocating saw generally used for?
Reciprocating saw can be used for almost anything. Common uses for reciprocating saws include cutting PVC pipes, taking down ceilings, cutting insulation, making flush cuts or notches in timber, removing old nails and more. They are also commonly used in the garden for tree branch or root trimming as a safer alternative to your chainsaw on smaller branches and trunks.
When should you not use a reciprocating saw?
Reciprocating saws do have their limitations – it is hard to cut neatly with them. A reciprocating saw, or a sawzall as they are sometimes known, isn’t a finishing tool. You shouldn’t use a recip saw if you are ripping long straight cuts in timber or other materials – for this, you should use a circular saw or a plunge saw.
Should I buy a circular saw or reciprocating saw?
As I mentioned before, reciprocating saws are not for finishing work, depending on what the job is, it would be more suited to a saw designed for a particular type of work, such as a mitre saws or a circular saws. But is it worth buying a reciprocating saw? Absolutely.
Here at Toolforce, we stock a wide range of reciprocating saws from top tool manufacturers such as Milwaukee, DeWalt, Makita and more, with Corded and Cordless Battery Reciprocating Saws available. We also stock reliable and sturdy DIY recip saws from Sealey, Draper, Einhell and more that are great for household tasks and light professional work.
