Buying Reciprocating Saws? Corded Or Cordless, Recip Saw Or Sawzall

Reciprocating saws are powerful and versatile tools widely used in construction, demolition, plumbing, and DIY projects. These saws, known for their aggressive cutting action, use a back-and-forth blade motion to cut through various materials, including wood, metal, and plastic. A notable version of this tool is the Sawzall, invented by Milwaukee in 1951, which is essentially a branded type of reciprocating saw.

But as the market has evolved, users now face a key decision: should you buy a corded or cordless reciprocating saw? And how do you choose between different blade types? Let’s break it down.

Corded vs. Cordless Reciprocating Saws

Traditionally, reciprocating saws were corded, which meant they had to be plugged into an electrical outlet. However, advancements in battery technology have introduced powerful cordless reciprocating saws that rival their corded counterparts. Choosing between corded and cordless reciprocating saws depends on your needs and job type.

Corded Reciprocating Saws

Cordless Reciprocating Saws

Which One Should You Choose?

When choosing a reciprocating saw, it all depends on the type of job and your specific needs. For instance, if you’re tackling heavy-duty demolition work, you might need a more robust model with higher power and durability. A more compact and less powerful saw might suffice for lighter tasks like trimming branches or cutting small pipes. Additionally, features such as variable speed settings, blade types, and ergonomic design can affect performance and comfort. Assessing your typical projects and understanding the features that best suit those tasks will help you select the right reciprocating saw for your needs.

Reciprocating Saw Blades: Choosing the Right Blade for the Job

The performance of your reciprocating saw doesn’t just depend on the tool itself; the blade you choose is equally critical. Reciprocating saw blades come in various types, each designed for cutting different materials.

How to Choose Your Reciprocating Saw Blades

Reciprocating saw blades come in different materials to suit various tasks.

• High Carbon Steel (HCS) Blades: Flexible and best for cutting soft materials like wood.
• Bi-Metal Blades: A hybrid of flexibility and durability, ideal for cutting wood and metal.
• Carbide-Tipped Blades: Extremely durable and suitable for cutting through hardened steel, cast iron, or masonry.

Blade length for reciprocating saws impacts cutting depth and manoeuvrability.

• Blade Length: Longer blades allow for deeper cuts, while shorter blades provide more control for precision tasks.

Teeth per Inch (TPI) on reciprocating saw blades affect the cut quality and speed.

• Lower TPI (5-10): For fast, aggressive cuts in wood.
• Medium TPI (10-18): Best for cutting metal and plastics.
• Higher TPI (18-24): Fine, smooth cuts, especially in metal or thin materials.

Why would you need a reciprocating saw?

A reciprocating saw is a highly versatile tool for demolition and construction projects. Its powerful, back-and-forth blade motion allows it to cut through various materials, including wood, metal, and plastic, making it ideal for tasks such as tearing down walls, trimming branches, and cutting pipes. This tool makes rough cuts quickly and efficiently, especially when precision is less critical. Its adaptability with different blades further enhances its utility, making it a valuable addition to any toolkit for professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Here are a few examples:

Plumbing

A reciprocating saw is invaluable for cutting metal pipes and removing old fixtures in plumbing. Bi-metal blades are especially effective for this purpose, combining flexibility and durability to handle tough materials. The saw’s ability to make precise, quick cuts allows plumbers to easily install new pipes or fittings and remove and replace outdated or damaged components. Whether working in tight spaces or dealing with rusted or corroded pipes, a reciprocating saw provides the power and versatility needed to do the job efficiently.

Demolition & Construction Jobs

A reciprocating saw is essential for its power and adaptability during demolition projects. It can handle a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic, making it perfect for tearing down walls, cutting through nails, and dismantling structures. The lower TPI blades are ideal for aggressive cuts through large beams and debris, while the bi-metal blades can handle mixed materials like wooden studs with metal fasteners. The saw’s ability to cut in multiple orientations—horizontal, vertical, or angled—allows for flexibility and efficiency in quickly breaking down and clearing out materials.

Window Fitting

A reciprocating saw is used to precisely and efficiently cut materials around the window frame when fitting windows. Shorter blades with higher TPI are useful for making clean, accurate wood or metal framing cuts. This tool is handy for trimming the frame, adjusting rough openings, and removing old window sashes. The reciprocating saw’s ability to cut through various materials makes it an excellent choice for customising window openings and ensuring a proper fit for new installations. Its manoeuvrability helps adjust and accurately fit windows, even in confined spaces.

Our Best-Selling Reciprocating Saws

DeWalt DCS367N 18V XR Brushless Compact Reciprocating Saw (Body Only)

• 18V Brushless motor for improved power and run time.
• The compact length (363mm), lightweight (3.2kg), ergonomically designed, and improved balance allow comfortable and controlled cutting for high user efficiency.
• 4-position blade clamp – allows cutting from an angle and improves access to cut, making it easy to use in many applications
• Fixed, pivoting shoe for optimum stabilisation of cuts ensures better comfort, control and performance.
• Optimum speed/stroke length (28.6mm / 2900SPM) allows for fast and efficient cutting, enhances productivity, and saves time and money.
• Variable speed switch gives complete control.
• LED light for better visibility.

Makita DJR187Z LXT 18V Brushless Reciprocating Saw (Body Only)

• Brushless motor
• Tool-less blade clamp
• Electric brake
• Variable speed trigger
• Constant speed control
• LED job light
• Compact and lightweight design
• Ergonomically designed handle
• Lock-off button
• Fixed shoe

Milwaukee M18 BSX-0 18V Sawzall (Body Only)

• REDLINK™ overload protection electronics in the tool and battery pack deliver best-in-class system durability
• Patented FIXTEC™ clamp for fast and easy keyless blade change
• Counterbalance mechanism to reduce vibrations 15.2 m/s² in wooden beams
• 28.6 mm stroke length & 3000 strokes per minute for extremely fast cutting
• The fuel gauge displays the remaining charge
• Flexible battery system: works with all MILWAUKEE® M18™ batteries

FAQ

Can a Reciprocating Saw replace a Jigsaw?

While both tools use a reciprocating blade, jigsaws are designed for more precise, intricate cuts, whereas reciprocating saws are more suited for demolition and rough cutting.

How long does a cordless Reciprocating Saw battery last?

The battery life of a cordless reciprocating saw depends on several factors, including the battery’s amp-hour (Ah) rating, the intensity of the work, and the specific model of the saw. Generally, a fully charged 5.0 Ah lithium-ion battery can last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour of continuous use. The battery may last longer for lighter, intermittent tasks, while heavy, continuous cutting might drain it more quickly.

Is the Sawzall just another name for a reciprocating saw?

Yes, “Sawzall” is a trademarked name from Milwaukee, but it is often used generically to refer to any reciprocating saw.

At Toolden, we offer various Reciprocating Saws for domestic and commercial applications.

Need help deciding which to choose? Need some help with your order? Our new help centre has a wide range of helpful articles and guides!

If you have any additional queries, please do not hesitate to contact us at 01358 726719 or by email at admin@toolden.co.uk