7 Best Reciprocating Saws - Reviews

#1. DeWalt DWE304 10-Amp Corded Reciprocating Saw

Editor's Rating:  (4.7 / 5)

​​​​​​​​​​Furthermore, there is a variable speed control in this saw allowing you to easily change the speed of the blade to adapt to your material. The stroke rate in this unit is 0 – 2,800 SPM with a generous 1-1/8 inches stroke length. This will definitely allow you to cut material faster.

But what we like about this unit is its 4-position blade. It can make smooth vertical and horizontal cuts, making this reciprocating saw very versatile and practical The blade can be clamped and unclamped in a matter of seconds. Indeed, it is very intuitive and easy to cut with this unit.

Furthermore, the handles of this device have beveled grooves to promote handling. They are quite comfortable to hold, even if this particular model does not have a rubberized handle. This saw is certainly one of the best corded reciprocating saw in terms of price.

Who Should Buy?

If you're looking for an affordable reciprocating saw for casual and general purpose use, this model from DeWalt is an excellent saw. It offers decent performance and is also relatively affordable.

#2. DeWalt DWE305 12-Amp Corded Reciprocating Saw

Editor's Rating:  (4.7 / 5)

Best, this unit has a variable speed control that enables you to adapt to the material you are cutting. You can easily cut metal, PVC, wood and anything in between using this reciprocating saw. It has enough power to handle those cutting tasks like a champ.

There is still a 4-position blade clamp system as we’ve seen in the DWE304 model. Additionally, changing blades in this model is extremely easy since it comes with a keyless blade changing system. You can change a blade in a few seconds with this saw.

What makes this different from the previous DeWalt model is the presence of a soft and rubberized handle. This handle is extremely comfortable and will help you limit hand fatigue over time. If you use your reciprocating saw for a long period, this is one of the best reciprocating saw for the money. It’s even better than the DeWalt DWE304.

Who Should Buy?

In our opinion, the DeWalt WE305 is one of the best corded reciprocating saw for the money. It is a powerful 12-Amp model that is also value for money. Get this model if you are on a short budget and still require a powerful tool for heavy-duty cutting jobs.

#3. Makita JR3050T 11-Amp Corded Reciprocating Saw

Editor's Rating:  (4.8 / 5)

The stroke length in this model is an industry-standard of 1-1/8 inches which is large enough to cut material like butter. It even has a variable speed control for cutting various types of materials on the fly. Furthermore, the speed can be adjusted anywhere from 0 – 2,800 SPM with the push of a button.

However, what we like about this model is the brushless motor. This particular design allows it to extend the life of the motor by quite a big margin. It also makes it much more efficient, enabling this reciprocating saw to do more cutting with less power. But it does not stop here. The brushless design is also very easy to clean and doing maintenance on this model is quick and easy.

Lastly, there is a powerful blower in this unit that helps keep the cut area clean. We wish that all reciprocating saw manufacturers implement this feature as it is truly very practical.

Who Should Buy?

If you are looking for heavy-duty and versatile reciprocating saw for general purpose use, like remodeling, renovation, demolishing, amongst others, this is an excellent model to consider. It is a reliable and efficient model that is also long-lasting thanks to the brushless motor and ball bearing moving parts.

#4. Black & Decker BDCR20B 20V MAX Lithium Cordless Reciprocating Saw

Editor's Rating:  (4.6 / 5)

Additionally, this model has a pivoting shoe for more ease of use and stability. The stroke length is not the best we have seen, but at 7/8 inch, it should be sufficient for general purpose cutting. Further, the handles are surprisingly quite ergonomic. It is has a soft rubber coat making is extremely comfortable to hold for an extended period.

There is also a variable speed control mechanism that allows you to change the speed of the blade on the fly. We have to say, for a budget reciprocating saw, there is a lot packaged in here.

Who Should Buy?

This cordless reciprocating saw is both affordable and effective. It is not the most powerful saw on the market, but it should be a great buy for those looking for a unit only for lightweight cutting applications.

#5. DeWalt DCS387B 20V MAX Compact Cordless Reciprocating Saw

Editor's Rating:  (4.7 / 5)

It has a deep stroke length of 1-1/8 inches which allows you to cut material quickly and easily. Additionally, the 4-position blade system makes it very versatile, for cutting material in a wide range of positions. Equally impressive is the presence of a variable speed control of 0 to 2,900 SPM.

We like the compact and relatively lightweight form factor of this reciprocating saw. It can be used in tight areas easily, and it does have an excellent handling. If you usually work in awkward positions, the chances are that you will like this model. Further, the build construction is just superb. It is made for durability, and this saw should last you quite a while.

All in all, this model consistently ranks amongst some of the best cordless reciprocating saws on the market.

Who Should Buy?

If you are looking for a heavy-duty cordless reciprocating saw, few models on the market can beat the DeWalt DCS387B, particularly in the price range that it is offered.

#6. Porter-Cable PCC670B 20V MAX Lithium Cordless Reciprocating Saw

Editor's Rating:  (4.6 / 5)

Further, it has a decent stroke length of 1 inch. A little less than other models, but not by a significant margin. It should perform similarly to other models with a 1-1/8 inches stroke length. Additionally, the blade can quickly and easily be changed with the keyless blade change system.

To make it a sweeter deal, the handles are large and ergonomic, for an even more comfortable handling. All in all, we are quite impressed at this cordless reciprocating saw. It does not cost much but has a lot of power and versatility.

Who Should Buy?

Possibly the best reciprocating saw we have ever reviewed. This Porter-Cable saw packs a punch. It is a small package, does not cost much and yet delivers a lot of value and versatility on the job. We safely recommend this model to contractors and any semi-professional.

#7. DeWalt DCS380B 20V MAX Li-Ion Cordless Reciprocating Saw

Editor's Rating:  (4.6 / 5)

There is also a very versatile speed controller that allows this unit to do speeds of 0 – 3,000 SPM. By far, the DCS380B is the fast DeWalt unit in this cordless reciprocating saw review. The shoe is still pivoting for stability, and the depth of cut can equally be adjusted. We have nothing but praise concerning the build quality in this unit. It is definitely a powerful and professional grade unit.

The 20V lithium-ion battery provides the necessary power to the motor, allowing this saw to cut through tough materials easily. Overall, if you already own a few reciprocating blades, this is an excellent saw to consider. It is performing, versatile and dependable. It definitely contains the features that professionals need on the job.

Who Should Buy?

If you already own a reciprocating blade, get this model. It is one of the best reciprocating saws on the market and is incredibly easy to use.

Types of Reciprocating Saw

There are 2 main types of reciprocating saws. Corded and Cordless.

#1. Corded Reciprocating Saw

If you need power and do not mind the electric wire, the corded reciprocating saw offers the most power. Some models have a motor power of 15-Amp, which is very powerful and will cut through any material easily. Additionally, this type of saw is also usually much cheaper than their cordless counterparts. They are also much lighter since they do not have a battery system compartment, which often makes power tools heavier than they should be.

#2. Cordless Reciprocating Saw

The cordless reciprocating saw is the most versatile and portable type. Indeed, since battery power it and not connected by wires, you can comfortably work with this saw in any position. Additionally, you will not need a power outlet to operate it. You can comfortably use this type of cutting power tool in a remote location where there is absolutely no electric power.

On the downside, since this kind of saw is equipped with a battery, you will need to recharge this power tool depending on your usage frequently.

Additionally, there is also another disadvantage to it. Due to the battery compartment, the cordless reciprocating saw is also usually heavier than the corded reciprocating saw. This can be an issue if you work with this saw for a long period.

What to Look for When Buying Reciprocating Saw?

#1. Amperage

The amperage dictates the power of the saw. The more amperage this power tool has, the easier it will be to cut material. A typical reciprocating saw has a power of 9 to 15 Amps. If you are a heavy-duty user planning to cut through thick and tough material, you may want to opt for a 15-Amp model. However, the higher the power, the more expensive the device also gets.

#2. Stroke Length

Just like a regular saw, the long the stroke length, the easier and faster it will cut through material. A model with a stroke length of 1-1/4 inches will cut material much more quickly than one with a 3/4 inch stroke length. Additionally, it is a good idea to go with a model that allows you to change the stroke length. This way, your reciprocating saw is more versatile and gets more done with less.

#3. Blade Changing Mechanism

You may want to change the blade often since there are blades that are specialized for smooth and delicate cuts, while others deliver more brute cutting power. In any case, choose a reciprocating saw that has a quick and easy blade changing mechanism. They normally have a keyless system that enables you to change blades without requiring a tool.

#4. Speed and Variable Speed Control

For more versatility, a model that enables you to change the speed of the blade is more than welcome. If you regularly work with different materials of different densities, go with a reciprocating saw that has a variable speed control.

#5. Shoe Adjustment

It is important that your reciprocating saw has a shoe adjustment. This provides more control and accuracy over your cut. Especially if you work in awkward positions. You definitely want to have the best saw and posture position when working with this power tool.

#6. Blade Position

A reciprocating saw that has a changeable blade position is much easier and versatile to work with. Some models have as many as 4 positions, allowing you to perform angular, horizontal and vertical cuts.

#7. Weight

For better and longer use, we recommend a model that has a lightweight and compact form factor. They will be much easier to hold and work with. This is especially true if you have to perform many cuts.

Conclusion

As we’ve seen in this reciprocating saw review, there are a lot of models that offer excellent ease of use and cutting power. They will not break the bank. Best, those units are almost all heavy-duty cutting tools allowing you to cut any material fast and easily. If you have still not found a good model for your need, we recommend that you go through this review one more time.