Which is the Best Reciprocating Saw? (A Detailed Comparison)

Although reciprocating saws are known to be very useful DIY tools, I find cordless versions to be more effective for getting into tight spots. Electric cables and cords can be inconvenient, so I prefer to use cordless whenever it’s an option.

There are numerous options available in the market for reciprocating saws, which can be used for cutting small brushwood and trimming branches in your yard or for various DIY projects. With its powerful motor and long blade, it can cut through various materials effortlessly.

Before deciding on which reciprocating saw is right for you, there are a few important features to consider when choosing the best cordless reciprocating saw. Look for ergonomic designs that provide comfortable grip and balance while cutting, as well as adjustable blades that can accommodate different thicknesses of material. You should also look for variable speed settings , a powerful motor that can handle tough sawing tasks, and a long battery life.

But I don’t want to overwhelm you with the number of options available and the features you need to check.

My goal is to assist you in making a more informed decision. I have researched and analysed the leading cordless reciprocating saws on the market and have created a list of the best reciprocating saws for you to consider. Each entry includes accurate information about the features, specifications, and performance of each tool.

After this list of the best reciprocating saws, I’ll share with you some tips that I think will be helpful for you. This includes how to use a reciprocating saw safely, which materials to avoid cutting with it, and how to maintain your tool in the best condition.

Best Overall Cordless Reciprocating Saw – DeWalt DCS367B

I think DeWalt tools are consistently reliable, and this reciprocating saw is no exception. It has a 20V battery and can achieve speeds up to 2,900 SPM, which is decent.

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DeWalt DCS367B Reciprocating Saw
The DEWALT DCS367B 20V Max XR Brushless Compact Reciprocating Saw packs plenty of oomph into a lightweight, compact design that makes it perfect for those hard-to-reach places.

It also has a variable speed trigger, so you can adjust the speed as needed.

  • Power: 20V
  • Speed: 0 – 2,900 SPM
  • Weight: 5.4 lbs
  • Stroke Length: 1 ⅛”

What I really like about this model is the fact that it has a brushless motor, which provides extended runtime and durability.

The reciprocating saw that comes with a brushless motor is usually more efficient and has a longer life than models that don’t.

This saw is designed to reduce the risk of motor burnout and minimize the need for frequent maintenance. So you can rely on getting excellent performance over a long period of time without any problems.

But that’s not all.

This saw weighs 5.4 lbs, making it lighter than some other models on the market. It also features quick-change blade releases that prevent finger injuries during blade changes.

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The reciprocating saw is durable and user-friendly, making it the perfect tool for any DIYer.

If you’re looking for a dependable cordless reciprocating saw, then I highly recommend considering this DeWalt model. It provides excellent power and performance and is designed to last for years.

Pros

  • It is constructed with a brushless motor
  • It has variable speed settings
  • It is lightweight and durable
  • It includes a quick-change blade release for safety
  • The saw also comes with an LED light that aids in visibility.

Cons

  • Often, you will only receive the tool and will need to purchase the blades separately.

Best Heavy-Duty Reciprocating Saw – Milwaukee 2720-21 M18 Fuel Sawzall

If you’re looking for a reciprocating saw that can handle tough jobs, then the Milwaukee 2720-21 M18 Fuel Sawzall is your best bet.

Milwaukee 2720-21 M18 Fuel Sawzall
If you're looking for a saw that can tackle the most demanding of jobs, look no further than the Milwaukee 2720-21 M18 Fuel Sawzall! This cordless reciprocating saw is sure to become your new go-to tool.

This powerful cordless tool delivers superior performance and durability thanks to its 18V battery and brushless motor. This reciprocating saw is very powerful and you will notice its strength as soon as you use it for the first time.

  • Power: 18V
  • Speed: 0 – 3,000 SPM
  • Weight: 8.9 lbs

I love how powerful and sturdy this model is. It makes you feel capable of taking on anything with an easy and reliable tool.

The battery, according to Milwaukee, lasts twice as long as other 18V reciprocating saw models on the market. This means that you won’t have to worry about stopping in the middle of a job and recharging it.

If this statement is true, it could have a huge impact on your productivity.

The anti-vibration system also helps make the tool easier to handle and control while you are working.

This model has the Milwaukee total system communication feature, which allows the tool to monitor battery performance and provide feedback. This safety feature is included for users who demand the highest level of performance from their tools.

Pros

  • This saw has a quick-change blade release for easy and safe blade changes.
  • It is constructed with an 18V battery that lasts twice as long as other models
  • It includes an anti-vibration system to reduce fatigue while you are working
  • The machine’s speed can be adjusted to a maximum of 3,000 SPM.

Cons

  • It is heavier than other models, weighing 8.9 lbs

Overall, I think the Milwaukee 2720-21 M18 Fuel Sawzall is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a powerful and durable reciprocating saw. It can handle tough jobs with ease and comes with a number of useful features that make it easy to use.

Best Budget Reciprocating Saw – BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly reciprocating saw, then I recommend the BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C. This cordless model is great value for money and perfect for small jobs around the home – ideal for the hesitant DIYer.

BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C
This is one saw that won't make you break sweat – or the bank. Lightweight enough to tote around without issue, it's just what you need for small and routine projects around the house – like trimming bushes or cutting through logs.
  • Power: 20V
  • Speed: 0 – 3,000 SPM
  • Weight: 4.5 lbs

This saw has a motor that delivers powerful but quiet cutting performance for quick and easy work. It comes with a pivoting shoe, which helps to increase the stability of the tool while you are working. The adjustable speed settings range from 0 to a maximum speed of 3000 SPM, providing you with the flexibility to choose the speed based on the material you are cutting.

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While the stroke length is not as high as other competing saws, the variable-speed trigger allows for more control and accuracy.

Pros

  • This saw is great value for money
  • It includes a pivoting shoe for increased stability
  • It features an adjustable speed
  • The tool-less blade changing feature makes it easy to switch blades
  • The saw is lightweight and easy to maneuver.

Cons

  • The maximum stroke length is shorter than other models.

Overall, I would recommend the BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C as it is a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable reciprocating saw that can handle small tasks quickly and easily. It is lightweight and easy to use, making it a great option for the less experienced DIYers out there.

Best for Beginner Reciprocating Saw – Makita JR3070CT Reciprocating Saw

If you’re just starting out and need a saw that is easy to use and won’t break the bank, then I recommend the Makita JR3070CT.

Makita JR3070CT Reciprocating Saw
This saw is powered by Makita's unbeatable 18V lithium-ion batteries, plus it features an extra long 1-1/4” stroke length and a two-finger variable speed trigger so you can cut through materials easily.

If you are new to reciprocating saws and looking for a model that is both powerful and easy to use, then this Makita saw is a great choice.

  • Power: 15A
  • Speed: 0 – 2,800 SPM
  • Weight: 10 lbs

This saw is powered by a 15amp motor which provides plenty of power for cutting through tough materials. It also has an adjustable speed range from 0 to 2800 SPM, allowing you to adjust the speed based on the material you are cutting.

The anti-vibration technology also helps to reduce fatigue while you are working. The design of this model is ergonomic and easy to use, making it a great choice for beginners.

The Makita JR3070CT comes with variable speed control that allows you to adjust the speed based on the material you are cutting. This feature helps ensure accuracy and precision .

Pros

  • This saw is powerful and can handle tough materials
  • It has an adjustable speed range for more control
  • The anti-vibration system helps to reduce fatigue
  • The design of this model is ergonomic and easy to use
  • It comes with a tool-less blade changing feature.

Cons

  • This model is heavier than other saws at 10 lbs

Overall, this reciprocating saw has been designed with the novice in mind, making it perfect for those who are new to using such tools. It is powerful and adjustable, so you don’t have to worry about it not being able to handle tough jobs. It also has a number of convenient features which make it easy and comfortable to use.

Best Compact Reciprocating Saw – DEWALT DCS387B RECIP SAW

If you’re looking for a powerful, yet compact reciprocating saw, then I recommend the DEWALT DCS387P1. I dislike it when I have to finish a job with a large tool.

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DeWalt DCS387B Reciprocating Saw
This DeWalt DCS387B Recip Saw is the answer to all your “in-between-the-studs” woes. With its compact and lightweight design, this 14-inch reciprocating saw is easy for anyone to use comfortably.

This DeWalt DCS387B compact reciprocating saw is the perfect tool for tight spaces.

  • Power: 20V
  • Speed: 0 – 2,900 SPM
  • Weight: 5.4 lbs

This saw features a powerful motor that can cut through tough materials like wood or metal with ease. It also has an adjustable speed range from 0 to 2900 SPM, helping you adjust the speed depending on your material.

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I find the variable speed option easy to use and precise. Another great feature is that the saw is compatible with most blades, giving you more options to choose from.

It also has a tool-free blade changing feature which makes it easy and convenient to switch blades while working. The saw is lightweight at 5.4 lbs making it ideal for use in tight spaces and for extended periods of time without fatigue .

Pros

  • It is lightweight and easy to maneuver.
  • The adjustable speed range from 0-2,900 SPM
  • Compatible with most blades
  • Tool-less blade changing feature for convenience
  • Powerful motor can cut through tough materials with ease.

Cons

  • You need to factor in the cost of blades and a battery

The DeWalt DCS387P1 is a great choice for those who are looking for a powerful, yet compact reciprocating saw. It is lightweight and easy to use, so you don’t have to worry about fatigue when using it. This saw has all the features needed to help you finish your projects with ease and accuracy.

Choose the Best Cordless Reciprocating Saw for Your Needs

If you’re considering buying a cordless reciprocating saw, here are some tips to help you make a decision. I personally focus on a few key areas when purchasing one of these tools.

Battery Power

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a cordless reciprocating saw is battery power. The battery is what powers the saw and determines how long you can use it before needing to recharge. When choosing a cordless saw, look for one with a high voltage battery, such as 18V or 20V, as they provide optimal power and runtime.

Stroke Length

Another key factor to consider is the stroke length. The longer the stroke length, the faster the saw will cut. For most applications, you want a stroke length between 7/8 inches to 1-1/4 inches. This will provide you with fast cuts without sacrificing precision and control.

Motor Power

The motor is what drives the blade, and it’s essential that the motor is powerful enough to handle the tasks you plan on using the saw for. Look for a saw with a motor of 10 to 15 amps as this provides optimal power and control, allowing you to tackle even the toughest projects with ease.

Blade Change System

The blade change system is another essential feature to consider when choosing a cordless reciprocating saw. The blade change system should be quick and easy, allowing you to change blades without the need for additional tools. This will save you time and frustration when working on your projects.

Ergonomics

Finally, you want to choose a cordless saw that is comfortable to use for extended periods. Look for a saw with an ergonomic design, including a comfortable grip and balanced weight distribution. This will help prevent fatigue and keep you working for longer periods, allowing you to complete your projects with ease.

Final Thoughts

I have listed several cordless reciprocating saws, each with their own exceptional capabilities and excellent results. However, before making your final choice, I would recommend reviewing the tips for selecting the best reciprocating saw. My goal is to assist you in making the process easier, and I am confident that you will find a suitable model from my list.

Ultimately, make sure that you take the time to consider all aspects of a saw and determine which features are most important for your specific needs. Whether you are cutting through metal or wood, I am sure you will find the perfect cordless reciprocating saw for your projects!

Last update on 2024-04-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API