Finding the best cordless reciprocating saw of 2018can be a daunting task. You need to know what features you need for the types of projects you have planned as well as do research to find out the ease of use of the products you are considering. Here are a few tips on what to look for in the top-rated reciprocating saws on the market and a few reviews to help you start shopping.
Table of Contents
Buying Guide
Choosing a Reciprocating Saw
Depending on your needs, choosing between a cordless or corded saw really comes down to how often you will be away from powered outlet. Cordless reciprocating saws are more convenient when out on a worksite, working in your yard, or need to get in tight spaces.
It is also a safer option as you don’t have to worry about having electrical cords on the floor that can trip you or cutting the cord yourself with the saw. Some users argue that you are giving up the power you get with a corded saw but there are several cordless saws on the market that will give you the same level of power while providing the convenience of not having to deal with a cord.
What is a Sawzall Saw?
A lot of people wonder, what is the difference between a reciprocating saw and a sawzall? The answer is nothing. A reciprocating saw is also often referred to as a Sawzall which is a trademark of the Milwaukee Electric Tool Company. A reciprocating saw or Sawzall has a large blade that looks like a jigsaw with a handle that is oriented to let you use the saw comfortably on vertical surfaces.
What are the advantages of a Reciprocating Saw?
There are many advantages to using a reciprocating saw instead of a chainsaw. Here are a few examples of the types of projects you can accomplish:
Features to Look for in a Reciprocating Saw
Blades
With a large range of saw blades to choose from, reciprocating saws can give you a lot of versatility with the materials you can cut. Similar to jigsaws, a reciprocating saw will allow you to cut through metal, wood, plastic, cement, or concrete.
Make sure to check the best reciprocating saw blade reviews to find the right blades for the materials you are working with. There are several different types of blades that you can use with your reciprocating saw. Here are a few examples of the types of blades available.
Stroke length
If you want to make fast cuts, you need a saw that will make a long stroke. On average, a reciprocating saw will cut between ¾ of an inch to 1 and ¼ inches as far as stroke lengths. Some saws allow you to make an adjustment for extra versatility.
Shoe adjustment
Adjustable shoes give you more control of the project you are working on. It’s important to also have a smooth and accurate blade adjustment if you choose a reciprocating saw with an adjustable shoe. This feature allows you to work in several different positions with increased functionality.
Strokes Per Minute (SPM)
Strokes per minute measure the speed of a reciprocating saw. Typically, a saw with higher amperage will give you faster cutting since the faster the blade cuts, the better cut it will produce. Plus, a blade that moves quickly will give you better control and help you get through your work faster.
Variable Speed Control
Having variable speed control is a nice feature for your reciprocating saw that allows you to precisely manipulate the saw. This feature is usually better for those users that do heavy commercial work and would appreciate the flexibility.
Weight
To help you stay comfortable while using your reciprocating saw for long periods of time, make sure to contemplate the weight of the saw, especially if you will be using it overhead. Consider what your physical limitations are and find a reciprocating saw that is lightweight and easy to handle. If you find a well-balanced saw, that will help to reduce the feeling of weight, but it can still be uncomfortable to hold for extended periods of time.
Straight or Orbital
A typical reciprocating saw blade will move up and down, but an orbital saw will move in an elliptical shape. It is also a lot more aggressive and allows you to make faster cuts, so consider the type of projects you will be working on and decide which type of saw is best. Orbital saws cut material with a different movement. Here is an example of an orbital saw at work:
Amperage or Battery Voltage
The general rule of thumb is the higher the amperage or voltage of the saws battery, the more powerful the saw will be. However, if you are considering the weight of the saw, you may choose a lighter 10 amp model over a heavier 16 amp as those couple of extra pounds can become heavier as the day drags on. Most cordless saws can come in 18, 24 or 36 volts. If you are using a battery-operated reciprocating saw, choose a NiMH or a Lithium-Ion as they are stronger and will last longer.
Usage and Maintenance Tips
Using a reciprocating saw is pretty easy with a cut and go type of operation.
Choose the blade you are using based on the material you will be cutting. To operate, you only need to angle the blade where you plan to cut and start cutting.
Always wear the right safety gear when you are working with any power tool. With a reciprocating saw, remember that the blades are sharp, so wear gloves and proper protective clothing to prevent any accidents.
This is a very simple saw to use and maintenance doesn’t take a lot of effort. As debris and sawdust accumulate on the blade, make sure to wipe it off. Other than that, there isn’t a lot of maintenance required.
Best Cordless Reciprocating Saw of 2018 Review
One of the lightest reciprocating saws on the market, the DeWalt DCS387 is compact and cordless and resembles the DeWalt DWE357 compact corded saw. Weighing only 5 pounds, this an easy-to-use saw that is also easy to transport. It also has a compact size with a 14 ½ inch length making it the shortest reciprocating saw in its class.
Featuring a handle with a soft ergonomic grip, this is an easy saw to handle and pick up. DeWalt’s exclusive 4-position blade clamp will give you better cutting options and makes it ideal for flush cutting. It also has a tool-free blade change allowing you to get back to work quickly so you complete your projects in the shortest amount of time.
This DeWalt sawzall is also capable of fitting in between studs making it a great tool for those that need to use the saw in tight situations. Plus, the variable speed trigger gives you improved blade control for accurate cuts. The trigger on the variable speed control is also large enough that you can operate it effectively with just one finger.
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Perfect for most jobs, the Makita XRJ02Z LXT Reciprocating Saw is versatile and powerful making it a great choice if you have a lot of different cutting projects. This is a good saw for the worksite as well when you need a powerful demolition and cutting saw. It also features built-in LED lights that light up your work area to make work easier and safer for the user.
Equipped with an inbuilt high torque motor, the Makita XRJ02Z LXT gives you a 1 1/8 inch stroke at 0 - 2,900 strokes per minute. This makes the XRJ02Z one of the fastest saws in the industry allowing you to cut a pipe up to 5 1/8 inches and wood up to 10 inches when you are using the 12-inch blade.
It also comes equipped with the star protected computer controls which will guarantee there is no over-loading happening, plus it can show when it is full on its own to stop it from overheating.
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One of the best products that Milwaukee offers is the Milwaukee 2620-20 cordless Sawzall reciprocating saw. With its one-inch stroke length and 0 – 3,200 stroke a minute speed, this saw gives you 30% more power than its competitors. The variable speed trigger easily controls the speed and the anti-vibration system keeps it smooth and steady.
This Milwaukee battery sawzall also features a smooth and soft grip handle for added comfort as well as a clutch system that has a patented gear protection features keeping the shocks and vibrations at a minimum. This well-made saw is easy to use and change blades with its included Quik-Lok blade clamp system.
Featuring a more durable battery, you will waste less time waiting for the battery to charge. Plus, the adjustable speed option lets you choose the right speed with just a quick touch of a button.
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With incredible versatility, the Porter Cable PCC5670B is a nice compact tool that will easily fit into tight spaces. Featuring 0 – 3,000 strokes per minute, the Porter Cable PCC670B provides a powerful motor that includes a variable speed trigger control. It also has quick and easy blade changes and shoe adjustments.
Constructed of metal, the motor housing of the PCC670B includes a contoured handle that gives you great control. The metal housing also keeps the motor protected from dust and particles that come off the blade. With a 20V lithium battery, the PCC670B gives you a longer run time and a lower self-discharge than a typical battery providing you with a constant power supply.
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Ideal to use on any project where you have limited space to work in, the Bosch CRS180BL Reciprocating Saw is compact and handy. This is the perfect tool to use when a full-length reciprocating saw cannot reach your work area such as leaking pipes under a cabinet.
Featuring a 2-speed feature, the Bosch CRS180BL Reciprocating Saw gives you variable speed control with two maximum cutting speeds allowing you to cut a wide range of materials. It also features a stroke length of 1.125 inches and up to 2,700 SPM allowing you to easily cut light materials.
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Conclusion
The winner of the best reciprocating saw roundup is the DeWalt DCS387. with its lightweight and compact features, this is an easy-to-use saw that is great for those tight situations. Plus, it features a soft ergonomic grip that makes it comfortable to use for long periods of time. The exclusive DeWalt 4-position blade clamp also gives you better cutting options and is the perfect saw if you are doing flush cutting. The definite winner of the best cordless reciprocating saw of 2018 roundup is the DeWalt DCS387.