How to choose a reciprocating saw for the home - selection criteria

Among professional and amateur tools, electric reciprocating saws are a universal tool that allows you to solve a wide range of tasks. They cut metal, wood and other building materials, allowing you to perform not only cutting, but also shaped cutting.

Our review presents the best reciprocating saw models. For the convenience of the reader, the participants are grouped into popular categories of tools for home and professional activities. Cordless saws are presented separately. The selection was based on the characteristics of the equipment, as well as the experience of users who were familiar first-hand with the real capabilities of each model.

Which company should you choose?

In most cases, both beginners and professionals prefer time-tested brands. Companies that have been producing power tools for many years produce reliable, well-built, easy-to-use and durable devices.

Today, the top companies producing reciprocating saws are Bosch, Interskol, Makita, Metabo and DeWALT. However, the brand is not the most important indicator when buying a tool, so it is better to pay attention to the technical parameters.

TOP 5 best reciprocating saws for the home by price/quality for 2020-2021

BOSCH GSA 18 V-LI C 0 L-BOXX

A fairly lightweight tool with a comfortable grip is designed for working with wood, plastic and metal: for this purpose, the kit includes several replaceable attachments. Thanks to the quick-release fastening, you can quickly change accessories and continue working.

The power of the tool is 18 W, at which the saw makes 3050 strokes per minute with a stroke length of 21 mm. The compact dimensions and flexibility of the saw allow it to be used in hard-to-reach places, and the built-in backlight ensures work in limited lighting.

The package includes a 4 Ah battery, but if necessary, you can buy other batteries compatible with 18-volt Bosch equipment. For maximum ease of use, the saw is equipped with a spacious storage case and rubberized inserts on the handle.

Specifications:

• type: battery;
• cutting height: 200 mm;
• stroke size: 21 mm;
• battery voltage: 18 V;
• weight: 2.5 kg.

pros

• lightweight and comfortable to grip;
• saws various materials;
• does not vibrate;
• backlight;
• does not heat up;
• branded files included in the set.

Minuses

• the paint on the front metal part is peeling off;
• no belt holder.

Makita DJR185Z

Compact, reliable cordless power tool suitable for cutting wood, plastic and ferrous metal. The hacksaw blade is replaced using a hexagon.

The model has a powerful brush motor, thanks to which all necessary actions can be completed in a short time of continuous operation. Backlight allows you to work in low light conditions. The blade makes cuts quickly with a maximum cutting depth of 50 mm, including when working with metal.

The rubberized body and light weight make the device very convenient for working at heights (for example, when trimming trees). At the same time, the saw does not vibrate or heat up, holds a charge well and effectively copes with various workpieces.

Specifications:

• type: battery;
• cutting height: 50 mm;
• stroke size: 13 mm;
• number of strokes per minute: 3000;
• battery voltage: 18 V;
• weight: 1.5 kg.

pros

• build quality;
• ergonomics;
• price;
• backlight;
• convenient case.

Minuses

• not detected.

BOSCH Keo

A reliable and inexpensive power tool from a well-known German manufacturer is suitable for working with wooden workpieces and wood (for example, for trimming tree branches). The stroke rate per minute is 1600 with an amplitude of 20 mm, and the maximum cutting depth is 80 mm.

The speed is adjusted manually using a trigger-type switch: the frequency of strokes varies depending on the intensity of the pressure. The A-shaped stop makes it easier to work with trees at height: according to user reviews, the saw copes with branches up to 10 cm in diameter or more.

The design of the device has a built-in lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 1.3 Ah and 10.8 V. The model, if necessary, can be used for cutting metal: if the tool is overloaded, automatic locking will work.

Specifications:

• type: battery;
• cutting height: 80 mm;
• stroke size: 20 mm;
• battery voltage: 10.8 V;
• weight: 1.05 kg.

pros

• suitable for working with metal;
• light weight;
• smooth speed control;
• work power;
• price;
• you can change the nozzles.

Minuses

• 1 operating mode;
• autonomy.

Interskol NP-120/1010E

A corded reciprocating saw with a power of 1010 W allows you to quickly, accurately and efficiently cut workpieces made of wood, metal, plastic, plaster, foam and aerated concrete and even brick.

The versatility of the device is due to its performance, build quality and the ability to quickly change equipment, however, such power of the saw inevitably affected its ergonomics: users note a fairly large weight - 3.8 kg.

Thanks to the technical parameters and build quality, the tool is capable of creating cuts up to 250 mm deep. The speed can be adjusted in the range of 250-2400 strokes/min. Replacement of equipment occurs in the shortest possible time due to the quick-release fastening.

The electric hacksaw has a comfortable grip and a rubberized body, as well as a protective shield. The set includes saws for working with various workpieces, including wood and metal.

Specifications:

• type: network;
• cutting height: 250 mm;
• power: 1010 W;
• stroke size: 28 mm;
• weight: 3.8 kg.

pros

• power;
• smooth start;
• price;
• comfortable grip;
• There is a speed control.

Minuses

• no case for storage and carrying;
• heavy.

Makita JR3050T

A reliable reciprocating electric saw with a power cord 4 meters long, a convenient shape and a powerful 1010 W electric motor is able to quickly and efficiently cope with tasks in wood, metal, plastic, and composites.

The maximum cutting depth for wooden blanks is 255 mm, for metal blanks - 130 mm. The power of the device reaches 2800 strokes/min. Thanks to the quick-release fastening, you can quickly change accessories without the need for additional tools.

Part of the body and almost the entire handle are covered with an anti-slip rubber coating. There is a spacious carrying case for easy storage, and the kit includes several saw blades for working with different materials.

The equipment, build quality, power and functionality make this model professional.

Specifications:

• type: network;
• cutting height: 255 mm;
• power: 1010 W;
• stroke size: 28 mm;
• weight: 3.2 kg.

pros

• long power cord;
• files for different materials included;
• smooth speed control;
• light weight;
• build quality.

Minuses

• vibrates;
• warms up.

Choosing a reciprocating saw: what to look for when buying

Men are often interested in the question of how to choose a reciprocating saw: professional advice will help you choose the most suitable tool, which is characterized by high power. Below you can find the main criteria that are important to pay attention to when purchasing an electric hacksaw.

Nutrition method

Electric hacksaws come on sale with different types of power: mains, battery. The second option is convenient if the owner of the tool plans to perform small amounts of work or saw materials in the garden. If you plan to systematically work with the saw, you should give preference to the mains type of power supply.

Power

This criterion influences work productivity. A power tool with a powerful motor has greater speed. Using such a device, you can make cuts to significant depths. Such tools are less maneuverable and heavier. Therefore, for home use, builders recommend purchasing electric hacksaws with a power of 900-1200 W.

Number of strokes per minute

The number of strokes in some models reaches 3000 per minute, and the stroke length is 13 mm. Such devices are suitable for craftsmen who often cut laminate or other finishing materials. When working with other materials, fewer revolutions are required.

Important! To prevent nicks from appearing on the parts and to ensure an even cut, it is advisable to install a file with a fine tooth.

Pendulum stroke

Thanks to the pendulum stroke, the saw moves with minor up/down deviations and back-and-forth movements. The presence of such a function extends the life of the power tool.

In cases where a reciprocating saw is planned to be used for figured cutting, it is worth giving preference to a model without a pendulum stroke, so as not to accidentally damage the product.

Additional criteria

There are additional criteria that you should pay attention to when purchasing an electric hacksaw. Among the main parameters are:

• speed adjustment (it is better to purchase models with a wheel so that you can more accurately adjust the device);
• soft start, which protects the electrical network from overload, which eliminates the possibility of power surges.

It is also worth paying attention to the presence of blade travel, which allows the master to lean on the workpiece, which has a positive effect on the quality of the cut and the speed of work. The chain holder provides the greatest convenience when cutting pipes.

Makita JR105DZ

How to choose a reciprocating saw - professional advice

The reciprocating saw must meet specific requirements and have the required performance. It is important to consider several characteristics when purchasing.

Power

The power rating of a reciprocating saw affects the speed of the blade and the depth of cut. As a rule, in stores you can purchase a tool with a performance of 0.5 to 1.5 W. The best results in household work are shown by devices up to 1.2 W.

Pendulum stroke

During operation, the reciprocating saw blade experiences a lot of stress. Many models are equipped with a pendulum stroke; in this case, the hacksaw moves with a small torque. The option additionally affects the cutting speed, which approximately triples.

Attention! If you have to process not only wood, but also metal, you need to choose a reciprocating electric saw with a function to turn off the pendulum.

When choosing a universal reciprocating device, it is better to take models with the ability to switch speeds when sawing wood or hard steel. Adjustment can be made either with a wheel or with a special button; the first option is considered more convenient.

The most convenient models are those that allow you to rearrange blades for wood and metal without the use of additional tools. Replacement is faster, and the quality of reciprocating saws with this mechanism is higher by default.

Quick blade change feature eliminates the need for keys and screwdrivers

It is advisable that the reciprocating saw be equipped with a soft start and brake system. Such models have greater durability; the gearbox and engine wear out more slowly. It would not be superfluous to protect the tool from overload, however, the function is usually provided only in expensive professional models.

It is very important for a reciprocating device to fix the start button and block it from accidental activation. The first function increases the ease of use of the tool, and the second takes care of the user’s safety.

When purchasing a reciprocating tool, it is advisable to choose models in which the support shoe is equipped with a movable frame. This design allows you to adjust the reach of the hacksaw and make cuts at an angle more accurately.

When choosing an electric model, it is necessary to take into account all the main criteria listed above. But, in addition, you should pay attention to the length of the wire. The tool will not be able to work without being connected to an outlet, so it is advisable that the cord unwinds 3 m or more.

Since network reciprocating devices have increased power, it is necessary to ensure that the tool is no heavier than 3 kg, otherwise it will be inconvenient to handle. It’s good if the device is equipped with a system of dynamic counterweights that are responsible for dampening excess vibration.

The main indicator for a cordless tool is the battery capacity. It is advisable that the battery be designed for at least 5 hours of continuous operation.

The built-in battery has a limited service life. It is recommended to choose a reciprocating saw with a removable battery; if necessary, you can only replace the battery, and not the entire tool. An indicator of the remaining charge on the case will be useful for a portable device.

When choosing a reciprocating saw for your garden, it is better to give preference to cordless models. They are less powerful, but they allow you to carry out work on the site without extending extension cords from outlets in the house.

A good option for a summer house is double insulation of tools. In this case, the reciprocating saw will remain fully functional in conditions of high humidity and even in drizzling rain.

Advice! Some models are equipped with backlighting. This tool will be useful for working in the garden at dusk.

When choosing a home saw, you should pay attention to models with compact sizes. You can use the tool anywhere in the apartment. It’s good if the device is equipped not only with vibration damping, but also with noise reduction; in this case, working in a confined space will be more comfortable.

For home use, it makes sense to choose a mains-powered model. It is important to ensure that the saw has a sufficient cord length - 3 m or more.

Petrov Andrey Vladimirovich, 45 years old, Krasnoyarsk

I use a Black{amp}amp;Decker GKC108 reciprocating saw at the dacha. Basically, the tasks for the tool are simple - processing boards, trimming branches of trees in the garden in the spring. I specifically selected a medium-power, but convenient model with a battery, I am pleased with my purchase, the device has not yet failed.

Firsov Igor Antonovich, 39 years old, Chelyabinsk

I use an Einhell Te-Ap 18 reciprocating saw and have no complaints. I haven’t had to process metal yet, but the tool copes well with wood, easily cutting boards and tree branches. The most popular hacksaws are already included in the kit; replacing them only takes a couple of minutes. For the price, the device is simply excellent.

Rating of the TOP 15 best electric reciprocating saws for 2020-2021

This ranking includes the best electric reciprocating saw models for 2021 according to users and experts.