![A reciprocating saw laying on the ground. A reciprocating saw laying on the ground.](https://contentgrid.homedepot-static.com/hdus/en_US/DTCCOMNEW/Articles/best-reciprocating-saws-2023-hero.jpg)
Most saws primarily make precise cuts. Reciprocating saws make rough cuts or assist in demolition. They deliver a lot of blade power, quickly slicing through materials. They work on metal, masonry, stucco and wood. Or, they work on plaster, fiberglass, composites and drywall.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Reciprocating Saw
![A person using a reciprocating saw to cut a pipe A person using a reciprocating saw to cut a pipe](https://contentgrid.homedepot-static.com/hdus/en_US/DTCCOMNEW/Articles/best-reciprocating-saws-2023-section-1.jpg)
Four important factors in choosing a saw are:
- Size
- Speed
- Stroke Length
- Material
The size of saw you need will depend on the work you do. There are compact, one-handed reciprocating saws. These work best on softer materials. Heavy-duty saws work best on heavy-duty materials, like metal.
Speed is measured by strokes per minute. Most saws have an SPM of 2,500 to 3,000. The higher the SPM, the quicker a saw can cut.
Stroke length is the maximum distance a saw's blade can cut. These range from 1/2-inch to 1 1/2-inch. A longer stroke length provides better versatility. If you plan to cut thick materials, this is an important factor.
If you plan to work with a specific material all the time, find a model suited for it. This is an important factor if you are woodworker or metalsmith.
Corded vs. Cordless
![A person using a reciprocating saw to cut through wood. A person using a reciprocating saw to cut through wood.](https://contentgrid.homedepot-static.com/hdus/en_US/DTCCOMNEW/Articles/best-reciprocating-saws-2023-section-2.jpg)
Reciprocating saws are available in corded and cordless models. Consider added convenience, power and run times when shopping.
Corded models:
- They offer more power for heavy-duty cutting. Since they're plugged in, they have unlimited run times.
- They don’t have a battery.
- They often weigh less than cordless models.
- The power cord may hinder maneuverability. A flexible rubber cord is more convenient than a plastic cord.
- If working overhead, use a lightweight corded saw to reduce fatigue.
Cordless models:
- They offer freedom of movement.
- They often weigh more than corded models.
- They require charging between uses and have limited run times.
- Models with lithium-ion batteries have extended battery life. They have longer run times than standard batteries.
Tip: There are pneumatic, or air-powered, reciprocating saws. These are often used in professional shops. They're heavy duty for cutting through metal and difficult materials.
Tips & Features
![A person kneeling and using a reciprocating saw on a wall. A person kneeling and using a reciprocating saw on a wall.](https://contentgrid.homedepot-static.com/hdus/en_US/DTCCOMNEW/Articles/best-reciprocating-saws-2023-section-3.jpg)
Choose from different options to customize your saw to meet your needs. Examples are orbital action, lighted plugs or anti-vibration features.
- An adjustable shoe enhances stability and depth-of-cut control. It allows for clear blade and cut line visibility in any position.
- A bag or case protects the saw and accessories during travel and storage. Hard cases provide maximum protection. Choose one that accommodates the maximum blade length you will use.
- Orbital action enables the blade to move up, down, left and right. It creates a more aggressive cutting action for faster cuts. Cutting speed does not slow when the saw is upside down in orbital action mode.
- Tool-less blade change allows fast blade changes and increases efficiency. It enables you to easily switch between tasks.
- Variable speed control allows you to adjust cutting speed. You can easily match the speed to the application and material. A dial offers more accuracy and consistency than a trigger control.
- A lighted plug shows if a tool is powered at a glance.
- Cushion grips improve comfort and control, especially through hot, sweaty jobs.
- Anti-vibration technology helps reduce user fatigue.
Safety Tip: Make sure you’re using the correct blade. Certain blades work best depending on the material you’re cutting through. For example, a fine-toothed blade is best when cutting through metal.
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