10 Best Reciprocating Saws to Buy In 2024

Best Reciprocating Saws

A tool that is found in every DIYer’s and professional trade person’s arsenal is the reciprocating saw. It is a handheld tool that can literally cut through most things that saws can’t.

Whether it is wood, plastic, metal, aluminum, fiberglass, or masonry, you can cut everything with this handheld tool.

Also, with this reciprocating saw, you can reach smaller nooks and crannies. Overall, it is one of the most versatile tools. In case you don’t know, a Reciprocating saw is also known as a recip saw, so don’t be confused when you see something like that.

However, this saw is indeed a valuable machine, but the problem is not every model is valuable. There are hundreds of various reciprocating saw models available.

Some among them value, and the rest are not. So, how will you pick the best reciprocating saw from the crowd?

We have done it for you! Take a look below. We have come up with the top 10 reciprocating saws in the market. And have reviewed them unbiasedly, meaning you will know the exact truth about the machine.

So, let’s get going!

Top Reciprocating Saws

 

DEWALT DWE305 

BEST OVERALL

DEWALT DWE305 Reciprocating Saw

Milwaukee 2720-21

PREMIUM PICK

Milwaukee 2720-21 M18 Fuel Reciprocating Saw

PORTER-CABLE PCC670B

AFFORDABLE CHOICE

PORTER-CABLE PCC670B MAX Reciprocating Saw

 

Related Reads: Best Bow Saws Review

The 10 Best Reciprocating Saws Reviews 2024

As we mentioned above, there are a plethora of reciprocating saws. Narrowing the list down to 10 wasn’t easy at all.

It took a lot of research and tests. But someone had to do it, so our expert did it to save you from the hassle. All of these models are the top-rated market saws that come with highly positive real-user feedback.


1. Milwaukee 2720-21 M18 Fuel Reciprocating Saw

Milwaukee 2720-21 M18 Fuel Reciprocating Saw

 

Are you looking for a reciprocating saw that will serve you for a long time? Take a look at the Milwaukee 2720-21 M18 Fuel Reciprocating Saw.

This is one of the top rated reciprocating saw models on the market, and why it won’t be? Look at the brand. Milwaukee, the brand itself, holds a big image and reputation.

Serving the market with top-notch quality tools for a pretty long time, this Milwaukee 2720-21 M18 Fuel Reciprocating Saw is no exception.

One of the best perks of this very reciprocating saw is the cordless features. It is a battery-powered reciprocating saw, comes with a 12-Ah battery, and allows you to work or travel anywhere you want with the saw easily.

However, the battery makes the saw a little heavy, but it is manageable. The reciprocating saw with battery and charger the purchase of its 18-volt lithium-ion battery, known as one of the best.

Another good news is if you have any other Milwaukee machine, you can use those batteries in this machine. They are all compatible with each other.

It has an easy on-and-off orbital action, and the stroke length is 1-1/4-inch. Features variable speed trigger along with 5 different speed levels. Changing the blade is also a very easy and faster process.

You can change the blade smoothly, even in complex work situations. Overall, the Milwaukee 2720-21 M18 is a great reciprocating saw. The manufacturer offers a 3-year warranty as well, so there is nothing to worry about.

Pros

  • Cordless saw machine.
  • Easy to change the blade.
  • Good stroke length.
  • Great build quality.
  • Good battery quality.

Cons

  • Display requires more clear visibility.

2. DEWALT DWE305 Reciprocating Saw

DEWALT DWE305 Reciprocating Saw

 

Are you on a tight budget and looking for a good reciprocating saw within that budget? We have the Dewalt DWE305 reciprocating saw for you.

It comes at an extremely low price and delivers good value as well. However, it is not a cordless model, so you must compromise portability.

This is a corded reciprocating saw, and you have to deal with the cord. This very reciprocating saw comes with 2900 blade speed means the blade delivers 2900 strokes per minute. And you can effortlessly cut through most materials.

The stroke length is 1-1/8 inches, which is pretty decent, and you can cut medium-thick material as well. This stroke length makes cutting faster.

Many people have used this reciprocating saw on different materials such as metal, wood, plastic, rubber, etc.

And so far, the result has been satisfying. With this very model, you will get a variable speed controlling feature as well, and the best part is the speed can be changed at any time, between cutting as well.

Comes with a four-position blade clamp, ensuring that every cut is accurate. How comfortably you can hold the machine accuracy depends on that as well.

It comes with a softer rubber grip that allows you to hold the machine very comfortably. Doesn’t matter how long you work.

You won’t have to worry about hand fatigue at all. Lastly, we would say, for the price, this Dewalt DWE305 reciprocating saw is a great choice. You are not going to regret it.

Pros

  • Highly lightweight machine.
  • Good cutting power.
  • Cuts faster and easier.
  • Comfortable holding grip.
  • Durable machine.
  • Inexpensive price.

Cons

  • You have to purchase a case separately.
  • No extra blade.
  • The cord limits the working area.

3. WORX WX550L 2-in-1 Cordless Reciprocating & Jig Saw

WORX WX550L 2-in-1 Reciprocating Saw

 

Here comes the most versatile reciprocating saw on the list, the WORX WX550L 2-in-1 Reciprocating Saw. We are calling this very model highly versatile because of this model. You will get a mixture of reciprocating and jigsaw.

Yes! It is a two-in-one model. You can use it as a jigsaw and reciprocating saw when you need it. Isn’t that great? And since this model is highly versatile, you might be considering the high price, right?

Do not worry at all. The price is extremely low. You won’t have to spend even a hundred dollars. It comes with a pivoting head that enables you to shift to jigsaw with no hassle instantly.

The chuck of the saw holds both the reciprocating and jigsaw blades. So, depending on your task, you can switch between them easily.

For hard reciprocating work, there is an orbital mode as well. Moreover, you get variable speed control at a very low price to set the speed according to your needs. The stroke length is 3/4 inch, and the no-load speed is 3,000.

On top of everything, this is a cordless model, which means there won’t be any cord to come your way. You can take this machine anywhere you want.

It comes with a 20V max lithium battery, which is a good battery for saw machines. Lastly, you cannot use this machine on heavy-duty tasks.

Pros

  • Extremely cheap price.
  • Works as jigsaw and recip saw.
  • It offers decent power.
  • Good build quality.
  • Easy to change blades.

Cons

  • Not for heavy-duty tasks.

4. Ryobi P519 One+ Variable Speed 18v reciprocating saw

Ryobi P519 One+ Variable Speed Reciprocating Saw

 

Now, here we have another cheap reciprocating saw trending in the market for its good performance at a very low price. The Ryobi P519 reciprocating saw will be the best bang for the money.

Many professionals also use this for most of their medium-duty cutting tasks. Delivers decent power, which is enough to cut through most materials.

This could be a great option for DIYers since the price is low and cordless; they can easily bring that anywhere they want.

Features a rubber grip that allows you to hold the machine and work smoothly and comfortably. Even if the grip gets slippery, there are rubber notches for handling that well.

Moving on, this machine also features anti-vibration functioning means that during work, the machine will shake less, and this feature will increase the accuracy of the cutting.

This machine can deliver 3,100 strokes per minute. Well, that’s pretty good. Removing the blades in this reciprocating saw machine is very simple.

It comes with a latch that you have to pull. You will get three blades with the purchase, so there is no hassle of buying separately. Lastly, this reciprocating saw is compatible with all 18V One+ batteries.

Pros

  • Easy to change the blade.
  • Extremely cheap price.
  • Delivers good strokes.
  • Powerful machine.
  • It offers a good grip.
  • Features anti-vibration functioning.

Cons

  • No carry case.

5. PORTER-CABLE PCC670B MAX Reciprocating Saw

PORTER-CABLE PCC670B MAX Reciprocating Saw

 

Look at the PORTER-CABLE PCC670B MAX Reciprocating Saw, another top-performing reciprocating saw in the market. With 3000 strokes per minute, this very reciprocating saw can cut through most materials.

The stroke length is pretty good, which allows you to cut materials faster. The length of this machine is 14.5-inch which makes it suitable to reach into tighter places.

Changing blades in this reciprocating saw is too easy. You will not require any tool. Features variable speed trigger, which allows you to set the speed according to your need, resulting in more efficient cutting.

On top of that, this machine has a pivoting shoe, which helps to keep steady contact with the material. For comfort, you will get a contoured, over-molded handle, which will deliver outstanding comfort when working.

This is a cordless model, so that saves you from messing with the long, thick cords. And you won’t have to look for power outlets everywhere you go.

Since it is a battery-powered machine, you can work anywhere you want. Having that said, you won’t get the battery with the purchase. You have to buy one separately.

Are you looking for Circular Saws? Check this out: 10 Best Circular Saws

Pros

  • Powerful reciprocating saw.
  • Easy blade changing.
  • Comfortable grip.
  • Accurate and efficient cutting.
  • Highly portable saw.

Cons

  • Low-quality construction.
  • The battery doesn’t come with the purchase.

6. Skil 9206-02  – Best Reciprocating Saw Under $50

Skil 9206-02 Reciprocating Saw

 

This Skil 9206-02 Reciprocating Saw is a great saw model if you need it for medium-duty tasks. It can also tackle some heavy-duty tasks but works excellently in tackling medium-duty work.

With 7.5 AMP power, this small beast can cut through most materials that come in its way. One hassle that every user had to face once was the blade changing, but now it has become super easy. It doesn’t even need a tool now.

Comes with heavy-duty metal housing, which is extremely durable. If maintained well, this very reciprocating saw will serve you for years.

With this saw, you get anti-vibration functioning as well, which means the machine will shake very little when working.

Features variable speed dial functioning, enabling you to set the speed according to your needs. For greater stability, there is a pivoting foot as well.

Pros

  • Reasonably priced.
  • Easy to change the blade.
  • Lightweight machine.
  • Variable dial speed.
  • Best for medium-duty works.

Cons

  • Gets a little hot.

7. DEWALT 20V MAX (DCS367B) Compact Reciprocating Saw 

DEWALT MAX XR Reciprocating Saw

 

This is another from DEWALT, the 7th one in this review. The DEWALT MAX XR reciprocating saw one of the best-selling reciprocating saws of this year. It is a very lightweight reciprocating saw, making it easy to carry it to different places.

Having that said, with the purchase, you won’t get the carry case; you have purchased one separately. This is where Dewalt chokes. Moving on, because of its lightweight and small design, it can also fit into tight spaces.

Features a brushless motor that delivers 2.5 times more running time so that you can get the job done nicely. With a 1-1/8-inch stroke length, cutting materials with this machine is faster and easier.

Tool-less blade changing and features an LED light in case the working area is dark. You can use the light.

Pros

  • Easy blade change.
  • 2.5X more run time.
  • Lightweight saw machine.
  • Good stroke length.
  • It comes with an LED light.

Cons

  • No battery with purchase.
  • No carry case.

8. BLACK+DECKER BDCR20B MAX Reciprocating Saw

BLACK+DECKER BDCR20B MAX Reciprocating Saw

 

This  BLACK+DECKER is probably the cheapest reciprocating saw, which is a good option for people who occasionally work.

Presenting the BLACK+DECKER BDCR20B MAX Reciprocating Saw, you don’t have to spend even 70 bucks for this beauty. And because of the price, do not misjudge this model.

Yes, this one is not very powerful, but its power is decent to get most DIY or other jobs done. This one also gives you a tool-free blade changing and variable speed trigger function.

Delivers 3000 strokes per minute, which is outstanding for the price. The stroke length is 7/8 inches. You won’t get the battery with the purchase. You have to buy them separately.

Pros

  • Cheapest saw machine.
  • Tool-free blade change.
  • 3000 strokes per minute.
  • Variable speed trigger.

Cons

  • Small stroke length.

9. Makita JR3050T Recipro Saw

Makita JR3050T Recipro Saw

 

The Makita JR3050 reciprocating saw. It is an extremely lightweight reciprocating saw designed to work for builders, metal fabricators, contractors, remodelers, roofers, etc.

It comes with an 11-amp motor that delivers the needed amount of power. Delivers 2.800 strokes per minute, and the blade stroke length is 1-1/8-inch.

Features comfortable grip handle for added comfort to the hand. Overall, we don’t see anything majorly bad in this Makita JR3050 reciprocating saw; this would be nice for medium-duty tasks.

Pros

  • Good stroke length.
  • Delivers decent stroke per minute.
  • Easy blade change.
  • It offers great comfort to the hand.

Cons

  • Not so durable.

10. DEWALT DCS380B 18-Volt Cordless Reciprocating Saw

DEWALT DC385B 18-Volt Cordless Reciprocating Saw

 

And finally, here comes the last reciprocating saw of this review, the DEWALT DCS380B. This is the best cordless reciprocating saw that can cut through anything that comes in its way.

Whether remodelling, tearing down something, or building anything, this reciprocating saw has proven to deliver worthy service everywhere.

When it comes to cutting, this saw performs like a ninja; in other words, it is a high-performing saw machine. Comes with 3000 variable speeds means the machine can give 300 strokes per minute. And the stroke length is 1-1/8-inch, which is pretty good as well.

It comes with a four-position blade clamp, making this machine highly versatile by allowing it to cut the flush from different angles. Changing the blade is pretty easy, thanks to the lever-action clamp.

Moreover, to ensure that you handle the machine comfortably, it comes with an anti-slip rubber grip handle that allows you to hold the machine comfortably and prevents fatigue.

This reciprocating saw is very lightweight, which makes it portable as well. It can handle different materials such as metal, plastic, wood, etc.

The Dewalt brand is well-known for its incredible quality, so likewise, the built quality of this very reciprocating saw is also incredible.

The manufacturer has used top-notch materials in the construction, which makes it extremely durable. Lastly, Dewalt offers a 3-year warranty for this reciprocating saw.

Pros

  • Easy and faster blades were changing.
  • 3000 RPM blade stroke per minute.
  • Highly durable saw.
  • It can work on most materials.
  • It comes with a good grip.
  • It comes with a 3-year warranty.

Cons

  • Doesn’t come with a carry case.
  • No spare blade.

How to Choose the Best Reciprocating Saw?

How to Choose the Best Reciprocating Saw

You need to know and think about certain things so you can stop at the right reciprocating saw model. Below, we have described a few factors. Go through them, and they will surely help you pick the best one for you.

Cordless or Corded model? 

Reciprocating saw comes in both corded and cordless. Which one should you pick? Well, that depends on your working style. If you often work in different places, we suggest using a cordless reciprocating saw.

Since there will be no wire to mess with you, of course, you won’t have to look for electric power outlets everywhere you go for work.

Cordless models are battery-powered, and they are highly portable as well. That being said, cordless reciprocating saws are pricey, and they are a little heavier as well.

On the other hand, corded models are the older ones, and they also come at a smaller price. With a corded saw machine, you must look for power outlets everywhere.

The cable might limit your working area. However, they are reliable and pretty lightweight. So it is up to you to pick one that is suited to you.

Power level

Reciprocating saws come in different power levels; which one do you need? Which power level you should choose depends on the task you have in your hand. If you are working on materials such as plastics, PVC, wood, etc., you might not need a very high power level.

And if you are looking forward to cutting through metal materials, you will need a powerful reciprocating saw machine. However, if you are a professional, having a powerful saw machine will be beneficial since you can tackle all the work that comes your way.

From starting to the 5-amp power level, power levels are above 15 amps. If you are handling tough jobs, going over 10 or 15-amp will definitely give you the needed power.

Speed

Regarding the saw, speed means the number of strokes the blade makes within a minute. The speedy the machine, the faster the strokes will be, and hence, the faster and easier you can cut through anything.

However, if you are an occasional worker, you might not need a speedy saw machine. The average speed will work. But for professionals, the smoothness and faster operation matter a lot, so they need to go for a higher speed.

Stroke length 

Stroke is not the length of the saw blade. It means what the range of the blade movement is. With a single stroke, how long the blade moves is the stroke length.

This doesn’t make a big difference, but you can cut through bigger materials with a longer stroke length.

Auto Stop

Regarding safety, the auto stop is one of the most important factors to consider. The auto stop is a trigger inside the saw that will shut the machine off automatically if anything goes wrong.

Any malfunction or error in the saw can cause injury, and the auto-stop ensures nothing like that happens.

Right Grip

As the name implies, this will allow you to hold the saw machine comfortably. If you cannot hold a saw comfortably, there is no way you will work with them comfortably. So, the grip matters a lot. However, choose a cushion grip; they are comfortable and provide a great grip.

Low vibration 

Now reciprocating saws come with a feature called Anti-vibration, and the purpose of this feature is to reduce the saw’s vibration when working. And this is indeed a good feature; the less vibration, the more easily you can use the saw.

Speed control

There is a reciprocating saw that comes with speed control features that allow you to set the needed speed rather than stick to a specific speed.

However, try to pick a reciprocating saw that comes with dial speed adjustment, and you will be able to set the speed more accurately.

How To Use A Reciprocating Saw - Ace Hardware

My Final Thought: Best Reciprocating Saws

When choosing the right reciprocating saw, it’s important to consider your needs and budget. Look for models with sufficient motor power, stroke length, and speed settings to handle the materials and applications you’ll use it for.

Also, consider the grip and handling, as comfort and control are vital for operating these powerful tools safely. Brands like Milwaukee, Makita, Bosch, and Porter-Cable have proven track records for reciprocating saw performance and reliability.

These are the 10 best reciprocating saws in the market right now. They all come with good user reviews, so we don’t think you would regret any of them. I hope it helps.


FAQ

What are reciprocating saws used for?

The versatility and convenience of reciprocating saws make them one of the most useful tools to have for demolition, construction, remodelling, and DIY projects.

Reciprocating saws corded vs cordless which is best?

When choosing between corded and cordless reciprocating saws, the bottom line is that each has advantages that make them best suited for certain users and situations.

Corded models provide continuous power and maximum cutting strength for extended use or heavy-duty applications.

But cordless saws offer unmatched portability and freedom to work anywhere, thanks to advancements in battery life and brushless motor efficiency.

What do reciprocating saws cut?

A reciprocating saw is a highly versatile cutting tool that can slice through a wide variety of materials when fitted with the proper blade.

Its unique back-and-forth sawing motion allows it to cut wood, metal, plastic, drywall, flooring, fiberglass, tile, concrete, composites, thick tree branches, and more.

What types of blades do reciprocating saws use?

Common blade types include:

  • Wood cutting blades – For cutting wood materials
  • Metal cutting blades – For cutting metal pipes, rebar, nails, etc.
  • Demolition blades – Sturdy, thick blades for nails, drywall, etc.
  • Pruning blades – Curved blades for cutting branches and small trees