A very good friend of mine once asked me to show him how I always get the best products. My answer to him was simple – just research. Well, many people I know are too lazy to research extensively, or they do not just have the time to do it.
When it comes to reciprocating saws, the choices can be enormous and confusing.
Contents
- 1 What is a Reciprocating Saw?
- 2 Which Reciprocating Saw is Best?
- 2.1 Corded vs Cordless
- 2.2 Power
- 2.3 Blades
- 2.4 Stroke Length
- 2.5 Shoe Adjustment
- 2.6 Variable Speed Control
- 2.7 Strokes Per Minute (SPM)
- 2.8 Weight/Portability
- 2.9 Straight or Orbital
- 2.10 LED Light
- 2.11 1. Do I need a reciprocating saw?
- 2.12 2. Are reciprocating saw blades universal?
- 2.13 3. Can reciprocating saw cut metal?
- 2.14 4. Can a reciprocating saw cut trees?
- 2.15 5. Where to use a reciprocating saw?
- 3 Last Word
What is a Reciprocating Saw?
A reciprocating saw is an excellent type of saw which achieves its cutting action through a push-and-pull (reciprocating) movement of the blade.
This kind of saw is commonly used in construction and demolition work.
Other names of reciprocating saw include recip saw, hognose and Sawzall. It has a large blade resembling which of a jigsaw with a handle correctly oriented to allow for comfortable use on vertical surfaces.
Which Reciprocating Saw is Best?
In order to buy the best reciprocating saw, you must consider a variety of factors. We will discuss those several of these factors.
Corded vs Cordless
Just like most power tools, you can choose between corded and cordless versions. Each has its own benefits and disadvantages. Corded-electric reciprocating saws are powerful because of the stable electricity supply from mains powers source.
This makes them suitable heavy duty (professional jobs). The cordless versions are extremely convenient by may not be as powerful.
Power
The power of corded reciprocating saw is rated regarding amperage while that of battery-powered versions is rated in terms of voltage. Generally, most corded reciprocating saws fall in the range of 8 to 15Amps.
I would recommend that you go for 10Amps or more. For the battery powered reciprocating saws, the maximum voltage is 36, but the range is from 18V to 36V.
Go for a high voltage battery because it is more powerful.
Blades
Similar to jigsaws, reciprocating saws come with a wide variety of blades. Specific blades are available for specific needs. For instance, there are specialized blades for cutting into different materials. Make sure you buy a reciprocating saw with a blade that is designed for the material you are going to cut.
Since blades will need frequent changing, look for a saw with blade lock for easy swapping.
Stroke Length
As a rule, the longer the strokes a reciprocating saw makes, the faster the cut.
Most models of reciprocating saws cut anywhere from 0.75 inches to 1.25 inches in terms of stroke length. High-quality saws allow you to adjust real adaptability. Your guiding factor should be the material you intend to cut.
Shoe Adjustment
A good reciprocating saw should feature an adjustable shoe to provide you with even better control during use.
If you choose to go for one of these models, then you must check if its blade adjustment works smoothly and accurately. This will allow you to use it in many different positions and enjoy better functionality without the need for additional tools.
Variable Speed Control
Variable speed control is an added feature in high quality reciprocating saw brands but it not necessary for the operation of the tool.
This feature allows you to determine how quickly you want to make the cut. This feature is especially important if you need a reciprocating saw for heavy commercial use.
Strokes Per Minute (SPM)
Strokes per minute (SPM) is the standard measure of the speed of a reciprocating saw. Generally, saw with high amperage ratings also have higher SPMs and therefore will deliver swifter cuttings. When you are cutting, faster blades tend to produce better results.
Moreover, faster saws are easier to control compared to the slower saws.
Weight/Portability
Most reciprocating saws are hand-held tools meaning they should be lightweight and portable. Besides, you may need to use them for extended periods and on overhead positions.
It is vital for these reasons that you buy a sturdy and lightweight reciprocating saw that you can use for extended periods of time of time without fatigue and powerful enough to allow you complete your projects well.
Straight or Orbital
All standard reciprocating saws feature blades that move up and down.
However, some good quality saws operate in somewhat elliptical fashion. Such saw is very aggressive allowing you to make faster cuts. The type of work you intend to complete with your saw should determine whether you would need an orbital saw or straight saw.
LED Light
You do not know when you might need to work in a poorly lit area or at night. This is why you need a reciprocating saw with an LED lighting to illuminate your working area for smooth and accurate cuts.
Most popular and high-quality brands currently include this feature in their models at a slightly higher cost.
1. Do I need a reciprocating saw?
Yes, if you are reading this then it is only possible that you have a use for it. Reciprocating saws are extremely versatile for use in many DIY construction and demolition projects.
2. Are reciprocating saw blades universal?
No, there are specific blades for specific materials that need cutting. For instance, you can find blades for cutting wood, metal, plastic, concrete as well as other materials.
3. Can reciprocating saw cut metal?
Yes, as long as the saw is fitted with the right blade designed to cut through metals.
4. Can a reciprocating saw cut trees?
No, reciprocating saws are not designed to cut trees, but they can cut processed timber of given thickness.
5. Where to use a reciprocating saw?
You can use a reciprocating saw at home or on a construction site. It has so many applications where construction and demolition take place.
Last Word
There you go. If you have been looking for information on reciprocating saw and tips on how you can find one, then you have your answer.
This versatile tool is extremely versatile, powerful and very useful. Carefully contemplating these points will doubtlessly help you arrive at the right decision. Consider those features alongside the cost and because those brands featuring the best combination of these features may be costly.