How to buy a reciprocating saw
When you buy a reciprocating saw, price isn’t the only factor to consider. How you will use the saw, what kind of materials you will cut with it and where you will work with it are important to find the best reciprocating saw for you.
Here is how to buy a reciprocating saw before investing in the tool.
Reciprocating Saw Amperage/battery voltage
How powerful your new reciprocating saw will depend on the amperage,if you choose a cordless model,or the battery voltage for a cordless reciprocating saw.
A powerful reciprocating saw is stronger and allows for higher strokes per minute, so it’s faster. If speed is important when you cut, or if you will be cutting through extra-dense materials, go big.
Be aware, however, that the greater the amperage or battery voltage, the heavier the reciprocating saw. Over the course of a long day on the job, the extra weight can slow you down.
The smallest corded reciprocating saw typically start at 4 amps; larger corded saws have 16 amps. Cordless reciprocating saws come with 18 to 36 volts. A saw with 11 amps is usually sufficient for occasional use, but contractors who use the tool every day might need more power.
Stroke length is important when you buy a reciprocating saw
To cut faster, choose a tool with a long stroke length. You’ll have your choice of saws with stroke lengths ranging from three-quarters of an inch to 1.25 inches. The longer one will cut approximately 60 percent faster than the shorter model.
Still, it’s unlikely that every job will call for a blade to protrude so far into the material you’re cutting. So, look for a reciprocating saw with an adjustable stroke length. And consider which kinds of projects you typically use the saw for.
Tool-less blade changes
You’ll wind up changing your reciprocating saw blades frequently. Choose a reciprocating saw that makes it easy.
Lots of reciprocating saw models allow for blade changes without an Allen wrench to open the blade lock. If you will use your tool frequently, skipping that extra step could save significant time and it’s something to consider before you buy a reciprocating saw.
Adjustable shoe
An adjustable shoe makes the tool more stable. It also gives the user more control over the depth of the cut. The adjustable shoe makes it easier to see the blade and the cut as you’re working.
Orbital action
The typical reciprocating saw moves back and forth. An orbital saw does that, plus it moves up and down, so it’s quicker and easier to make the cut in most materials, except for pipe.
If you want orbital action, choose a saw with a feature that lets you easily switch from an orbital setting to a straight cut.
Variable speeds
If you use your reciprocating saw to cut a variety of materials, go for one that lets you adjust how fast the blade cuts. Models with variable speed control allow you to set how many strokes per minute the blade will make.
Corded vs. cordless reciprocating saw
Here are a few things to consider before deciding between a corded or a cordless reciprocating saw. A corded reciprocating saw is lighter weight and faster than one with a heavy battery pack. But not all worksites have electricity, making a cordless model a job-saver. Cordless saws also are easier to work with in tight spots.
If you buy a corded reciprocating saw, get one with a detachable cord. The reason: It’s a good bet you will, at some point, accidentally cut it. Models with detachable cords allow you to replace the cords you ruin.
Vibration
A reciprocating saw that vibrates too much can wear out your arms, especially if you’re using it for a long period. Some manufacturers use anti-vibration technology to reduce how hard the tool shakes.
Carrying case
A hard case—like one made of metal—will protect the saw and make it easier to carry from jobsite to jobsite. Before you settle on a case, though, consider whether you will have to remove the saw blades before putting the tool inside and whether the case has room for extra blades. If not, buy a bigger case.
