The Best Reciprocating Saws

Having a dependable and powerful reciprocating saw on hand is almost worth it’s weight in gold. A good reciprocating saw will have the power to cut through almost anything from PVC pipe, to studs and even metal. Typically the most abused tool in a contractor’s toolbag, having a dependable reciprocating saw is worth it, even if it means spending a few extra bucks for a good one.

In this post, our experts reviewed the best reciprocating saws. Take a look at our list below:

Bosch Bare-Tool CRS180B 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Reciprocating Saw

This saw from Bosch features a 1-1/8 inch stroke, and 2 speed ranges, either 0-2500 or 0-2700 strokes per minute. The manufacturer calls the design ergonomic, but it really isn’t anything fancy. The saw is battery powered and weighs in at 6.8 pounds, which is light enough to use all day without wearing yourself out. Batteries are sold separately on this particular model, so you will either have to pay a little more, or order the 18 volt battery if you don’t have one.

No hand-held is going to match the power of a plug in, but this guy is powerful enough to cut through a four or five inch tree limb. So there should be enough power for basic contract work, and it’s exceptional around the house. If you aren’t worried about battery life on smaller jobs, then a cordless is great to have around.

DEWALT DWE304 10-Amp Reciprocating Saw

Variable speed control, and operating at 10 amps, this saw from DeWALT is strong enough to get you through any job you want to throw at it, or at least any job your blades can handle.

The 4 position blade clamp is designed for maximum versatility on that front. The stroke length is 1-1/8”, and it will run at 0-2800 strokes per minute for fast cutting. The trigger controls the blade speed.

It’s backed by a three year limited warranty from DeWALT. It’s a little on the heavy side, at 9.2 pounds, so a lot of overhead work might start to wear on you, but it puts the power right where you need it. This is a full size saw for serious workers.

Makita JR3050T 11 Amp Reciprocating Saw

If you are looking for power, then this is the one. The Makita weighs in light, especially for an 11 amp saw, at 7.1 pounds, and comes with a one year warranty. The stroke is standard, 1-1/8 inches, and the price is right on point.

The blade is easy to change, and even the shoe offers quick adjustment. Ball and needle bearing extend the lifetime, and you can access the brushes from the outside for easy maintenance.

A full size saw in a lightweight package, and it comes with a hefty blade as well. The speed variation on this one is 0-2800 strokes per minute. It also comes with an internal blower system keeps dust and debris clear of your cutting line. Great saw for any application. It also comes with a hard case for easy transport.

DEWALT DCS387B 20-volt MAX Compact Reciprocating Saw

If you are looking for portable reciprocating power, then you need only look as far as DeWALT. This tiny saw will actually fit between studs, delivers the standard 1-1/8 inch stroke, and it bangs them out at up to 2900 strokes per minute. The blade clamp design is the same as larger DeWALT saws, and just as easy to use.

The overall length without a blade is 14.5 inches, and it weighs a very light 5.4 pounds, making it about as small and portable as you are going to see. It even has a light mounted on it. Running off a 20V battery means a little more power, though again, it won’t be as much as a corded contractor saw, but should make short work of any home improvement project you can throw at it. This particular saw might be the best bang for the buck on this list.