Ever wished you had a tool that could cut through almost anything, quickly and easily, without being tied down by a cord? Imagine tackling demolition projects, pruning thick branches, or even cutting metal with just one powerful, portable saw. That’s the magic of a reciprocating cordless saw, also known as a “recip saw.”
But here’s the tricky part: choosing the right one can feel like navigating a maze. So many brands, so many features, and so many different battery types! It’s easy to get overwhelmed and wonder if you’re picking the best tool for your needs. You want a saw that’s powerful enough for tough jobs but also comfortable to use, and you don’t want to waste your hard-earned money on a tool that won’t get the job done.
That’s exactly why we’ve put together this guide. By the time you finish reading, you’ll understand what makes a great reciprocating cordless saw tick. We’ll break down the important features, explain what they mean for you, and help you find the perfect saw to conquer your next project. Get ready to cut with confidence and freedom!
Our Top 5 Reciprocating Cordless Saw Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit (BDCR20C) | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
 |
FULLYEA Reciprocating Saw Cordless | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
 |
DEWALT 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
 |
RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Tool Only) | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
 |
FULLYEA Reciprocating Saw Cordless | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Reciprocating Cordless Saw Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit (BDCR20C)
Rating: 8.8/10
Tackle your DIY projects with ease using the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit (BDCR20C). This powerful tool helps you cut through various materials without being tied down by cords. It’s designed for both beginners and experienced DIYers.
What We Like:
- The tool-free blade change system makes switching blades quick and simple.
- A pivoting shoe helps you maintain better control while cutting different shapes and materials.
- The variable speed trigger gives you precise control over the cutting speed, which is great for different tasks.
- It’s cordless, offering freedom of movement around your workspace.
- The 20V MAX* battery provides good power for most home projects.
What Could Be Improved:
- International versions of this product may have different features or instructions.
- Some users might find the battery life could be longer for very demanding jobs.
- The availability of specific international versions might be limited locally.
This BLACK+DECKER reciprocating saw is a solid choice for anyone needing a versatile and user-friendly cutting tool. It’s a dependable addition to any home workshop.
2. FULLYEA Reciprocating Saw Cordless
Rating: 9.1/10
The FULLYEA Reciprocating Saw Cordless is a powerful tool that makes cutting through different materials a breeze. It comes with two batteries, so you can keep working without interruption. This saw is great for both DIY projects at home and for professionals on the go.
What We Like:
- It has a strong motor that cuts fast, up to 3500 SPM.
- Changing the saw blades is super easy and quick, with no tools needed.
- You can cut wood, metal, and plastic with this saw.
- It includes two 2000mAh batteries for longer work time.
- The handle is comfortable and helps reduce shaking, making it easier to use for a long time.
- A safety switch stops it from turning on by accident.
- FULLYEA offers good customer support if you have questions.
What Could Be Improved:
- The plastic pipe cutting depth is 80mm, which might be limiting for some larger projects.
- While it’s good for many tasks, very tough metal might require a more specialized tool.
This cordless reciprocating saw is a versatile and user-friendly tool for a variety of cutting jobs. It’s a solid addition to any toolbox for both beginners and experienced users.
3. DEWALT 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw
Rating: 9.0/10
The DEWALT 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw (DCS380B) is a powerful tool designed to tackle tough cutting jobs. With its 3,000 strokes per minute, it makes quick work of various materials. This saw is built for both professionals and DIYers who need a reliable and versatile cutting solution.
What We Like:
- The 4-position blade clamp lets you cut in different ways, even in tight spots. You can change blades easily without needing extra tools.
- Its 1-1/8-inch stroke length cuts through materials quickly.
- The variable speed trigger gives you great control over your cuts. You can adjust the speed from 0 to 3,000 strokes per minute for different tasks.
- The pivoting adjustable shoe helps your blades last longer. It also lets you control how deep you cut.
- It has a comfortable rubber grip for better handling and less fatigue.
- The double oil-sealed shaft makes the saw more durable and resistant to wear.
What Could Be Improved:
- This is a “bare tool” which means the battery and charger are sold separately. You’ll need to buy those if you don’t already have them.
- While versatile, it might be a bit much for very simple, light-duty tasks where a smaller saw would suffice.
This DEWALT reciprocating saw offers excellent performance and durability. It’s a solid investment for anyone who needs a dependable cutting tool.
4. RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Tool Only)
Rating: 8.7/10
The RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Tool Only), PCL515B is a powerful tool for any DIYer or professional. It helps you tackle tough cutting jobs with ease. This saw is designed for efficiency and speed. It’s part of RYOBI’s popular ONE+ system, meaning you can use the same batteries with many other RYOBI tools. This makes it a convenient and cost-effective choice for your workshop.
What We Like:
- It makes over 145 cuts on a single charge, which is great for longer projects.
- It cuts very fast, up to 3,400 cuts per minute, and has a 1-inch stroke length to get through materials quickly.
- Changing blades is super easy thanks to the quick-release lever.
- You have good control with the variable speed trigger and the pivoting shoe.
- It works with all your other RYOBI 18V ONE+ batteries and tools.
What Could Be Improved:
- This tool only comes as the saw itself. You need to buy the battery and charger separately.
- Some heavier-duty materials might require a bit more effort compared to more expensive, corded saws.
Overall, the RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless Reciprocating Saw is a solid performer that offers good value. It’s a versatile tool that makes cutting tasks simpler and faster.
5. FULLYEA Reciprocating Saw Cordless
Rating: 8.6/10
Tackle any cutting job with the FULLYEA Reciprocating Saw. This cordless powerhouse is designed for efficiency and ease of use, making it a go-to tool for DIYers and professionals alike. Its advanced brushless motor delivers up to 3500 SPM for fast, clean cuts, while the included batteries keep you working longer.
What We Like:
- The powerful brushless motor provides excellent cutting performance and lasts longer.
- It easily cuts through wood, metal, and plastic thanks to the four included blades.
- Stepless speed control lets you adjust the cutting speed with the trigger for precise work.
- Changing blades is a breeze with the tool-free blade change system.
- Two 2.0Ah batteries mean you have plenty of power to get the job done.
- The ergonomic design with a non-slip grip and safety lock makes it comfortable and safe to use.
- It comes with a handy portable toolbox to keep everything organized.
What Could Be Improved:
- The battery capacity is 2.0Ah, which might not be enough for very extended projects.
- While it cuts metal, the maximum depth of 20mm limits what you can tackle.
This FULLYEA reciprocating saw is a versatile and user-friendly tool that offers great value. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable cordless saw for various cutting tasks.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your New Reciprocating Cordless Saw
Reciprocating cordless saws, also called “recip saws” or “Sawzalls” (a popular brand name), are super useful tools. They have a blade that moves back and forth really fast. This makes them great for cutting through all sorts of things. You can use them for demolition, pruning trees, cutting metal, and even cutting pipes. Because they don’t have a cord, you can take them anywhere! Let’s find the best one for you.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re picking out a reciprocating cordless saw, here are the most important things to check:
- Battery Power: Most cordless saws use lithium-ion batteries. Look for saws that come with a good battery, usually 18V or 20V. More volts usually mean more power. Think about how long you’ll be working. Some saws come with two batteries so you can keep working while one charges.
- Blade Speed (Strokes Per Minute – SPM): This tells you how fast the blade moves. A higher SPM means faster cutting. Some saws let you change the speed, which is handy for different jobs.
- Blade Clamp: This is how you attach the blade. A tool-free blade clamp is the best. It means you can swap blades without needing any extra tools. This saves a lot of time and hassle.
- Orbital Action: Some saws have an “orbital” mode. This means the blade also moves up and down a little bit as it goes back and forth. This helps it cut through tougher materials like wood with nails faster.
- Weight and Balance: You’ll be holding this saw, so it should feel comfortable. A lighter saw is easier to control, especially for long jobs. Good balance means it won’t feel like it’s pulling you down.
- LED Light: A small light near the blade can really help you see what you’re cutting, especially in dim areas.
Important Materials
The materials used in a reciprocating saw affect how strong and long-lasting it is.
- Motor: A brushless motor is better. It lasts longer and uses battery power more efficiently. Brushed motors are okay, but they wear out faster.
- Housing: The outer case is usually made of tough plastic. This protects the motor inside. Strong plastic means it can handle bumps and drops.
- Blade: The blades themselves are made of metal. Different blades are for different jobs. Wood blades are usually tougher, while metal blades are thinner and have finer teeth.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a reciprocating saw great, and others can make it less useful.
- What Makes a Saw Better:
- Variable Speed Trigger: This lets you control the speed by how hard you squeeze the trigger. It gives you more control for precise cuts.
- Good Grip: A rubberized handle makes the saw more comfortable to hold and stops it from slipping.
- Vibration Reduction: Some saws have special features to reduce how much they vibrate. Less vibration means less tiredness for your hands and arms.
- What Can Make a Saw Worse:
- Heavy Weight: A very heavy saw can be tiring to use for long periods.
- Weak Motor: A motor that’s not strong enough will struggle with tougher materials.
- Poorly Made Blade Clamp: If the blade clamp is hard to use or doesn’t hold the blade tightly, it can be dangerous and frustrating.
- Short Battery Life: If the battery runs out too quickly, you’ll have to stop working often to charge it.
User Experience and Use Cases
How a reciprocating saw feels in your hands and what you can do with it is important.
- Ease of Use: A good saw is easy to start, easy to change blades on, and easy to control. The trigger should feel natural.
- What You Can Cut:
- Wood: Cutting branches off trees, taking apart old wooden structures, cutting plywood.
- Metal: Cutting old pipes, removing metal framing, cutting rebar.
- Plastic: Cutting PVC pipes, plastic sheeting.
- Demolition: Breaking down walls, removing old flooring, cutting through nails embedded in wood.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main difference between a reciprocating saw and a jigsaw?
A: A reciprocating saw has a longer blade that moves back and forth. It’s better for rough cutting and demolition. A jigsaw has a shorter, thinner blade that moves up and down, and it’s better for making curved or detailed cuts.
Q: How long do cordless reciprocating saw batteries last?
A: Battery life depends on the battery’s size (amp-hours or Ah) and how hard you’re using the saw. A good battery might last 30 minutes to an hour of continuous use.
Q: Can I use any brand of blade with my reciprocating saw?
A: Most cordless reciprocating saws use universal-fit blades. However, it’s always best to check the saw’s manual or the blade packaging to be sure.
Q: What is the best type of blade for cutting wood with nails?
A: You’ll want a demolition blade. These blades are usually thicker and have more teeth per inch (TPI) than regular wood blades. Some also have a special coating to make them last longer when cutting through metal.
Q: How do I store my cordless reciprocating saw safely?
A: Store it in a dry place, away from extreme temperatures. It’s a good idea to remove the battery when not in use for a long time. Some saws come with a case for easy storage and transport.
Q: Is a brushless motor really that much better?
A: Yes, brushless motors are generally more efficient, meaning they use less battery power and last longer than brushed motors. They also tend to run cooler.
Q: What does “strokes per minute” (SPM) mean?
A: SPM tells you how many times the blade moves back and forth in one minute. A higher SPM usually means faster cutting.
Q: Can I use a reciprocating saw for fine detail work?
A: Generally, no. Reciprocating saws are designed for rougher, faster cutting. For fine detail work, a jigsaw or a scroll saw is a better choice.
Q: How do I prevent the saw from vibrating too much?
A: Look for saws with vibration-reduction technology. Also, using a good grip and letting the saw do the work (don’t force it) can help reduce perceived vibration.
Q: What is orbital action on a reciprocating saw?
A: Orbital action means the blade moves forward and backward, and also slightly up and down. This helps the blade bite into the material more aggressively, making it cut faster, especially through tough materials like wood with nails.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!