A reciprocating saw, commonly known as Sawzall is one of the most versatile tools today. Any job out there requires you to remove a bit of chunk of materials that may be in excess. Be it window installation, cutting tree branches, plumbing or anything else. With the wide array of reciprocating saws in the market today, choosing the best one can be a hard task. Nonetheless, we have simplified the job for you by reviewing some top best reciprocating saw.

What Can You Do with A Reciprocating Saw? Some of the best uses for a reciprocating saw include

Changing out PVC piping or adjusting the length of PVC piping

Cutting through tree branches that are in the way

Fitting a window perfectly for your home

Adjusting the length of metal piping for plumbing or construction purposes

Cutting through nails that are peaking out boards or materials that you are working with

Creating custom works of carpentry such as furniture, design, or even art for your home

As you can see, the potential applications of a reciprocating saw are limitless, and you can use them to accomplish so much whether you are a professional craftsman, carpenter, working in construction, or just like doing handy work around your home.

Quick List of Best Reciprocating Saw on the Market

Model Name Cord Speed Warranty Price DEWALT DCS367B Brushless (Editor's Choice) Cordless 0-2900 spm 3 Years Check Price! BLACK+DECKER BDCR20B Cordless 0-3000 spm 2 Years Check Price! PORTER-CABLE PCC670B Cordless 0-3000 spm 3 Years Check Price! Milwaukee M18 Hackzall (Editor's Choice) Cordless 0-3000 spm 5 Years Check Price! DEWALT DWE305 12 Amp Corded 0-2900 spm 3 Years Check Price!

The 10 Best Sawzall Unbiased Reviews 2019

In this reviews, you will get more than a glimpse of the best Reciprocating/sawzalls that will give you reliable performance. Also read about dewalt dws779 vs dws780.

1. DEWALT DCS367B Brushless C ompact Reciprocating Saw

When picking out a reciprocating saw, you have to decide if you prefer power or mobility. To that end, you have to determine if you want a battery-powered model or one that plugs into an outlet. For the most part, cordless Sawzalls are lighter and much more maneuverable, but they don’t provide as much strength or stamina, which can be limiting. In this case, the DeWalt DCS367B is a cordless model, making it both compact and easy to use. Maximum initial battery voltage is 20 volts. Nominal voltage is 18. As with all DeWalt products, strength and simplicity are the name of the game. To that end, you get a variable speed triggerthat provides you with up to 2,900 strokes per minute. Check Price

Usually, the higher stroke count allows you to cut through tougher materials (as long as the blade you’re using is also rated for it). While 2,900 spm is not the highest, it can still allow you to cut through both wood and metal. The ability to adjust the speed is also necessary to ensure that you don’t damage both your piece and the saw itself. Changing the blades on this machine is super easy. It comes with a keyless clamp, allowing you to swap them quickly and without any specialized tools to remember. It can work with both wood and metal blades, and it has four positions to allow for the proper length. Finally, this saw has an LED light in the front so that you can see where you’re cutting more easily. When working in tight or confined spaces, it’s vital to be able to see properly so that you don’t make a cut that’s too crooked or messy.

Pros Durable steel and plastic construction

Tool itself weighs just five pounds

Variable speed trigger - 0-2900 spm

LED light for visibility while working

Soft grip ergonomic handle

Pivoting shoe stabilizes your cut

1 ⅛ inch stroke length for faster cutting

Ideal for wood or metal cutting

Keyless blade changes

Four position clamp for versatility Cons Not designed for heavy duty cutting

In rare cases, the motor may stop running suddenly

2. BLACK+DECKER BDCR20B Lithium Reciprocating Saw



As far as consumer-grade power tools are concerned, Black + Decker is the perfect brand for DIY enthusiasts. The company makes some high-quality devices, although they are not usually built for professional use. That being said, if you’re looking for a compact and effortless reciprocating saw, this is a fantastic option. The first notable thing about this saw is its speed. It offers up to 3000 strokes per minute with a variable speed trigger to make it easy to adjust. With a ⅞-inch stroke length, you can cut through almost any material, including plastic. Check Price

This unit comes with a blade already, but you can easily swap them out as needed. It has a tool-free blade change clamp, although it doesn’t offer a variety of positions to allow for better cutting. Since this is a cordless saw, it weighs under five pounds and is easy to manage. While we would prefer for it to come with an LED, it does have a pivoting shoe. This feature allows you to work in a wider variety of angles to get the right cut every time. Overall, this reciprocating saw is ideal for DIY enthusiasts who need something to work around the house. Also, if you plan on doing some light carpentry or metalworking projects, this is a Sawzall that can do it all. It even comes with a two-year limited warranty.

Pros Battery-operated saw

Pivoting shoe works at different angles

Comes with a blade

Lightweight design is less than 5lbs

⅞-inch stroke length

Variable speed trigger- 0-3000 spm

Soft grip comfort handle

Tool-free blade change Cons Can vibrate a lot while working

Limited battery life

3. PORTER-CABLE PCC670B Lithium Bare Tiger Saw







As you can see, most of the cordless reciprocating saws don’t come with a battery pack included. This is an unfortunate standard in the industry, but it also means that you should plan accordingly when buying your saw. This unit from Porter-Cable is another lightweight option that makes DIY cutting a breeze. What helps this machine cut through a variety of materials is the drive train, which is brushless to reduce the overall wear and tear you can experience. Also, it offers up to 3000 strokes per minute with a variable speed trigger, making it even more adaptable. Check Price

As with all cordless reciprocating saws, this thing is lightweight and easy to handle. The contoured molded grip makes it more comfortable to work with a variety of angles, and at four pounds you don’t have to worry about fatigue setting in. There are a few other features that we liked about this saw. First, it has a pivoting shoe that enables you to work faster and with more stability. Second, it has a tool-free blade release for quick changes, and it has a one-inch stroke length, enabling you to cut through a wider variety of materials. Finally, this particular saw has a three-year limited warranty.

Pros High-performance drivetrain

Variable speed trigger - 0-3000 spm

Compact design is only four pounds

Shoe pivots to work at a variety of angles

Contoured over-molded handle for comfort

One-inch stroke length

Tool-free blade release

Sleek design fits into tighter spaces Cons Not meant for cutting thick materials

Short battery life when at highest speed

4. Milwaukee M18 One-Handed Best Cordless Reciprocating Saw

No matter what kind of reciprocating saw you get, you have to hold it with two hands if you want to ensure that you’re getting the right cut. However, with this Hackzall from Milwaukee, that’s no longer the case. The Hackzall is designed to be both lightweight and balanced enough for you to use it with just one hand. This not only ensures that you can work faster and easier, but it enables you to work in a wider variety of positions without any issues. Check Price

You may also notice the name Hackzall. Although many people refer to reciprocating saws as Sawzalls (for their remarkable versatility), the fact is that it’s technically a proprietary name from this brand. The stroke length of this saw is ¾ inches, and it operates at up to 3000 strokes per minute. These features allow you to cut through almost anything, from wood to metal to PVC. Just be sure to use slower speeds for harder material and faster speeds for soft pieces. Another proprietary feature of this saw is the LED light. This enables you to see better while working, especially when you’re in cramped or tight positions. Having an LED ensures that you get a proper cut, no matter the circumstances.

Pros One-handed operation

Soft grip handle reduces vibrations

Expertly balanced to reduce fatigue

Blade included for convenience

Compact and lightweight design

Quik-Lok blade clamp

LED light for illumination

Variable speed trigger - 0-3000 spm

¾-inch stroke length

Dual gear motor system

Weighs only 4.45 pounds

Ideal for wood, PVC, and metal

Lightweight unit ensures less fatigue Cons Batteries can take a while to charge

In rare cases, the motor may burn out with continuous use

5. DEWALT DWE305 Best Corded Reciprocating Saw

So far, all we’ve been looking at are cordless reciprocating saws. While these units are lightweight and maneuverable, they are not as powerful. This means that you can only cut through certain materials, and they are not designed for heavy-duty use. The DWE305 from DeWalt, however, is a much better option if power is most important to you. Although the trade-off is that this system is heavier (and requires an outlet), you get a more robust 12-amp motor instead of a 20-volt option. Check Price

The power and performance of the 305 are evident in how well it cuts. You can work through almost any material, from metal and wood to drywall and fiberglass. You will notice a significant difference if you compared this to the cordless DeWalt we saw above. Otherwise, this machine comes with all of the standard features. It has a pivoting shoe to allow for better angling. It comes with a tool-free blade clamp with four positions so that you can get it just right. It offers up to 2900 strokes per minute with a length of 1 ⅛ inches for versatility. Finally, as with all DeWalt products, you get a three-year warranty for this product.

Pros Powerful 12-amp motor

Made of heavy-duty components

Reliable brushless motor

Variable speed trigger - 0-2900 spm

1 ⅛-inch stroke length

Four position blade clamp

Pivoting shoe works at multiple angles

Tool-free blade changes

Works on all materials, including drywall

Soft grip handle improves comfort

Three-year limited warranty Cons Weight may be tiring for some users

In rare cases, the motor may overheat

6. TACKLIFE Corded, Variable Speed Trigger Sawzall



This next model from TackLife is another corded reciprocating saw, meaning that it offers more power and versatility than any of our battery-operated units. However, when compared to other corded saws, this one is built for more casual use. A 7-amp motor provides enough power and performance to ensure that you can work with a variety of materials. However, since it’s not as robust as other units (such as the DeWalt above), you shouldn’t try to use it for heavy-duty cutting. Check Price

When comparing performance specs, you’ll notice that this saw operates at up to 2800 strokes per minute. However, what makes it more versatile is the fact that it has a locking mechanism for the variable speed trigger, allowing you to work faster without getting tired. One proprietary feature of this saw that is really neat is the fact that you can reposition the handle as you see fit. You can bend it up to 90 degrees in either direction, enabling you to work in tighter spaces. The handle is also ergonomic and helps you get a better grip on your project. Another cool thing about this reciprocating saw is that it comes with a durable plastic carrying case. This allows you to keep the tool and all accessories handy without damaging anything in transit.

Pros Robust 7-amp motor

Durable steel and aluminum components

Adjustable speed between 0-2800 spm

Two LED lights for visibility

Soft grip handle reduces vibrations

Durable carrying case provided

Quick-change blade clamp

Speed locking mechanism reduces fatigue

Pivoting shoe adds versatility

Adjustable blade length - up to 1 ⅛ inches

Customizable handle position Cons Heavier than most models

Not as powerful as other corded saws

7. Ryobi P514 Cordless One+ Variable Speed Sawzall



When it comes to cordless power tools, no one does it better than Ryobi. This brand is well-known for making all kinds of battery-operated machinery, and best of all, you can use the same batteries for each unit. Thus, if you already own a Ryobi power tool, chances are you’ll be able to use the same battery for this reciprocating saw. Even if you have to buy one to go with this device, it’s well worth it, thanks to the brushless motor and high-speed system. Check Price

Compared to other saws we’ve seen, this one has the best spm rating. With a capacity of 3100 strokes per minute, you can power through a wider variety of materials. That being said, higher speeds will kill the battery faster, so plan accordingly. Overall, this saw comes with all of the standard features. These options include tool-free blade changing, a soft grip handle, and a variable speed trigger. One critical distinction, however, is that it’s also designed to reduce vibrations while working. Fewer vibrations mean that you don’t get tired as quickly.

Pros Durable yet lightweight plastic and metal

High-powered battery lasts longer

Adjustable speed settings - 0-3100 spm

Handle is comfortable and easy to carry

Soft grip comfort handle

Tool-free blade changing

Non-slip grip keeps the saw secure while working

Anti-vibration handle

Three blades included

Weighs only four pounds Cons Battery drains faster at high speeds

8. DEWALT DCS387B Compact Reciprocating Saw



This model is an upgraded version of the DCS367B we saw at the beginning of our list. That being said, you can expect to have all of the same features and benefits that you would expect from DeWalt, only with a stronger motor. Also, as with the other saw, you will have to buy additional parts to make it work for you. Let’s see what you can expect from this reciprocating saw. Performance-wise, this reciprocating saw comes with a variable speed trigger that goes up to 2900 strokes per minute. It has four positions for the Check Price

blade, with the longest option being 1 ⅛ inches. This customization allows you work on a wider variety of projects with ease.

Other features include a pivoting shoe to work at more angles, an LED light to see better while cutting, and a soft grip handle. Also, because it’s DeWalt, you can expect to get a remarkable three-year limited warranty. Overall, this is a great cordless saw, but be prepared to buy all of the accessories for it (i.e., battery, charger, blades, etc.). This version is just a bare-tool product, not a full-service model. However, that shouldn’t be a deal breaker, since this is still a high-quality machine.

Pros Built to be both tough and compact

Lightweight design is just 6 lbs

Soft grip handle reduces vibrations

Pick your speed between 0-2900 spm

Adjust the blade position in 4 places

Change blades without extra tools

Work at a variety of angles with a pivoting shoe

LED light shows your work better

1 ⅛-inch blade length

Three-year limited warranty Cons May be too heavy for some users

Bare tool has no accessories included

9. Milwaukee 6538-21 Sawzall Reciprocating Saw



At an amazing Amperage of 15 Amps, you expect incredible power and a hell lot of vibrations. The hell lot of vibrations does not happen all thanks to the patented counter balance mechanism that does an incredible job in absorbing the vibrations. This makes the Milwaukee 6538-21 15.0 Amp Super Sawzall Reciprocating Saw very easy to use. The manufacturer uses a clutch mechanism that protects the gears when the blades bind. Check Price

The high impact forces would in the absence of the clutch have no otherwise but cause the destruction of either the clutch or the gears. The clutch saves you much trouble in replacing the gears or the saw all together. Some people are real fans of products from the USA. This is one such product. The variable speed allows for versatility in the application of the saw. The constant power tech maintains a constant speed for a fine finish cut.

Pros Durable

Easy to use

15 Amp Motor with overload protection

Constant power technology

Made in the USA

Gear protecting clutch

Speed control Cons The shoe release lever should be made from a durable metal and not plastic

10. DEWALT DC385B Cordless Reciprocating Saw

DEWALT BareTool DC385B 18-Volt Cordless Reciprocating Saw allows ripping the best out of it through excellent performance. The DEWALT DC385B 18-Volt Cordless Reciprocating Saw has four blade clamp position that gives great versatility and allows for flush cutting. The 1-1/8 stroke length gives aggressive strokes that cut through all types of building materials. The 18 volts power supply power the motor through 0-3000 SPM. The rubber handles give you a sure grip of your saw and also feels comfortable even after long hours of use. Check Price

The shoe is adjustable which further increases the versatility of this tool. It also allows for tool-less blade changes using the lever action blade clamp.

Pros Three years limited warranty

0-3000 SPM

Adjustable shoe

Sure grip rubber handles

Four-position blade clamp Cons The blades are not up to per with the quality of the saw

How To Choose The Best Sawzall For The Money It is pretty easy to tell out the reciprocating saw theoretically. That is what I am doing presenting to you a theory of my practical experiments with the different reciprocating saws and these are the factors that I use a measuring gauge. Power When selecting the power you will first need to understand what you need from your tool. What you need depend on the materials that you will be working on. If it is heavy grade metals then you need a best reciprocating saw that has the amperage on the upper ratings say 15 Amps. If you need a best Sawza﻿﻿l﻿﻿l saw to work on metals that will not offer much of resistance, then you can choose a lower amperage as the ones with upper ratings will just cost you more probably for nothing. Vibration When working with any reciprocating machine, you better expect some vibrations. These vibrations are allowable just to a certain degree. There is a level of vibrations that will just stand between you and a perfect job. You should check for the measures put in place to counter vibrations. Such measures are the counter weight balance mechanism and the user vibrations protection. Performance When it comes to performance, you should not judge a certain saw unfairly. A fine example, you cannot put the 15 Amps saw on the same scale with a 7.5 Amps saw. We gauge the different saws sometimes depending on the best in that category. From above the PORTER-CABLE PC75TRS 7.5, Amp is a best reciprocating saw in that category. Durability Materials will always determine the durability of a best Sawzall. Check to see that all the sensitive components are from durable materials. Some manufacturers use plastic on components that require the use of metal. That will be a downside on the construction of that saw. Also on durability, we also consider the durability of the gear and the motor. I give accolades to manufacturers who include the gears and motor protection features. The clutch has the capability to protect both the gears and the motors. The motor overload specifically protects the motor. Comfort Comfort is an important thing to consider especially when working for log hours. I would recommend that before you commit to pay for a saw at least get a feel of how comfortable it is. You could say the money guarantee has got you but that is also a process that will waste time. A soft grip handle that fits the size of your hand will do you a lot of good. The weight of the reciprocating also plays a role in determining the comfort and ease of use. Sometimes you will have to make a compromise between the weight and the tasks that a saw can handle. Versatility There are obvious things that allow for versatility. One is the multiple clamp positions. You will find that the standard clamp positions are four which allows you to make flush cuts. Out of the box, the manufacturer can allow you to get some versatility by including blades for the different tasks. These blades should not be just blades but quality blades that ensure for durability. Budget In life, you will most likely find yourself caught between what you can afford and what you want. There is nothing wrong with that just stick to what you can afford, with time you will be in a position to acquire what you want. Just do not give away too much regarding quality. Length of power cord There are two versions of these best saws, the corded and the cordless. Each of them has their advantages and disadvantages. For the corded ones, it is important you check the length of the power cord so you can get some free movement around the work area. Manual This seems like the least of considerations, but it also has great significance. Most people find how to stuff on YouTube and the internet but what happens if you cannot get that? You need a clear instructions manual not to end up disliking a saw for not knowing how to fix could be a petty thing. How to Use a Reciprocating Saw Adjusting the Orbital Action The first and most important thing that you need to keep in mind about orbital saws is that they can cut through just about anything. Before you start sawing though, you need to adjust the orbital action of your saw. The first and one of the most important things that you should do is adjust the orbital action of the saw for the type of material that you are going to be cutting. Attach the Blade Next, you need to position your saw blade against the guide roller. Flip the blade change lever so that you can insert the blade, and use the lever to adjust, secure, and tighten the blade so that it fits perfectly into the saw. Mark Your Line Before you get started with the saw, you may want to make sure that you mark the lines that you are going to cut into your material. Use a wood pencil or some kind of utensil that lets you mark the path that you want to cut in the desired material, just so that you don’t have to do any guesswork while you are sawing. Start Cutting After you have selected the correct orbital action for what you are sawing and you have attached the blade, you are ready to start cutting. You want to be sure that the very front edge of the base plate of your saw is touching the edge of the material that you are about to be sawing into. Make Adjustments As You Go You can do this before you start sawing and then adjust the settings as you go to get the best cut possible for the material that you are working with. Feel free to adjust the rotary action and speed of the blade to make sure that you can get the desired cut. Then, keep sawing along the line that you drew, and feel free to make more adjustments as you go.

How to Cut a Shape in the Middle of A piece of Material? Make Your Line Now that your blade and your saw is set up and adjusted, you want to once again make sure that you have drawn the line that you are going to cut along for your circle. If you want it to have a perfect circular curve, make sure that you use some kind of perfectly cylindrical object that you can draw around to make your line. If you want to use a different shape, use an object that has the shape and dimensions that you need. Drill a Hole Before you actually start cutting, you need to make sure that you drill a hole into the inside edge of the shape that you are about to cut. This will give you your access point of where you are going to insert your reciprocating saw. Insert the Blade and Start Sawing If you are cutting an object in the middle of the material you are using, you probably want to use a jigsaw blade. A jigsaw blade will give you the ability to cut the shapes and the angles that you need to cut. Trace your saw along the line that you just drew so that you get the perfect cut. Changing Your Saw Blade Different materials and sawing situations may require different kinds of blades. For instance, if you are cutting wood, you are going to need a different saw than if you are cutting through metal. To change the saw blade, all you will need is the blade itself and typically an Allen key to release the blade that’s already in your saw.