Rating of the best reciprocating saws 2020: price review, reviews

Reciprocating saws in our country do not belong to the widespread and popular tools, although this is a versatile convenient equipment that somewhat resembles a hacksaw and a jigsaw at the same time. The peculiarity of reciprocating saws is that, thanks to the long and narrow blade, they can perform their work in extremely cramped conditions. For example, cutting a pipe flush with a wall can only be done with a reciprocating saw. How to choose a reciprocating saw and which 4 reciprocating saws seemed to us better than the rest, we will tell in this material.

How to choose the right reciprocating saw

Reciprocating saws can make the work of builders, roofers, joiners, finishers and other craftsmen easier. They can cut pipes and bushes, cut bricks and aerated concrete, work with glass and metal. Let's take a look at the characteristics to look out for when choosing a reciprocating saw.

1. Engine power is perhaps the most important characteristic. The more powerful the saw, the more productive and faster it is. However, experienced craftsmen know that the larger this parameter, the greater the weight and dimensions of the instrument. Therefore, universal units with engine power from 900 kW to 1200 kW are considered the gold standard. However, tools with a capacity of 600-800 kW are suitable for household work. Professional equipment can have a power of up to 1700kW.
2. Stroke size is the length within which the file moves during operation. It usually ranges from 10mm to 60mm. The longer the saw stroke, the higher the productivity of the tool.
3. Max and min frequency of movement of the file show how many strokes per minute the tool can make. The larger this parameter, the faster the work will be done. If you plan to cut various materials, it is better to choose a model with the ability to adjust this parameter.
4. The cutting depth is indicated in the tool specification for hard materials (metal) separately and for soft materials (wood). If the depth of cut in metal depends on the power of the tool, then the depth of cut in wood depends to a large extent on the length of the blade.
5. Saw blades are sold universal, for wood, for metal, for other materials. The teeth can have different degrees of inclination. Ground teeth are used for cutting soft materials, milled teeth are used for cutting metal and hard wood. Blades with set teeth provide greater productivity in work.
6. Additional options: the convenience of using the saw will increase such additional options as the availability pendulum stroke, soft start, electrodynamic brake, overload protection, travel stop blades.

Reciprocating saw manufacturers

The stores offer a large selection of imported reciprocating saws. Domestic manufacturers are still looking at this tool and do not offer a large selection of products. Therefore, foreigners will have to choose a reciprocating saw:

1. The Japanese Makita is uniquely versatile. The reinforced saw blade will handle not only wood and plywood, but also aluminum, metal profiles, PVC pipes. A patented development is also implemented in the tool - AVT anti-vibration technology, which is the presence of a dynamic counterweight in the housing.
2. American DeWalts are also equipped with an anti-vibration counterweight, a high-strength plastic body and a rubberized grip, making the tool easy and comfortable to work with.
3. German electric hangers Metabo also have a patented mass compensator for vibration damping. Die-cast aluminum body provides impact resistance and unpretentiousness of the tool. VarioConstamatic full-wave electronics allow the speed to be adjusted depending on the pressure on the tool.
4. And of course Bosch produces 2 lines of reciprocating saws. Household tools are made in China, while professional tools are made in Europe. All models are compact, ergonomic, easy to adjust and have a vibration control function.

Rating of the best reciprocating saws

Let's take a look at the technical features of the best reciprocating saws in different segments.

Best Alligator Reciprocating Saw

1. DeWalt DWE 397

The DeWalt DWE 397 alligator saw with a powerful 1700-watt motor, designed for the toughest jobs, will easily help you cut PVC, wood, brick. The set includes a tungsten carbide double blade class 12, thanks to which the tool copes well with such hard materials as porotherm bricks class 12. The counter-movement of the blades ensures the best saw performance in this class. There is a lock against accidental activation. A comfortable grip and comfortable work is guaranteed by a rubberized handle with controls. The tool is offered for 32,500 rubles.

Price: ₽ 32 490

DeWalt DWE 397

Best Cordless Reciprocating Saw

2. Metabo SSE 18 LTX Compact 2.0Ah x2 Case

The Metabo SSE 18 LTX Compact 2.0Ah x2 Case saw is an excellent tool for one and two hands. The saw is convenient to work in hard-to-reach places thanks to the presence of a battery. The Metabo Quick system is integrated to change the saw blade, which eliminates the need for a wrench or tools. The adjustable cutting depth gauge allows you to significantly expand the working area. The saw can cut PVC, metal, wood and other building and finishing materials. The light weight of 1.7 kg and the rubberized handle allow you to work for a long time without feeling tired. The kit includes a case and a spare battery. The tool is offered at an affordable price of 19,000 rubles.

Price: ₽ 18 999

Metabo SSE 18 LTX Compact 2.0Ah x2 Case

Best Electric Reciprocating Saw

3. BOSCH GSA 1300 PCE

The BOSCH GSA 1300 PCE saw from a well-known German manufacturer does not even need any recommendations. Real German quality and power are realized in this inexpensive machine costing only 15,000 rubles. 1300W is more than enough power to handle the toughest materials. The electric hawk has a lot of advantages:

• adjustable base plate;
• hanging hook;
• rubberized handle;
• built-in ventilation for engine cooling.

Price: ₽ 15 059

BOSCH GSA 1300 PCE

Best Budget Reciprocating Saw

4. Hammer LZK 850 B PREMIUM

A very inexpensive option is the Hammer LZK 850 B PREMIUM saw for only 6500 rubles. will become a reliable assistant in the house, in the garage, in the garden. A sufficiently high power of 950W allows the instrument to be classified as a professional class. The compact tool allows you to work in confined spaces. The complete set of the tool - 2 files, spare brushes for the engine and case.

Price: ₽ 6 499

Hammer LZK 850 B PREMIUM

FAQ

The main differences between jigsaws and saber saws.
The main difference is the design of the tool itself. The long blade of the reciprocating saw allows you to crawl with it into the most difficult to reach places, make a blind cut or cut something flush with the wall. The jigsaw blades are quite short, and the massive structure requires more space during work.

Differences between an alligator saw and a saber saw.
The alligator saw has 2 blades on a fixed tire, which move towards each other during work, due to which there is no vibration in it and the cut is more accurate. In saber saws, there is one blade.

How often should the reciprocating saw be lubricated?
There is no exact answer to this question, it all depends on how intensively you work with the tool and how high-quality lubricant you use. Consider lubrication if the saw starts to overheat or if the blade travel has deteriorated. Otherwise, it’s better not to do anything.

Why does the canvas wear out quickly?
Quite often, the speed of blade wear depends on their quality - that is, on the material from which the blade is made. If the steel is of poor quality, the canvas is cheap, then it will wear out very quickly. Blades made of good steel grades will last a long time.