Rating of reciprocating saws: which models are the most reliable?

Among professional and amateur tools, electric reciprocating saws are a universal tool that allows you to solve a wide range of tasks. They cut metal, wood and other building materials, allowing you to perform not only cutting, but also shaped cutting.

Our review presents the best reciprocating saw models. For the convenience of the reader, the participants are grouped into popular categories of tools for home and professional activities. Cordless saws are presented separately. The selection was based on the characteristics of the equipment, as well as the experience of users who were familiar first-hand with the real capabilities of each model.

Why do you need reciprocating saws?

A reciprocating saw is a universal tool for sawing wood, metal, drywall, plasterboard, plywood, chipboard, concrete blocks and other materials. The main advantage is the flexibility of the cutting blade (blade).

Scope of application:

• dismantling of structures, in particular cutting of heating system elements, window or door frames, pipes, boards, logs;
• roofing, construction and plumbing procedures that require cutting elements, corners, and wooden structures;
• garden care with pruning of trees and branches.

An example of using an electric hacksaw would be sawing timber with nails driven in, as it is effective for any material. An important point is the correct selection of equipment, since the saw blade may differ in size and number of teeth. For each material, the appropriate option is selected. An example would be using a 10-tooth 1-inch blade when working with wood. For metal pipes you will need 12-14 teeth, and for cast iron and other durable materials 18 teeth per 1 inch of blade.

The main advantage is the ability to work in hard-to-reach places.

Recommendations for choosing a reciprocating saw

Purpose

. All reciprocating saws can be divided into two groups according to their intended purpose.

1. Professional models have high performance, strength, and endurance. They are suitable for gardeners and finishers, bodybuilders and installers. But the price of such a tool is quite high.
2. When you need a saw for work in a garage or in a country house, it is better to stick to household models. They are distinguished by their affordability, lightness, and ease of operation.
3. Power. Like any electrical device, a reciprocating saw is powered by a motor. The most important characteristic of an electric motor is power. It is expressed in watts and ranges from 500 to 2000 watts. The higher the engine power, the more complex the tasks the saw can solve. The best option for home use would be a tool with a power of 700-1500 W.

Performance.

Reciprocating saws are distinguished by their productivity. Important components of this parameter are the number of strokes per minute and stroke size.

1. The cutting tool performs reciprocating movements with a certain frequency. It is expressed in movements per minute (dpm). The greater the number of blade strokes, the faster the material is cut. For home use, models with a frequency of 2500-3500 dpm are suitable.
2. The cutting speed also depends on the stroke of the saw blade. The greater the amplitude, the higher the performance of the tool. Models with a wide stroke (25-35 mm) are characterized by easier removal of sawdust and shavings.

Speed ​​adjustment

. To work with different materials, a necessary function in a reciprocating saw is speed control.

1. Stepless speed change is achieved by installing a sensitive electronic button. However, if you press the button hard (intuitively or accidentally), you can quickly damage the cutting edge of the file.
2. Adjustment using a wheel or slider is considered a more advanced and reliable method. Depending on the material, the required speed limit is set, which will not be exceeded when the “Start” button is fully pressed.

Pendulum stroke.

To increase cutting speed, manufacturers install a pendulum stroke in some reciprocating saws. During the reverse stroke, the file deviates from the cutting line, due to which waste is more effectively removed from the cutting zone. But at the same time, the accuracy and quality of the cut deteriorate slightly. The best option would be to purchase a tool with a switchable pendulum stroke.

Blade replacement mechanism.

The correct choice of cutting equipment is the key to fast and high-quality cutting of material.

1. If the canvas rarely changes, then you can stop at the key fixation mechanism. To replace the blade, you must have special keys on hand.
2. When the file is changed several times during operation, you should pay attention to tool-free fixation mechanisms. Some manufacturers make a rotating structure, others install a sliding mechanism.

Additional options.

For safe and convenient work with the tool, reciprocating saws come with additional options.

1. Soft start is installed in powerful models to protect the network from overload when starting the motor.
2. The engine brake ensures an instant stop of the saw blade after turning off the tool. This option increases safety and saves operator time.
3. Thanks to a special flashlight on the saw body, it is possible to highlight the cutting area. This option comes in handy in poor lighting conditions.
4. Electronic overload protection turns off the motor when the saw gets stuck in the material. Triggering also occurs when working with the tool for a long time without stopping.

Our review included 16 of the best reciprocating saws. All of them are sold in the Russian retail chain. When allocating places, the editors of the expertology journal relied on the opinion of the expert community, taking into account feedback from domestic users.

TOP 7 best cordless reciprocating saw

On the shelves of stores and marketplaces on the Internet you can find a huge number of models from different brands, but we will only find out in practice which is the best cordless reciprocating saw. In order to get at least somehow closer to the ideal option, we have collected the ten most popular models according to users.

• BLACK+DECKER BDCR18N.
• Metabo PowerMaxx SSE 12 BL.
• Metabo SSE 18 LTX Compact Box.
• BISON Standard SPL-181.
• AEG BUS 18-0.
• BOSCH GSA 18 V-LI C 0 L-BOXX.
• Worx WG894E.5 2.0Ah ×1.

Next, we will consider in detail each model from the list.

BLACK+DECKER BDCR18N

High-quality 18-volt cordless reciprocating saw made in China. Lightness and compactness ensures convenience when working with various materials such as wood, metal or plastic. Saw blades can be changed easily thanks to the keyless installation system.

The handle is covered with a layer of rubber, so it lies securely in the hand and does not slip. According to the strange idea of ​​the manufacturer, the saw is supplied without a charger and battery. The sliding battery system with spring mechanism prevents dust from entering.

Price: from 4,088 to 4,490 rubles.

BLACK+DECKER BDCR18N

Advantages

• lightweight and compact balanced body;
• rubberized grips;
• The blade is replaced using a keyless method.

Flaws

• The battery and charger will have to be purchased separately.

I have long wanted to try a reciprocating saw; I have not found any analogues in terms of price/quality ratio. I bought it and didn’t regret it at all. A very convenient dismantling tool, I cut out pieces of wood, cut down branches, and an iron drain in the bathroom - it did an excellent job and did not overheat. It’s better to buy a more powerful battery right away, although it will be a little heavier, but it doesn’t matter. An excellent device for the home!

Metabo PowerMaxx SSE 12 BL

The lightweight Metabo cordless reciprocating saw is easy to use with both two and one hands. Thanks to the ergonomic shape of the body, your hands do not get tired at all while working, and the rubber pads do not allow them to slip. Also, for the sake of convenience, the engineers provided the ability to rotate the file 180°.

It is possible to electronically adjust the stroke rate based on the type of material. The cutting depth can be adjusted without the use of special tools. The tool comes in a plastic case with two battery packs, saw blades and a charger.

Average price: from 15,475 to 18,775 rubles.

Metabo PowerMaxx SSE 12 BL

Advantages

• rich equipment (case, two batteries, charger, metal and wood saws);
• rubberized handle;
• the ability to rotate the direction of the file by 180 degrees;
• Together with the battery, the device weighs only 1.6 kg.

Flaws

• not found.

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Very comfortable lightweight body, trigger works well. The sawing speed is quite high. I took a saw for garden work, cutting trees, now I don’t go there without it, I’ll always find a place to use it. I have enough batteries; if I use them intensively at work, the charge will probably run out quickly. Replacing the file is very simple, no unnecessary movements.

Metabo SSE 18 LTX Compact Box

As the name suggests, the cordless saw is sold in a stripped down configuration. Here you will not find batteries and a charger, so the model is more suitable for those who already have a similar Metabo brand tool.

A reciprocating tool with a power of 18 volts is used when cutting wood, metal or plastic products. The work area is illuminated by an LED flashlight, which is a definite plus when working in conditions of limited lighting. The files are fastened quickly using the keyless method.

Approximate price: from 8,243 to 10,599 rubles.

Metabo SSE 18 LTX Compact Box

Advantages

• there is LED illumination of the work area;
• built-in speed control;
• supplied in a MetaLoc case.

Flaws

• The charger and battery will have to be purchased separately.

I bought a Metabo cordless reciprocating saw for professional use. The tool is convenient. If necessary, you can work without stopping with the tip of the blade, holding it with both hands. This is how I sawed an iron eye for a padlock, about four mm thick. I used Bosch saber blades. Replacing the blades does not cause any difficulties. The thing is wonderful!

BISON Standard SPL-181

The electric hacksaw is designed for various types of sawing on a variety of materials, including aerated concrete, brick and metal. New generation technologies used in the battery have increased the performance of the device by 35%. A multi-stage protection system protects and extends service life.

Reliability is added by the gearbox housing made of high quality metal. The chuck is installed keyless, so you can change blades quickly and easily, the stop can be rearranged, thereby adjusting the sawing depth.

Prices: from 7,881 to 9,485 rubles.

BISON Standard SPL-181

Advantages

• electronic speed control is provided;
• replacement of blades is carried out without special tools;
• protection against overheating, deep discharge, and overload is installed;
• the stop can be rearranged to adjust the cut.

Flaws

• no workplace lighting.

I chose this cordless reciprocating saw based on reviews on the Internet; it seemed to me that it would be a decent option for everyday use. There is only one battery in the box, but it was enough for me to cut down all the unnecessary branches in the yard from several trees. The device is fire! It’s not for nothing that she is present in almost every rating. Later I’ll buy a second battery and it will work like a professional one.

AEG BUS 18-0

The 18-volt cordless reciprocating saw is used for sawing wood, plastic and thin-sheet metal workpieces. The model is equipped with a reliable Fixtec system blade clamp, which guarantees strong fixation of accessories in difficult conditions.

The number of saw strokes is adjustable in the range from 0 to 3000 revolutions; this adjustment allows you to correctly configure the tool to the requirements for a specific type of material. The tool comes without batteries or charger, which is an excellent choice for those who already own an AEG 18V cordless tool.

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Price tag: from 7,426 to 7,900 rubles.

AEG BUS 18-0

Advantages

• Smooth electronic speed control is installed;
• equipment is replaced using a keyless method;
• A pendulum function is provided.

Flaws

• Sold without battery and charger.

I’ve been planning to buy a cordless reciprocating saw for quite some time, since I need to cut at a height and far from the outlet. I purchased an AEG and so far I don’t regret it, it has served me flawlessly all season and has proven itself very well in its work. Tree branches approximately seventy millimeters thick can be cut easily. It also helps a lot at a construction site, but it won’t hurt to buy another battery. For a beginner this is the best option.

BOSCH GSA 18 V-LI C 0 L-BOXX

The Bosch cordless reciprocating saw is compact, lightweight and powerful, allowing you to use the tool with one hand without fear of getting tired quickly. The shape of the case is ergonomic and comfortable; the case itself is made of high-quality plastic with rubber pads.

The quick-release chuck makes it easier to fix the equipment and guarantees reliable fastening. To work in limited lighting conditions, engineers equipped the tool with a bright LED flashlight. The delivery set includes a plastic case in which it is convenient to store and transport the device. The engine is reliably protected from overloads by a special electronic system.

Cost: from 10,537 to 13,300 rubles.

BOSCH GSA 18 V-LI C 0 L-BOXX

Advantages

• smooth adjustment of the speed of revolutions is provided;
• the working area is illuminated by a built-in LED;
• the engine is protected by electronic locking in case of overload;
• Comes with a case and three files.

Flaws

• Charger and battery are purchased separately.

The Bosch cordless reciprocating saw is my favorite tool from the 18 volt line. Thanks to its balanced design, it feels like an extension of your hand, so you don’t get tired at all while working. Firewood and metal pipes are equally easy for her. It practically does not heat up or vibrate, and makes little noise. Overall, the tool is perfect and definitely worth the money!

Worx WG894E.5 2.0Ah ×1

The Works is positioned by the manufacturer as a garden electric hacksaw, but if you wish, you can easily use it, for example, in cutting metal and polypropylene pipes. The body is made of high-quality impact-resistant plastic, well balanced and equipped with rubber pads that prevent your hand from slipping.

The tool accessories, like those of most competitors, are changed using a keyless method. The battery is powerful at 20 V and can be used on other brand tools of the same power. The trigger mechanism of the device is equipped with soft start technology.

Approximate cost: from 8,690 to 8,699 rubles.

Worx WG894E.5 2.0Ah x1

Advantages

• a soft start system is installed;
• has a comfortable rubberized handle;
• keyless system for changing saw blades;
• The battery is suitable for other equipment of the brand.

Flaws

• not found.

The electric saw is very light, after half an hour of work my hand did not get tired at all. She cut down small branches from the trees in the garden, then sawed them for firewood for the bathhouse. The instrument is ideal for use by women. It’s a pity that thick branches are too tough for him, but there’s nothing to be done, there’s another tool for them. Works is a wonderful assistant for gardeners! I recommend buying!

Middle segment (from 4,000 to 10,000 rubles)

BOSCH GSA 1100 E

pros

• motor (1100 W)
• work area lighting
• smooth gear shifting
• two saw blade installation positions

Minuses

• no airflow to the working area
• strong vibration
• no pendulum stroke

From 9179 ₽

The GSA 1100 E model, manufactured by a German manufacturer, is reliable and functional. High power combined with low weight (3.6 kg), the ability to smoothly adjust speeds, and LED illumination of the working area are the advantages of this tool. The model does not have a pendulum stroke, which is inconvenient when working with wood. But if you plan to cut metal, it is advisable to choose a BOSCH GSA 1100 reciprocating plate.

RYOBI R18RS-0

pros

• high power
• electronic engine protection
• weak vibration
• mobility

Minuses

• consumes a lot of energy
• Battery and charger not included

From 7080 ₽

The reciprocating saw from the Japanese company Ryobi is battery-powered. Cuts quickly and powerfully, often used for dismantling wooden, metal or plastic structures. The Anti-Vibe handle dampens vibration, making working with the tool comfortable. A saw blade for wood and a Hex wrench included complete the device.

Model comparison table

Having familiarized you with the description of each of the selected models, we decided to compile a special table in which you can visually compare individual technical characteristics of the models and perhaps highlight something special for yourself.

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