10 Best Reciprocating Saws 2025 in the United States

The DEWALT 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw is a solid choice for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike, especially those who prioritize portability and ease of use. Its battery-powered design means you're not tethered to an outlet, which enhances mobility on job sites or around the house. With a powerful motor that delivers up to 3,000 strokes per minute and a stroke length of 1-1/8 inches, this saw cuts quickly and efficiently through wood and other materials. The variable speed trigger gives users control over the cutting speed, making it adaptable for different tasks, which is a significant advantage for precision work.

One of the standout features is the 4-position blade clamp, which allows for versatile cutting angles, enabling flush cuts without the hassle of changing tools. The tool-free blade change mechanism is also user-friendly, allowing for quick blade swaps, a convenience that can save time on projects. The pivoting adjustable shoe helps prolong the life of the blade while providing depth-of-cut control, which is especially useful for more intricate cuts.

Being a bare tool means you’ll need to purchase a compatible battery separately if you don’t already own one, which could be an additional cost for some users. Weighing in at a moderate level, it’s generally comfortable to handle, thanks to the rubber comfort grip, but those with smaller hands may find it slightly bulky over extended use. Additionally, while the double oil-sealed shaft enhances durability, the battery life during intense use can vary depending on the material being cut, which is something to consider for larger projects.

The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Reciprocating Saw stands out as a solid choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals seeking a compact and powerful tool. One of its major strengths is its lightweight design at only 5 lbs, which makes it easy to handle and reduces fatigue during extended use. The saw's compact length of 14.5 inches allows it to fit in tight spots, making it particularly useful for working between studs or in cramped areas. Additionally, the variable speed trigger providing up to 2,900 strokes per minute (SPM) gives users excellent control over their cuts, whether they are tackling metal or other materials.

Another notable feature is the keyless 4-position blade clamp, which facilitates quick and easy blade changes, allowing for greater versatility in cutting applications. The inclusion of a bright LED light is also a thoughtful addition, enhancing visibility in darker workspaces.

However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. The saw is battery-powered, which can mean limited runtime compared to corded options, even with claims of 2.5x more runtime. Users may need to invest in extra batteries for longer tasks. The stroke length of 1-1/8 inches, while adequate for many tasks, may not be as effective for heavy-duty applications that require deeper cuts. Finally, as a bare tool, it does not come with batteries or a charger, which could be a drawback for those who don’t already own DEWALT's 20V MAX battery system. This saw is a practical option for those needing portability and ease of use, but potential buyers should evaluate their power needs and existing tools before making a purchase.

The Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall is a battery-powered reciprocating saw designed for versatility and performance. One of its standout features is the POWERSTATE Brushless Motor, which significantly enhances cutting speed and power, making it suitable for tough applications. The REDLINK Plus Intelligence system offers advanced electronics for optimized performance, ensuring the tool operates efficiently and protecting it from overloads. Users will appreciate the one-handed design that enhances control and allows for easy operation in tight spaces.

The saw boasts a 7/8 inch stroke length, which means it can remove more material with each stroke, leading to faster cuts. Additionally, the pivoting shoe provides constant contact with the workpiece, resulting in smoother cuts with reduced vibration and bucking. This combination of features contributes to a tool life that's reportedly up to three times longer than competitors, which is a great advantage for users looking for durability.

However, there are a couple of considerations to keep in mind. While the saw's weight of approximately 3.96 pounds is manageable, some users may find it a bit heavy for extended use, particularly in overhead tasks. Additionally, the product is sold as a bare tool, meaning buyers will need to purchase the battery and charger separately, which can add to the initial cost. Lastly, while designed for metal cutting, it may not be the best choice for heavy-duty tasks involving tougher materials without proper blades.

The Milwaukee Hackzall is an excellent choice for DIY enthusiasts and professionals seeking a reliable, efficient reciprocating saw for general and metal cutting tasks. Its advanced motor technology and ergonomics make it a formidable contender in its category, although potential buyers should consider the additional costs for batteries and the weight during extended use.