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10 Best Reciprocating Saws 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall (Bare Tool), Red, Black,

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,241
Motor Power
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
5963 reviews

Motor Power
The brushless motor ensures long-lasting performance and impressive speed, making even the toughest jobs a breeze.
Weight and Ergonomics
One-handed operation adds convenience and versatility, especially in tight spaces.

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.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,241
Motor Power
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
5963 reviews

Motor Power
The brushless motor ensures long-lasting performance and impressive speed, making even the toughest jobs a breeze.
Weight and Ergonomics
One-handed operation adds convenience and versatility, especially in tight spaces.
#2

Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall Brushless Cordless Reciprocating Saw - No Charger, No Battery, Bare Tool Only

Rating
9.8
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
1029 reviews

Weight and Ergonomics
Outstanding quality in the fuel line of tools, and this sawzall is no exception—powerful yet lightweight.

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall Brushless Cordless Reciprocating Saw is a powerful tool designed for users who need a robust and reliable saw for various cutting tasks. As a battery-powered tool, it offers the convenience of cordless operation, which is great for mobility and using it in different locations without the hassle of a cord. The brushless motor is a standout feature that enhances the durability and efficiency of the saw, providing longer runtime and better performance.

The lever actuated blade clamp allows for quick and easy blade changes, which is a time-saver on the job. Additionally, the built-in LED light is a thoughtful feature that helps illuminate the work surface, making it easier to work in dim conditions. With a weight of 6.8 pounds, it strikes a balance between being sturdy and not too heavy to handle comfortably for extended periods.

However, the product is sold as a bare tool, meaning it does not come with a battery or charger, which could be a downside for those who do not already own compatible Milwaukee tools. The metal reinforced battery connection adds to the durability, ensuring that the battery stays securely connected during use. It is particularly suitable for those who already have Milwaukee M18 batteries and chargers or are looking for a high-quality reciprocating saw to add to their existing Milwaukee tool collection.

Rating
9.8
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
1029 reviews

Weight and Ergonomics
Outstanding quality in the fuel line of tools, and this sawzall is no exception—powerful yet lightweight.
#3

Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 18V Lithium Ion Cordless Sawzall 3,000RPM Reciprocating Saw with Quik Lok Blade Clamp and All Metal Gearbox (Bare Tool)

Rating
9.5
Weight and Ergonomics
Stroke Length

Most important from
1709 reviews

Weight and Ergonomics
A heavy-duty saw that performs exceptionally well, making it a reliable choice for demanding tasks.
Stroke Length
Smooth and precise cutting through PVC pipe, praised by plumbing professionals for its consistent performance.

The Milwaukee 2621-20 M18 18V Cordless Sawzall is a robust option for anyone needing a reliable reciprocating saw. It’s powered by an 18V lithium-ion battery, making it convenient for cordless use, although you'll need to purchase the battery separately. The tool is capable of 3,000 strokes per minute, allowing for efficient cutting across various materials. Its Quik Lok Blade Clamp is a standout feature, making blade changes quick and hassle-free, which is great when shifting between tasks. The all-metal gearbox is designed to withstand job site conditions, protecting it against damage from drops or knocks.

Weighing 7.4 pounds, the saw is relatively manageable, though it might feel heavy during extended use for some users. The counterbalance mechanism is a plus, as it reduces vibration, making it more comfortable to maneuver during prolonged cutting sessions. With the inclusion of REDLINK Intelligence, the tool offers a level of smart control to prevent overheating and optimize battery use. However, the lack of orbital action may limit its aggressive cutting capabilities compared to other models in the market.

The Sawzall is well-suited for general woodworking and metal cutting tasks but may not be the best fit for users seeking a lightweight tool for intricate work. Its compatibility with M18 batteries is a bonus for those already invested in Milwaukee’s ecosystem. With high user ratings, this saw stands as a reliable choice, though some might find the need to purchase a battery as an added expense. For those prioritizing durability and ease of use in blade changes, this could be a solid investment.

Rating
9.5
Weight and Ergonomics
Stroke Length

Most important from
1709 reviews

Weight and Ergonomics
A heavy-duty saw that performs exceptionally well, making it a reliable choice for demanding tasks.
Stroke Length
Smooth and precise cutting through PVC pipe, praised by plumbing professionals for its consistent performance.

Buying Guide for the Best Reciprocating Saws

Reciprocating saws are versatile power tools used for a variety of cutting tasks, from demolition work to pruning trees. When choosing a reciprocating saw, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you select the right tool for your needs. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and get the best performance out of your saw.
Power SourceReciprocating saws can be either corded or cordless. Corded saws are powered by electricity and offer consistent power, making them ideal for heavy-duty tasks and prolonged use. Cordless saws, on the other hand, are battery-powered and provide greater mobility and convenience, especially for outdoor or remote work. When choosing between the two, consider whether you need the unlimited runtime of a corded saw or the portability of a cordless model.
Motor PowerMotor power is measured in amps for corded saws and volts for cordless saws. Higher amp or volt ratings generally indicate a more powerful saw capable of handling tougher materials and more demanding tasks. For light to medium-duty work, a saw with 7-10 amps (corded) or 18-20 volts (cordless) should suffice. For heavy-duty demolition or construction work, look for saws with 11-15 amps or 20-60 volts. Choose a motor power that matches the intensity and frequency of your cutting tasks.
Stroke LengthStroke length refers to the distance the blade travels in one complete cycle. Longer stroke lengths (typically 1-1/8 to 1-1/4 inches) allow for faster cutting and are better suited for heavy-duty applications. Shorter stroke lengths (around 3/4 to 1 inch) provide more control and precision, making them ideal for detailed or delicate work. Consider the type of materials you'll be cutting and the level of precision required when selecting the stroke length.
Strokes Per Minute (SPM)Strokes per minute (SPM) measures how many times the blade moves back and forth in a minute. Higher SPM rates (up to 3,000 SPM) allow for faster cutting, which is beneficial for quick, rough cuts. Lower SPM rates provide more control and are better for precision cutting. Some saws offer variable speed settings, allowing you to adjust the SPM based on the task at hand. Choose a saw with an SPM range that matches your typical cutting needs.
Blade Change MechanismThe blade change mechanism determines how easily you can swap out blades. Tool-free blade change systems are the most convenient, allowing you to quickly and easily change blades without the need for additional tools. This is especially useful if you frequently switch between different types of blades for various tasks. If you plan to use your saw for a variety of applications, look for a model with a tool-free blade change mechanism.
Weight and ErgonomicsThe weight and ergonomics of a reciprocating saw affect its ease of use and comfort during extended periods of operation. Lighter saws (around 5-7 pounds) are easier to handle and reduce fatigue, making them suitable for overhead or one-handed use. Heavier saws (8-10 pounds or more) may offer more stability and power but can be tiring to use for long periods. Additionally, look for features like a comfortable grip, vibration reduction, and balanced design to enhance usability.
Orbital ActionOrbital action refers to the elliptical motion of the blade, which can make cutting through wood and other soft materials faster and more efficient. Saws with orbital action settings allow you to switch between straight and orbital cutting modes. This feature is particularly useful if you need to cut through a variety of materials. If you plan to use your saw for both rough and precise cuts, consider a model with adjustable orbital action.

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