The 5 Best Ways to Use Your Reciprocating Saw

A reciprocating saw is an incredibly versatile all-around power tool that can be used for many applications. Unlike most types of power saws, a recip saw isn’t designed for making precision cuts. Rather, its brute strength and ability to cut through anything makes it an essential addition to any tool collection. Here are some creative ways to use a reciprocating saw and info on how to choose the best one for your next project.

How Reciprocating Saws Work

A reciprocating saw is a compact electric saw that packs a lot of power. When you pull the trigger, the motor moves the saw’s blade in a back-and-forth motion called a “stroke.” Its speed is measured in strokes per minute (SPM). Using a variety of interchangeable blades, a recip saw can cut through an array of materials, such as wood, fiberglass, steel, copper, drywall, masonry, aluminum, ceramic tile, and cast iron.

The 5 Best Reciprocating Saw Uses

Multifaceted cutting power makes a reciprocating saw a must-have tool, especially for demolition or renovation-related tasks. Other uses include:

1. Cutting Through Nails or Pins

If your project involves stubborn pins or nails embedded in wood or other material, you can use a reciprocating saw to cut through the material—nails and all.

2. Pruning Trees

A lightweight, portable reciprocating saw is great for removing tree branches or handling routine seasonal pruning tasks and is far quieter than a chainsaw.

3. Fitting Window or Door Framework

No need to drag out a jamb saw or angle grinder, a reciprocating saw can easily cut through plywood sheathing and trim down tight casings and framework to fit doors and windows.

4. Working in Tight Spaces

Compact reciprocating saws can go where other saws can’t to make cuts at awkward angles or in cramped or hard-to-reach places. They’re also ideal for making overhead cuts.

5. Performing Plumbing Repairs

Reciprocating saws are perfect for plumbing repairs, thanks to their capacity to work in tight places and their ability to cut through plastic, metal, and PVC pipes and fittings.

Find the Best Reciprocating Saw For You

While most reciprocating saws follow the same basic design scheme, there are a few important differences to consider when choosing the right saw to add to your tool collection.

Corded Versus Cordless Design

Corded saws used to offer more cutting force than cordless saws, but today that’s not always the case. Most pros and do-it-yourselfers tend to prefer cordless. As mentioned earlier, reciprocating saws are great for making cuts in tight spaces or at awkward angles. In these situations, a cordless saw just makes more sense.

Brushless Versus Traditional Motor

Reciprocating saws with brushless motors are far more efficient than brushed motors and can generate more power using the same size battery. They also provide longer runtime, longer motor life and need less maintenance than their brushed counterparts. See our 20V Brushless Recip Saw here.

We are proud to offer top-quality brushless and traditional reciprocating saws capable of handling any project. See our full lineup of cutting tools here.