What To Look For in a Reciprocating Saw
Reciprocating saws, also known as sabre saws or demolition saws, take the donkey work out of cutting through coarser materials.
The best reciprocating saws should be able to cut at least 100mm into wood. They should feature a variable speed trigger that can manage up to 3,000 strokes per minute (spm) and have a stroke length of over 20mm. A tool-less blade change is a common feature on most models.
Reciprocating saws come cordless or corded. Cordless are safer to use and more versatile, but they are more expensive, particularly if you have to purchase a separate battery and charger. Corded reciprocating saws are cheaper and you don’t have to worry about a waning power supply.
Reciprocating saws should feel comfortable to hold and operate, but they are not the lightest of power tools. Mains-powered models typically weigh around 2.5kg. Some cordless versions can be lighter if they use smaller batteries, but their running time will be less.
Additional features such as an LED work light make cutting easier. Check the number of saw blades supplied – often budget tools come with more. And it’s always nice if the tool comes in its own case.
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