Reciprocating saws are a must-have for any homeowner or DIY enthusiast looking to make quick work of demolition or remodeling projects. These versatile tools can cut through a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic, making them an essential item in any toolbox. However, with so many options available on the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your needs.
If you’re a beginner looking to invest in a reciprocating saw, there are several factors to consider. One of the most critical things to keep in mind is the power source. Reciprocating saws are available in corded and cordless options, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Corded saws typically offer more power and consistent performance but require an electrical outlet. Cordless saws, on the other hand, are more portable but may not be as powerful and require frequent battery recharging.
Another factor to consider is the weight of the saw. A heavier saw may be more challenging to maneuver, especially for beginners, while a lighter saw may not provide enough power for more demanding projects. It’s also important to consider the blade stroke length, as longer strokes can cut through thicker materials more easily.
After researching and testing several options, we’ve identified the best beginner reciprocating saws on the market. These saws offer a balance of power, portability, and ease of use, making them perfect for those new to using reciprocating saws.
Best Beginner Reciprocating Saw
If you’re new to DIY projects, a reciprocating saw can be a great tool to have in your arsenal. With its ability to quickly cut through a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and PVC, a reciprocating saw can make your DIY projects much easier. But with so many options on the market, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best beginner reciprocating saws to help you find the perfect tool for your needs.
BLACK+DECKER Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit
If you’re looking for a beginner reciprocating saw, the BLACK+DECKER Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit is a great option.
Pros
- Quick and easy tool-free blade changes
- Pivoting shoe for expert control
- Powered by the same battery system as other 20V MAX DIY projects
Cons
- Vibrates substantially
- Battery isn’t powerful enough for continuous use
- Not suitable for heavy-duty projects
This saw is perfect for those who are just starting out with DIY projects or need a saw for light to medium-duty tasks. The tool-free blade changes make it easy to switch between tasks, and the pivoting shoe allows for greater control in tight spaces. Plus, the fact that it uses the same battery system as other 20V MAX DIY projects is a huge plus.
However, the BLACK+DECKER Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit does vibrate quite a bit, so it may not be suitable for those with hand or wrist issues. Additionally, the battery isn’t powerful enough for continuous use, so you may need to take breaks between tasks. Finally, it’s not suitable for heavy-duty projects, so if you need a saw for cutting through thick materials, this may not be the best option.
Overall, if you’re a beginner or need a saw for light to medium-duty tasks, the BLACK+DECKER Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit is a great choice.
SKIL 9206-02 Reciprocating Saw
If you’re a beginner looking for a reciprocating saw, the SKIL 9206-02 is a great choice. It’s powerful, feature-rich, and provides fast, efficient cutting in every application. Here are some pros and cons to consider before making your purchase:
Pros
- The powerful 7.5 Amp motor provides ample power to get the job done.
- The tool-less blade change makes it easy to switch out blades quickly and efficiently.
- The heavy-duty metal gear housing adds ruggedness and durability to the saw.
Cons
- The counterbalance for vibration control could be improved.
- The saw is on the heavier side, which can make it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
- Some users have reported that the pivoting foot could be sturdier.
Overall, the SKIL 9206-02 Reciprocating Saw is a solid choice for beginners. It’s versatile enough to handle a variety of applications, and the tool-less blade change makes it easy to use. However, if you’re looking for a saw with advanced features, this may not be the best choice for you.
The SKIL 9206-02 Reciprocating Saw has a powerful motor that allows for efficient cutting in every application. The tool-less blade change makes it easy to switch out blades quickly, and the heavy-duty metal gear housing adds ruggedness and durability to the saw. However, the counterbalance for vibration control could be improved, and the saw is on the heavier side, which can make it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces. Additionally, some users have reported that the pivoting foot could be sturdier.
In conclusion, if you’re a beginner looking for a reliable reciprocating saw that’s easy to use, the SKIL 9206-02 is a great choice. However, if you’re looking for a saw with advanced features, you may want to consider other options.
WORKPRO 12V Cordless Reciprocating Saw with Clamping Jaw, 2.0Ah Li-Ion Battery with 1 Hour Fast Charger, Variable Speed and Tool-Free Blade Change, 3 Saw Blades for Wood & Metal Cutting
If you’re looking for a beginner reciprocating saw, the WORKPRO 12V Cordless Reciprocating Saw with Clamping Jaw is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The clamping jaw and variable-speed motor make it easy to control the cut position and provide a sufficient security guarantee for users.
- Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to cut into those hard-to-reach areas.
- The tool-free blade change and double safety lock allow for quick and easy blade changes, ensuring your safety.
Cons
- The battery life isn’t the longest, so it may not be suitable for larger projects.
- The saw is not as powerful as some of its counterparts, so it may struggle with thicker materials.
- The included blades may not be suitable for all types of cutting.
With a variable-speed trigger that provides more control for cutting various materials when the motor drives up to 2900 strokes per minute, this saw is perfect for beginners who want to tackle a variety of projects. Plus, the 2.0Ah rechargeable large-capacity Li-ion battery ensures that you never need to worry about running out of power in the middle of a project, and the 2.0A fast charger can charge one battery in as little as 1 hour.
The clamping jaw is a great feature that increases friction in operation, making it easy to control the cut position, and provides a sufficient security guarantee for users. Additionally, the compact and lightweight design of the WORKPRO 12V Cordless Reciprocating Saw makes it easy to cut into those hard-to-reach areas, and the soft-grip ergonomic handle increases handling control and reduces fatigue during long-term work.
The tool-free blade release chuck allows for quick and easy blade changes, so you don’t have to spend much time changing the blade. Designed with a double safety switch, you need to press both buttons to start the WORKPRO reciprocating saw, which ensures your safety.
Overall, if you’re a beginner looking for a versatile and easy-to-use reciprocating saw, the WORKPRO 12V Cordless Reciprocating Saw with Clamping Jaw is a great option to consider.
ALTOCRAFT 12V Cordless Reciprocating Saw with 2 Batteries
If you are a beginner looking for a cordless reciprocating saw, the ALTOCRAFT 12V Cordless Reciprocating Saw with 2 Batteries is a great option.
Pros
- Portability: The cordless reciprocating saw uses a battery to operate, making it lightweight and small in size. You can use it anywhere, even where there is no electric outlet.
- Good for Safety: Equipped with a clamping jaw to increase friction in operation, it is easy to control the cut position and provides effective security guarantee for users. It is also designed with double safety switches, ensuring your safety.
- 0-2700Rpm Variable Speeds: With variable speeds and variable orbital action, you can change the rate at which the saw moves. You can increase or decrease depending on the material you are working on.
Cons
- Battery Life: The battery life could be better, as it takes a long time to charge.
- Not for Heavy Duty Work: This saw is not ideal for heavy-duty work, as it is designed for beginners and light materials.
- Blades: The blades that come with the saw are not the best quality.
The ALTOCRAFT 12V Cordless Reciprocating Saw with 2 Batteries is a great option if you are a beginner looking for a portable and safe saw. It is versatile and can handle different materials, including wood, metal, plastic, tree limbs, PVC pipe, fiberglass, aluminum, copper, thin steel, and even roots.
The saw is easy to operate and comes with two 2000mAh rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, allowing you to pop one on the charger as needed and basically work for as long as you need to. It is also designed with a keyless blade change, brushed, lightweight, spindle lock, and is handheld, compact, and lightweight.
One thing to note is that the battery life could be better, as it takes a long time to charge. Additionally, this saw is not ideal for heavy-duty work, as it is designed for beginners and light materials. The blades that come with the saw are not the best quality, so you may need to purchase additional blades.
Overall, if you are a beginner looking for a versatile and safe saw, the ALTOCRAFT 12V Cordless Reciprocating Saw with 2 Batteries is a great option.
GALAX PRO 120V Reciprocating Saw
If you’re looking for a beginner reciprocating saw, the GALAX PRO 120V Reciprocating Saw is a great option for you. With its powerful 6.0A motor, it can deliver up to 2,800RPM for precise cutting in a wide variety of materials. You can easily cut logs, wood for your wood burner, sheet, pallets, PVC pipe, plastic, cast iron pipe, and more.
Pros
- The saw’s stroke length is 1-1/8″, and it has a maximum cutting depth of 6″ in wood and metal. You can lock the cutting speed using the lock-on button, so you don’t need to press the trigger switch all the time.
- The quick-change chuck allows for easy tool-less blade changing, so you can get straight on with the task in hand without additional tools. The pivoting shoe easily maneuvers(±15 °) around objects while cutting. The adjustable front shoe allows you to use the entire blade, increasing blade life.
- The electric saw comes with a large trigger switch with variable speed control, which can control the speed from 0 to 2800SPM for high precision cutting. The comfortable soft grip and ergonomic silicone handle are suitable for right and left-handed use.
Cons
- The saw is corded, which means you need to have a power source nearby to use it.
- The saw is a bit heavy, weighing in at 5.57 pounds, which may make it difficult to use for extended periods.
- The saw’s cutting angle is limited to 15 degrees, which may make it difficult to cut at certain angles.
In summary, if you’re a beginner looking for a reciprocating saw that is powerful, easy to use, and versatile, the GALAX PRO 120V Reciprocating Saw is a great option. The saw’s stroke length, maximum cutting depth, and variable speed control make it a versatile tool for a wide variety of cutting tasks. The quick-change chuck and adjustable shoe also make it easy to use and increase blade life. However, the saw’s corded design, weight, and limited cutting angle may be drawbacks for some users.
ENGINDOT Reciprocating Saw
If you’re looking for a beginner reciprocating saw, the ENGINDOT Cordless Reciprocating Saw is a solid option.
Pros
- Fast charging and variable speed for convenient cutting performance
- Clamping jaw for increased friction and effective security guarantee
- Lightweight and one-handed design for superior control and versatility in tight spaces
Cons
- Battery life may not be sufficient for longer projects
- Some users have reported bad vibration at full speed
- Blade may not stay in place at first
This reciprocating saw is perfect for light construction and demolition work. With a full charge in just one hour, you can enjoy sustainable cutting performance for approximately 30 minutes. The variable speed trigger allows you to run at 0 to 2500SPM through trigger sensitivity, providing increased blade control.
The clamping jaw is a great feature that can increase friction in operation and provide an effective security guarantee for users. The power indicator allows you to monitor the level of battery charge, which reminds you to charge it in time to avoid delays in your work.
At only 12 inches and 3.5 pounds, this cordless reciprocating saw utilizes innovative lightweight design for superior control and versatility in tight spaces. It features an effortless one-handed operation, making it easy to use for beginners.
The double safety switch control ensures that the saw only moves when you push the two buttons, which helps to avoid touching hurt and ensure your safety. The keyless quick lock blade holder integrated offers fast and easy blade changes. Note that you need to remove the clamping jaw by release button before changing the blade.
In summary, if you’re looking for a beginner reciprocating saw that is lightweight, easy to use, and has a clamping jaw, the ENGINDOT Cordless Reciprocating Saw is a great option. However, keep in mind that the battery life may not be sufficient for longer projects, and some users have reported bad vibration at full speed.
HYCHIKA Reciprocating Saw
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient beginner reciprocating saw, the HYCHIKA Reciprocating Saw is a great option for you. With its variable speed of up to 2800spm and a maximum cutting thickness of wood 30cm, PVC 30cm, soft metal pipe 30cm, and metal plate 15mm, this saw can handle a variety of cutting tasks with ease. The tool-free blade change feature is also a plus, allowing you to quickly change blades without any additional tools.
Pros
- The HYCHIKA Reciprocating Saw is cordless, making it easy to move around and use in different locations.
- The saw comes with two 2.0Ah battery packs and a charger, so you can work for longer periods without worrying about running out of power.
- The ergonomic design of the saw, including the soft grip handle and built-in LED light, makes it comfortable and safe to use.
Cons
- While the saw can handle a variety of cutting tasks, it may not be suitable for heavy-duty use.
- Some users have reported that the saw blades may bend or break easily.
- The saw may not be as powerful as some other reciprocating saws on the market.
In summary, if you’re a beginner looking for a reliable and efficient reciprocating saw for home projects, the HYCHIKA Reciprocating Saw is a great option. Its cordless design, ergonomic features, and tool-free blade change make it easy and safe to use, while its variable speed and cutting thickness capabilities allow you to handle a variety of cutting tasks.
WEN 3630 10-Amp 8-Position Variable Speed Reciprocating Saw Corded Recip Saw
If you’re looking for a beginner reciprocating saw that can handle a variety of materials, the WEN 3630 is a great option. With its 10-amp motor and adjustable speed trigger, you can easily cut through wood and metal with ease.
Pros
- The pivoting head can be adjusted to eight different positions, making it easy to tackle a variety of jobs.
- The twist-lock quick-release blade holder allows for simple, tool-free blade changes.
- The lightweight ergonomic design features a soft rubber-grip front handle, making it comfortable to use for extended periods of time.
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with blades popping off during use.
- The power button can sometimes get stuck, which can be dangerous.
- The quality of the product has been reported to be poor in some cases.
Overall, the WEN 3630 is a solid choice for beginners who need a versatile and reliable reciprocating saw. With its adjustable head, easy blade changes, and comfortable design, it’s a great tool for any DIY project.
Abeden Cordless Reciprocating Saw
If you’re looking for a beginner reciprocating saw that can handle a variety of materials, the Abeden Cordless Reciprocating Saw is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The powerful brushless motor delivers smooth and fast cutting, making it easy to tackle wood, PVC pipe, and thin steel.
- The tool-free blade changing mechanism allows you to quickly swap out blades without using any extra tools, and you can use any standard reciprocating saw blades.
- The lightweight design and safety lock switch make it easy to use and reduce the risk of accidents. The built-in LED light helps illuminate dark workspaces.
Cons
- The battery takes 150 minutes for a full charge, so you may need to plan ahead for longer projects.
- Some users may prefer a corded model for more consistent power.
- The included blades may not be suitable for heavier-duty projects.
Overall, the Abeden Cordless Reciprocating Saw is a great option for beginners who want a versatile tool that can handle a range of materials. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and has a powerful motor that delivers smooth and fast cutting. If you’re looking for a reliable reciprocating saw for DIY projects around the house, this is a great choice.
Buying Guide
If you’re a beginner looking for a reciprocating saw, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Here are some important features to consider when making your purchase:
Power Source
Reciprocating saws are available in corded and cordless models. Corded models are more powerful and have a continuous power supply, but they limit your mobility. Cordless models are more portable, but they have limited battery life and may not be as powerful.
Speed
The speed of a reciprocating saw is measured in strokes per minute (SPM). The higher the SPM, the faster the saw will cut. However, faster isn’t always better. A variable speed control allows you to adjust the speed to match the material you’re cutting.
Stroke Length
The stroke length is the distance the blade travels back and forth. A longer stroke length means the saw can cut through thicker materials, but it may be harder to control.
Orbital Action
Orbital action is the circular motion of the blade in addition to its back-and-forth motion. This feature is useful for cutting through wood and other soft materials, but it’s not necessary for cutting metal.
Blade Change
Blade change is an important feature to consider, especially if you plan on using your saw for multiple applications. Look for a saw with a tool-less blade change system for quick and easy blade changes.
Comfort and Ergonomics
A reciprocating saw can be a heavy and powerful tool, so comfort and ergonomics are important. Look for a saw with a comfortable grip and low vibration to reduce fatigue and increase control.
By considering these features, you can choose the best reciprocating saw for your needs as a beginner.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I look for in a beginner reciprocating saw?
When shopping for a beginner reciprocating saw, there are a few features to keep in mind. Look for a saw with adjustable speed settings, a comfortable grip, and a lightweight design. A tool-less blade change system can also be helpful for beginners.
Which budget reciprocating saw offers the best value for newcomers?
There are several budget-friendly reciprocating saws that offer great value for beginners. The DEWALT DWE305 is a popular choice that offers a powerful motor and adjustable speed settings. The BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C is another great option for those on a budget.
What are the advantages of a cordless reciprocating saw for first-time users?
Cordless reciprocating saws offer the convenience of portability and ease of use. They are also great for beginners who may not have access to a power outlet or who need to work in tight spaces. Look for a cordless saw with a long battery life and quick charging time.
How does a one-handed reciprocating saw benefit beginners?
One-handed reciprocating saws are designed for ease of use and maneuverability. They are great for beginners who may not have a lot of experience with power tools or who need to work in tight spaces. Look for a saw with a comfortable grip and adjustable speed settings.
Can you recommend a good reciprocating saw for pruning suitable for beginners?
The DEWALT DWE357 is a great option for beginners who need a saw for pruning. It offers a powerful motor and adjustable speed settings, making it easy to tackle tough pruning jobs. Look for a saw with a long blade and comfortable grip for added control.
What should I consider when comparing different brands of reciprocating saws as a beginner?
When comparing different brands of reciprocating saws, consider the power of the motor, the weight of the saw, and the available features. Look for a saw with adjustable speed settings, a comfortable grip, and a tool-less blade change system. Additionally, read reviews from other users to get an idea of the saw’s performance and reliability.
