I have been a carpenter for over 15 years and I love to work with power tools. One of my favorite things to use is Reciprocating Saws, also known as sawzall blades. I am going to review some of the best corded reciprocating saws that you can buy today.
Reciprocating saws are the go-to cutting tools for electricians, plumbers, and even hobbyists. The almost endless number of things you can cut with this tool makes it a favorite of many. These versatile saws come in two main variations, cordless reciprocating saw, and corded reciprocating saw.
Corded reciprocating saws offer plenty of power and a constant flow of power. And the only downside is that they have to be plugged into a power source when in use. As such, they lack the portability of their cordless counterparts.
However, do not let this discourage you from investing in a corded reciprocating saw. Because what they lack in portability they make up for in power. These power tools tend to be more powerful than their cordless siblings.
But as with any other power tool, choosing the best corded Sawzall blade is no walk in the park. There are countless models, each marketed as the best. To help you rise above the marketing noise, here is our list of the top 5 best corded recip saws on the market.
Reviews Of The 5 Best Corded Reciprocating Saws
Corded reciprocating saws offer plenty of power, but are not the most portable. The reason being they have to be plugged into a power socket to function. Thus their use is limited only to areas where a power socket is available.
Nevertheless, they make up for their lack of portability by being powerful. Here are my top best corded Sawzall picks.
DEWALT Reciprocating Saw, Corded, 12-Amp
Dewalt makes some of the best power tools on the market. Thus it is no surprise that top on the list is a Dewalt model, the Dewalt DWE305. This is a 12 amp powerhouse capable of cutting through a wide range of materials.
The 12 amp motor churns out 2900 SPMs while its stroke length is 1-1/8 inches. Therefore it is able to cut materials quickly with fewer passes. In my testing, I tested it on wood, metal, plastic, rubber, and drywall, and it passed with flying colors.
You get four positions blade clamp that allows for flush cutting. With the four-position blade clamp, you can use it to cut in different positions. At the back, it has a rubber handle that does a great job of minimizing vibrations.
Weighing 8 pounds, it is not as heavy as you would expect. However, at 17.5 inches long, it is not the smallest. But portability is not what Dewalt was going for. The saw can be used for pruning and demolition works.
Two Thumbs Up For
- For a corded reciprocating saw, it is lightweight
- It is equipped with a rubber handle that is fantastic at absorbing shock
- With a variable speed trigger, you can adjust the speed from 0 to 2900 strokes per minute
- It can be used in different positions
What’s Not To Like
- Does not come with blades or even a carrying case
- The overall quality and durability of the product is not great
There are very many reciprocating saw reviews that praise this saw for its power and versatility. Thus, while it does not come with blades, this isn’t that big of a deal. Overall, it is a great tool that can handle almost anything you throw at it.
Reciprocating Saw, GALAX PRO 7.5 Amp Electric Saw
Not all corded reciprocating saws are large and bulky; some are compact and lightweight. A prime example being the Reciprocating Saw, GALAX PRO 7.5 Amp Electric Saw. This electric reciprocating saw.
Measuring 1 x 8.3 x 3.9-inches, it is relatively compact and is, in fact, smaller than some cordless models. It comes with a variable speed trigger allowing you to adjust the cutting speed from 0 to 2500 rotations per minute.
With a 1-1/8 inch stroke length, it does not require a lot of passes to cut through materials. It is thus suited to different tasks and cutting different types of materials. It is designed to be easy to remove and or install the blade with the quick-release chuck.
The handle on this model is made using non-slip soft material. It enhances grip and is super comfortable to handle.
Two Thumbs Up For
- The lock-on button allows you to lock it to your preferred speed for more comfortable use
- Changing or installing the blades does not require any tools and is effortless
- It has an overall ergonomic design with a non-slip handle
- The variable speed trigger allows you to adjust the cutting speed
- Comes with a one metal saw blade and one wood saw blade
What’s Not To Like
- It may struggle when handling bigger tasks
- Is a bit heavy than other models
This model is a great option for most yard-cutting tasks. It can also be used for pruning. Overall, it offers great value for money. It costs less than other models that do not provide the same features and accessories as it does.
VonHaus 9 Amp Reciprocating Saw
Corded recip saws are known for being powerful, and one saw that exemplifies this is the VonHaus 9 amp reciprocating saw. As its name suggests, it houses a powerful 9 amp motor that gives it the ability to cut almost anything.
With its powerful motor, it churns out 2500 rotations per minute. This is backed up by a 1-1/8 inch stroke length. It will have no problems cutting steel, aluminum, wood, copper, and brass. It makes clean cuts in less time.
The blade is easy to remove, change, and install. This is thanks to the quick-release chuck that it comes with. You get eight replacement blades. There are two for cutting metal and the remaining six for cutting wood.
At 8.9 pounds, it is not the most lightweight. However, it makes up for this with its ergonomic design. The handle is well padded to reduce vibrations.
Two Thumbs Up For
- It can cut through a variety of metals including wood, steel, aluminum, and copper
- Included in the package are eight blades two for metal cutting and six for wood cutting
- The 1-1/8 inch stroke length means it takes less time to cut through different materials
- The quick-release chuck makes it easy to replace or install blades
- It features an ergonomic design with a padded handle that reduces vibrations
What’s Not To Like
- Weighing 8.9 pounds, it is a heavy saw
- It vibrates a lot when running at higher speeds
Overall there are a lot of good things about this reciprocating saw. It is not the most compact reciprocating saw, but it is to be expected given it’s a corded unit. It has the ability to cut through a wide range of materials, which is always a big plus.
Milwaukee 6519-31 12 Amp Corded 3000 Strokes Per Minute Reciprocating Sawzall
The Milwaukee Sawzall is to reciprocating saws what Xerox is to copiers. And one of the best corded Milwaukee Sawzall is the 6519-31 12 amp model. It combines the power, Long-stroke length, and minimal vibrations.
It felt very well balanced in my hands, and the contoured rear handle made for a comfortable grasp. To make things less complicated, the speed of the blade is controlled using the trigger. At the front, it is covered in rubber, making it safe to hold when cutting.
Powered by a 12 amp motor, this saw has a variable speed of 0 to 3000 SPMs. Combine this with its 1-1/8 inch stroke length, and you have a powerhouse. One capable of cutting through thick materials ranging from metal to wood.
A large quick-lock clamp allows you to easily change or install the blade without the need for tools. To protect the motor and the gears surrounding it, the saw features a gear-protecting clutch, that gives it a longer lifespan.
Two Thumbs Up For
- Has a powerful motor and is able to cut through metal, wood, and even concrete
- The variable speed trigger allows you to vary the speed based on what you are cutting
- No tools are required to change or install the blade
- The 1-1/8 inch stroke length is ideal for many different cutting applications
- There is a gear protecting clutch that protects the motor and gear against high impact shock
What’s Not To Like
- Is quite heavy
- The carrying case that comes included is a bit small
This Milwaukee Sawzall offers the right balance of power, features, and value. It is a powerful machine that can be used for demolition works. But can also be used for other less demanding tasks, due to its versatility.
Ingersoll Rand 429G Edge Series Reciprocating Air Saw
For a corded reciprocating saw, this air reciprocating saw is quite small and compact. But don’t dismiss it just yet as the Ingersoll Rand 429G Edge saw is good at what it does. For light to medium cutting tasks, it is one of the best.
Being an air saw it can be used to cut intricate shapes. This is perhaps its greatest strength as it gives you the ability to cut flat and curved surfaces with ease. So what exactly can it cut? This model can cut a wide range of materials.
Some of the materials you can use include fiberglass, aluminum, plastics, composite materials, and wood. In terms of power, it is capable of 1000 strokes per minute, which is not the best but is sufficient for what it is built for.
The handle has an ergonomic design and absorbs vibrations when cutting. It comes with a ¼ inch air inlet and weighs 1.8 pounds.
Two Thumbs Up For
- Is a lightweight cutting tool
- Can be used to cut intricate shapes in addition to straight cuts
- Despite its small size, it can cut a wide range of materials including fiberglass and aluminum
- It is easy to handle thanks to its ergonomic design and handle
- Can be used in tight spots easily
What’s Not To Like
- Not designed for heavy-duty tasks to its light blades
- Blades tend to heat up when cutting plastic in particular
This is a small saw designed for light to medium tasks around the yard. In particular, it is best suited to making intricate cuts. That said, while it is not as powerful as others on the list, what it does not many saws are able to do.
FAQ
What are some of the reciprocating saw uses?
Reciprocating saws have very many applications. They are used in demolition works for cutting through walls, plumbing, and even doors. These saws are also used for pruning hedges and cutting timber. They are also used in auto body repair works.
Can a reciprocating saw be used to cut tree limbs?
Reciprocating saws are perfect for pruning trees and thus can be used to cut tree limbs. Obviously, you will need to install the right pruning blade to do this
Can reciprocating saw blades be used universally?
Yes, reciprocating saw blades can be installed in any standard saw. However, their uses and size vary. Typically blades measure between three to 12 inches and are made of different materials. Blades used to cut metal differ from those used to cut wood.
Can a Sawzall be used to cut trees?
Small trees can easily be felled using a reciprocating saw. For larger and thicker trees, you will need another power tool, such as a powerful budget chainsaw or a more advanced top-handle chainsaw.
How do I use a reciprocating saw?
To use a reciprocating saw, all you need to do is install the right blade for what you are cutting. Use the trigger to start the saw and control the speed you cut with depending on the thickness of the material.
What are some of the types of reciprocating saw blades
There are different types of blades used, depending on the material you are cutting. There are blades with fine teeth used to cut metal as well as those with coarse blades. The latter is used to cut wood.
The number of teeth per inch is also used to categorize blades. Those with a low TPI are best for cutting wood. On the other hand, those with a high TPI are used for cutting metal.
How To Buy The Best Corded Sawzall: Experts Opinion
So what kind of reciprocating saw should you buy? Well, this depends entirely on you and your needs. However, some features will guide you in making the right decision. Here are some of the most crucial factors to consider.
Corded vs. cordless
There are two main types of reciprocating saws, corded and cordless. As their name suggests, corded saws have to be plugged into a power source while cordless ones do not. Cordless saws use a rechargeable battery and are thus more portable.
Where corded hold an edge over cordless is in the power department. Corded saws tend to be more powerful. However, the power cord that is attached to them can be a nuisance and, in some cases, a hazard.
When choosing between the two, consider your needs. For pruning shrubs out in the yard, a corded saw will be the best option. For demolition works, however, a cordless saw might be a better choice.
Strokes per minute
One aspect you will find highlighted in most reciprocating saw reviews is a saw’s maximum strokes per minute. The blade of a reciprocating saw moves in a back and forth motion. The faster it moves, the quicker you can cut.
More power does not translate to higher SPM, though. Some of the best reciprocating saw blades are controlled using a variable trigger. With it, you can adjust the SPM to match the material you are cutting. This is a handy feature, especially if you use your saw to cut different materials.
Some go a notch higher and provide a locking mechanism. The work of this mechanism is to maintain the blade at the SPM you have set.
Weight and size
On average reciprocating saws weigh about 6 to 8 pounds and measure 18 inches. A standard saw is ideal for basic demolition works. However, in some instances, you will be crammed up in tight spaces.
For reaching tight and hard-to-reach spaces, a shorter and lighter saw will be required. You can get a battery-operated Sawzall that measures 14 inches that will offer more flexibility.
Stroke length
A blade’s stroke length is related to its strokes per minute. The stroke length is the distance in inches the blade moves forwards and retracts backward when cutting. Generally, the stroke length is usually ¾ inches and 1 1/8 inches.
A longer stroke length means you can cut through materials faster. Additionally, more of the blade is involved in cutting hence extending its lifespan.
Conclusion
Reciprocating saws are some of the most versatile power tools on the market. They are used for a wide range of cutting applications. Knowing what type of tool best suits your needs is important. Also, knowing the type of blade that best suits your cutting needs.