Have you ever experienced getting ready to work, only to realize there aren't enough electric sockets around? Sure, using an extension cord might be a quick fix; but it can also restrict your overall range of movement. In these cases, owning a cordless power tool would be the most practical solution.
A cordless reciprocating saw, for instance, is a prime example. It comes with a durable motor, sharp carbide blades, and a variable-speed trigger for effective cutting of thick workpieces. Best of all, these tools are incredibly compact, so you can take them around literally anywhere.
For those interested to learn more, we'll be discussing in today's article the ten best cordless reciprocating saws currently on the market. Hopefully, this can help narrow down your choices and make deciding much more painless.
Cordless Reciprocating Saw Comparison Table
Cordless reciprocating saw | Features | Editor's Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | - Weighs only 7-lbs in total, which allows for easy maneuverability, even in locations with very limited space - Comes with a built-in LED light for better visibility; allows the tool to be used in basements or other poorly-lit areas | 4.0/5.0 | |
 | - RED-LINK PLUS INTELLIGENCE preserves the saw from wear-and-tear and ultimately extends its life span - Can cut through thicker workpieces, thanks to its durable built and motor that speeds of up to 3,000-SPM | 4.9/5.0 | |
 | - A special axis allows you to shift from jigsaw to reciprocating saw within seconds; essentially getting two tools in one - Strong power and practical build – you can use it for several hours without feeling any stress on your arms | 5.0/5.0 | |
 | - A four-position clamping system means you can adjust how the blade is facing to fit your convenience - Includes a 3-year warranty package with several helpful benefits; maintenance has been made super simple | 3.0/5.0 | |
 | - Despite its size, a 0.88-inch stroke length is good enough to get deep into wood; leads to better quality of cuts - The presence of an electric serves as a good insurance plan in case any unfortunate incidents happen | 4.2/5.0 | |
 | - Fast clamping jaws help lock onto workpieces, reducing the risk of slipping or errors; great for work outdoors - A fast charging battery pack only needs one hour to load up; it saves you time and cuts breaks to a minimum | 4.1/5.0 | |
 | - Delivers approximately 3,100-strokes-per-minute of power allowing it to cut through wood with relative ease - The handle is incredibly comfortable, coated with rubber, and experiences minimal vibrations when used | 4.0/5.0 | |
 | - Delivers 3,000-SPM of speed, which helps rip through workpieces fairly easily - Compatible with almost all Dewalt blades, batteries, and chargers currently on the market | 3.0/5.0 | |
 | - Furnished with several safety features that not only helps prevent accidents, but also ensures it lasts longer - Its powerful motor can produce a category-leading 3,600-SPM speed; rubberized handles help minimize vibrations, too | 5.0/5.0 | |
 | - The brushless copper motor is dependable, capable of producing a maximum idling speed of 2,500-SPM - Lightweight and compact, users can take this tool anywhere; brings minimal fatigue when being used | 3.3/5.0 |
Cordless Reciprocating Saw Reviews
Compact, lightweight, and easy to control; these are just some reasons why the Dewalt DCS387P1 Cordless Reciprocating Saw has thrived in tight spaces. Measuring only 14.5-inches long and weighing 7-lbs, this tool is built well for flush cutting, maneuvering around corners, and repair works in locations with limited range of motion. Plus, the presence of a built-in LED light ensures proper visibility, even in dimly lit areas.
In terms of power, it is no slouch, either. The Dewalt DCS387P1's motor delivers speeds that range from 0 all the way to 2,900-strokes-per-minute. Users will have complete control over this via a variable-speed trigger. However, beginners might find this setup challenging, especially at the beginning. So a little bit of patience may be required.These qualities, not to mention a higher-than-usual price, mean this unit is better suited for professionals rather than newbies. It comes with all the necessary features that make woodworking not only more fun but also more efficient.
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Only a handful of units can really say they can go toe-to-toe with our next featured product. The Milwaukee 2720-20 M18 Reciprocating Sawzall, which many consider as the brand's crown jewel, offers an excellent balance of power and performance. It is furnished with a Powerstate brushless motor, capable of producing speeds as much as 3,000-strokes-per-minute and cutting through almost any workpiece.
To complement this added muscle, the Milwaukee 2720-20 has also been equipped with RED-LINK PLUS INTELLIGENCE. This innovative software improves the coordination between parts, leading to heightened system performance, overloading protection, and longer battery life. As a result, users can enjoy twice the run-time with over five-times the shelf life compared to other reciprocating saws.
Interested users will want to jump on this offer immediately. At present, owning this model won't cost you more than $150, making it incredible value for money option. Without a doubt, the Milwaukee 2720-20 M18 Reciprocating Sawzall is one of the best cordless saws today.
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On the surface, WORX's WX550L model resembles any other typical model. But a closer look will show that it extends so much more value. Basically, purchasing this is like having two tools in one. A specialized axis allows users to shift from jigsaw to reciprocating saw within a matter of seconds. It has even been designed to be compatible with virtually any blade on the market.
Having a cordless machine of this caliber provides users with immeasurable versatility. Whether its detailed cutting or ripping through thicker materials, there's no question the WORX WX550L Reciprocating Saw can get the job done; and with impeccable accuracy too.
This option is perfect for anyone seeking a cordless saw with several real-life applications. Not only is the WORX WX550L easy to control, but it will also undoubtedly allow you to maximize this craft. Serious woodworkers can definitely benefit from all the advantages that it offers.
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Simple and straightforward; these are the perfect words to describe a Dewalt product. Choosing quality over quantity, after all, has always been a philosophy their company stands behind. And tools like the DCS387B Reciprocating Saw have only pushed this reputation forward.
Parallel to its close relative, the Dewalt DCS387P1, this model is designed for areas with limited space too. Its lightweight body, elongated shape, and pivoting shoe all help it shift directions seamlessly. A built-in LED light also provides proper illumination for better maneuverability. However, don't be fooled by its small size. The Dewalt DCS387B Reciprocating Saw still manages to produce 2,900-strokes-per-minute of power, which is at par with industry standards.
These features may not seem very appealing, especially when compared to other more expensive models, but that is the value the Dewalt DCS387B brings. What you're getting, though, is a high-performing and ultra-durable piece of equipment that maintains consistency all throughout its lifespan. Not even the absence of a battery charger can alter this truth.
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Are you looking for something affordable without losing out on much value? If so, then the Black & Decker BDCR20C Reciprocating Saw could potentially be a match made in heaven.
All in all, there are a lot of things to love about this cordless tool. First is its powerful motor, which can produce a maximum of 3,000-strokes-per-minute. You'll hardly experience difficulties ripping through workpieces, even though its stroke length is slightly limited at 0.88-inches. This goes to show that the Black & Decker BDCR20C may only be able to handle simple tasks and repairs.
Nevertheless, we really can't complain much considering how much it costs, not to mention the presence of several fundamental features. It's really just that this particular cordless reciprocating saw might be better suited for beginners rather than professionals.
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Weighing just slightly above 3-lbs, the TACKLIFE RES-001 Reciprocating Saw is perhaps the lightest and smallest model on our review articles. This has allowed operators – even those without prior experience – to control it better. Additionally, the fixed clamping jaw not only increases friction but also aids with maintaining stability when cutting.
Aside from that, its lithium-ion battery needs only one hour before becoming fully charged. We absolutely love how this quick-charging system minimizes the need for breaks in between, keeping you both focused and concentrated. Just be sure you buy at least two batteries to really maximize its abilities.
In the end, it's really the small details like a power indicator, double safety switch, and a quick-lock blade holder that puts this tool over the top. Even though it is severely lacking in some areas, we'd still consider it one of the best cordless reciprocating saws money can buy.
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Get hooked by its color, but stay for user experience; this statement encapsulates perfectly what the Ryobi P514 Cordless Reciprocating Saw is all about. This tool is just another example of how manufacturers have consistently made convenience a primary objective, as seen by its construction.
Needless to say, the Ryobi P514 has one of the best handles found in any cordless reciprocating saw. Not only does it possess a non-slip quality, but the rubberized molding also reduces vibrations and helps you hold on to the device better. Implanted springs likewise work to lessen fatigue on your arms, even after several hours of work.
We absolutely love how maintenance is virtually non-existent with this unit. Everything from blade replacement to the compatibility of batteries has been made simpler. This is why recommending the Ryobi P514 Cordless Reciprocating Saw, especially to newcomers, is as easy as setting it up.
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The Dewalt DCS380B model is better suited as a supplement for users already with existing cordless reciprocating saws from this brand. That's because not including a blade, battery, or charger with each purchase has severely limited its appeal. But then again, can we really complain considering it won't cost more than $70?
Besides its price – and much to everyone’s surprise – this entry-level option comes with several features found in more distinguished models. A four-position blade clamp, variable-speed trigger with a 3,000-SPM maximum power capacity, and a 20-V MAX system are all included to make cutting through workpieces easier. So, in reality, this deal doesn't seem so bad.
Carpenters, contractors, and repair specialists are just some of the people who may find owning a Dewalt DCS380B Reciprocating Saw advantageous. Add in a limited 3-year warranty package for good measure, and you instantly have a low-risk purchase with all the potential in the world.
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It's really mind-boggling that this is the first Bosch product on our review article. Especially since they have a knack for manufacturing long-lasting power tools that exhibit very few problems. Their PS60-102 Reciprocating Saw Kit, for instance, is a prime example.
Out of everything it offers, safety is probably the most appealing. This cordless saw features a complete protection system that not only prevents overloading but also extends its overall lifespan. Plus, a fast motor brake can manually stop the machine almost instantly. Users will be happy to know these precautions exist, particularly when accidents strike.
We've likewise noticed that the other aspects aren't far apart, either. The Bosch PS60-102 Reciprocating Saw supplies a category-leading 3,600-strokes-per-minute, which easily slices through wooden boards. It has experienced some difficulty with thicker materials, though, but really, that's just us being pedantic.
Everything else from the design, durability, and battery quality are all top-notch. Without a doubt, the Bosch PS60-102 Reciprocating Saw is arguably the most complete cutting device we've ever come across.
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Last but not least on our best cordless reciprocating saw review is the POPOMAN MTW200B. And although manufactured in China, this tool is very well built and can easily slice through either wood or metal.
Much like the other choices, the POPOMAN MTW200B Reciprocating Saw's brushless copper motor can deliver a maximum of 2,500-strokes-per-minute. This pairs well with a variable-speed trigger and 1.10-inch stroke length to create deep and amazingly accurate insertions in workpieces. Moreover, the rubberized handle improves how well you control directions, even when in tight spaces.
Judging from these attributes, the POPOMAN MTW200B really isn't very different from its competitors. And while it may not have the credentials of Dewalt, Bosch, or Makita, all this brand truly needs is a chance to show off its worth.
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Things to Consider When Buying a Cordless Reciprocating Saw
Now that we have our candidates, let’s now discuss what factors to consider when buying a reciprocating saw. So as we go through each idea, try connecting it with your own life. This should help eliminate options faster, leaving you with the crème de la crème.
1. Size
Whoever says size doesn’t matter has clearly never used a reciprocating saw. The weight, size, and build all directly affect a particular tool’s abilities. For instance, heftier machines can be much more effective against thicker workpieces. So a professional may want to prioritize this over a more lightweight model.
At the same time, your work area must also be analyzed. You see, larger cordless saws will be harder to maneuver around in tight spaces, leading to more errors when cutting. Again, it all circles back to the size and dimensions of the model you buy.
2. Battery Life and Charging Time
Since cordless models don't have to be plugged in, owning one with a high-quality battery becomes all the more crucial. After all, you want to keep charging to a minimum, right? So you can develop a good rhythm when working.
Be sure that while canvassing, stock to reciprocating saws with a good track record of long-lasting batteries. Several hours is realistic, especially for tougher jobs. And as an added tip, purchase spare battery packs to make your sessions more efficient.
3. Rubber Handles
On average, you'll probably be spending a few hours at a time cutting through workpieces. That’s why having a sturdy rubberized handle can make all the difference. Not only does it limited vibrations, but your hands also feel refreshed and free from fatigue.
4. Safety Precaution Features
Cutting, no matter what degree, can be dangerous. Especially when you're working with sharp carbide blades. This is the logic behind why all the best reciprocating saws have built-in safety precautions. Simple details like a manual hand brake, a gear clutch, and an internal cooling system of some sort can all spell the difference between going home with five fingers, or less.
5. Warranty
Unless it's an amazingly affordable deal that's too good to pass up, never buy a model without warranty. Much like our previous number, predicting when accidents happen is damn near importance. This type of insurance protects your initial investment, providing you with options in case faulty parts or factory defects are the cause. Most important, it gives you a person – or entity – to turn to during times of need.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does a battery usually last? What about charging?
Usually, batteries require an hour to fully charge and run for 3 to 4 hours of high-speed cutting. This is a proper standard to follow when going through your options.
2. What is a safe budget to allot?
Cordless reciprocating saws are way cheaper than corded tools. So rationing $100 to $150 should be a reasonable expectation.
3. What are some typical applications of this tool?
Trimming tree limbs, remodeling projects, and repairs jobs are just some of the tasks a cordless reciprocating saw is capable of doing. It supplies enough power to cut through plywood, PVC, ceramic, and even thin metal sheets.
Conclusion
There's no question that every single nominee on this list is exceptional. It all really boils down to need and finding one that best fits your lifestyle. Nonetheless, if we look at things objectively and based on the factors we discussed, one model undoubtedly stands out above the rest.
Bosch's PS60-102 Reciprocating Saw Kit, as we mentioned earlier, is probably the most complete cordless tool we've seen. It provides exceptional power, comes with practical safety features, is built very durably, and exhibits minimal mechanical issues. Add in an affordable price, and you instantly have one of the best cordless reciprocating saws on the open market.
