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For construction and minor repairs, there are many different tools. However, not all of them can be called universal, such as electric cutters. In our article, we have collected the best reciprocating saws according to experts and users.
Purpose and scope of the reciprocating saw
“Sabelka” is a symbiosis of an electric jigsaw and a chain saw. It cuts through thick, tough materials with ease and is also able to reach hard-to-reach places. The main purpose of a reciprocating saw is a straight cut. However, with the help of additional canvases, curly cutting also becomes possible.
The tool is used to work on:
- dry or damp wood;
- plasterboard;
- plastic;
- Chipboard, OSB, fiberboard, plywood;
- natural or artificial stone;
- metal.
Also, with the help of an electric saw, you can cut deep-frozen animal carcasses. The advantage of a reciprocating saw is the ability to work with material in any position.
Video “How to choose a reciprocating saw”
From this video you will learn how to choose the right quality reciprocating saw.
Varieties of electric saws
Depending on the type and complexity of tasks, reciprocating saws are classified according to several criteria.
For professionals and amateurs
Based on the duration and frequency of work, electric hacksaws are:
- household (intended for small home repairs);
- semi-professional (more powerful, able to work continuously up to 4 hours);
- professional (working time is twice as long as that of the previous type).
By type of food
This option includes the following types of saws:
- network (work from power supply);
- rechargeable (more mobile, but the service life depends on the battery power).
By type of material being processed
Despite the wide range of possibilities, all electric saws are divided into only two types:
- electric saws for wood;
- for working with metal.
By type of canvas
The maximum thickness of the sawn product depends on the angle at which the saw teeth are located and what their size is. So, according to the size of the step between the teeth of the “saber” there are three types:
- for working with small parts (up to 2,5 mm);
- for cutting medium workpieces (3–3,5 mm);
- for large logs or thick beams (4–8 mm).
In addition, the device is marked with special abbreviations that indicate the materials that you can work with with an electric saw:
- HCS (plastic, wood, rubber);
- HSS (aluminum, thin-walled steel);
- BIM (thick wood, aerated concrete);
- HM/CT (concrete, metal, fiberglass).
Criteria for selecting instruments
Before purchasing a tool, you need to carefully study all its characteristics.
Power
The more powerful the electric saw, the more dense material it can cut. The device with a power of 400–600 W is designed for cutting wood up to 300 mm thick, small metal parts, thin branches. And high-power saws (over 1000 W) cut stone and thick metal profiles. However, a high-powered “saber” has some significant drawbacks:
- it is much heavier;
- much more expensive;
- causes increased vibration during operation.
Depth of cut
The maximum cutting depth directly depends on the power of the machine. The value shows how much material thickness the electric saw can cut without getting stuck and overheating. Theoretically, you can install a long blade on any tool, but for a low-power saw, this will greatly reduce productivity, and also increase the risk of damage. To avoid negative consequences, you need to choose a machine with a cut depth limiter.
Stroke
In other words, this is the length of the extension of the working canvas. An electric hacksaw with a large ratio will cut the material much faster. A related indicator is stroke frequency. So, for cutting metal, stone or other hard products, a tool with a high frequency of movement is chosen. For woodworking, hacksaws with a lower indicator are suitable.
If you need a reciprocating saw for cutting different materials, it is better to choose a model with a speed control.
Author’s advice
Pendulum stroke
Since the saw teeth are sharpened on one side, they plunge into the material and cut it only when moving forward. The pendulum stroke allows you to reduce resistance during operation due to the slight deflection of the blade when it returns to its original position. Thus, the load on the engine is reduced and the performance of the device is increased. Also, this design prevents clogging of the mechanism with small debris.
Type of food
For outdoor use, cordless types are best suited. Their indisputable plus is the absence of a cable, which makes the tools easy to use. If a “saber” is needed for repair work around the house, then preference is given to saws powered by power. Compared to wireless devices, they have more power and are much cheaper.
Additional functions
To simplify the work with an electric reciprocating saw, many manufacturers equip the tool with additional features:
- Smooth start. Provides load adjustment when the machine is turned on.
- Blade replacement. A blade change mechanism is necessary if you plan to work with different materials. It can be keyed or keyless.
- Base shoe. The device is designed to stop the “saber” in the material. Helps with figurine cutting, keeping a certain angle of inclination of the working canvas.
- The weight. Since the electric saw provides for work “on weight”, manufacturers are trying to optimize this indicator.
A saw with less weight is much more convenient to use, and also significantly reduces the load on the hands.
The best low-power corded reciprocating saws
For simple housework, small “sabers” of low power are suitable. Based on user feedback, we have reviewed the best household-type tools that work from the network.
AEG US 400 XE
Saw of small size with an unusual body. Due to the compactness of the device, the tool can be used in small spaces. Despite its miniature size, the “saber” is capable of sawing metal with a thickness of 20 mm.
Features
- power – 400 W;
- stroke size – 13 mm;
- rpm – 3500;
- weight – 1,8 kg;
- number of speeds – 1.
Additional functions:
- backlight;
- speed control mechanism.
Advantages:
- compactness;
- reliability;
- high stroke rate;
- speed adjustment;
- the presence of three canvases in the set;
- Ability to work in low light conditions.
Disadvantages:
- low power;
- small stroke;
- no pendulum movement;
- high price.
Video “Overview of the reciprocating saw AEG US 400 XE”
In this video you will find out what are the advantages of the AEG US 400 XE reciprocating saw.
BOSCH PSA 700 E
Electric hacksaw of the usual form with a comfortable ergonomic D-shaped handle and rubberized inserts for the hands. Well suited for cutting wood or metal with a thickness of 10 mm.
Features
- power – 710 W;
- stroke size – 20 mm;
- rpm – 2700;
- cutting depth – 150 mm;
- weight – 3 kg.
Additional functions:
- smooth speed control.
Advantages:
- the presence of the original canvas in the kit;
- quality assurance;
- good size-to-weight ratio;
- keyless blade change;
- the ability to adjust the speed.
Disadvantages:
- small stroke;
- absence of a case for carrying the tool.
Video “Overview of the electric saw BOSCH PSA 700 E”
From this video you will learn what are the advantages of the BOSCH PSA 700 E electric saw.
Hammer LZK 850 B PREMIUM
Portable reciprocating saw of manual type with a pendular course. The body is covered with elastomer, which makes the tool ergonomic and comfortable to use. The electric saw is designed to work on wood with a thickness of 210 mm, soft metal – 20 mm, strong steel – 10 mm.
Features
- power – 950 W;
- stroke size – 24 mm;
- rpm – 3000;
- web length – 210 mm;
- weight – 3,1 kg.
Additional functions:
- stroke frequency adjustment;
- blocking accidental start.
Advantages:
- the ability to make transverse and longitudinal cuts;
- quick blade change
- the presence of electronic control of the pendulum stroke;
- complete set, including two files, spare brushes and a hard case for carrying the tool;
- long power cord.
No flaws identified.
Video “Review of the HAMMER LZK850B PREMIUM hacksaw”
From this video you will learn what are the features of the HAMMER LZK850B PREMIUM hacksaw.
BOSCH PSA 900 E
The power saw has a modern design, comfortable, ergonomic shape. The case is partially rubberized, which allows you to firmly hold the device in your hands. Soft pads perform an anti-vibration function.
The tool is suitable for cutting wood (up to 200 mm) and soft metals (up to 20 mm).
Features
- power – 900 W;
- stroke size – 28 mm;
- rpm – 2700;
- cutting depth – 200 mm;
- weight – 3,7 kg.
Additional functions:
- electronic speed control;
- soft start mechanism.
Advantages:
- the possibility of cutting flush;
- compatibility with canvases of other companies;
- keyless saw blade replacement mechanism;
- reliability;
- guarantee.
No flaws identified.
Video “Overview of the reciprocating saw BOSCH PSA 900 E”
From this video you will learn what are the features of the BOSCH PSA 900 E reciprocating saw.
The best heavy duty corded reciprocating saws
Large construction jobs are rarely complete without high-powered tools. After listening to the opinions of experts, we have compiled a ranking of the best professional reciprocating saws.
Stromer SSS-1000
Modern electrosaw with an ergonomic body. The D-shaped handle with rubberized inserts allows you to firmly and comfortably hold the device. “Sabelka” is able to cut wood with a thickness of 150 mm, as well as steel – 6 mm.
Features
- power – 1100 W;
- stroke size – 20 mm;
- cutting depth – 150 mm;
- rpm – 2500;
- weight – 3,85 kg.
Additional functions:
- keyless replacement of canvases;
- speed adjustment.
Advantages:
- high power;
- the possibility of smooth start and change of stroke frequency;
- the presence of a quick-clamping chuck;
- The set includes 2 blades, spare brushes, a hex wrench.
Disadvantages:
- high tool cost.
Video “Overview of the reciprocating saw Stomer SSS-1000”
From this video you will learn what are the features of the Stomer SSS-1000 reciprocating saw.
ELITECH PS 1100EP
The electric hacksaw perfectly combines low cost and good quality. Suitable for wood (up to 115 mm) and steel (up to 15 mm) materials. Sold as a complete set including carrying case.
Features
- power – 1100 W;
- stroke size – 28 mm;
- cutting depth – 115 mm;
- rpm – 2700;
- weight – 3,5 kg.
Additional functions:
- quick replacement of files;
- speed presetting.
Advantages:
- the presence of a device that blocks accidental start;
- ergonomic handle with soft inserts;
- there is a quick-clamping blade mechanism;
- there is a lock for the power button.
No flaws were identified.
Video “Overview of the electric cutter ELITECH PS 1100EP”
From this video you will learn what are the features of the ELITECH PS 1100EP electric saw.
BOSCH GSA 1300 PCE
Manual reciprocating electric saw with a constant pendulum stroke. The handle is covered with anti-vibration pads and has a counterweight, which reduces the load on the hands. Designed to work on wood (220 mm) and metal (20 m).
Features
- power – 1300 W;
- stroke size – 28 mm;
- cutting depth – 230 mm;
- rpm – 2900;
- weight – 4,1 kg.
Additional functions:
- backlight;
- smooth speed controller.
Advantages:
- anti-vibration system;
- the ability to work in low light;
- electronic system of maintenance of turns;
- quick replacement of cloths;
- The kit includes 2 files and a tool carrying case.
Disadvantages:
- gets very hot during long continuous operation;
- high price.
Video “Overview of the BOSCH GSA 1300 PCE electric saw”
From this video you will learn what are the features of the BOSCH GSA 1300 PCE electric saw.
BOSCH GSA 1100 E
The model is similar to the previous one, but it does not have a pendulum stroke. A reciprocating saw is designed more for cutting metal. The maximum thickness of the steel profile can reach 20mm.
Features
- power – 1100 W;
- stroke size – 28 mm;
- cutting depth – 230 mm;
- rpm – 2700;
- weight – 3,6 kg.
Additional functions:
- diode illumination;
- smooth speed control.
Advantages:
- ergonomic body;
- good weight/power ratio;
- the ability to work in low light;
- speed control;
- the presence in the set of 2 canvases and a wardrobe trunk for transferring the tool.
Disadvantages:
- there is no anti-vibration system;
- no pendulum movement;
- does not work well with wood.
Video “Overview reciprocating saw Bosch GSA 1100 E”
From this video you will learn what is interesting about the Bosch GSA 1100 E reciprocating saw.
The best cordless reciprocating saws
For outdoor work, cordless reciprocating saws are the most convenient. Below we will present our rating of the best cordless electric saws.
BOSCH Keo
A battery type hand saber with a longitudinally mounted motor is suitable for cutting wood up to 80 mm thick, soft metal – 7 mm.
The model is great for working with trees, as it is equipped with a retainer for hanging branches.
Features
- stroke size – 20 mm;
- cutting depth – 80 mm;
- rpm – 1600;
- file length – 150 mm;
- battery type – Li-Ion;
- voltage – 10,8 V;
- battery capacity – 1,5 Ah;
- weight – 950 g.
Additional functions:
- variable A-shaped retainer;
- blocking accidental start.
Advantages:
- good battery performance;
- fast charging (3 hours);
- ergonomic handle;
- keyless replacement of canvases;
- There is a spare file and a charger.
No flaws were identified.
Video “Overview of the Bosch Keo cordless garden saw”
In this video you will find out what are the features of the Bosch Keo cordless garden saw.
BLACK+DECKER GKC108
Electric hacksaw with a pendulum stroke. The maximum material thickness is 75 mm. Due to the special design of the gearbox, the tool allows you to make an even and smooth cut on wood, plastic or soft metal.
Features
- stroke size – 16 mm;
- cutting depth – 75 mm;
- rpm – 3500;
- number of speeds – 1;
- battery type – Li-Ion;
- voltage – 10,8 V;
- battery capacity – 1,5 Ah;
- weight – 1,2 kg.
Additional functions:
- keyless replacement of canvases;
- anti-vibration system.
Advantages:
- the presence of a blocker from accidental launch;
- low self-discharge (up to 90 days);
- quick change of files;
- Comes with an extra sheet and charger.
- vibration absorption.
Disadvantages:
- there is no case for carrying the tool;
- the saw is not designed to work with strong metals.
BOSCH GSA 10.8 V-LI 2.0Ah x 2L-BOXX
A compact model that is suitable for working with any materials: wood, plastic, drywall, metal, etc. It can be used to saw wood products up to 65 mm thick, metal up to 50 mm.
Features
- stroke size – 15 mm;
- cutting depth – 65 mm;
- rpm – 3000;
- battery type – Li-Ion;
- voltage – 10,8 V;
- battery capacity – 2 Ah;
- weight – 1,2 kg.
Additional functions:
- backlight;
- smooth speed controller;
- overload protection system.
Advantages:
- comfortable grip on the handle;
- little weight;
- charge indicator, showing the degree of charge around the clock;
- the kit includes an additional battery, charger and 2 blades;
- the ability to work in low light;
- soft start;
- speed control.
No flaws were identified.
Metabo ASE 10.8 0
The Metabo ASE 10.8 0 cordless reciprocating saw is manufactured using Ultra-M technology. It is suitable for working with any materials, starting with softwood. The small size and ergonomic body make the model more comfortable to use.
Features
- stroke size – 13 mm;
- rpm – 3100;
- battery type – Li-Ion;
- voltage – 10,8 V;
- battery capacity – 4 Ah;
- weight – 1,2 kg.
Additional functions:
- LED lights;
- speed adjustment.
Advantages:
- keyless replacement of canvases;
- the ability to work in low light;
- speed controller;
- cutting depth limiter;
- there is an additional battery, 2 files and a case for transferring the device.
Disadvantages:
- high price.
Video “Overview of the reciprocating saw Metabo ASE 10.8 0”
From this video you will learn what are the features of the Metabo ASE 10.8 0 electric saw.
AEG BUS 18-0
Portable reciprocating saw for cutting any material. The special design of the gearbox allows the tool to work quickly, make even and smooth cuts. The case for convenience is equipped with a special soft overlay Soft-grip.
Features
- stroke size – 19 mm;
- rpm – 3300;
- battery type – Li-Ion;
- voltage – 18 V;
- battery capacity – 3 Ah;
- weight – 3,5 kg.
Additional functions:
- smooth speed control;
- diode illumination;
- keyless replacement of saws.
Advantages:
- pendulum move;
- high cutting speed;
- quick change of cloths;
- the ability to turn the working file 180 °;
- speed control.
Disadvantages:
- The package does not include battery and accumulator.
Video “Overview of the reciprocating saw AEG BUS 18-0”
From this video you will learn what is interesting about the AEG BUS 18-0 reciprocating saw.
A reciprocating saw can be safely called a universal tool. It is used in gardening, construction, domestic minor repairs. Working with an electric saw is not only safe, but also saves a lot of time.