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If you need one power tool that can tear through framing, prune branches, and cut pipe, a recip saw is it. We compare models from DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita, Bosch, Ryobi, and Craftsman using manufacturer data sheets and real user reviews. Whether you are shopping for a 12-amp corded saw, a cordless 20V model for tree trimming, or a variable-speed orbital saw for more controlled cuts, this page breaks down stroke length, SPM, and power source so you can pick the right one.
A reciprocating saw is a handheld power tool with a blade that moves back and forth in a linear (reciprocating) motion. The blade cycles hundreds of times per minute, cutting through wood, metal, plastic, and masonry. Blades are interchangeable and standardized at 1/8-inch width, so you can swap between wood, metal, pruning, and demolition blades without needing different tools.
You will find two main types: corded (120V electric, 12–15 amps) and cordless (18V/20V Li-ion batteries). Corded saws deliver unlimited power for extended demolition and cost less upfront. Cordless saws give you portability, which matters on remote job sites and for lighter tasks. A lot of models also have orbital action, a slight elliptical blade motion that reduces resistance and speeds up cutting. It helps on wood and drywall especially.
The specs that actually matter: stroke length (distance the blade travels per cycle, 0.75–1.3 inches), SPM (strokes per minute, 2,400–3,000), whether the saw has orbital action, and power source. Variable-speed models let you dial in SPM for different materials.
For full reviews with specs, prices, and tradeoffs for each model, see our best reciprocating saws guide.
Stroke length is the distance the blade travels in each cycle, measured in inches. The range runs 0.75–1.3 inches across the saws we cover. Longer strokes (1.1–1.3 inches) cover more distance per cycle, so they cut faster for demolition and framing. Shorter strokes (0.75–1 inch) sacrifice speed for control and leave cleaner finishes. Pick longer strokes for demo work. Pick shorter for pruning and precision cuts.
SPM is the number of blade cycles per minute. You will see 2,400–3,000 SPM across the saws in this category. Higher SPM cuts faster but generates more heat and vibration. Lower SPM (2,400–2,600) is easier to control and puts less wear on blades and bearings. Variable-speed models let you adjust on the fly: low speeds for metal and hardened material, high speeds for wood and drywall. On professional saws, electronic speed regulation maintains your set SPM even under load.
Orbital action moves the blade in a slight elliptical pattern rather than pure linear motion. This reduces resistance and speeds cutting by 10–20%, which makes a real difference on wood and drywall. The catch is rougher finishes and more vibration. Non-orbital saws handle metal, tile, and precision work better. Orbital adds $30–50 to the price, though it comes standard on most professional-grade models.
Reciprocating saws use 1/8-inch-wide blades with standard Tang or Bosch universal connections. The main types: wood-cutting (coarse teeth, fast cuts), metal-cutting (fine teeth, hardened material), pruning (curved, clean branch cuts), and demo (aggressive, concrete/masonry). A quality multi-pack runs $15–30 and includes 5–10 blades. Expect 20–100 linear feet of life per blade depending on what you are cutting and how fast.
Corded saws (120V, 12–15 amps) deliver unlimited power and are the right choice for extended use and professional jobs. Cordless saws (18V/20V Li-ion) give you 30–90 minutes runtime per battery, depending on material and speed. Carry two batteries if you plan to work more than an hour. Corded costs less and wins for all-day demo. Cordless is lighter and works well for tree trimming and remote sites where you cannot run a cord.
Corded saws weigh 7–10 lbs. Cordless models come in at 5–8 lbs with the battery. If you are working overhead, cutting branches from a ladder, a lighter model (5–6 lbs) makes a noticeable difference in arm fatigue. Heavier models (8–10 lbs) give you better stability and absorb more vibration. Weight matters less for all-day demo at waist level. It matters a lot for pruning above your head.
Stroke length is the distance the blade travels back and forth, measured in inches. Longer strokes (1.1–1.3 inches) cut faster but leave rougher edges. Shorter strokes (0.75–1 inch) give you cleaner results at the cost of speed. The sweet spot for general use falls around 1–1.25 inches. Go longer for demolition and framing. Go shorter for finish work and pruning. Corded saws tend to offer longer strokes than cordless models.
SPM stands for strokes per minute, the number of times the blade cycles in 60 seconds. Recip saws range 2,400–3,000 SPM. Higher SPM cuts faster but throws off more heat and vibration. Lower SPM (2,400–2,600) is easier to control and puts less wear on blades. Use lower SPM for thick metal and masonry. Crank it up for wood and drywall. Variable-speed models let you dial in the right SPM for whatever you are cutting.
Orbital action moves the blade in a slight ellipse rather than straight back-and-forth. This reduces resistance and speeds up cuts by 10–20% on wood and drywall. The tradeoff: more vibration and less control on metal or curved cuts. Professionals lean toward orbital for demo and framing. For precision work and metal cutting, stick with non-orbital. Expect orbital to add $30–50 to the price, and it is worth it if you do any amount of demo.
You will want at least four types: wood-cutting (coarse teeth for fast rips), metal-cutting (fine teeth for hardened steel), pruning (curved edge for branches), and demolition (aggressive teeth for concrete and tile). Standard 1/8-inch width blades fit nearly every recip saw on the market. Grab a multi-pack with 5–10 blades, $15–30 gets you a solid set. DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Bosch blades are all interchangeable with each other.
Yes. This is where recip saws earn their keep, cutting through framing, trim, pipes, and plywood without hesitation. You want orbital action and 3,000+ SPM for fast deconstruction. Longer stroke length (1.1–1.3 inches) helps too. Corded models give you unlimited runtime for full-day demo jobs. Always wear dust and eye protection because flying debris is constant. A 12-amp corded saw or 20V cordless handles residential demo without breaking a sweat.
Absolutely. A cordless recip saw handles branches up to 4–6 inches in diameter without issue. Swap in a curved pruning blade and you will get clean cuts with minimal effort. Lighter cordless models are easier to hold overhead, which matters when you are up on a ladder. A 20V battery gives you 30–60 minutes of cutting time. Orbital action clears brush quickly, but keep the speed in check to avoid binding. Dedicated pruning saws exist for lighter weight, but a full-size recip saw with the right blade does the job for homeowners.
Corded (12–15 amp) saws give you unlimited power and handle extended demo work without pause. Cordless (18V/20V Li-ion) gives you freedom to work anywhere, which matters on remote job sites. Corded runs $100–250; cordless runs $200–450 once you factor in batteries. For all-day demolition, corded wins on runtime alone. For tree trimming and occasional cuts, cordless is lighter and ready to go faster. If you can only buy one, match it to your primary use case. Plenty of pros own both.