Best Reciprocating Saws (2026)

The M18 FUEL Sawzall is Milwaukee's flagship cordless reciprocating saw, using a brushless motor and a lever actuated blade clamp that is quick to operate. A metal reinforced battery connection improves durability and keeps the pack seated through vibration, which is the failure point on many cordless saws. A built-in LED lights the work surface.

Compared with the DeWalt DCS384B it is a close rival, and the choice often comes down to which battery platform you own. It outclasses the Ryobi ONE+ in sustained cutting and build. Against the corded DeWalt DWE305 it gives up a little raw power for the freedom of no cord.

It is sold bare, so buy a large battery for best results. Clean the clamp of dust and use quality demolition blades. Pair it with a set of 6 inch and 9 inch demolition blades to cover most jobs. A rubber boot on the battery protects it from drops on concrete.

The DCS384B is DeWalt's fastest cutting 20V MAX reciprocating saw, with a 1-1/8 inch stroke length and a brushless motor. DeWalt claims up to 102 cuts per charge in its test. The longer stroke moves more material per cycle and clears chips faster.

Compared with the older DCS380B it is faster and more efficient, and it is a better tool for demolition and heavy cuts. Against the compact DeWalt DCS367 it is larger and more powerful. For existing 20V MAX owners it is the natural step up.

Buy at least a 5 Ah battery for sustained work. Keep the shoe and blade clamp free of dust. It also works well as a pruning saw when fitted with a coarse pruning blade. Keep a spare blade in the pouch so a snapped blade does not end the day.

The compact DeWalt saw is 14.5 inches long and weighs 5 lb as a bare tool, which fits between studs and into tight spaces. A pivoting shoe controls depth, and an LED lights the cut. DeWalt claims up to 2.5 times the run time of earlier models.

Compared with the DCS384B it gives up stroke length and power for size and weight. Against the Milwaukee Sawzall it is lighter and easier to hold overhead. It suits plumbers, remodelers and anyone cutting in confined spaces.

Bring spare batteries for long jobs. Keep the pivot clean and the clamp free of dust. A small battery keeps it light, but bring a spare for long jobs. A lanyard hole on many saws lets you tether it when working on a ladder.

The DeWalt DWE305 has a 12 amp motor and a speed of up to 2,900 strokes per minute, with a 4-position keyless blade clamp that allows flush cutting. A variable speed trigger gives control. It is a heavy duty corded saw built for cutting all day.

Compared with the cordless Milwaukee and DeWalt saws it never runs out of power, and it costs less than comparable battery tools. Against the Skil 9206-02 at 7.5 amps it has a stronger motor. It suits demolition near an outlet.

The cord is a nuisance on ladders and roofs. Check the cord and replace the brushes after heavy use. Because the cord never runs low, it suits stirring through hours of cutting. Wrap the cord loosely around the body to avoid kinking at the strain relief.

The Skil 9206-02 has a 7.5 amp motor, a metal gear housing and a tool-less blade change. Variable speed gives control for starting cuts. It is a simple and rugged saw.

Compared with the DeWalt DWE305's 12 amps it is lighter duty, and it costs much less. It suits homeowners cutting pipe, pruning branches and doing light demolition. A metal gear housing adds durability for the price.

Change blades often and keep the vents clear. It is not for all day demolition. Its price makes it easy to keep one in the garage for yard cleanup. A tool bag with a divider keeps blades from dulling each other.

The Ryobi ONE+ saw reaches 3,400 strokes per minute with a 1 inch stroke. It is a bare tool that shares batteries with the large ONE+ range of home and garden tools. A variable speed trigger controls the start.

Compared with the DeWalt DCS384B's 1-1/8 inch stroke it is slightly shorter, and it lacks brushless efficiency. It costs less and suits homeowners with other Ryobi tools. Against the Milwaukee Sawzall it is lighter duty.

Use a good blade, and keep batteries at partial charge. It is a solid choice for pruning and light demolition. It is a sensible second recip saw for the owner of a larger tool. Store the saw with the battery removed to protect the pack.