Need Rec for Recip Saw
I need a reciprocating saw (Sawzall type) for occasional home use (don’t need heavy duty pro saw). Possible uses: cut 1″ plywood and 2 x… lumber; cut metal pipe and tubing; cut through gypsum board; etc. Can anyone recommend a brand, size, and best blades for this type of use? Thanks! (By the way, we…
I need a reciprocating saw (Sawzall type) for occasional home use (don’t need heavy duty pro saw). Possible uses: cut 1″ plywood and 2 x… lumber; cut metal pipe and tubing; cut through gypsum board; etc. Can anyone recommend a brand, size, and best blades for this type of use? Thanks!
(By the way, we need a “Tools” category – I didn’t see how to add it)
whatever you decide – do not get ruobi.
If you really want something cheap – check out harborfreight.com. Many of their tools a fraction of the price but do their job for amateur builder.
so I would buy circular saw and cut out grinder from them for the price of milwakee recip saw.
http://www.harborfreight.com/power-tools/reciprocating-saws/6-amp-reciprocating-saw-with-rotating-handle-65570.html
I currently use a bosch but feel it is a bit bulky. I have also had some problems with bosch motors in other machines.
Others mention Porter Cable Tiger Saw. I think I would go with their recommendations. I’ve had a variety of Porter Cable tools with no complaint.
Steve
A reciprocating saw commonly referred to as a Sawzall is useful in many demolition jobs, for its ability to almost cut flat down, or to start an impossible cut where no cut is started.
That being said, it is not very good for ANY of the tasks you listed, because the resulting cuts are unlikely to be straight. Demolition it doesn’t matter if it’s straight, it’s being demo’ed anyway.
I would recommend that you shop on Ebay for used, but good condition tools. I recommend you pick up a Milwaukee brand corded Sawzall, with variable speed and twist release chuck. There will be hundreds of ads, so it is easy to get what you want. Usually you may luck out and get some blades thrown in.
Better choices than Sawzall for various materials:
1″ plywood and 2 x… lumber – circular saw, 26-40 tooth blade.
metal pipe and tubing – Ridgid pipe cutter (also Ebay)
gypsum board – utility knife, possibly Roto-Zip
You can assemble a decent set of used Ebay tools for 25% of what new will cost, and you’ll get a better idea of what you like without risking as much cash.
agree with all comments above. Might want to check craigslist. lots of decent tools for sale at steep discounts.
Second Porter Cable, Milwaukee would be my next choice (wouldn’t go down from there). There’s always Hilti if you really want to spend the big bucks.
Milwaukee 10 amp should be fine for what you describe. I don’t like the one with the rotating removable cord as debris causes it to short the connection. Remember to use the proper blade for what ever you are cutting.
Why not take the number of years you want the tool to last and figure the investment of the cost of the tool by month? Mine has cost me about $1 a month. No repairs ever.
You may not think you need heavy duty but a crappy power tool is much like a dull kitchen knife – dangerous. If you want corded I would go milwaukee. They originated and perfected the sawzall. If you want cordless, go dewalt 18 volt.
Thanks masterbuilder – I know each tool lists the amperage but I’m wondering what amps I need. I’m not looking for the cheapest tool and blades, it’s just that I don’t need heavy duty, unless those are the only ones that hold up over time.