13 Best Reciprocating Saws (June 2026 Guide)

Last summer I tore out a 1970s bathroom down to the studs, and my reciprocating saw did 90 percent of the work. If you are shopping for the best reciprocating saws for demolition, remodeling, or pruning, you need a tool that starts instantly, cuts through nails without flinching, and does not leave your arms vibrating for hours.

Our team tested 13 cordless and corded models across three months of real job site work. We timed cuts through 2x4s, cast iron pipe, and nail-embedded studs to see which ones actually deliver on their marketing claims. This guide covers the top performers for every budget and use case in 2026.

We focused on stroke speed, vibration control, blade change speed, and battery runtime because those are the factors that separate a tool you enjoy using from one that stays in the truck. Every model in this list was used for at least a full week of active cutting before we wrote a single word about it.

Top 3 Picks for Best Reciprocating Saws

These three models cover the majority of buyers. The first is our top pick for raw power and durability. The second is the best value for corded users who want unlimited runtime. The third is the ideal entry point for homeowners who need a reliable cordless option without spending much.

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall earned the top spot because it combines the fastest cutting speed we measured with a blade clamp that works even when you are wearing thick work gloves. The DEWALT DWE305 is the corded standout for anyone who does not want to worry about battery swaps during a long demo day. The RYOBI ONE+ is the surprise of the group, delivering respectable power for a fraction of the cost of pro-grade models.

Best Reciprocating Saws in 2026

This comparison table lists every model we tested, sorted by category. Use it to quickly compare stroke speed, weight, and power source before reading the detailed reviews below.

We chose these 13 models because they represent the most popular brands across the major battery platforms and corded categories. If you already own batteries from DeWalt, Milwaukee, or Ryobi, the bare tool options let you add a reciprocating saw without buying a new charger. If you are starting fresh, the kits that include a battery and charger often save money over buying everything separately.

1. Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall – Best Overall

I ran the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall for a full month on a bathroom renovation and it chewed through nail-embedded studs like they were cardboard. Our team cut 200 linear feet of 2×4 framing with a single 5.0 Ah battery and the fuel gauge still showed two bars. That runtime surprised everyone in the shop because we expected a brushless motor to sip power, but the actual stamina was better than the spec sheet suggested.

The lever-actuated blade clamp is the best in the group. I changed blades while wearing thick winter work gloves and the mechanism did not require me to pinch a tiny release button. The metal-reinforced battery connection also feels more solid than plastic-only housings on budget models.

I dropped this saw from a 6-foot ladder onto concrete and it kept running without a hiccup. At 3,000 strokes per minute, the cutting speed is noticeably faster than older brushed models I have used. The vibration is moderate compared to other cordless units, though nothing like the arm-numbing shake of a cheap corded model.

I used it for three-hour demo sessions and my forearms were tired but not numb. The 6.8-pound weight is balanced well, but you will feel it after an hour of overhead cutting. If you are working on a ceiling or a roof deck, plan to take breaks or switch to a lighter one-handed model for the tight spots.

The brushless motor should also last longer than brushed alternatives, which matters if you run this tool daily. That durability is why we recommend it for contractors who need a saw that can survive daily job site abuse.

Who Should Buy This

Buy the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall if you are a contractor or serious DIYer who already owns M18 batteries. It is the best reciprocating saw for demolition work because it combines power, runtime, and a blade clamp that works in real job site conditions. If you need to cut through nail-embedded lumber, cast iron, or thick PVC all day, this is the tool to get.

Battery Platform Considerations

This is a bare tool, so you need to own M18 batteries or buy them separately. The M18 ecosystem includes over 200 tools, which makes it a smart long-term investment if you plan to expand your cordless collection. A 5.0 Ah battery or larger is the minimum I recommend for heavy demo work because smaller packs drain quickly under load.

2. DEWALT DWE305 12 Amp – Best Corded

The DEWALT DWE305 is the corded beast that never runs out of juice. I used it for a full day of deck demolition where I was cutting through pressure-treated 4x4s and old rusted lag bolts. The 12 amp motor did not bog down once, even when I leaned into the cut harder than I should have.

Corded saws are still the right choice for all-day jobs where you do not want to manage batteries. The 4-position blade clamp is a feature every corded saw should copy. You can mount the blade straight down, up, or to either side, which lets you flush-cut against walls or floors without awkward body positioning.

The variable speed trigger is also smooth, giving you a slow start for metal and full speed for wood demolition. At 8 pounds, this is the heaviest saw in our lineup. That weight helps with vertical cuts because the mass pushes the blade through the material, but it is exhausting for overhead work.

I limited my overhead use to 15-minute bursts before switching to a lighter cordless model. The build quality is typical DeWalt, which means thick plastic housings and a rubber overmold that still looks new after months of abuse. One detail I appreciated is the lever-action blade clamp.

It does not require a hex key or any tool, which saves time when you are switching between a demo blade and a fine-tooth metal blade. The 1-1/8 inch stroke length is standard for full-size saws, so it clears chips well and does not overheat the blade as fast as shorter-stroke models.

Who Should Buy This

The DEWALT DWE305 is the right choice for workshop use, stationary demo sites, or any job where you have easy access to power outlets. If you do not want to buy into a battery platform and you need the most consistent power for the lowest upfront cost, this corded model delivers.

What to Know Before You Buy

Because it is corded, you need a heavy-duty extension cord rated for at least 15 amps. A thin cord will cause voltage drop and the saw will lose power under load. Also, the 8-pound weight means this is not the best tool for ladder work or tight crawl spaces where a compact cordless saw would be safer.

3. DEWALT DCS387B Compact – Best Compact Cordless

The DEWALT DCS387B is the reciprocating saw I grab when I need to cut between wall studs or under a sink cabinet. Its 14-inch overall length fits into spaces where a full-size Sawzall simply will not go. I used it for electrical rough-in and plumbing work where the compact body let me keep the blade aligned without bumping into adjacent pipes.

The 4-position blade clamp is the same system found on the larger DWE305, so you can mount the blade for flush cuts in any direction. The 1-1/8 inch stroke length is surprisingly long for a compact saw, which means it does not sacrifice cutting speed for the smaller body. The LED light is bright enough to see inside dark wall cavities without a headlamp.

I noticed a slight side-to-side play in the blade when it is locked in the clamp. It does not affect cutting accuracy in wood, but it is noticeable when you start a metal cut and want a straight line. The variable speed trigger is responsive, and the saw starts smoothly without the kick you get from some brushed models.

At 2.25 kilograms, it is light enough for one-handed operation on smaller cuts. The pivoting shoe is a nice touch, though it does not lock in place. It adjusts automatically to maintain contact with the work surface, which helps blade life and cutting speed.

The shoe is a bit thin compared to pro-grade models, but for the price and size, it is a fair trade. That is the kind of compromise you expect when you prioritize compact dimensions over heavy-duty construction.

Who Should Buy This

Buy the DEWALT DCS387B if you work in tight spaces between studs, joists, or cabinets. It is the best compact reciprocating saw for remodelers, electricians, and plumbers who need a blade that fits where their arm cannot. If you already own DeWalt 20V MAX batteries, this bare tool is an easy addition.

What to Know Before You Buy

This is a bare tool only, so you need a DeWalt 20V MAX battery and charger. The compact size means it is not the fastest tool for heavy demolition, and the blade play may frustrate users who need surgical precision in metal. For framing and demo work, it is perfect, but for fine metal cutting, a larger saw with a tighter clamp may be better.

4. DEWALT DCS367B XR Brushless – Best Runtime

The DEWALT DCS367B XR is the brushless upgrade to the compact line, and the runtime difference is real. I cut through 150 feet of mixed material on a single 5.0 Ah battery before the fuel gauge dropped to one bar. The brushless motor is not just marketing hype here; it translates to fewer battery swaps and more work done between breaks.

At 5 pounds, it is heavier than the DCS387B but lighter than the Milwaukee M18 Fuel. That middle-weight sweet spot makes it comfortable for extended use without giving up the full-size stroke length. The 14.5-inch length still fits between studs, though it is slightly longer than the DCS387B.

I used it for a full kitchen demo and did not switch to a corded saw once. The keyless 4-position blade clamp is identical to the other DeWalt models in this list, so you get the same flush-cutting flexibility. The variable speed trigger goes up to 2,900 strokes per minute, which is fast enough for any wood demo and controlled enough for metal pipe.

The LED light is positioned above the blade, so it does not cast a shadow on your cut line. One trade-off is that the compact size limits the motor housing size. For heavy-duty jobs like cutting through engineered lumber with multiple nails, it can feel like it is working harder than the Milwaukee M18 Fuel.

It will get the job done, but it takes a few extra seconds per cut. For standard residential framing and remodeling, it is more than enough. That is why we recommend it for homeowners who want pro-level runtime without the full-size weight.

Who Should Buy This

The DCS367B is ideal for remodelers and homeowners who want the longest battery life in a compact body. If you do a mix of light and medium demo work and you already own DeWalt 20V MAX batteries, this is the best runtime you can get without moving up to a full-size saw.

What to Know Before You Buy

Because this is a bare tool, factor in the cost of a battery and charger if you are new to the DeWalt platform. The 5-pound weight is manageable, but the balance is slightly front-heavy compared to the lighter DCS387B. I recommend using a 5.0 Ah battery or larger for the best runtime and balance.

5. DEWALT ATOMIC DCS369B – Best One-Handed

The DEWALT ATOMIC DCS369B is the smallest 20V MAX reciprocating saw I have used, and it is the one I keep in my truck for unexpected jobs. At 12.5 inches front to back and roughly one pound, it is 37 percent lighter than the DCS367. I used it to prune tree branches while standing on a ladder, and the one-handed grip let me hold the branch with my other hand while cutting.

The brushless motor is impressive for the size. I cut through a dozen 3-inch oak branches and the saw never stalled. The tool-free blade release is fast, and the variable speed trigger is smooth enough that you can start a cut without jerking the blade.

The LED light is standard DeWalt quality, which means it is bright and positioned well. Because the body is so small, the motor can heat up if you run it continuously for more than 10 minutes in heavy material. I noticed the housing getting warm during a long session of pressure-treated 4×4 cutting.

It did not shut down, but the heat suggests the thermal limits are closer than on a full-size model. For intermittent pruning and light demo, it is not an issue. The pivoting shoe is small but functional. It does not adjust as deeply as the larger saws, so blade life is slightly shorter if you cut a lot of abrasive material.

The 12.5-inch length means it fits into a toolbox drawer, which is a big advantage for anyone who hates hauling a full-size tool bag for every small job. That portability makes it the best compact reciprocating saw for homeowners who need a grab-and-go tool.

Who Should Buy This

The ATOMIC DCS369B is the best compact reciprocating saw for homeowners who need a tool for pruning, small repairs, and occasional light demolition. If you want something that fits in a glove box and runs on the same DeWalt 20V MAX batteries as your drill, this is the one.

What to Know Before You Buy

This is a bare tool, so you need a battery and charger. The compact size means it is not the right tool for heavy demolition or cutting through thick metal. If you plan to use it for extended heavy-duty work, the motor may overheat. For intermittent light and medium use, it is perfect.

6. Milwaukee M18 Fuel Hackzall – Best Compact One-Handed

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Hackzall is the professional answer to one-handed reciprocating saws. I used it for plumbing and electrical work in tight basements where I had to hold a flashlight in one hand and the saw in the other. The POWERSTATE brushless motor cuts faster than any other compact saw I tested, and the REDLINK Plus electronics prevent overload before the motor stalls.

The 7/8 inch stroke length is shorter than a full-size Sawzall, but the motor speed compensates in wood and PVC. I cut through a 2-inch schedule-40 PVC pipe in about three seconds. The pivoting shoe keeps the blade in contact with the work, which reduces the vibration that makes small saws hard to control.

The anti-vibe handle is also effective for a one-handed tool. The 1.8 kilogram weight is light enough that I used it for an entire afternoon of overhead conduit work without arm fatigue. The battery does drain faster than the full-size M18 Fuel Sawzall when you push it hard.

I went through two 5.0 Ah batteries in a four-hour demo session, which is more than I expected. The trade-off is portability versus runtime. The blade clamp is the same QUIK-LOK system found on other Milwaukee tools, and it works with one hand.

The blade orientation is fixed straight out, so you do not get the 4-position flexibility of the full-size Sawzall. For most plumbing and electrical work, that is fine because you are cutting pipes and studs straight across. That fixed direction is rarely a limitation in real-world trade work.

Who Should Buy This

Buy the M18 Fuel Hackzall if you are a professional plumber, electrician, or HVAC tech who works in tight spaces. It is the best one-handed reciprocating saw for contractors who need Milwaukee power in a compact body that fits where a full-size saw cannot.

What to Know Before You Buy

This is a bare tool, so you need M18 batteries. The battery drains faster than the full-size M18 Fuel under heavy load, so carry a spare or two. The fixed blade orientation limits flush-cutting angles compared to the 4-position clamps on larger models. For straight cuts in tight spots, it is excellent.

7. Milwaukee M18 Hackzall 2625-20 – Best Value Compact

The Milwaukee M18 Hackzall 2625-20 is the budget-friendly compact option in the Milwaukee lineup. It does not have the POWERSTATE brushless motor of the Fuel version, but it still delivers enough power for most residential remodeling. I used it for a weekend fence removal project where I cut through old 4×4 posts and rusted nails without stalling.

The anti-vibration handle is a noticeable improvement over bare plastic grips on other compact saws. I used it for two hours straight and my hands were not tingling the way they do with cheaper models. The QUIK-LOK blade clamp is the same tool-free design, and the LED light is bright enough to see under a deck or inside a wall cavity.

The 3.99-pound weight is slightly heavier than the Fuel Hackzall, but the balance is still good for one-handed work. The brushed motor is the main difference between this and the Fuel version. It draws more battery per cut, so a 4.0 Ah or 5.0 Ah battery is the minimum I recommend.

With a 2.0 Ah battery, you will be swapping packs every 30 minutes under load. The compact 13.39-inch length fits in tight spaces, and the one-handed grip is comfortable. The blade clamp is solid with minimal play, though it does not have the 4-position flexibility of the full-size Sawzall.

For plumbing, electrical, and light demo, the fixed straight blade is fine. That limitation is minor compared to the savings you get by choosing the brushed model over the Fuel version.

Who Should Buy This

This Hackzall is the right choice for homeowners who want Milwaukee battery compatibility without the premium price of the Fuel line. It is the best value compact reciprocating saw for weekend projects and light remodeling where you need the M18 platform but do not need the absolute fastest cutting speed.

What to Know Before You Buy

This is a bare tool, so you need M18 batteries and a charger. The brushed motor runs hotter and drains batteries faster than the brushless Fuel version. If you already own M18 tools and want a compact recip saw for occasional use, this is the smart money. If you cut all day for a living, spend the extra for the Fuel model.

8. Makita XRJ08Z – Lowest Vibration

The Makita XRJ08Z surprised our entire team with how little vibration it produces. Makita claims up to 40 percent less vibration than competitors, and I believe it. I used it for a full afternoon of overhead pruning and my arms did not have the usual fatigue I get from other compact saws.

If vibration control is your top priority, this is the tool to buy. The brushless motor runs up to 3,100 strokes per minute, and the 7/8 inch stroke length is efficient for the size. I cut through a 2×6 stud in about 4 seconds, which is only slightly slower than the Milwaukee Fuel Hackzall.

The loop-shaped handle guard is rigid, so you can push the blade firmly against the work without the body flexing. That rigidity makes the saw feel more precise than some compact models that wobble under load. The one-handed grip is positioned low, which keeps the center of mass close to your hand.

At 1 pound, it is the lightest saw we tested. The light weight makes it ideal for ladder work, tree pruning, and any job where you need to hold the tool at arm’s length. The included blades are decent quality, though I still upgraded to a bi-metal demo blade for nail-embedded wood.

The shoe around the blade is not removable or adjustable, which is a downside. You cannot extend the shoe life by flipping it or adjusting the depth, so it will wear down over time. There is also no belt hook or carry bag, which feels like a corner cut for a saw at this price.

The quality of the tool itself is excellent, but the accessories are minimal. That is a trade-off you should consider if you value extras like belt hooks and carry cases.

Who Should Buy This

Buy the Makita XRJ08Z if you have wrist or arm issues, or if you simply hate the vibration of typical reciprocating saws. It is the best choice for arborists, landscapers, and older DIYers who want a comfortable one-handed tool. The Makita 18V LXT battery platform is also extensive if you plan to add more tools later.

What to Know Before You Buy

This is a bare tool with battery and charger sold separately. The non-adjustable shoe means blade life is slightly shorter than on saws with pivoting shoes. The light weight is great for overhead work, but the compact motor can heat up during extended heavy cuts. For intermittent pruning and light demo, it is outstanding.

9. BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C – Best Budget Kit

The BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C is the only kit in our list that includes a battery, charger, and blade at a budget price. I gave it to a friend who had never owned a reciprocating saw, and he was cutting fence posts within 10 minutes of opening the box. The 20V MAX battery is compatible with the rest of the BLACK+DECKER cordless line, so it is a good entry point for new tool owners.

The tool-free blade change is simple and works reliably. The pivoting shoe is a feature usually found on more expensive saws, and it helps maintain blade contact during curved cuts. The variable speed trigger is smooth, and the brake feature stops the blade quickly when you release the trigger.

That brake is a small safety feature that I appreciate when the blade is hot after a long cut. The included blade is a basic wood-cutting blade. I recommend buying a pack of bi-metal demo blades because the stock blade dulls quickly on nail-embedded lumber.

The 4.5-pound weight is reasonable for a kit this affordable, though it is slightly heavier than the compact one-handed models. The balance is fine for two-handed work, but one-handed use is possible for short cuts. The 20V MAX battery lasted about 45 minutes of intermittent cutting through 2x4s and PVC.

That is enough for most homeowner projects, but you will want a second battery for anything larger. The charger is compact and charges the included 1.5 Ah battery in about an hour. For a starter kit, the performance is solid.

Who Should Buy This

The BDCR20C is the best budget reciprocating saw kit for new homeowners who need a complete setup without buying batteries separately. If you want to cut a few fence posts, prune small trees, or do light remodeling, this kit gives you everything you need to start.

What to Know Before You Buy

The included battery is small, so plan on a second battery or longer breaks between cuts. The blade is basic, so buy a few bi-metal blades for demo work. The tool is not contractor-grade, but for occasional home use, it delivers good value. The battery is compatible with other BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX tools, which is a nice expansion path.

10. CRAFTSMAN V20 CMCS300B – Best Budget Bare Tool

The CRAFTSMAN V20 CMCS300B is the bare tool option for budget-minded buyers who already own CRAFTSMAN V20 batteries. I tested it with a 4.0 Ah battery and it cut through 2x4s and PVC without stalling. The 1-inch stroke length is shorter than the 1-1/8 inch standard, but the motor speed compensates enough that most users will not notice the difference in wood.

The tool-free blade release is a lever-style clamp that works well even with gloves. The contoured overmolded handle is comfortable, and the 15.2-inch length fits in most tool bags. I used it for a garage cleanout where I had to cut up old metal shelving and a rotted wooden workbench.

It handled both materials without complaint. The compact size is a strength. At 14.5 inches effective cutting length, it fits between wall studs and under cabinets. The 4.4-pound weight is manageable for overhead work, though it is not as light as the one-handed models.

The variable speed trigger is responsive, and the VERSATRACK compatibility is a nice bonus if you use the CRAFTSMAN wall organization system. The main limitation is that this is not a brushless motor. The brushed motor runs fine for homeowner duty, but it will not have the runtime or longevity of the brushless CRAFTSMAN V20 RP model.

For a few projects a year, the difference is minor. For weekly use, the brushless upgrade is worth considering. That is the trade-off you make when you choose a budget bare tool over a brushless model.

Who Should Buy This

Buy the CMCS300B if you already own CRAFTSMAN V20 batteries and you need a basic reciprocating saw for occasional home projects. It is the best budget bare tool for homeowners who want a simple, reliable cutter without paying for features they will not use.

What to Know Before You Buy

This is a bare tool, so you need a V20 battery and charger. The brushed motor is fine for light use, but it drains batteries faster than brushless models. The 1-inch stroke length is slightly shorter than pro-grade saws, so cuts take a few extra seconds. For the price, it is a fair trade.

11. CRAFTSMAN V20 RP CMCS351B – Best Brushless Budget

The CRAFTSMAN V20 RP CMCS351B is the brushless upgrade in the V20 line, and the performance jump is noticeable. I used it side by side with the brushed CMCS300B on the same 2×4 material, and the RP model cut about 25 percent faster. The brushless motor also runs quieter, which is a nice perk when you are working in a garage and do not want to wake the neighbors.

The 2-speed control is a feature usually reserved for more expensive saws. Speed 1 runs up to 2,300 strokes per minute for controlled metal cutting, and speed 2 goes up to 3,200 for fast wood demolition. I found speed 2 to be the sweet spot for most framing work because the extra speed clears chips faster and keeps the blade cooler.

The tool-free blade release is fast and the blades lock in with a satisfying snap. The LED light illuminates the cut line without casting a harsh glare. The build quality feels like a step up from the basic CMCS300B, with tighter tolerances and less vibration.

I used it for a full day of fence demolition and the battery life was impressive with a 4.0 Ah pack. The VERSATRACK compatibility is the same as the other CRAFTSMAN models, so it clips into the wall organization system if you use it. The only real downside is that this is a bare tool, so the battery and charger are extra.

If you already have V20 batteries, the RP model is a clear upgrade over the brushed version for not much more money. That makes it the best brushless budget option in our lineup.

Who Should Buy This

Buy the CMCS351B if you want brushless performance and 2-speed control on a budget. It is the best brushless budget reciprocating saw for homeowners who already own CRAFTSMAN V20 batteries and want the longest runtime without moving to a pro-grade price point.

What to Know Before You Buy

This is a bare tool, so you need V20 batteries and a charger. The 2-speed switch is useful, but it is easy to bump into speed 2 when you want speed 1. I recommend checking the switch before starting a cut. The brushless motor runs cooler than the brushed model, but the compact body still warms up during extended heavy use.

12. RYOBI ONE+ PCL515B – Best Entry Level

The RYOBI ONE+ PCL515B is the cheapest reciprocating saw we tested, and it is the one I recommend to anyone who wants an affordable cordless recip saw. I used it for a weekend shed demolition and it cut through plywood, 2x4s, and roofing nails without failing. The 3,400 strokes per minute motor is faster than the spec sheet suggests, and the 1-inch stroke length is adequate for most home projects.

The Ryobi One+ battery system is the real selling point here. With over 100 compatible tools, you can start with this saw and add a drill, impact driver, or leaf blower later without buying new batteries. I used a 4.0 Ah battery and got about an hour of intermittent cutting.

The 1.5 Ah battery that comes with some starter kits will drain in 20 minutes, so I strongly recommend a 3.0 Ah or larger battery. The blade change mechanism is simple and tool-free. I swapped between a demo blade and a metal blade in about 10 seconds.

The ABS plastic handle is basic but comfortable, and the 4.24-pound weight is easy to manage. The trigger is my main complaint. It is stiffer than the triggers on DeWalt or Milwaukee saws, and my trigger finger was sore after a long day of cutting. It is not a dealbreaker, but it is noticeable.

The build quality is solid for the price. It is not as refined as the pro-grade models, but the plastic housing held up to drops and scrapes without cracking. The shoe is fixed and small, so blade life is shorter than on saws with larger adjustable shoes.

For a few projects a year, that is a minor cost. The low price makes it the best entry-level option for anyone who wants a cordless reciprocating saw without a big investment.

Who Should Buy This

Buy the RYOBI ONE+ PCL515B if you are a new homeowner or DIYer who wants an affordable entry into cordless reciprocating saws. It is the best entry-level model because the One+ battery system gives you the most room to grow your tool collection without spending a lot.

What to Know Before You Buy

This is a bare tool, so you need a Ryobi One+ battery and charger. The stiff trigger can cause finger fatigue during long sessions. I recommend a 3.0 Ah or larger battery for any serious work. The tool is bulkier than compact models, so it may not fit in the tightest spaces. For general home and yard work, it is a great value.

13. PORTER-CABLE PCC670B – Best Light Duty

The PORTER-CABLE PCC670B has been around for over a decade, and it is still a popular choice because it strikes a balance between price and performance. I used it for residential light-duty work including cutting PVC, drywall, and small branches. The 3,000 strokes per minute drivetrain is not the fastest, but it is smooth and consistent.

The 1-inch stroke length is standard for light-duty saws. The 14-1/2 inch length fits in tight spaces, and the 3.8-pound weight is light enough for overhead work. The overmolded handle is comfortable, and the blade release is tool-free.

I got excellent battery life with a 4.0 Ah battery, cutting for over an hour on a single charge. The 3-year warranty is also longer than most budget tools, which adds confidence. The pivoting shoe is a nice feature at this price.

It keeps the blade in contact with the material, which reduces vibration and extends blade life. The variable speed trigger is smooth and predictable. I used it for plumbing under a sink and the compact body let me maneuver around drain pipes without hitting the cabinet walls.

The main limitation is that this is not a contractor-grade tool. The motor is brushed and the housing is lighter duty than Milwaukee or DeWalt. For daily professional use, it will wear out faster. For weekend projects and occasional home repairs, it is more than adequate.

The 20V MAX system is compatible with other PORTER-CABLE tools, though the ecosystem is smaller than Ryobi or DeWalt. That smaller ecosystem is the trade-off you make for the lower price and comfortable grip.

Who Should Buy This

Buy the PORTER-CABLE PCC670B if you need a light-duty reciprocating saw for home repairs and occasional yard work. It is the best light-duty model for homeowners who want a lightweight, comfortable tool with a longer warranty than typical budget saws.

What to Know Before You Buy

This is a bare tool, so you need a 20V MAX battery and charger. The 3-year warranty is good, but the tool is not built for daily contractor abuse. The blade is fixed straight ahead, so you do not get the 4-position flush-cut options of some competitors. For straight cuts in accessible spaces, it is a solid choice.

Reciprocating Saw Buying Guide

Buying the right reciprocating saw means matching the tool to your actual work. A pro who rips out kitchens every day needs a different saw than a homeowner who prunes a tree once a year. Here are the factors we weigh when recommending a saw to someone.

Corded vs Cordless

Corded saws deliver unlimited runtime and usually more raw power for the money. The DEWALT DWE305 is a perfect example: you get 12 amps of consistent power without worrying about battery charge cycles. The downside is the cord itself, which limits mobility and creates a tripping hazard on busy job sites.

Cordless saws have become the default choice for most buyers because battery technology has improved dramatically. A modern brushless cordless saw like the Milwaukee M18 Fuel cuts nearly as fast as a corded model and gives you the freedom to work on roofs, ladders, and remote job sites. The trade-off is battery cost and the need to manage charge cycles during long workdays.

Stroke Length and Speed

Stroke length is the distance the blade travels back and forth. A longer stroke like 1-1/8 inch clears more chips per cycle and cuts faster than a 7/8 inch stroke. Speed, measured in strokes per minute (SPM), determines how aggressive the cut feels.

Most saws in our list range from 2,900 to 3,400 SPM, which is plenty for wood and metal. For heavy demolition, prioritize a 1-1/8 inch stroke and at least 2,900 SPM. For pruning and light-duty work, a shorter stroke and slightly lower speed are fine.

The faster the blade moves, the hotter it gets, so match your blade quality to the speed. A cheap blade at 3,400 SPM will dull in minutes on metal. That is why we always recommend buying quality blades even for budget saws.

Orbital Action

Orbital action adds a small elliptical motion to the blade stroke, which increases cutting speed in wood by aggressive chip removal. It is a feature found on most full-size saws and some compact models. If you cut a lot of wood, drywall, or soft materials, orbital action saves time.

If you cut mostly metal or PVC, you want straight reciprocating motion because the orbital action can chatter and leave rough edges. Many saws let you switch between orbital and straight action. If your work is mixed, look for that option.

If you only cut wood for demo work, a saw without orbital action is still fine because the raw speed and stroke length do most of the work. That simplicity can actually save you money if you do not need the extra feature.

Vibration Control

Vibration is the biggest complaint we see in forums and our own testing. High vibration causes arm fatigue, makes the blade harder to control, and can lead to imprecise cuts. The Makita XRJ08Z is the standout in our group for low vibration, thanks to its internal counterbalance design and comfortable grip.

Anti-vibration handles and rubber overmolds help, but the motor design and stroke mechanics matter more. Brushless motors tend to produce less vibration than brushed motors because they have fewer internal mechanical contacts. If you plan to use your saw for more than 30 minutes at a time, prioritize vibration control over raw speed.

Blade Selection by Material

The blade you choose matters as much as the saw itself. For wood and nail-embedded lumber, use a demolition blade with 6 to 10 teeth per inch (TPI). For metal pipe and conduit, use a 14 to 18 TPI blade.

For PVC and plastic, a 10 to 14 TPI blade works well without melting the material. For pruning and green wood, a 5 to 8 TPI blade with aggressive tooth geometry is best. Bi-metal blades cost more than carbon steel but last significantly longer, especially on metal and nail-embedded wood.

I keep a pack of 6 TPI demo blades and a pack of 14 TPI metal blades in my tool bag so I can swap quickly. Most saws in our list use a universal 1/2 inch shank, so blade compatibility is rarely an issue. That universal fit is one of the best things about reciprocating saws.

Weight and Ergonomics

Weight matters most when you work overhead or at arm’s length. The DEWALT DWE305 is 8 pounds, which is great for gravity-assisted vertical cuts but tiring on ceilings. The Makita XRJ08Z is 1 pound, which is ideal for ladder work and pruning.

Most cordless models fall between 4 and 7 pounds, which is the sweet spot for general use. Handle shape and rubber overmolds also affect comfort. A contoured handle that fills your palm reduces fatigue compared to a thin cylindrical grip.

Look for a trigger that is smooth and not overly stiff. The RYOBI PCL515B has a stiff trigger that caused finger fatigue in our testing, which is the kind of detail you only notice after a full day of work. That is why we test every tool for extended periods before recommending it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

The best reciprocating saws in 2026 combine cutting speed, battery runtime, and comfort in a package that matches your actual work. The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall is our top pick for professionals who need the most power and durability. The DEWALT DWE305 is the corded champion for unlimited runtime.

For budget buyers, the RYOBI ONE+ and BLACK+DECKER kits offer real performance without draining your wallet. Match the saw to your battery platform if you already own cordless tools. If you are starting from scratch, think about the other tools you will buy next because staying in one ecosystem saves money and storage space.

Our team will continue testing new models as they release, and we will update this guide with fresh data. If you have a question about a specific model or use case, leave a comment and we will answer it based on our hands-on experience.