Table of Contents
Reciprocating saws are a handful of tools ideal for DIY projects. These saws are mainly motorized to produce a reciprocating motion for it to cut materials. They perform similar functions to a man-operated saw, but with greater speed and efficiency. You can use these saws to cut different materials such as plastic, wood, and metal in demolition work, electrical jobs, or construction jobs.
They are a useful and versatile tool you can have in your home because it has the ability to handle various tasks. If you are ready to acquire a cordless reciprocating saw, here are some of the advantages of having this tool.
Corded Vs. Cordless Reciprocating Saws
You probably want to know the difference between the Cordless and Corded reciprocating saws. That’s why we have put together a guide to assist you to understand the advantages and disadvantages of both types to help you make an informed decision when buying one. Corded saws were invented since 1876 by an Englishman who created the first electric drill. Ideally, corded saws use electricity from a power source such as a generator or wall outlet. Therefore, they do not require recharging and all they need is an electrical supply nearby during operation. In contrast, cordless reciprocating saws use the battery as their primary source of energy and you need to charge it before use. They lack wires and allow movement and flexibility while cutting through materials.
Advantages of Corded Reciprocating Saw
- They are lightweight since they do not have batteries
- If electricity is present, they have infinite runtime
- Comes at an affordable price
- Runs on an AC motor meaning that they generate more force
- They have low vibration
- Ideal for use in worksites
- Most saws are compatible with multiple-length blades
Disadvantages of Corded Reciprocating Saw
- Have limitations when it comes to maneuvering. It can only go up to the wire length
- Have cords that can be challenging to manage
- It is unstable since you can accidentally cut the wire.
- They heat up very fast
Advantages of Cordless Reciprocating Saw
- Very simple to use; you just need to turn the switch on and start working
- Comes with a charger and added blades
- Portable and you can easily take it anywhere away from the job site
- There are no wires that are involved
- Safe to use since there is no risk of incurring electrical hazard
- Allows you to get your done faster
- Compatible with different lengths of blades
- Most of them come with a given warranty
Disadvantages of Cordless Reciprocating Saw
- Has limited runtime since they run on battery
- When cutting more robust or thicker materials, their batteries run out faster
- Spare batteries are needed in most cases
- Batteries may go flat if left unused for a long time
- Additional money has to be spent to purchase spare batteries
Why should you choose a Reciprocating Saw?
A reciprocating saw is a versatile and powerful tool that can be used for a variety of projects. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIYer, a reciprocating saw can make quick work of cutting through materials like wood, metal, and plastic. In addition to that, the reciprocating saw is relatively easy to use, even for beginners and it is a compact tool that is easy to transport and store. It’s also very lightweight which makes it great for job sites where carrying heavy tools isn’t an option. If you are looking for a fast way to cut through anything from hardwood flooring to steel plates, then this is your best bet!
Reciprocating Saw vs. Jigsaw
Jigsaws and reciprocating saws are both popular tools since they can perform a multitude of professional and DIY tasks. They both mimic the action of hand sawing and they also come in either cord or cordless models. Ideally, reciprocating saws are the perfect choice for overall sawing tasks, conduit, and cutting pipework. On the other hand, The jigsaw is often a carpenter’s or woodworker’s tool.
The Reciprocating saw features a horizontal blade that is based on a basic hacksaw. You can use it to cut a variety of materials. They are called reciprocating saws because of their movement as they cut in a push and back motion.
A Jigsaw looks similar to a reciprocating saw but it is angled vertically. Their blades are usually positioned vertically and the blade moves in an up and down motion. They are not as powerful as a reciprocating saw and are used to cut thinner materials such as plastics, plywood, and a thin sheet of metal. What’s more, these saw as lightweight than their corresponding counterpart.
Safety tips for using a Reciprocating Saw
A Reciprocating saw is a versatile tool that is easily cut through a variety of materials. If you are planning to use it. Here are some safety tips that you should know for you to reduce the risk of injury.
- Wear Safety Goggles
Make sure that you wear safety goggles whenever you are using a reciprocating saw. This will assist to prevent debris and other dust that is generated from hitting your eyes when you are cutting materials.
- Use a Sharp Blade
If the reciprocating saw blade is not sharp or otherwise dull, it will just tear the material that you are cutting rather than having a clean cut. It can sling the workpiece to where you are and this can lead to a serious injury. For you to prevent this from happening, it is essential to use a reciprocating saw with a sharp blade. If the blade becomes dull, you can either replace it with a new one or sharpen it.
- Hold With Both Hands
Makes sure that you hold the tool with both hands to ensure high stability. If you hold it with one hand, it puts you a risk of it slinging toward your body.
- Keep Hands Away From the Blade
It is worth mentioning that you should keep your hands far away from the blades of the reciprocating saw. Make sure that you are conscious of where your hands are at all times.
- Don’t Use it on Flammable Materials
You should never use a reciprocating saw when you are around flammable materials. This is because the saw can produce sparks that can use flammable materials to ignite.
- Watch the Electrical Cord
If you are using a corded reciprocating saw. Be cautious not to trip over the electrical cord which can result in a slip and fall injury.
Maintenance and Care Tips:
Since you used your hard-earned money to purchase a reciprocating saw, you need to maintain it for it to last for a long time. Aside from increasing its lifespan, you also benefit from enhanced personal safety. Here are some Maintenance and Care Tips for your reciprocating saw.
- Use the right accessories for their intended purpose
- Use the right power source
- Remove and insert saw blades according to the manual
- Clean your reciprocating saw regularly
The advantages of having a Reciprocating Saw
- Portability
Normally, Reciprocating Saw is available in either corded or cordless. Irrespective of which type you choose. They are mainly compact and portable. Because of their compactness, they are easy to transport to any place easily and are simple to store.
- Variable speeds
You can benefit from variable orbital action and variable speeds from reciprocating saws. The type of saw that you purchase will depend on the task you want to perform. Nevertheless, although these saws have variable speeds you can regulate the cutting speed depending on what you are cutting.
- Versatility
Reciprocating saws are versatile and you can cut materials either vertically or horizontally. Cordless units are more convenient as they do not need electrical cords hence you can cut anything even on outdoors. However, both varieties work seamlessly well on various materials.
- Improved stroke depth
A reciprocating saw allows you to make either short or long strokes. Normally, long strokes have more aggressive and faster cuts when compared to short strokes. Short strokes can measure ¾ inches while Long strokes can measure about 1 ¼ inches.
- Convenient
Reciprocating saw makes work easier and you can use them to cut a variety of construction materials such as cardboard, bricks, wood, and dry walls. Moreover, it allows you to do the cutting task in a short time because of its convenience. A cordless reciprocating saw allows you to work from anywhere since there will be no worry about the power.
- Safety
Although reciprocating saws are motorized. They are safe to use since their blades are protected and are wires insulated. This makes it hard to get blisters when working with it. Most reciprocating saws come with a user’s manual and it is important to read it to know the safety precautions that the user needs to take. Moreover, cordless reciprocating saws are even safer since you no longer worry about electrical cords.
- Reliability
You can rely on a reciprocating saw to perform many functions. This is because you can use it to Change PVC piping when plumbing, Fit a window in construction, cut tree branches, cut through pins or nails when constructing, etc.
Conclusion
It is evident that having a reciprocating saw has a lot of benefits. Whether you purchase DIY projects or professional projects, you’ll still see some benefits. Despite this, it is necessary to care for and maintain your reciprocating saw so it lasts a long time.
Leave a Reply