Tackling a demolition project, pruning a stubborn tree branch, or cutting through pipes in a tight space requires a tool that combines power with portability. A battery-operated reciprocating saw is the perfect solution, offering the freedom to make quick cuts anywhere without being tethered to an outlet. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional contractor, the right cordless saw can dramatically improve efficiency and make short work of demanding tasks.
With numerous options on the market, selecting the best one for your needs can be challenging. This roundup cuts through the noise to present eight of the top-performing cordless reciprocating saws available. We’ve evaluated key features like power, stroke speed, battery life, and ease of use to help you find the ideal tool for your next project.
Our Top Picks for Cordless Reciprocating Saws
- SHINTYOOL 21v Cordless Reciprocating Saw With Charger
- BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit
- DEWALT 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw, Bare Tool Only
- GALAX PRO Cordless Reciprocating Saw with 20V Battery
- RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Tool Only)
- DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw (DCS367B)
- Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18-Volt Cordless Hackzall
- Makita XRJ07Z 18V LXT Cordless Reciprocating Saw
SHINTYOOL 21v Cordless Reciprocating Saw With Charger
This SHINTYOOL reciprocating saw kit is an excellent all-in-one solution for the home user. It comes with everything you need to start cutting right away, including the saw, a 21v 2.0Ah battery, a charger, and four blades for various materials like wood and PVC pipe. The cordless convenience means you can move freely around your workspace without worrying about extension cords or power outlets.
User-friendly features include a tool-free blade release mechanism, which allows for quick and easy blade changes to keep your project moving smoothly. The inclusion of a hog ring anvil and a sturdy plastic storage box makes this a complete and organized set, ready for any task you throw at it.
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit
BLACK+DECKER brings its reputation for reliable and accessible power tools to the table with this cordless reciprocating saw kit. It is designed with the DIYer in mind, offering a great balance of performance and value. The tool is part of the 20V MAX system, providing solid power for a range of cutting applications around the house and garden.
Control is a key benefit of this model. It features a variable speed trigger that lets you match the cutting speed to the material for cleaner, more precise results. The pivoting shoe offers increased stability and control during use, while the tool-free blade change system simplifies swapping out blades without any extra tools.
DEWALT 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw, Bare Tool Only
For those already invested in the DEWALT 20V MAX ecosystem, the DCS380B bare tool is a powerful and versatile addition. This saw is built for demanding use, featuring a 1-1/8-inch stroke length that delivers a fast and aggressive cutting speed. The variable speed trigger provides a range from 0 to 3,000 strokes per minute, giving you precise control for different materials.
A standout feature is the 4-position blade clamp, which allows for flush cutting and provides increased positional versatility. This means you can easily navigate tight spaces and make cuts close to surfaces. The tool-free blade changes ensure you can switch blades quickly to maintain productivity on the job site.
GALAX PRO Cordless Reciprocating Saw with 20V Battery
The GALAX PRO reciprocating saw is a robust kit that includes a 20V 2.0Ah battery and a fast charger, making it ready for action right out of the box. It delivers a no-load speed of 0-3000 SPM, providing the power needed for controlled, quick cuts through wood, pipe, and soft metals. The battery features a power indicator, so you always know how much charge is left.
With a 7/8-inch stroke length, this saw can handle a maximum cutting depth of 5-7/8 inches in wood and metal. The manufacturer thoughtfully includes guidance on tool maintenance, suggesting breaks during extended use to protect the machine’s and battery’s lifespan, which is a mark of a well-considered design.
RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Tool Only)
The RYOBI ONE+ PCL515B is a high-performance tool designed for users within the expansive ONE+ battery platform. It boasts an impressive runtime, capable of over 145 cuts per charge, making it ideal for tackling multiple projects without frequent battery swaps. This efficiency is a major advantage for extended cutting sessions.
Speed and power are at the forefront with this model, offering up to 3,400 strokes per minute and a 1-inch stroke length for fast cuts through various materials. User convenience is enhanced by a quick-release lever that enables swift blade changes, allowing you to adapt to different cutting tasks with minimal downtime.
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw (DCS367B)
This DEWALT DCS367B model is another strong contender in the 20V MAX lineup, designed for professional-grade performance. It is engineered to handle the toughest applications with ease, offering a balance of power and durability that contractors rely on. The tool is built to withstand rigorous daily use on a job site.
It incorporates advanced features for enhanced control and cutting efficiency. With a focus on reducing vibration and improving user comfort, this saw allows for longer periods of use without fatigue. Its robust construction and reliable motor make it a go-to choice for demanding cutting tasks in construction and renovation.
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18-Volt Cordless Hackzall
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hackzall offers a unique, compact design that is perfect for one-handed operation in tight spaces. As part of the high-performance FUEL line, it delivers exceptional power and runtime, making it a favorite among tradespeople who need precision and reliability. Its smaller form factor is ideal for plumbing, electrical, and overhead work.
Despite its compact size, it doesn’t compromise on power. The tool is equipped with a brushless motor for maximum efficiency and longer tool life. The reduced length and weight compared to a full-size reciprocating saw provide superior maneuverability, allowing you to make precise cuts in confined areas where a larger saw wouldn’t fit.
Makita XRJ07Z 18V LXT Cordless Reciprocating Saw
The Makita XRJ07Z is a tool-only reciprocating saw that leverages the proven LXT lithium-ion battery system. It is designed for users who need a lightweight yet powerful tool for a variety of cutting applications. Makita’s reputation for building durable and high-performance tools is evident in this model’s construction.
This saw focuses on user comfort and cutting efficiency. It features a built-in L.E.D. light to illuminate dark work areas and a tool-less blade change system for quick adjustments. The ergonomic design and balanced body help reduce user fatigue, making it an excellent choice for prolonged use during demolition, pruning, or construction tasks.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Battery Operating Reciprocating Saw
When I’m picking out a new tool, especially something as versatile as a battery operated reciprocating saw, I focus on a few key things that make a real difference on the job. It’s easy to get lost in specs, but I’ve found that a handful of features truly separate the good saws from the great ones.
First, I always check the power system. This isn’t just about the saw itself, but the battery platform it belongs to. If you already own other tools from a brand like DeWalt, Milwaukee, or Makita, it makes a ton of sense to stick with that family. You’ll save money and have interchangeable batteries. Look at the voltage (18V or 20V Max is standard) and the Amp-hour (Ah) rating of the battery; a higher Ah means longer run time. Brushless motors are a significant upgrade, offering more power, longer life, and better battery efficiency.
Next, I consider the cutting performance. The two numbers to look for are stroke length and strokes per minute (SPM). A longer stroke length means the blade travels further with each cycle, which typically leads to faster, more aggressive cuts. A higher SPM means it cycles faster, which is great for smoother cuts in metal or faster cuts in wood. Many of the best battery operated reciprocating saws also feature variable speed triggers, giving you precise control from a slow creep to full-tilt chopping.
Then there’s the design and ergonomics. This tool can be a beast, so how it feels in your hands matters. I look for a well-balanced saw that isn’t too front-heavy. An orbital action setting is a nice feature—it adds a slight elliptical motion to the blade’s back-and-forth, making it cut more aggressively in wood (though you’ll want to turn it off for metal). A tool-free blade change is absolutely essential in my book; you don’t want to be fumbling with an Allen key when you need to swap blades quickly. Also, check out the shoe—the part that rests against your work surface. A sturdy, adjustable shoe will extend blade life and improve control.
Finally, think about the overall value and use case. Are you a professional who will use this saw daily for demolition, or a homeowner who needs it for occasional pruning and small projects? Your answer will guide how much you should invest and which features are must-haves versus nice-to-haves. For heavy use, durability and power are paramount. For lighter duty, a compact, lightweight design might be more beneficial than raw power.
FAQ
What can I actually cut with a reciprocating saw?
You’d be surprised by the range of materials a good reciprocating saw can handle. The key is using the right blade for the job. I regularly use mine to cut through wood (like lumber, branches, and pallets), metal (pipes, nails, and sheet metal), and even plastic. With a diamond-grit blade, you can even tackle masonry. It’s my go-to tool for demolition, pruning, and any rough-in work where precision isn’t the primary goal.
Are cordless reciprocating saws powerful enough for professional work?
Absolutely. This used to be a valid concern, but modern battery technology has closed the gap. Today’s high-performance models, especially those running on 18V or larger platforms with brushless motors, offer plenty of power for the vast majority of professional tasks. They provide the freedom to work anywhere without hunting for an outlet or dealing with a cord, which is a huge productivity boost on any job site.
How important is the battery ecosystem when choosing a saw?
It’s one of the most important factors. If you’re already invested in a particular brand’s battery system, it’s almost always the smartest and most economical choice to stay within that family. Buying into a new ecosystem means purchasing not just the tool, but also expensive batteries and a charger. Sticking with one platform means all your batteries are interchangeable, which is incredibly convenient.
What safety gear should I use with this tool?
Safety is non-negotiable. I never operate my saw without wearing safety glasses or goggles to protect my eyes from flying debris. Heavy-duty work gloves are also essential for a good grip and to protect your hands. I also highly recommend hearing protection, as these saws can be quite loud, and a dust mask if you’re creating a lot of fine particles. Always make sure your work piece is securely clamped down before you start cutting.
What’s the difference between a reciprocating saw and a jigsaw?
While both have a reciprocating blade, they are designed for very different jobs. A reciprocating saw is built for power, aggression, and demolition. It’s made for making rough cuts quickly in thick materials, often in tight spaces. A jigsaw, on the other hand, is a precision tool designed for making detailed, curved cuts in thinner materials. Think of the reciprocating saw as a brute-force tool and the jigsaw as a finesse tool.