A large number of home improvement tools today rely on the power of electricity but no other tool is as dependent on it as a reciprocating saw. A reciprocating saw can be used by both metal and woodworkers thanks to the powerful back and forth motion of the blade. Also known as a Sawzall, reciprocating tools works thanks to high-speed motion which is powered by a motor that allows the tool to reach speeds over 2,700 SPM.
The high number of strokes per minute is what makes reciprocating tools so powerful, and the higher that number is the more type of materials the tool can usually cut. Another factor that affects the performance of a reciprocating saw is how electricity is supplied to it, which is usually either with a power cord or a battery. While the same comparison can be made for strapping tools and jigsaws, the difference between a corded and a cordless reciprocating saw is something that isn’t often talked about.
Benefits of Cordless Reciprocating Saws
Portable
The main benefit of any cordless tool is its portability, and cordless reciprocating saws are no different. Manufacturers have perfected the form factor and function of battery operated reciprocating saw to the point where it’s extremely easy to carry them around and use them in tight spaces. This allows you to use a reciprocating saw anywhere without having to worry about a power supply other than the batteries, which are readily available.
Safe
No matter if it’s a reciprocating saw or not, a cordless tool is almost always safer. Not only because there’s no cord to trip from, but battery reciprocating saws come with the latest technology when it comes to safety features. The fact that the blade can stop when it’s near your finger and it won’t start cutting unless you have the safety switch on. While these features can be found on corded tools as well, they come on cordless tools first.
Handy
A battery operated reciprocating saw gives you greater mobility not just when carrying it but also when you use it. While it isn’t necessarily smaller, a battery reciprocating saw can be quite handy when you need to work in a tight space or in an awkward position.
More Capable
While a corded reciprocating saw is more consistent, a cordless one is more capable despite relying on a battery. With new battery technology being implemented you can now go longer without charging your saw and get way better results than you did years before. Quick to charge and long-lasting, today’s battery reciprocating saws are a good choice for a variety of applications.
Benefits of Corded Reciprocating Saws
Usage
While cordless tools can be powerful, their power is nothing when compared to that of a corded reciprocating saw. The usage of a corded saw is far different as you can do both heavy-duty and some light cutting with no sacrifice on performance or the tool’s power source.
Capacity
One major benefit of corded reciprocating saws is that you can use them as long as you want and you won’t run out of juice. You’ll get tired but your tool won’t, meaning if you do get tired all you need is the help of a friend to continue where you left off.
Consistency
The same results and performance you get the first time you use a corded reciprocating saw are not going to change the 100th time you use the tool. With a consistent supply of power, you get consistent performance with no interruptions as long as you do the necessary maintenance.
What Are Reciprocating Saws Used For?
Plumbing
Something that not a lot of people seem to realise is that a reciprocating saw can be used for just about anything, even plumbing. Cutting through notches and holes may not be that common but it is a real-life application of a reciprocating saw.
Demolition
Although cutting is the core use of a reciprocating saw, you can use the tool for demolition purposes. Be it a wall or the whole house, a reciprocating saw can help you get it down.
Pruning
Tree work may seem delicate at times but when you want to cut some branches, a reciprocating saw can help make it happen. Pruning is the act of cutting up branches while preserving the state of the tree and there’s no better way to do it than with a reciprocating saw.
Sanding Holes
While not as common as pruning or demolition work, sanding holes with a reciprocating saw is possible. This way you save yourself from splinters and your other tools from saw dirt and dust.
Straight & Curved Cuts
An essential process of woodworking and cutting metal is being able to do both straight and curved cuts. Well, guess what? A reciprocating saw is a tool that is excellent at both.
Framework
Talking about curved and straight cuts, a reciprocating saw is also capable of making great frames. It can help you make accurate cuts with no chipping, especially on small pieces.