Reciprocating saws
What is a reciprocating saw?
A reciprocating saw is a powerful, specialized sabre saw with a horizontal, rather than vertical, blade. The reciprocating saw has many applications both in the home and on large industrial jobs. An indispensable tool for plumbers and electricians, the saw's elongated design and horizontal reciprocating blade movement can get into hard-to-reach places and power through some of the toughest construction material. The reciprocating saw is used mainly for rough cutting and demolition tasks, such as cutting through rebar or support beams, and it is a great tool for remodeling. It can also be used like a "power pruner" to reduce branches and debris into disposable sizes.
How much do reciprocating saws cost?
Like many other portable power tools, reciprocating saws vary in price. The amount you spend on a reciprocating saw will depend greatly on the type of tool you choose and the specific features and benefits it offers.
How do I match the correct saw blade to the materials I am cutting?
Three criteria are required to match the correct saw blade with the material to be cut.
1. Blade construction. Carbon steel cuts wood and other soft materials. Bi-metal combines the long life of high-speed steel teeth with the durability of carbon backing to cut both wood and metal.
2. Number of teeth per inch. Fewer teeth per inch typically mean the teeth are larger and will produce a faster cut. These types of blades are generally recommended for cutting wood. More teeth per inch mean smaller teeth for slower cutting. They are generally recommended for cutting metals or for making the extra fine cuts necessary when working with plastics and laminated materials.
3. Length. Reciprocating saw blades often require greater reach. Blades are available in lengths up to 12 inches.
Purchasing Tips
Ask yourself these questions when choosing a reciprocating saw...
You can narrow down your choices by asking yourself some basic questions. Your answers can help you choose the model that best meets your needs.
What type of projects do you plan to use the saw for?
Reciprocating saws do a lot more than just cut back and forth in a straight line. Some models can be set so that the blade uses an orbital or rocking motion, as well. Cutting in a straight line is typically best for cutting fibreglass, plastic and steel. Saws with an orbital or rocking motion are more aggressive and better suited for cutting nail-embedded wood or fibrous materials. Make sure the saw you choose has the cutting action to perform the particular jobs you wish to do.
Who will be using the saw?
Will you be the only one using the saw or will it have other users as well? Be sure to consider the potential users and their ability to safely operate the saw. In general, powerful saws are heavier than weaker ones.
Consider these important reciprocating saw features...
Power and stroke. Reciprocating saws are typically used for heavy-duty cutting and teardown work. So in general, the more power, the better. Most reciprocating saws offer between four and 12 amps of cutting power. A higher amperage, more horsepower and a speed-controlled longer stroke will typically result in faster and easier sawing through of thick objects, such as heavy beams.
Speed of cut. As with sabre saws, the stroke-per-minute determines the type of material that can be cut and the resulting smoothness. Slower speeds are better for cutting metals and cutting along curved or angled lines. Faster speeds are better for making straight cuts. A variable speed saw will provide you with more versatility and longer blade life. A trigger lock with quick release on variable speed saws will be helpful when performing full-speed cutting.
Convenience. To saw both straight down (as for floor cutting) and sideways (as for sawing through a wall partition) you'll need a saw with a reversible base shoe with a blade clamp on which the blade can be horizontally installed. Straight-down sawing is done when the saw is vertical and resting on its base shoe; for flush cutting the saw is held horizontally with the base shoe against the wall that is to be cut.
Orbital cutting. Some models offer orbital action, where the blade is pushed into the cut, resulting in a more aggressive cut for tougher materials.
Electronic feedback control. Maintains saw speed under normal load conditions.
Serviceability. Other features to look for are those that increase the length of service of the saw. They include quiet helical gears, ball, roller and sleeve bearings. Brushes should be easy to replace and the housing should be made of a high-impact material.
Don't forget the extras...
When purchasing a reciprocating saw, don't forget all the items that you may need. For proper operation of a reciprocating saw you will need:
- Task-specific blades of various sizes and constructions. For safe operation of a reciprocating saw you will need:
- Safety goggles or glasses.
- Dust masks to prevent breathing dust created while sawing. You may want to consider the following saw accessory, as well:
- A carrying case, to help protect the tool from damage.
Product Maintenance and Cleaning
Having your reciprocating saw repaired
Check your sales receipt to find the date you purchased the reciprocating saw, then look in the owner's manual to see the length and details of the warranty. If you need service, call 1-800-4-MY-HOME® (1-800-469-4663) for the Sears Parts and Service location nearest you.
General Maintenance
- Inspect the saw for frayed cords, loose or broken parts or switches and other obvious problems before each use. If parts are damaged, have the tool serviced before using it.
- Do not attempt to repair a cracked or broken part. This could result in a part which will no longer operate as designed, placing the user at risk.
- Follow the lubrication guidelines in the owner's operating manual.
- Keep any safety devices clean. · Use only accessories recommended by the manufacturer for your particular saw.
- Do not expose the saw to rain or wet conditions.
- A battery-powered saw must be recharged only with the specified charger. A charger suitable for one type of battery may create a risk of fire when used with another battery.
- Use the battery-powered saw only with the specifically designed battery pack.
- When the battery pack is not in use, keep it away from other metal objects (coins, nails, screws, paper clips, etc.) that could make a connection from one terminal to the other.
- Keep the saw's cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts.
- Do not wrap the cord around the saw for storage.
- Clean the unit using a damp cloth and mild detergent.
- Cover the saw and store it in a dry place.
Product Safety
Before operating
- The best time to consider safety is before you purchase a saw. Make sure you can physically handle the machine before purchasing.
- Read and understand the owner's operating manual. Learn where the controls are and what they do.
- Keep your work areas free of clutter and ensure they have adequate lighting.
- Ensure that the blade you have chosen is sharp enough to do the job. Sharp blades work better and are much safer than dull blades.
- Do not cut materials without first checking for obstructions or other objects such as nails and screws.
- Do not remove or disable safety guards or devices.
- For best control, keep the saw's handle dry, clean and free from oil and grease.
- When plugging a saw into an outlet or connecting a saw to an extension cord, be sure the power switch is in the "off" position.
- Do not carry a corded saw by the cord.
While Operating
- Always wear the proper clothing and gear when operating the saw. This includes safety glasses, ear protection, gloves, face shield, dust mask and appropriate footwear. Avoid wearing loose clothing and jewellery. If your hair is shoulder length or longer, tie it back.
- Keep all bystanders, children and pets clear of the work area.
- Use two hands when operating a reciprocating saw.
- Be sure to keep your hands clear of the saw blade at all times.
- Know how to stop the saw quickly, if needed.
- Do not force the saw during cutting.
- Do not overreach. Maintain the proper footing and balance when using the saw.
- When using a corded saw, use grounded extension cords and be careful to saw away from the cord.
- Do not use an electric-powered saw in damp or wet locations.
- Never unplug a corded saw by pulling on the cord.
- Do not use a saw with a cracked or damaged cord.
- Never leave an idle saw unattended.
- Be sure to turn off and unplug a saw before changing blades or accessories.
- Only use the saw for the job it was engineered to do.
- Do not operate a saw when you are fatigued or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Do not operate power tools in the presence of flammable liquids, gases or dust. Some tools create sparks, which could cause a fire or explosion.
- When using a corded drill, use grounded extension cords and be careful to drill away from the cord.