Power Tools

Features Of A Reciprocating Saw

A reciprocating saw is an electrical cutting tool in which the cutting action is accomplished through the push and pull reciprocating motion of the blade (rather than rotating it).
 
It is used to cut metal, wood, drywall, plaster, and tubing among other materials. It is most commonly used in the construction, demolition, plumbing, window fitting, and electrical work areas. It is also a very handy tool for any do-it-yourselfer or home repairman. This saw, also known as a sabre saw, recipro saw, or Sawzall (a trademark of the Milwaukee Electric Tool Company) has a large blade similar to that of a jigsaw and a handle designed to allow the saw to be used comfortably on vertical surfaces.
 
The common design of this saw has a foot at the base of the blade (again similar to a jigsaw). The user can rest his foot against the surface being cut so that the tendency of the blade to push away from or pull towards the cut as the blade travels through its cycle can be countered.
 
The multiple range of designs vary widely in speed, power, and features, from smaller, less powerful portable, handheld types which are normally shaped like a cordless drill, to the high-power, high-speed, corded models. Speed is measured in SPM (strokes per minute), and most new models all have variable speed, either through trigger sensitivity or through a dial. With the variable speed trigger, the harder you squeeze, the faster the blade moves.
 
The stroke length refers to the distance that the blade travels in one forward cutting stroke (the standard length is 1-1/8 inches).The inclusion of an orbital action has become another important feature to how these saws are used. The action consists in the oscillation of the traversed reciprocation in an up and down fashion (this is perpendicular to the motion of the cut) which causes the tip of the blade to move in an oval pattern, back and forth as well as up and down. This feature is primarily used for wood, allowing the quickest cuts. Many of the newer models of recipro saws also come with a tool-free blade changing system, as well as an electric brake which stops the blade immediately when the trigger is released.
 
The term reciprocating saw (or oscillating saw) is also used generically to refer to any saw which cuts with a back and forth motion. These include the sabre saw, scroll saw, jig saw, and rotary reciprocating saw.

About the Author

Anthony Matthews enjoys do-it-yourself projects, home repair, safety and conservation work. Reciprocating Saw Reviews And Guide. Read a full listing of reciprocating saw reviews.