Sawing on a Budget: The Best Reciprocating Saws Under 100

You might think, why do you need a reciprocating saw? Is reciprocating saw any good?

A reciprocating saw, also known as a ‘Sawzall,’ means you can use this saw to cut anything from wood to metal, masonry to stone. So, if you have a reciprocating saw in your hand, you’ll find pruning trees and branches, remodeling a home and patio, plumbing, and demolition work fun.

It’s a device that has a long blade that follows a back-and-forth (reciprocating) motion similar to a jigsaw. Reciprocating saws are kind of more flexible and useful than jigsaws and can be matched to any of your construction sites.

However, keep in mind that reciprocating saws would not be an appropriate substitute for any precision saws like a jigsaw, circular saw, or miter saw.

So, reciprocating saws are a very useful tool to do a variety of tasks. Now it is time to choose the one according to your needs. But the very moment, you step out to get a recipe saw, immediately you will find a large variety and prices on the market, which makes you bewildered easily.

To solve your research problem, in our reviews, we strive to find the best reciprocating saw under 100 for those who are serious DIYers and are thinking of starting a new remodeling venture or a small construction project.

What Is Reciprocating Saw?

A reciprocating saw is a mechanical workhorse that makes the task of the crowbar and hacksaws simpler. You’ll find your demolition job struggle-free and quicker with a reciprocating saw. Although it is a popular demolition tool, this saw can be used to cut a wide range of materials from wood, PVC, metal pipes, nail boards, etc.

Reciprocating saws are primarily mechanically powered saws, which either use electricity or air pressure as a source of power. It’s got a long blade and a handle with a power unit. When you rest or hold the blade on the material you are about to cut, the blade travels forward and backward (some modern reciprocating saws also follow a little orbital motion).

These are designed so that you can use them to cut both vertical and horizontal surfaces, as well as circular tubes.

Although you can use a reciprocating saw for cutting or ripping a wide variety of materials, you will not get the same precision as other saws. That is why it is more of demolition, renovation, landscaping, or wood prepping than carpentry or fine crafting.

Again, portability, ease of use, and strength make it useful even when you’re working from a ladder or cutting over your head, or in tight spaces.

Types Of Reciprocating Saw

We already know that there are two key components of the reciprocating saw – the blade and the power unit. You can change blades according to your cutting job, and all the reciprocating saws are compatible with a wide variety of blades.

That being said, we can distinguish a reciprocating saw based on the power source, design, size, etc.

There are three types of reciprocating saws depending on the power source –

1. Corded reciprocating saw
2. Cordless reciprocating saw
3. Air reciprocating saw

In our review part, we have already discussed the above forms. However, we would like to give you a snapshot of the advantages and drawbacks of each of them below to help you make your decision.

Types	Advantages	Drawbacks
Cordless	Limited to indoor use only (you can use outdoors if you have an external power source like a generator) Have the risk of using it in damp environments Working above the head or on the ladder with a corded saw is a challenging job	Need regular battery charging A little heavier than corded styles due to the weight of the battery Would need a reasonable amount of initial investment in the battery The cost of energy is a bit higher than other options
Corded	Continuous service without any tension of power cuts Easily made available on the market Compact and sustainable Low budget-friendly At the same cost as the cordless recip saw, you’ll get a more efficient corded alternative. No issues with charging batteries Great for heavy-duty jobs	Limited to indoor use only (you can use outdoors if you have an external power source) Have the risk of using it in damp environments Working above the head or on the ladder with a corded saw is a challenging job
Air Saw	Highly lightweight and compact body size Stronger than a cordless or corded edition (can produce 10,000 and above strokes per minute) Suitable for corners that are hard to reach Can be used for cutting flat and curved surfaces Great fit for body shop repair work Energy-efficient and environmentally safe	Involve an air compressor to operate the air saw Limited portability Specially suited for industrial use

What Is Reciprocating Saw Used For?

A reciprocating saw is a versatile power tool that you can use in various construction, demolition, and woodworking tasks.

Here is a list of work that can be done using a reciprocating saw:

1. Demolition Work:

• Cutting through walls, drywall, and plaster.
• Removing old cabinets, fixtures, and framing.
• Breaking down structures made of wood, metal, or plastic.

2. Construction Projects:

• Trimming lumber and beams.
• Cutting PVC or metal pipes.
• Shaping and fitting materials for construction.

3. Renovation and Remodeling:

• Removing old flooring and tiles.
• Cutting openings in walls for doors and windows.
• Trimming excess material during installation.

4. Tree and Yard Maintenance:

• Pruning tree branches.
• Trimming shrubs and bushes.
• Cutting through roots.

5. Metalworking:

• Cutting through metal pipes, rods, and sheets.
• Removing rusted or old metal components.

6. Plumbing Tasks:

• Cutting plastic or metal pipes during repairs or installations.
• Creating openings for new plumbing lines.

7. Automotive Repairs:

• Removing damaged body panels.
• Cutting through bolts, nuts, and fasteners.
• Disassembling parts for repairs.

8. Emergency Situations:

• Rescuing individuals trapped in vehicles or buildings.
• Creating access points for emergency responders.

9. Masonry Work:

• Cutting through bricks, concrete, and cinder blocks.
• Making openings for electrical outlets and fixtures.

10. HVAC Installations:

• Cutting holes in walls for ductwork and vents.
• Trimming insulation materials.

11. Window and Door Installations:

• Enlarging openings for new windows and doors.
• Cutting through framing materials to accommodate new units.

12. DIY Projects:

• Crafting custom shapes and designs in wood or metal.
• Building furniture and fixtures.

13. Metal Fabrication:

• Shaping metal sheets or bars.
• Cutting and modifying metal components.

14. Fire and Rescue:

• Cutting through debris during search and rescue operations.
• Creating access points for firefighters.

Remember to use the appropriate blade for the specific material you’re working with, as reciprocating saws come with various blade types suitable for cutting wood, metal, plastic, and more.

Always prioritize safety by wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses, gloves, and ear protection, when using a reciprocating saw.

Top 12 Best Reciprocating Saw Under $100

Although we are screening the best reciprocating saws based on the lowest budget, there are still some other categories dominating the market like cordless and corded reciprocating saw, pneumatic reciprocating saw, compact or one-handed reciprocating saw, etc.

So, based on the user’s comfort and demand, we try to list our reviews under three big categories –

1. Cordless reciprocating saws under 100 dollar
2. Corded or electric reciprocating saws under 100 dollar
3. Air-powered reciprocating saws under 100 dollar

Without further ado, let’s dive into our review part.

Best Cordless Reciprocating Saws Under 100

What should I buy – a corded or cordless reciprocating saw – is a big question. You’ll find a detailed discussion on this later in our buying guide part. Here, in a nutshell, we want to inform you that there is essentially no or very little difference between the built quality of a corded and cordless reciprocating saw.

Both are designed to cut various materials smoothly.

But, cordless reciprocating saws will give you the freedom to use them anywhere without tension about power connection.

Let’s check out the reviews of the best cordless reciprocating saws on the market below-

1. BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw

If you are searching for the best reciprocating saw under 100, BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw will give you the best result. You’ll find it super simple, lightweight, and efficient to do all of your DIY and pro construction work.

You’ll find a powerful engine in it that can run the blade at 3000 strokes per minute at 7/8″ stroke length. It also comes with a variable speed trigger. This short stroke and variable speed control together help you to cut thinner materials precisely without damaging that part.

In this Black and Decker BDCR20C, you can fit a 5″ blade, which is extendable up to 12″ long. Thus pruning tree branches or trunks, demolishing wooden buildings, and cutting metal pipes or hard boards will no longer be a hassle for you.

Further to its robust capacity, there is a universal Black and Decker 20v Max battery, which is designed to give you 30 percent more runtime. Moreover, if you have any other Black and Decker 20v tools like a circular saw or a framing nailer, you can use this battery there as well.

Despite its powerful engine, its lightweight nature certainly astounds you. You can use this 4.5-pound gadget to comfortably prune your garden trees all day without fatigue. You can also notice superior control during use due to the variable speed trigger and the electrical brake system.

In addition, you’ll get some useful features like tool-less blade change and flexible pivot shoes, along with ergonomically crafted handles. They are all built to give you superior control and professional results.

N.B. By spending a little above 100 dollars, you can get a nice combo – a Black and Decker Circular Saw with this Black and Decker BDCR20C 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw.

Highlighted Specifications

• Strong 3000 SPM motor
• Tool-free blade change
• Pivoting shoe
• Built-in safety lock
• Maximum initial battery voltage – 20v
• Variable speed trigger

Expert Opinion: It’s not very hard to find the right cordless reciprocating saw for pruning with this price range. But you will not get a tool like BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw with battery and charger. So you should certainly give it a try.

2. WORX WX550L 20V AXIS Reciprocating Saw

If you want to save your toolbox space without compromising the versatility of work, the WX550L 20V AXIS Reciprocating Saw from WORX is for you. With this single tool, you can cover the jobs of a jigsaw and a reciprocating saw effortlessly.

It becomes possible because of the pivoting head of WORX. You can transform your reciprocating saw into a jigsaw in seconds by just pressing a button conveniently located in it. Not limited to 2 saws in 1, it follows orbital cutting technology means slight circular motion instead of back and forth stroke to ensure maximum efficiency during cutting and create less hand fatigue.

With a dimension of 9 by 5 by 6.5 inches and a weight of 4.2 pounds, it stands out as the best compact and lightweight reciprocating saw on the market. Therefore, you will get great maneuverability from it during work in tight spaces as well as in normal mode.

To make it easy to use, WORX incorporates a tool-free blade change mechanism in it. It also allows you to use any kind and brand of blades. Yes, it is compatible with all standard reciprocating and T-shank saw blades available on the market. It also has a built-in dust blower, which helps you to get clear sights during a cut and reduces the hassle of post-cleaning work.

Its powerful motor can produce 3000 strokes/min at no load with a 3/4″ stroke length. This power is sufficient to cut a 2″ hardwood or PVC pipe and 5/32″ thick steel plate as a jigsaw and cut up to 2″ thick wood, PVC, or steel pipes as a reciprocating saw.

Last, but not least, WORX Power Share is the only cordless tool platform that allows wider use of your battery. You can use the battery of the WORX reciprocating saw for all 20v and 40v WORX tools. Which is great. Huh!

Highlighted Specifications

• Powerful 20V Max Lithium-ion battery
• Pendulum function control
• LED to illuminate the workspace
• Base plate to keep the tool at rest
• Tool-free blade change
• Built-in dust blower
• Vibration-absorbing soft-grip handle

Expert Opinion: It is indeed a great tool for those who need a versatile tool that can cut a wide range of materials from wood, metal, ceramic, tile, plastic, PVC pipe, fiberglass, aluminum, copper, thin steel tree limbs, and even roots.

3. DEWALT DCS387B 20V Max Compact Reciprocating Saw

When you come to the Dewalt reciprocating saw, you’re sure to get something new and user-friendly. And it is true for the DCS387B 20v max reciprocating saw from Dewalt too. In it, you’ll get one-hand operation, a variable speed option, advanced blade clamping, and more. Let’s explore it.

With a body length of 14.5″ and a weight of 5 pounds, it is the best compact reciprocating saw on the market. You can use this easily between studs or in some tight situation where the other usual saw is unable to reach. A lightweight but well-balanced body helps you to do it with one hand for a long time without any fatigue.

You’ll get a keyless 4-position blade clamping system in this Dewalt DCS387B, which allows you to set the blade both in horizontal and vertical directions for the straight and side cut. It also allows you to flush cutting. Therefore, you can easily cut nails between a 2 by 4 and a flat board with a proper blade. It’s amazing, huh?

When speed is a concern, this DeWalt 20V Max Compact Reciprocating Saw comes with a variable speed trigger to allow you to cut different materials quickly and precisely. With 2900 strokes per minute and torque, you cut a 4×4 lumber in hardly a minute.

Highlighted Specifications

• 45° motor for compact design
• 0-2900 SPM variable speed
• 1-1/8″ stroke length for fast cutting
• Bright LED
• Pivoting shoe
• Lock-out switch

Expert Opinion: If you need a tool that can be operable in confined areas and do a wide range of cutting jobs, the Dewalt DCS387B 20V Max Compact Reciprocating Saw would be a perfect choice.

4. Milwaukee 2625-20 M18 Cordless Hackzall Reciprocating Saw

Compactness is a feature that allows you more versatility than usual, especially when you need to do your cutting job under tight conditions. So, we keep searching and find another best one handed reciprocating saw for our list. And it is none other than the Milwaukee M18 Hackzall.

If you’re a professional plumber or woodworker, you often need to cut pipes or studs in tight places. If you have Milwaukee 2625-20, it won’t be any more difficult to hit those corners. It is only 12 inches when in the vertical position and about 4 pounds in weight.

Not only is it compact, but it also has an advanced vibration control handle that makes it suitable for one-handed operation when needed. You can now cut heavier lumber or pipes over your head without suffering any hand fatigue.

Despite making it compact and lightweight, it never compromised its strength. This Milwaukee M18 Hackzall Reciprocating Saw will give you 3000 strokes per minute at 3⁄4 inch stroke length, enough to cut any wood, metal, EMT, or PVC quickly and precisely.

Highlighted Specifications

• One-handed design
• Anti-vibration handle
• Quick-Lok blade clamp for easy blade change
• Built-in LED to illuminate the workspace
• Compatible with all M18 Redlithium batteries
• Compatible with all Hackzall and Sawzall blades
• Quick 1-hour charging

Expert Opinion: Vibration is something that won’t let you do your job, particularly when you’re going to rip a long board straight. And that’s where the Milwaukee M18 cordless reciprocating saw beats other tools on the market. So, to get a combination of power and user-friendly features in a single tool, let it try.

5. PORTER-CABLE PCC670B 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw

We’re about to finish our best cordless reciprocating saw reviews and want to end it with a high-performance one on the market. That’s why we try Porter-Cable 20v Max Reciprocating Saw, which is small in size but powerful enough to manage all your cutting tasks smoothly. Let’s look at more of the features of this.

The Porter-Cable PCC670B features a high-performance drivetrain capable of generating up to 3000 strokes per minute. It also enables the operation at variable speed. You can cut dense materials such as metal pipes, conduits, or tiles with lower speed settings and use high-speed settings to cut softer materials such as wood, composites, or plastics.

Like other high-end reciprocating saws, you don’t need any special equipment to alter the blades of the Porter Cable Reciprocating Tigersaw. Only by turning the clamp, you can insert the blade in a matter of seconds. It also comes with a flexible pivoting shoe, which maintains constant contact with the materials you cut to ensure maximum precision and user protection.

The feature that makes the Porter Cable Reciprocating Saw PCC670B stand out is its compact and lightweight nature. With a length of 14.5″ and a weight of 4 pounds, you can use this best small reciprocating saw in the sections where other high-priced saws cannot enter easily.

Highlighted Specifications

• High-performance drivetrain motor
• Variable speed trigger for up to 3000 SPM
• Tool-free blade change
• Contoured over-mold grip
• Compatible for 20v Max battery series

Expert Opinion: It’s lightweight enough to work with one hand at the same time, vigorous enough to hack through just about anything like wood or shrubs to metal pipes. If you don’t need the hardcore consistency of the Milwaukee or the flexibility of the Dewalt, this is certainly a great way to go.

Best Corded Reciprocating Saws Under 100

Although cordless reciprocating saws are a winner in lightweight, small body size, usability in off-grid areas, and portable ways, corded reciprocating saws will give you extra power to continue your work for a long time and cut hard materials quickly.

Let’s explore some of the best corded reciprocating saws in our next reviews, worth not more than $100.

6. Dewalt DWE304 10-Amp Reciprocating Saw

Although Dewalt is synonymous with quality and trust, we have to review a little less power here because of the price barrier. Despite this, with the Dewalt 10 amp reciprocating saw, you can handle almost all of your small to heavy-duty tasks smoothly.

The standout feature of Dewalt DWE304 is its 4-position blade clamp, which allows you to set the blade in four directions, both horizontally and vertically. You would now have improved flexibility and flush cutting equipment with which you can cut nail-embedded wood along with other materials. You don’t need any special blade change gadget, either, as it is keyless.

Another impressive feature of the Dewalt DWE304 reciprocating saw is its variable speed trigger. You don’t necessarily need maximum speed when cutting materials; sometimes, you’ll need lower speed too. This is where the variable speed setting comes in handy. Dewalt reciprocating saw 10-amp motor designed to deliver 0 to 2800 strokes per minute to smoothly cut light to dense materials.

Wide stroke length gives you more control and productivity during cutting. Dewalt knows it well and makes their DWE304 reciprocating saw with a 1-1/8 inches stroke length. You can then cut any material from light to heavy gauge metals to drywall or plastic precisely but easily without taking any pressure on your part. Your comfort would further increase with its anti-slip rubber grip.

Highlighted Specifications

• 10-amp reciprocating saw
• 4-position blade clamp
• Keyless lever-action blade change
• Variable speed trigger with instant speed control
• 1-1/8″ wide stroke length
• Anti-slip rubber grip handle

Expert Opinion It has strength and durability for professionals but is comfortable for DIY homeowners to use easily. If you’re looking for a lightweight, easy-to-use yet effective one, this is the best corded reciprocating saw that you should certainly check out.

7. SKIL 9216-01 9 Amp Reciprocating Saw

When choosing the best corded reciprocating saw, we couldn’t ignore the Skil 9216-01 9 amp reciprocating saw from our list because of its added durability and powerful engine. If you have Skil 9216-01 on hand, it means that you are ready for any DIY or heavy-duty applications.

The feature that is mostly responsible for the durability of this incredible corded reciprocating saw from Skil is its heavy-duty metal gear housing. Its rugged body makes it sufficiently sturdy for the tasks it has to do. You’ll also find a powerful 9-amp motor in it that can produce 0-2,700 strokes per minute of variable speed.

You can control its speed with a variable speed dial which is labeled with 1 to 6 numbers where 1-2 is for low stroke, 3-4 for medium, and 5-6 for heavy stroke. You can now set the speed according to the materials you’re going to cut.

If you need fast cutting speed or need to cut softer materials such as wood, composite, or plastic, you can set up high-speed mode. On the other hand, you can set the low-speed mode for precise cutting or cutting of hard materials such as metal sheets, conduits, or tiles.

It also has a conveniently placed power indicator light on the handle to let you know whether your tool is on or off duty. Therefore, you can omit the guesswork of power connection status and prevent unexpected incidents as well.

Another notable feature of this Skil reciprocating saw is its vibration reduction counterbalance. Vibration is something that doesn’t encourage you to do your job properly, rather causing a hand cramp. The soft-grip handle of the Skil 9216-01 ensures added control and comfort.

Highlighted Specifications

• Powerful 9 Amp Motor
• Power-On Indicator
• Tool-less blade change
• The heavy-duty metal gear housing
• Variable speed dial
• Pivoting Shoe

Expert Opinion: 9 amp is not the ultimate power to cover all the jobs of a reciprocating saw. Still, because of the excellent built quality, you can do more than 90 percent of the work related to demolishing or pruning trees and cutting metal sheets or wood with this Skil 9216-01 reciprocating saw effortlessly.

N.B. If you’ve no problem with spending a bit of extra money (but not more than $100) and fuel, you can try out Skilsaw 13 amp reciprocating saw to get extra amperage and workhorse.

8. Porter-Cable PC85TRSOK 8.5-Amp Orbital Reciprocating Saw

If you’re not willing to carry all those extra loads and cost of higher amperage models you still want the same performance as them, the Porter Cable 8.5 amp tiger saw is for you. In the Porter Cable PC85TRSOK, you’ll find all the jaw-dropping features of higher models without investing any extra. Well, let’s check it out.

This Porter Cable Reciprocating Tigersaw blade follows an orbital action that is ready to give you more aggressive cutting power than linear motion. It comes with a heavy-duty 8.5 amp engine to back this destructive blade motion. You can use this force to rip anything during demolition where there is no need for precision.

Further, to support your demolition work, this PC85TRSOK tiger saw from Porter-Cable can generate up to 3200 strokes per minute with a wide 1.125-inch stroke length for a winning combination. It also has a large variable speed trigger for more versatile cutting applications, which you can also operate with your two-finger to get more leverage.

It backs orbital action, which doesn’t mean that it has no linear action; rather, you’ll find a button at the top of the tool to easily change from orbital mode to linear mode. Therefore, it allows you to set the cutting mode according to your needs. Like when you need to cut wood or soft materials, you can set the knob towards orbital mode, and when you need to cut metal or hard materials or precision cutting, you can set linear mode.

Besides all the other amazing features, it’s going to give you a compact and lightweight experience. Despite being lightweight, you’ll feel well-balanced due to its vibration-reducing rubber over-mold handle and clamshell boot and its durable aluminum and ABS plastic body.

Highlighted Specifications

• Heavy-duty 8.5 Amp, 3.200 SPM motor
• The efficient crank arm mechanism
• Supporting orbital action for aggressive cutting speed
• Orbital dial selector knob
• Tool-free adjustment of the shoe
• Twist Lock blade clamp for easy blade change
• Extra-large variable speed trigger
• Rubber over-mold handle to secure grip
• Over mold clamshell boot for a softer grip

Expert Opinion: You can say that it is the best reciprocating saw for demolition and other DIY and professional-grade works. With Porter-Cable PC85TRSOK 8.5-amp orbital reciprocating saw, you can certainly do more than what it offers, that’s for sure.

9. Metabo HPT CR13VST 11-Amp Reciprocating Saw

In the world of reciprocating saws, Metabo HPT is not as well-known as it is for nail guns or other construction equipment. However, because it belongs to the world-class company Hitachi, which is committed to giving you a top-notch experience with its excellent cutting speed and amazing features, therefore, it will certainly create value for you.

The CR13VST corded reciprocating saw from Metabo HPT maintains a good power-to-weight ratio. Its 7.9-pound body consists of an 11 amp motor that can produce 2800 strokes per minute, which is enough to support a wide range of cutting applications.

Like our previous reciprocating saw Porter-Cable PC85TRSOK, the Metabo HPT CR13VST is also equipped with an orbital function switch that is located right on the handle. And it has a variable speed option that can be controlled by either a trigger or a dial knob. Therefore, CR13VST is a combination of superior control, fast cutting speed, and precision.

Besides its powerful performance, it also gives you extreme comfort and convenience. It has an LED for illuminating the dark space, a rafter hook for attaching it to your belt while working on a ladder or scaffolding, or mounting it on a rafter when not in use, a tool-less blade change, and a soft-grip handle for easy handling. Therefore, Metabo HPT Sawzall is the best reciprocating saw for DIY and professionals for wood and metal cutting.

Highlighted Specifications

• An 11-amp motor can produce 2800 SPM variable speed
• Dual option for variable speed control – dial or trigger
• The blade change lever is located at the front cover for user convenience
• Orbital function switch for aggressive cutting speed
• Built-in LED
• Rafter hook

Expert Opinion: Although the weight is a little higher, you’ll never feel exhausted during use because of its ergonomic design and a good balance of power to weight. In addition, the Metabo HPT CR13VST 11-amp reciprocating saw is an excellent choice for heavy demolition work as well as for light pruning trees. So, regardless of whether you’re a DIYer or a professional, you can definitely try it out.

10. Makita JR3051T Recipro Saw – 12 AMP

We would like to end our reviews of the best reciprocating saw corded with such a tool that is ideal for all framers, carpenters, metal fabricators, plumbers, remodelers, and general contractors. So, we’re selecting the best Makita reciprocating saw JR3051T, which is the best-in-class industrial quality reciprocating saw.

Makita JR3051T is an advanced version of Makita JR3050T Recipro Saw. In it, you’ll find all the high-end features like other models reviewed in this section, along with some additional. The first noticeable change you will see in it is the high-power motor. You will get a powerful 12 amp motor within the limit of our $100 budget, which is incredible.

Besides its powerful motor, you will find it less vibrating than others. It is also equipped with electric speed control, which helps to keep a constant speed under load conditions. Another noticeable feature of Makita JR3051T is its long stroke length. The 1-3/16 inch wide stroke and 3000 SPM will help you to get faster and aggressive cutting speed for a variety of applications.

Not the end, it designs its body dust and waterproof, which is the most preferable feature to many plumbers and general constructors who often work under wet conditions. Makita JR3051T is double insulated with rubber and felt seals.

Highlighted Specifications

• High power 12 amp motor
• Electrical control system for constant speed
• Variable speed trigger
• Tool-less blade change
• Tool hook to hang the tool when not in use
• A large trigger for added convenience
• Soft grip handle for added comfort

Expert Opinion: The compact and lightweight design consistent with cutting speed makes the Makita reciprocating saw JR3051T one of the best choices for industrial-grade cutting applications.

Best Air Reciprocating Saws under 100

Air reciprocating saw, a.k.a. the pneumatic reciprocating saw, is a cutting tool that produces push-and-pull motion utilizing compressed air. Since there is no internal motor like the other two types (cordless and corded), they are extremely lightweight and smaller in size. They can run at high speed, making them suitable for all kinds of delicate works, such as cutting tricky shapes and radius curves in various metal or metal sheets, plastics, fiberglass, wood, etc.

Let’s find the reviews of the two best air reciprocating saw below-

11. Ingersoll Rand 429 Heavy Duty Air Reciprocating Saw

When other reciprocating saws help you to get straight cuts of wooden frames or boards, prune trees, and demolish works, pneumatic reciprocating saws allow you to do more intricate work quickly and easily. And when we talk about the reciprocating air saw, the name Ingersoll Rand comes to mind first.

Ingersoll Rand has been at the front position of industrial innovation for more than 100 years. They are known for the best possible quality, reliability, durability, and outstanding performance of the products they produce. And there is no exception to this in the case of the Ingersoll Rand 429 heavy-duty air reciprocating saw.

With this versatile air saw, you can create all tricky and delicate figures and radius curves in all types of materials, from plastics to fiberglass and composite materials, even in aluminum and metal sheets. It’s also a great tool to do auto body repair work, muffler and exhaust work, and installations of the sunroof.

To support this wide range of tasks, Ingersoll Rand 429 comes with six high-speed steel cutting blades that are highly capable of cutting both flat and curved surfaces. And you won’t feel tired during the cutting job, as it can reach up to 10,000 strokes per minute without creating any or a subtle vibration.

The small inline configuration (8.23 inches long and 1.33 pounds of weight) of this air reciprocating saw allows you to access any corners that are even hard to reach for others and ensure comfort. Therefore, the toughest job can be done effortlessly.

Among other features, you will find a lock-out lever that helps prevent accidental torque with a spring-loaded latch and a positive blade holder with an adjustable guide that gives you a longer blade life.

Above all, you will need an air compressor capable of delivering 80 to 90 PSI to run this small but effective air saw. If you don’t have a compressor before, this Ingersoll Rand 429 will require a good initial investment.

Highlighted Specifications

• Heavy-duty, can produce 10,000 strokes per minute
• Ideal for cutting flat and curved surfaces
• Positive blade retainer and adjustable blade guide
• Vibration reduction system
• Lock-out lever for added safety
• Sound level: 87.3 DBA
• Vibration: 25.7 M/S2 (K – 4), here K is the vibration measurement uncertainty
• Av. Air Consumption: 8 CFM
• Compatible for a wide range of blade types

Expert Opinion: This tool is only designed for professional use in mind. Yes! If you are a weekend warrior, it is better to stay away from it. However, if you like to cut heavy metal sheets like butter with precision, you must give it a try.

12. Astro 930 Air Body Saber Saw

If you need a compact, but cost-effective pneumatic reciprocating saw compared to the Ingersoll Rand 429, consider the Astro 930. In contrast to the average air usage of 8 CFM of the IR, the Astro pneumatic tool 930 receives only 4 CFM. That being said, you’ll get all the features in it that you see in other reciprocating air saws.

Astro 930 is designed to generate 9000 BPM, which is strong enough to cut intricate shapes and tight angle patterns on flat and curved surfaces. If you want to do some auto body work or repair a muffler or exhaust, you can do that because it comes with five pieces of 24 teeth per inch blade. You can even use it to cut aluminum and metal sheets up to a thickness of 1.6 mm like butter.

With a length of 9-1/4 inches and a body of 1.76 pounds, this Astro 930 is a little bit over the Ingersoll Rand 429. But it will give you extra longevity and long-lasting efficiency due to the use of the finest constructed materials during manufacturing. Thus it helps you to do all kinds of cutting work easier and quicker even in tight spaces.

And you will find other handy features of pneumatic reciprocating saws in it, like an adjustable blade guide, which is responsible for longer blade life. However, it has no vibration control system, which is a little uncomfortable.

Highlighted Specification

• Cutting capacity up to 1.6mm thickness steel
• Strokes per minute 9000 BPM
• Come with 5pcs 24 teeth per inch blades
• Ideal for auto body repair works
• Can cut both flat and curved surfaces
• Can be operable at 90-120 PSI air pressure
• Av. Air Consumption: 4 CFM

Expert Opinion: Crafted with precision and versatility in mind, this Astro 930 Air Body Saber Saw ensures excellent efficiency and ease of use, making it the ideal solution for your ultimate cutting job.

Features To Look Before Buying The Best Reciprocating Saw Under 100

You already knew what a reciprocating saw, its types, and its advantages and disadvantages. However, to conclude your buying search, you need some more information to choose the right one. Details of the following features will help you to choose the best reciprocating saw under £100. Let’s read it together.

Strokes Per Minute

Strokes per minute (SPM) is the unit of measurement of the speed of the reciprocating saw, which determines how quickly the blade moves back and forth. And it is essential to know the SPM of your reciprocating saw before selecting it as it indicates the power of the engine. The more powerful the engine is, the more leverage it gets when cutting heavy-duty materials such as metal pipes or concrete slabs.

Most of the reciprocating saw models, including budget-friendly saws, can generally offer up to 2800-3000 SPM. It is best to choose your tool between this range, as below of that may not give you the ultimate cutting efficiency.

Amperage

Amperage is another measuring unit by which we can also determine the power of the motor. Usually, reciprocating saw amperage starts from 5 amp to up 15 or higher.

For your DIY or landscaping works like pruning trees, you can pick from 7 to 11 amp saws, while for heavy-duty activities like demolition jobs, you can consider 15 or higher amp one.

Stroke Length

The time of cutting depends primarily on the length of the stroke. The length of the stroke is the distance between the forward and backward motions of the blade. The longer the stroke, the quicker and more intensely you can cut the materials.

Conversely, petite stroke length will give you more precision than longer.

Typically the length of the stroke ranges from 3⁄4 to 1-1/4 inches. If you need to cut aggressively and more quickly, the minimum stroke length should be at least 1 inch. Alternatively, if time is not a consideration and you need precision, you can also select 7/8 inch.

Variable Speed Trigger Or Dial

Having variable speed means that you can do a myriad of tasks with ease. Some recip saws allow controlling the variable speed just by pressing the trigger, while some others have both trigger and dial mechanisms. It’s more convenient to control the speed using a dial than the trigger.

In our reviews, we found that Metabo HPT reciprocating saw offers both trigger and dial regulated variable speed options.

Blade Changing System

Since reciprocating saws are designed to perform a wide range of cutting tasks, you more often need to change blades according to your project. Having said that, it is essential to have a simple blade change system.

Many modern reciprocating saws come with a tool-less blade changing system. Let’s check whether or not your one is providing it.

Adjustable Shoe

The shoe, a.k.a. blade guard, is a metal piece fitted at the front end of the reciprocating saw. It mainly works as a blade guard, but it also helps shield your hand from accidental injury.

Besides helping you save your hand, it also helps you to make a variety of cuts. Like you can get a plunge cut by using it as a lever point. It also mitigates the kickback by providing stability with the workpiece.

Adjustable shoe lets you set the depth of the cut by positioning it forward or backward, depending on which part you want to cut more. You may therefore save your blade for longer use.

Many reciprocating saws come with a tool-free button or a lever to adjust the shoe. It will help you quickly lock or unlock the shoe in place by simply pressing or releasing the lever or button. Let’s verify that your selected one comes with that choice or not for easy maneuverability.

Vibration Control 

As the reciprocating saw is a workhorse, it produces a serious vibration during the cut that is not pleasant at all for your arm and shoulder as well as for the accuracy of the cut. So, most advanced equipment comes with a vibration control system, either by adding a counterbalance or a rubber mold handle.

Some models are also designed with a body and handle interlocked with each other with a shock absorber, which is useful for reducing vibration equal to nil. Therefore, it is prudent to look out whether your chosen one has this feature before purchasing it.

Weight

Since it’s a handy tool and you’ve got to hold it for the entire cutting job, either with one hand or both. Therefore, it should be light enough that it can’t make you sore or tired.

On the other hand, extremely lightweight tools sometimes can not give you the ultimate power to do your job flawlessly. So, maintaining good power to weight ratio is the best practice.

These are the basic features of a good reciprocating saw must-have. Besides, there’s more to hear about it. However, if you just review the above features, the risk of being outwitted will be reduced.

How To Use A Reciprocating Saw?

It’s true that reciprocating saws are a very useful tool. But at the same time, they have the ability to hurt you if you don’t treat them properly. So, if you’re new to this tool, it’s better to know it well before you start.

Here’s a concise guide on how to safely use a reciprocating saw as a beginner:

1. Preparation:

• Wear safety goggles, gloves, and hearing protection.
• Inspect the saw and blade for damage or wear.
• Secure the workpiece firmly in place.

2. Blade Selection:

• Choose a blade suitable for wood cutting.
• Ensure the blade is sharp and appropriate for the task.

3. Positioning:

• Hold the saw with a balanced grip, both hands on the handles.
• Stand in a stable and comfortable stance.

4. Marking and Alignment:

• Mark the cut line clearly on the wood surface.
• Align the saw’s blade tip with the mark.

5. Starting the Cut:

• Gently squeeze the trigger to start the saw.
• Allow the blade to reach full speed before cutting.

6. Controlled Movement:

• Guide the saw steadily along the marked line.
• Let the saw’s weight do the cutting, and apply gentle pressure.

7. Awareness:

• Pay attention to the blade’s path and surroundings.
• Keep hands and body clear of the blade’s trajectory.

8. Stopping:

• Release the trigger once the cut is complete.
• Wait for the blade to come to a complete stop.

9. Safety First:

• Wait for the blade to stop moving before setting the saw down.
• Keep the saw unplugged when changing blades.

10. Storage:

• Store the saw in a dry and safe place, out of reach.
• Keep blades in proper containers for safety.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure a safe and efficient use of a reciprocating saw in your construction or woodworking projects.

Let’s take a look at the video to get ideas about how to use a reciprocating saw safely and effectively.

Safety Tips for Using the Best Budget Reciprocating Saws

Reciprocating is a very useful tool to cut various materials like wood, metal, plastic, masonry, etc. However, it becomes hazardous too, if you did not handle it properly.

Here we describe some dos and don’ts for your safety and get optimum benefit from it.

Dos

• Wear impact-resistant protective lenses and industrial gloves.
• Cut off the power connection before altering or adjusting the blades.
• Hold a saw with both hands to prevent a kickback impact.
• Place the saw blade on the materials before it begins and wait until it reaches full power.
• Adjust the blade guard according to the cutting material’s angle and position it as near as possible to prevent vibration.
• Use the correct blade according to the materials that you are going to cut.
• Use a sharp and clear blade for max output.
• Always try to keep balance during operation and keep your work area cord clear.

Don’ts

• Do not attempt to adjust the blade immediately after some material has been cut as it gets hot.
• Do not force a saw along the curve or around it. Let it rotate easily.
• Do not force the blade into or remove the blade from the cut or lead hole while the blade is moving.
• Don’t put down a saw until the engine has stopped.
• Do not use a reciprocating saw on or around any combustible stock.
• Do not try to cut above the shoulder height.

Tips To Maintain Your Best Reciprocating Saws under $100

You need to maintain some routine maintenance procedures to get the best efficiency out of your reciprocating saw and long life. Let’s review some of the below-

Use The Right Accessories:

As the reciprocating saw is built to cut different materials, choose the right blade according to the material you’re going to cut, lubricant, and other accessories for optimal efficiency.

Use The Correct Power Source:

Every corded reciprocating saw has a particular power rating. Some models are designed to operate only under 110v, while others can run from a 120 to a 220-volt line. Be sure to verify the recommended power level of the reciprocating saw that you’re going to operate before plugging it into a socket.

Similarly, for the battery-powered reciprocating saw, use the battery with the correct voltage and power and use the right compressor to obtain the recommended pressure rating for the pneumatic reciprocating saw.

Insert And Remove Blade Correct Way:

Before removing or extracting the blade from the tool, it is advisable to read your operating manual as the different manufacturer uses different method. However, most modern sawzalls are equipped with a keyless blade change system that is simple and time-saving.

Keep Clean Your Reciprocating Saw:

Since it is more of an outdoor tool and is often exposed to dust and grime, it is best to clean it after every use for long-lasting results.

If you need to run it in a damp environment or are inadvertently exposed to rain, dry it instantly to avoid any possible hazards.

You may use the vacuum cleaner to clean the inner vents of your reciprocating saw as well as the outer dust. Don’t forget to wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from any flying particles while doing so.

Inspect Your Tool Before Every Use:

It’s a common practice to inspect the power tools before start working. You should also check your reciprocating saw and blade thoroughly before every use. Prepare a checklist to check whether there are any cracks on the saw body or loose screws. The blades are sharp, clean, and not in binding condition. Air vents are clean and clear from dust or debris, all the knob and lever are in a good position.

In the case of a corded reciprocating saw, check if the cord is in good shape or if it has any tears or wear in certain areas. If you’ve found any lick on your cable, never plug it in.

If you’ve noticed that the saw or saw blades are getting hot while running means it is overloaded. Stop and pick the lower or higher speed you want to set with the unit. Also, take some rest after 30 minutes of operation to give the engine a chance to cool down.

Learn About Reciprocating Saw Storage:

Don’t throw your saw here and there at the end of your daily use. Always store your reciprocating saw in a secure place for long output when not in use and during transportation. If it comes with a manufacturer’s storage case, it’s all well and good; otherwise, it should be kept dry and clean.

FAQs: Best Reciprocating Saw Under 100

What is the most powerful reciprocating saw?

We can calculate the strength of the reciprocating we saw with their strokes per minute. Typically the blades of the corded and cordless reciprocating saws rotate at 2500 to 3200 strokes per minute of speed. In that case, we can assume that the reciprocating saw with 3200 SPM is the most powerful saw.

However, if you examine the strength of the air saws, you will find that they can produce between 5000 and 10000 SPM or 15000 SPM. So, you can easily claim that air saws are the most powerful in their class.

How many amps do you need for a reciprocating saw?

Reciprocating saws are robust cutting instruments, typically designed to consume 5 to 15-amp currents based on various models. Battery-driven reciprocating saws are typically used with an 18-20v battery that consumes between 1.5 and 5 amps, whereas corded reciprocating saws need a current of 7 to 15 amps 110-220v.

How thick of wood can a reciprocating saw cut?

The size of the reciprocating saw blades starts from 3 inches to 12 inches in length. Therefore, any materials, including wood, can be cut between this range. However, again the strength of the blades depends on the thickness of the blades. The thicker (0.05 inches) blades can provide enhanced cutting stability than the less thick (0.035 inches) blades.

So, you can easily cut 2×4 or 4×4 lumber by using a receptacle saw. You have to pick the right size and toothed blade.

Can you use a reciprocating saw as a jigsaw?

Both the reciprocating and the jigsaw belong to the same family. Where reciprocating saw is a general category, and the jigsaw is a specialized variant of it.

Again, reciprocating saws are mainly designed for demolition work, and jigsaws are designed to do accurate and detailed work. With a reciprocating saw you can cut both horizontal and vertical surfaces and even make a flush cut of nails embedded in wood. On the other side, with a jigsaw, you can make bevel and compound cuts, circular and parallel cuts, cut curved ages, etc.

If you compare strokes between the two, reciprocating saws are generally designed for longer strokes suitable for dismantling works rather than detailed work. Inversely, jigsaws are designed to deliver short strokes. However, depending on the model, you can also get short strokes in the recip saw and long strokes in the jigsaw.

From the above discussion, we may conclude that you can do the jobs of a jigsaw with a reciprocating saw in a restricted way, yet you won’t get the same precision.

Can you cut straight with a reciprocating saw?

The reciprocating saw is a versatile tool that can be used to accomplish most cutting applications. Although it is known for its robustness rather than precision, you can also cut straight lines with proper guidance.

What you need to do is draw a straight line on the material with a permanent marker or tape to get a line of visibility, then press the shoe tightly against the surface and align the blade on the outlined line. That’s it, and You’re good to go now.

How do I choose a reciprocating saw blade?

The blade is one of the main parts of a reciprocating saw, and its versatility depends mostly on it. You can cut wood into metal, and plastic into high-strength alloy with the right kind of blade.

Although there are so many criteria for choosing the right kind of blades, here’s a brief description of the thickness and the TPI (Teeth-Per-Inch).

Standard Sawzall blade thicknesses are

0.035″ – standard duty
0.042″ – medium-heavy duty
0.050″ – heavy-duty
0.062″ – ultra heavy duty

Recommended TPI:

3 – 11 TPI range blades are suitable for wood and demolition work
8-11 TPI range blades are ideal for cutting nails and pruning
12-18 TPI range blades are ideal for metal and denser materials
18-24 TPI range blades are absolutely for metal cutting

I hope the above data will help you choose the right kind of blades according to your work demands.

Can you cut curves with a reciprocating saw?

Yeah, you can cut the curves with the recip saw. What you need to do is pick a thin, flexible, and long blade for it. You can also cut a circle of more than 6” dia with it, man. However, you won’t get the same accuracy as a jigsaw when you do that.

Final Thoughts

Owing to its flexibility and wide range of acceptability, the reciprocating saw has become an indisputable cutting tool. If you have the best reciprocating saw in your tool shed, you can do almost any cutting and ripping job comfortably.

We hope that our reviews of the best reciprocating saw under 100 will shed some light on the subject and provide valuable insights. For the last time, let us remind you of our best pick from the reviews.

The BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C is the best cordless reciprocating saw under 100. We found the Dewalt DWE304 as the best corded reciprocating saw and WORX WX550L 20v AXIS as the best 2-in-1 reciprocating saw. Finally, you can also select the Ingersoll Rand 429 Heavy Duty Air Reciprocating Saw for faster cutting and industrial purposes.

Related Reviews:

• Reviews And Buying Guide of 10 best budget circular saw under 100
• Reviews and Buying Guide of 10 Best Jigsaw Under $100