The 9 Best Corded Reciprocating Saws In 2023 – Buying Guide And Reviews

Reciprocating saws are workhorse saws that serve a place in everyone’s toolkit. When you just need to rip things? The best reciprocating saw can be your best friend. 

The corded models tend to be lighter, but also more powerful than their battery-operated counterparts. We decided to get a closer look at 9 saws to see how they fare against the competition.

If you’re looking for the best corded reciprocating saws then read on, and stay tuned for our buyer’s guide which will help you get the perfect fit.

Our Top Picks for Best Corded Reciprocating Saws in 2022

We’ve put together a list of corded reciprocating saws for you to peruse. Let’s get in there and we’ll show you their features and help you pick which is the best suited for your projects. If you’re looking for the best corded reciprocating saw, but you’re in a hurry, here’s a quick run down of my top picks:

Top Pick – DEWALT Corded  Reciprocating Saw (DWE305)

Topping our list is the DeWalt DWE305, a professional level saw that’s great for jobsite usage. Like many of their professional tools, the focus here is on ensuring you have a powerful saw rather than one with a ton of features.

With a mid power 12A motor, it’s capable of making short work of most materials. The variable speed trigger covers a range of 0-2900 SPM with a 1-1/8-inch stroke length. This combination makes for a truly fast and efficient package. 

It’s heavy-built and has a 4-position blade clamp, allowing a skilled user to almost make flush cuts with some care. The blade clamp also has a lever action for tool free blade changes. It’s also well-balanced, with the weight mainly in the center for easy control.

It does lose some points for lacking orbital action. This tool also doesn’t come with a carrying case, which is a bit of a pain but can be worked around at home.

Power12 Amps
SPM0-2,900
ActionStandard
Weight8 lbs
Cord Length6'

Pros

  • Powerful 12A motor
  • 4-position blade clamp
  • Well-balanced
  • Solid grip and trigger

Cons

  • No included tool bag or case
  • No orbital action available

Overall, the DWE305 is a versatile, professional-quality saw that’s great for demolition and construction work in multiple materials. If you’re facing a variety of materials and tasks, it’s a solid choice.

If you’re in need of a solid, but not specialized, reciprocating saw then give it a look!

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Top Premium Pick – Makita JR3050T Reciprocating Saw

The Makita JR3050T is a solid, professional-level saw which will find ready use in the hands of plumbers and electricians. Makita has spent their time developing some advanced anti-vibration technology.

It’s relatively compact and lighter than the majority of saws in its class. The two-finger variable speed  trigger is a bonus for those working long days as well. As well as this the saw has a lock-on button for those doing extended work, reducing hand fatigue.

The 11 Amp motor packs a fair punch delivering a speed range between 0-2,800 SPM at a stroke length of 1-1/8-inchs. Changing out the reciprocating saw blade is quick and easy with the innovative one touch tool-less blade change button.

A great feature you don’t see on all the reciprocating saw models is the built in dust blower. This can be particularly handy while doing precision work trying to follow a cutting line.

Like the above DeWalt, it lacks an orbital action, which makes it a bit slower at cutting softer materials. The handle ergonomics could use some improvement as well, the rear handle is straight vertically. You’ll be better off using the trigger lock in many situations.

Power11 Amps
SPM0-2,800
ActionStandard
Weight7.3 lbs
Cord Length8'

Pros

  • Trigger lock to sustain speed
  • Reduced vibration
  • A large trigger for two fingers
  • Perfect for cutting metal and plastic

Cons

  • No orbital mode option
  • Handle ergonomics could be improved

If metal is the main target for your reciprocating saw, then you’ll be well-served with the JR3050T. It’s still serviceable in wood, just not optimized for the task.

Does that sound about right for your plans? Get a closer look!

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Top Budget Pick – Skil 926-02 7.5-Amp Variable Speed Reciprocating Saw

Not everyone needs a heavy-duty, professional saw, and Skil’s attempt for the light-duty DIY market is good for what it is. It’s a cheaper tool with some serious trade-offs, but it might be right for some users.

The 7.5 amp motor comes in slightly below what you might expect for a saw in it’s class. 

It has a longer fore-grip than many saws, which lets you get a good handle on the blade for control. It has a surprisingly robust overall construction for a budget tool as well while being one of the lightest reciprocating saws around.

The obvious drawback is the 7.5A motor. It’s too slow for professional work and may not be able to handle particularly tough tasks. The included blade is also questionable, I’d order a set with the saw.

Power7.5 Amps
SPM0-2,700
ActionStandard
Weight7.05 lbs
Cord Length8'

Pros

  • Great price for quality
  • Very lightweight
  • Good foregrip for added stability
  • Toolless blade changes

Cons

  • A bit underpowered
  • Included blade isn’t up to par

The Skil 926-02 may not be the saw for professionals, but it’s designed for weekend warriors. It’s a compact, light saw for shrub trimming, mild demo work, and other around-the-home tasks.

Thinking that a cheap, light-duty saw is what you need? Take a peek!

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SKIL Heavy Duty 15 Amp Reciprocating Saw – SPT44-10

Skilsaw shouldn’t be confused with Skil. While the companies are connected, Skilsaw makes high-end professional tools like the SPT44-10. If you’re looking for a saw designed to handle heavy, daily use this is a good fit.

The 15A motor is outstanding for this class of saw, far more powerful than most. Coming with that is a great trigger lock and the ability to set the top-end speed of the saw with a dial on the side. The body of the saw is heavy metal, while the grip is quite ergonomic.

The main downside is the expense, for a corded saw, the SPT44-10 is up there in price. The beast also weighs in at over 11 pounds, which makes it hard to recommend for lighter tasks.

Power15 Amps
SPM0-2,900
ActionStandard and Orbital
Weight11.3 lbs
Cord Length8'

Pros

  • Very powerful saw
  • Excellent build quality overall
  • Awesome variable speed adjustment
  • Ergonomic grip

Cons

  • Quite expensive
  • Very heavy

As a whole, the SPT44-10 is a very heavy-duty saw that won’t let a professional down. For very heavy use it’s fantastic, but the extra power and weight make it a bit too much saw for most at-home tasks.

If you’re looking at a future with heavy, constant demolition work then you’re in the right spot. Get a good look!

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Milwaukee Sawzall Recip Saw 6519-30

The Sawzall is the original reciprocating saw, to the point where many pros use it as a catch-all for the whole class. Milwaukee still produces their famous Sawzall, seen here is the basic 12A version.

The saw does very well when it comes to keeping down vibration, and it’s built very heavily. It seems to perform very well against thinner material, where vibration can be unwieldy with some saws. The other standout feature is the pivoting shoe, making it easier to lock in on a workpiece.

While it’s a standout unit overall, it doesn’t perform well against wood in comparison to similar professional-level reciprocating saws. You may want to skip it if you’ll primarily be cutting through wood. There’s no orbital either, which is unfortunate since it would have made up for the slower cutting in wood.

Power12 Amps
SPM0-3,000
ActionStandard
Weight5.7 lbs
Cord Length8'

Pros

  • Original design
  • Performs great against pipes
  • Pivoting shoe makes it easy to get purchase on the workpiece
  • Low vibration

Cons

  • A bit slow when cutting wood
  • No orbital action

For those digging primarily into piping and other hard-to-cut materials, the 12A Sawzall is a great option. It’s too expensive for most DIYers, however, and you may be better served with another brand if you’re only going to be cutting wood.

Plumbers and electricians may find this saw to be just what they’re looking for. In the trades? Get a closer look now!

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Bosch RS428 14 Amp Reciprocating Saw

If you’re going to be ripping wood, then you’ll love the RS428. It’s an overpowered 14A saw in a light, 8lb body. Bosch produces professional quality here, as always, with an emphasis on advanced engineering to make the tool easier to use.

It has great vibration control and ergonomics, with a slightly slanted handle and counterweights to keep things as smooth as possible. It also has a trigger lock and a shoe which is adjustable without tools. The impressive power-to-weight ratio is also nice.

The main problem here is that it tends to heat up quickly. It’s also not great for cutting metals. The orbital action is always on, despite the trigger lock. 

Power14 Amps
SPM0-2,900
ActionOrbital
Weight8 lbs
Cord Length8'

Pros

  • Powerful motor and orbital action
  • Relatively lightweight
  • Excellent grip
  • Trigger lock

Cons

  • Not a good choice for metals
  • Tends to overheat

This is a powerful, workhorse saw which works great on construction sites. The powerful orbital action is always on, however, which makes it a poor candidate for cutting through metals.

If you’re ripping boards, this is a good choice. Get a closer look!

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Bosch RS7 1-1/8-Inch 11 Amp Reciprocating Saw

The RS7 is a smaller saw than the heavy-duty Bosch above, but it’s not lacking in quality. It’s just more useful for different purposes: namely, the standard action only makes it suitable for cutting metal and plastic at a decent rate of speed.

It’s a simple saw overall, the only real extra is the LED lights on the front. It’s a nice touch for those who find themselves working in dim conditions. It cuts very well for having “only” an 11A motor, and the foregrip is also well-formed.

It lacks orbital action, unfortunately. It also lacks a trigger-lock and other quality-of-life features that are common in these saws.

Power11 Amps
SPM0-2,700
ActionStandard
Weight8.5 lbs
Cord Length8'

Pros

  • Powerful for motor’s amp rating
  • LED lights
  • Great foregrip
  • Reduced vibration

Cons

  • No orbital action
  • No trigger lock

The Bosch RS7 fits the sweetspot for a heavy-duty DIYer’s saw. If you’re doing serious work around the home and want something easy to wield, here’s a good choice.

For those who need a bare-bones, no-frills reciprocating saw, this is a good choice. Take a look now!

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Ridgid R3030 Fuego One-Handed Reciprocating Saw

For something a little bit different, Ridgid’s R3030 is a one-handed reciprocating saw with a 4A motor. For light-duty it’s hard to beat, the unique configuration makes it surprisingly precise and nimble while sacrificing power.

It’s very small for a reciprocating saw, and the lightweight makes it great for those not able to handle bigger saws. It’s still able to power through most materials, it just takes longer. It also has an extra-long cord, making it usable on a standard 6’ ladder without needing an extension cord.

The only problems arise naturally from its design. It’s the least powerful saw on this list by a good margin. It’s also comparable in price to most professional reciprocating saws, which is a bit much for a niche tool.

Power4 Amps
SPM0-3,500
ActionStandard
Weight4 lbs
Cord Length10'

Pros

  • One-handed design
  • Very lightweight and nimble
  • Tool-less blade changes
  • 10-foot power cord

Cons

  • Underpowered for some tasks
  • Rather expensive for limited utility

If you’re not up to using a standard reciprocating saw then you’ll be in good hands here. It’s quite nimble, and it may make a good backup for those in the field who don’t mind the extra expense.

If you’re in the market for a smaller reciprocating saw or even want a backup for tight spaces, you’re in good hands. Take a look for yourself!

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Chicago Electric 6 Amp Reciprocating Saw

A lightweight saw for light-duty is a good way to describe this reciprocating saw from Chicago Electric. While it’s not likely to see a professional work truck anytime soon, it’s a reasonable option for those doing DIY projects.

The saw itself is decent for the motor size. The pivoting shoe is a nice touch, and the ability to turn the front of the saw to hit other angles is also nice. It actually has a trigger lock as well, making it a bit more versatile than it appears at first glance.

On the other hand, it’s a bit cheaply built. It also vibrates quite a bit when in use. This really isn’t a professional saw in the slightest.

Power6 Amps
SPM0-2,500
ActionStandard
Weight6 lbs
Cord Length6'

Pros

  • Very cheap for the value
  • Turning head for different angles
  • Has a trigger lock
  • Lightweight and easy-to-use

Cons

  • Heavy vibration
  • A bit mediocre in build quality

For the occasional task around the home, this is a solid option. You get a lot more than what you pay for with this saw, but it’s still not up to par with professional tools.

It may not be destined for high places, but it could be right for your garage. The DIY crowd should check it out!

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Do I Need a Corded Reciprocating Saw?

A reciprocating saw can be used to cut a lot, but it’s not always the best tool. Even the best of these saws will create a lot of vibration and make any real precision hard. You’re best off with a circular saw or table saw cutting 2x4s for instance.

For demolition work? A corded reciprocating saw stands ready to tear through pretty much anything that gets in your way. They’re able to power through most materials readily, you just have to make sure that you’ve got the right blade.

The decision to go with a cordless is a personal one. While some people find a use for them in their workshop, these saws are generally carried around a site. Corded saws provide a lot more power in a lighter package, at the expense of being bound to the outlet.

What to Look for When Choosing the Best Corded Reciprocating Saw

For the novice, it’s important to know what you’re getting into with any given saw. When it comes to choosing the best corded reciprocating saw, small differences can make a big impact on the end-user. You’ll want to look at all of the following before finalizing your choice.

Orbital vs. Standard Action

Unlike some saw types, orbital action isn’t just a vibration reduction mechanism in a reciprocating saw. Instead, it’s usually used as an aggressive option, with a longer stroke and more material removal.

Orbital action is something to look for if you’re mainly going to be cutting wood. It increases the cutting speed of the saw substantially, although it also makes the saw vibrate more.

Orbital action isn’t the best way to go when cutting metals, on the other hand. If you’re going to be ripping into copper or steel often then standard action is preferred.

The bottom line is that orbital action is great for aggressively cutting wood but you’ll want a standard option when cutting harder materials.

Power

Most corded reciprocating saws are going to make short work of the usual suspects.

Corded saws run from 10-12A or so. Higher amperage delivers more power to the blade, but the amperage is separate from the strokes per minute(SPM) of the saw.

Instead, higher amperage usually keeps the SPM level even when cutting through tougher materials. I’d recommend erring on the higher side if you think there’s going to be a lot of steel or masonry in your saw’s future.

On the other hand, if you’re only intending to cut wood and the occasional nail then you’ll be fine with 10A. It’s enough to get most jobs done in a reasonable amount of time.

Variable Speed

The variable speed on a reciprocating saw is usually controlled by a variable speed trigger. Pull it tighter and the saw will begin to run faster until it’s all the way back. However there are some models out where the speed is adjusted using a variable speed dial. Most saws top out at 2,600 to 3,000 SPM.

A smooth trigger is necessary for keeping control at lower speeds. It needs to have enough resistance to stay in place even as you move the saw through whatever you’re cutting, especially if you don’t have a trigger lock. Cutting down sheet metal, for instance, requires good control of the saw’s SPM.

It’s an important feature for those who are going to be cutting a wide variety of materials. Control leads to a better cut and longer lifespans for your blades as well.

Realistically, most demolition work is done in the top range of the SPM. I’d look for a saw with a trigger lock if you’ll primarily be cutting masonry and metal. For the average at-home craftsman it’s nice but not a requirement.

Ergonomics

Reciprocating saws run rough, producing a load of vibrations, even models which have anti-vibration technology onboard. It’s just part of what they do, even when you have the saw properly seated against the material.

You may not notice it after a couple of boards, but as the day wears long these saws can start to hurt. If you’re a professional then good ergonomics should be at the top of your list.

Grip Type

Is it molded for your fingers? 

Made with a good material? 

At a good angle for your wrist?

All of those contribute to comfort when using the saw. The last thing you need is your hands being in an awkward position and running a vibrating saw.

In my experience the most important part is the angle of the grip, the grips end up being a sticking point in your decision. 

You should also look at the foregrip of the saw. You’ll be using it a lot, and it should put your hand in a firm and controlled position. Some swivel as well, which is a nice touch.

Weight & Balance

Fortunately, corded tools tend to be light. In a reciprocating saw, you also need balance to make things easier on yourself.

Weights are usually added to these saws to keep them balanced, as well as reduce vibrations. A saw that is too light will create its own set of problems.

A well-balanced saw feels right in the hands, It’s a big consideration, especially if you’re a professional and need to use your tool for hours at a time.

Additional Features to Look For in The Best Cordless Reciprocating Saw

There are some other things to keep an eye out for when looking for a good reciprocal saw. The following are all things to look for.

Vibration Reduction

The reduction of vibration makes these tools much easier to use. However, even the best are still going to do a bit of bucking around when you run them. It’s just a consequence of the overall design.

Many saws have extra features, other than just weights, which help reduce vibration.

Trigger-Lock

Trigger locks are often available. They’ll set the speed on your saw to wherever the trigger has been pulled, allowing you to focus on controlling the saw as a whole instead of just the trigger.

They’re an excellent feature for those cutting a lot of material that requires lower SPM.

Any trigger locks should be very easy to access. They can represent a safety liability if you’re not able to quickly take them off.

Tool-less Blade Change

Reciprocating saws often required blade changes in the field. It’s a lot easier to do this with some kind of quick-change mechanism than having to break out the saw wrench.

Most modern saws have this feature. Just be aware that a saw which requires tools to change the blade can quickly become a hassle in the field.

Conclusion

There are a lot of reciprocating saws out there, but the most important thing is to match yours to your work. Spend some time learning which works best for what before making your purchase, the best corded reciprocating saw is often right in front of you.

The only question remaining is which saw will end up in your toolbox.

I'm a mechanical engineer by trade but my passions are woodworking, tools and DIY.

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