Devices that do not require a constant connection to the mains, but are powered by a battery, are more convenient in terms of mobility than their networked counterparts. But for the sake of autonomy, you have to sacrifice functionality, performance and often put up with the heavy weight of the tool. However, you can always choose the optimal combination of parameters. Especially if you choose products from well-known brands. The popularity of the manufacturer does not necessarily mean high cost. Budget-class models can completely cope with the task if you choose them correctly.
Features of cordless saws
Cordless electric hacksaws have the same functions as their corded counterparts. The main advantage of such tools is the ability to work autonomously, without requiring a constant connection to an electrical source. In addition, it is more convenient to work at heights with a reciprocating saw with a battery, since the cord does not get in the way and does not distract attention.
The disadvantages include lower power, and, accordingly, performance. It is worth considering that the battery makes the tool heavier, and even more so if there are several of them. A fair amount of weight can limit movement (after all, the tool is hand-held) and lead to rapid fatigue.
Experienced specialists generally believe that it is incorrect to apply the term power to electric hacksaws of this type. It is more correct to evaluate efficiency based on battery performance. The operating time of the tool depends on the battery capacity, which is measured in ampere-hours.
As a rule, new tools are powered by removable batteries. This significantly increases the service life of the electric hacksaw, because failure of the non-removable battery will lead to the need to replace the tool completely. In addition, removable batteries do not require interruption of work while recharging.
When choosing an electric hacksaw with a battery, first of all you need to decide how often the power tool will be used and what volumes of work will need to be performed with its help. For light loads, a not very expensive cordless reciprocating saw will do. As a rule, such options come with sets of basic consumables, but very rarely such tools are supplied with batteries. Typically, batteries and chargers have to be purchased separately.
If you need to work in low light conditions, a cordless electric hacksaw with LED lighting on the front can be useful.
Another important criterion can be considered the type of engine. There are two options to choose from: brushed (collector) and brushless (brushless). The second option has a significant advantage, resulting in a longer tool life.
How to choose the right device
When choosing a reciprocating saw, you must take into account the main characteristics of the device:
- Speed adjustment - this characteristic allows you to adjust the action of the tool to materials of different densities. Adjusting the speed by changing the force of pressing the start key is convenient in many ways, but requires some skill to accurately select the desired cutting intensity. Models with a switch in the form of a slider or wheel make it possible to set certain speed values without the risk of exceeding the desired value.
- Attaching equipment . Saw blades can be secured with or without a key. The second option is more preferable and is more common in modern devices, as it improves the ease of use of the tool.
- Power – determines the performance of the tool when working with materials of different structures and densities. It affects the length and speed of travel, as well as the type of saw equipment used.
- The cutting depth – for soft materials (wood) can reach 300 mm, when working with hard materials (metal) – 130 mm.
- Stroke frequency - the limit value in modern units is about 3000 strokes per minute. It is better to opt for models with the ability to adjust this parameter in order to adjust the cut for different types of material.
Which reciprocating saw would you buy for yourself?
HouseholdProfessional
The battery of reciprocating saws can be built-in or removable. The ability to rearrange the spare battery allows you to perform tasks without stopping to recharge the device. If the power source breaks down, it will be enough to replace only this part, and not buy a new tool, as if the built-in battery is unusable.
Most nail file models are sold without a battery included, which reduces the overall cost of the device. In this regard, it is better to purchase cordless tools of the same brand and supplement them with a pair of universal batteries, which can be switched from one device to another if necessary.
The saw blade can be made from various alloys, differing in their scope of application:
- tool steel (HSS) – suitable for cutting metal surfaces;
- high carbon steel (HCS) – works well with plastics and wood;
- combined steel (BIM) – combines the types of HSS and HCS, used for processing wood and plastic products;
- carbide (HM/CT) – cuts hard materials and abrasives such as tiles and steel.
Not all device models have a start lock, but it is important for safety and prevents accidental activation of the tool. When choosing a model, it would be a good idea to check the convenient location of this button relative to the start key.
Meaning of technical characteristics
The average weight of battery-powered electric hacksaws ranges from 1 to 3.5 kg.
Typically, professional-grade models weigh more than compact household tools. Expensive, high-quality units use durable materials, as well as various additions to expand functionality. All this, naturally, increases the mass of the reciprocating saw. Modern high-quality models from reliable manufacturers can last up to 5 hours on a single charge. But you should always remember that the battery charge can run out at the most inopportune moment. It would be a good idea to take extra precautions with you for your reciprocating saw, especially if you have a lot of work to do. For ease of use, some models of cordless electric hacksaws are equipped with a charging indicator. It can be placed either on the battery itself or directly on the body of the tool.
The best batteries include lithium-ion and lithium-polymer batteries that do not have a “memory effect”. They can be charged in any condition. In addition, such batteries are protected against overcharging and overheating. 10.8V lithium-ion batteries charge from minimum to maximum in approximately 3.5 hours. The operating time of the tool with such a battery will be about 2 hours. During this time, you can manage to cut from 30 to 190 branches with a diameter of up to 60 mm. A budget reciprocating saw with a 3 Ah battery can operate for about 1 hour. More precise values are indicated in the operating instructions for each specific model.
Hand saw. Basic information
Purpose of the tool
This tool is deservedly considered universal, because it is suitable for processing wood, metal and plastic. The cordless saw is used for repairs and installation of plumbing in the house, as well as installation of roofs. If necessary, the saw is suitable for pruning trees in the garden or cutting wood. If necessary, you can purchase different attachments that are suitable for working with glass and ceramics.
Cordless reciprocating saw design
Allows you to use it in a relatively small room, where, as they say, it is difficult to turn around with a more massive tool.
The saw body is long, so you can always find a place to store it. When turned on, only the hacksaw blade moves, so you will not make any hand movements. It is very convenient to cut pipes located in close proximity to the wall. Some types of hacksaw blades for cordless saws have a small width. Used for shape cutting on wood and metal. They can easily make the corners rounded so as not to cut themselves, and adjust the parts to the shape for joining.
Various dismantling works with a reciprocating saw go much faster. For example, if you need to replace windows, plastic or wooden, a cordless reciprocating saw will help you cut the frames and pull out the sashes without any problems.
Characteristics of the cordless reciprocating saw
Before you start choosing a saw of this type, study all its technical features. After all, each manufacturer has its own production nuances. First of all, you must understand for what purpose you are going to purchase the product - household or professional.
For everyday use, a regular inexpensive tool that is designed for light loads will do. Often, such models are sold with sets of consumables that can last for a long time.
Also, they come with detailed instructions describing exactly what purposes the saws are needed for. For professional use, of course, you need a unit with more power and functionality.
The power of a cordless reciprocating saw
Experts say that it is not correct to use the term power for this tool. The performance of the saw can be judged by the indicators of the battery from which it operates. The power of a cordless reciprocating saw for wood depends on the voltage, and the operating time depends on the capacity, which is measured in ampere-hours.
High values indicate long-term operation without recharging. Current high-end models can work on a single charge for about 5 hours straight.
Note.
There are models to which you can connect several batteries, thus increasing the power of the tool.
The best power sources are considered to be lithium-ion or lithium-polymer products. They are made using special technologies that allow you to get rid of the memory effect. The advantage of this feature is that the battery can be recharged even if it is not completely discharged. Also, they are equipped with protection against overheating and overcharging, which extend their service life.
Speed of the cordless reciprocating saw
There are models from some manufacturers on the market with stroke rates up to 3 thousand/min. This is a very good indicator, which is necessary for high-performance work. For example, to cut laminate, take a saw with small teeth and determine the operation at high speeds.
This cutting method allows you to make an even cut and prevent the formation of jagged edges. Experts advise purchasing a saw with the ability to adjust speed for various jobs.
Regulating the speed of the saw blades can be done in two ways. With one of them, just press the start button of the tool. The more effort you put into pressing, the higher the speed. The disadvantages include the inability to maintain constant work force at the required level.
The second method involves the presence of an adjustment wheel, which is located either at the top of the body or on the handle of the saw. Often there are numbers on the wheel indicating the speed mode. Before turning on a reciprocating saw with such a device, you must first select the desired speed.
Cordless reciprocating saws for gardening or other work are also equipped with a pendulum stroke - reciprocating and up and down with a slight slope.
This allows you to extend the life of the tool and also remove sawdust from the cutting site. Also, this move increases the speed of work when comparing such models with those that do not have such a functional feature. It should be noted that a pendulum stroke is not needed if the saw will be used for figured cutting.
Note.
Battery dust models for professional use are equipped with several pendulum positions, allowing for high-performance work.
Many models of this tool have a special structural part called a shoe. In appearance it resembles the sole of a shoe. This is a metal part that is attached to the front of the body. This allows you to cut with high precision and adjust the depth of immersion of the saw into the blade.
The saw in cordless reciprocating models is held using a so-called chuck. In inexpensive models, saws are replaced using a hexagon. In more expensive models, I replace the files without any problems using a lever that loosens the fixation. Also, there are models with a key on the body specifically for these purposes. The chucks are of a universal type, allowing you to secure the saw with the teeth facing up.
Different models of reciprocating saws, from different manufacturers, have their own additional features in operation. For example, some types are equipped with a charging indicator, which is located on the body of the tool or on the battery. There may be LED lighting in front of the saw, making it easier to work in a semi-dark room. There are also models with a thermal relay that turns off the power when the load is high.
Important!
Most cordless saws have a soft start, allowing you to start working without jerking.
The best reciprocating saw manufacturers
When choosing an electric hacksaw, it is quite reasonable to give preference to manufacturers who have proven themselves on the positive side. A high-quality tool will last a long time and will not present unexpected unpleasant surprises.
First of all, you should consider cordless reciprocating saws from trusted companies with a long history and good reputation.
The German company Bosch is well known to many. Almost everyone has used some kind of tool from this manufacturer. Bosch equipment is traditionally distinguished by its reliability and functionality, meets internal quality standards and is able to satisfy the needs of the most sophisticated consumers. In the range of Bosch reciprocating saws you can find both budget and quite expensive models.
The Japanese manufacturer Makita is deservedly considered a giant in the field of power tools. It cannot be said that every reciprocating saw from this company is without its shortcomings. Owners of budget models often complain about a lack of power, or even incorrect parts. But professional-grade electric hacksaws are considered one of the best, both in terms of ease of use, performance and, of course, reliability.
The German quality of Metabo electric hacksaws speaks for itself. There are practically no complaints about reciprocating saws from this manufacturer.
Products from one of the oldest German companies producing power tools, Aeg, are rightfully included in the list of the best in quality. The shortcomings noted by owners of budget models from this manufacturer, as a rule, are the result of using the tool not in accordance with the loads recommended by the manufacturer.
The American company DeWalt, specializing in the production of various power tools, is also widely known. The company is actively introducing innovative solutions into its products, which cannot but arouse interest.
The best saws on the market
Cordless reciprocating saws for working with various materials
Cordless reciprocating saws are available in the product line of many power tool manufacturers. Some of them are particularly reliable and easy to use.
AEG BUS18BL-0
The brushless tool AEG BUS18BL-0 is designed for working with thin sheet metal, wood and plastic. The existing pendulum stroke helps to increase the speed of wood processing. A lithium-ion battery and charger are not included. You can separately purchase a set of batteries and a charger, which will cost 23 thousand rubles.
Metabo Powermaxx ASE 10.8
The universal saw is used for processing wood, drywall, metal and plastic pipes. The tool is equipped with user-friendly and user-friendly controls and easy accessory changes.
MILWAUKEE HACKZALL C12HZ-0
The high-performance cordless saw uses rechargeable batteries that use innovative technology for releasing stored energy, which results in an increase in power and makes it possible to use the tool in frosty conditions.
Compactness (length of the device is only 28 cm) and excellent ergonomics allow you to work with one hand and in cramped conditions. But due to the light weight of the instrument, a fair amount of vibration is felt. The rechargeable battery is not included with the saw.
Makita JR100DZ
The compact tool can be used in everyday life and professional activities. It is convenient to work with the tool in different positions.
With its help, you can cut metal pipes and wood to a depth of 5 cm. Power is supplied from lithium-ion batteries, which (like the charger) are not included in the package.
Budget cordless reciprocating saws
Inexpensive reciprocating electric saws are usually household models that are not designed for a large volume of complex work. But for occasional use they will become effective helpers. When choosing, you need to take into account that many of them do not include batteries and chargers.
Einhell TE-AP 18 Li
Technical characteristics: Revolutions: up to 2600 per minute Blade stroke: 22 mm Maximum cutting thickness of wood / metal: 100 / 6 mm Weight: 2.1 kg Quick-release fastening of the file: yes Speed adjustment: yes Pendulum stroke: no Soft start: yes Backlight: no | |
One of the smallest reciprocating saws, powered by an 18 V Li-Ion battery, has an ergonomic shape, a soft handle, and also allows you to change the saw blade without additional tools. Unfortunately, this model cannot boast of special performance. It will not withstand sawing on an industrial scale, since there is no fuse to prevent overheating. Suitable only for dry wood (the ability to cut steel up to 6 mm is also stated). The saw comes with a blade for working with wood. The price of the tool is 4800 rubles. Battery “Einhell Power X-Change 18 V / 2.0 Ah” – 3000 rub. Charger “POWER X-CHANGE Einhell” – 2200 rub. In total - 10,000 rubles. |
Ryobi ONE+ RRS1801M
Technical characteristics: Revolutions: up to 3100 per minute Blade stroke: 22 mm Maximum cutting thickness of wood / metal: 180 / 6 mm Weight: 1.9 kg Quick-release fastening of the file: yes Speed adjustment: yes Pendulum stroke: no Soft start: no Backlight: no | |
A good Japanese instrument in terms of price and quality ratio. Equipped with anti-vibration protection and quick-release blade lock. The Li-Ion One+ 18V battery increases performance by 10% compared to conventional batteries. The set includes a wood saw. The price of the tool is 5000 rubles. Battery “Ryobi ONE+ RC18120-120 (18 V; 2.0 Ah; Li-Ion)” + charger “RC18120” – 5000 rub. In total - 10,000 rubles. |
Black+Decker GKC108
Technical characteristics: Revolutions: up to 3500 per minute Blade stroke: 16 mm Maximum thickness of wood cutting: 75 mm Weight: 1.2 kg Quick-release fastening of the file: yes Speed adjustment: no Pendulum stroke: no Soft start: yes Backlight: no | |
A very lightweight cordless electric hacksaw, used mainly for cutting branches. The design includes a clamping paw to hold the material being cut. When installed with suitable files, it is suitable for working with metal and plastic. This model is equipped with a charge indicator. The kit also contains a wood blade, instructions, a 10.8 V Li-Ion battery and a charger. The price of the tool is 6500 rub. The kit includes a charger and one 10.8 V, 1.3 Ah battery. |
Makita JR102DZ
Technical characteristics: Revolutions: up to 3300 per minute Blade stroke: 13 mm Maximum thickness of wood cutting: 50 mm Weight: 1.1 kg Quick-release fastening of the file: no Speed adjustment: no Pendulum stroke: no Soft start: yes Backlight: yes | |
An interesting version of a reciprocating saw, which has a backlight, two switches (one on the body, the other on the handle), and the ability to electronically adjust the speed. There are ventilation holes on the body of the tool to cool the motor. And most importantly, this reciprocating saw is compatible with jigsaw files. True, you can’t change the blade without a key. Includes 2 files and a key for the clamp lock. The price of the tool is 4800 rubles. Battery “BL1013 (Li-Ion; 10.8 V; 1.3 Ah)” – 1300 rub. Charger “Makita 194588-1” – 1700 rub. In total - 7800 rubles. |
Bosch KEO
Technical characteristics: Revolutions: up to 1600 per minute Blade stroke: 20 mm Maximum thickness of wood cutting: 80 mm Weight: 1.1 kg Quick-release fastening of the file: yes Speed adjustment: no Pendulum stroke: no Soft start: no Backlight: no | |
A small tool with a built-in 10.8 V battery suitable for working with branches. The switch is a trigger type; the speed of the saw depends on the force of pressure on it. To prevent accidental activation, a special stopper is provided in the design. There is a charge indicator on the body; a key is not required to change blades. Comes complete with charger, wood saw blade and A-bar for trimming overhanging branches. The price of the tool is 5400 rubles. The battery is built into the case. The power supply for charging is included. |
Model comparison table
Having familiarized you with the description of each of the selected models, we decided to compile a special table in which you can visually compare individual technical characteristics of the models and perhaps highlight something special for yourself.
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Model | Stroke length (mm) | Cutting depth (mm) | Battery voltage (V) | Speed (rpm) | Device dimensions (mm) | Model weight (kg) | Cost (rubles) |
BLACK+DECKER BDCR18N | 22 | 150 | 18 | 3000 | 170×83×388 | 1,5 | from 4,088 to 4,490 |
Metabo PowerMaxx SSE 12 BL | 16 | 80 | 12 | 3000 | no data | 1,6 | from 15,475 to 18,775 |
Metabo SSE 18 LTX Compact Box | 13 | 180 | 18 | 3100 | no data | 1,7 | from 8,243 to 10,599 |
BISON Standard SPL-181 | 22 | 180 | 18 | 2600 | 390×100×190 | 2,2 | from 7,881 to 9,485 |
AEG BUS 18-0 | 18 | 210 | 18 | 3600 | no data | 3,5 | from 7,426 to 7,900 |
BOSCH GSA 18 V-LI C 0 L-BOXX | 21 | 200 | 18 | 3050 | 100×204 | 2,5 | from 10,537 to 13,300 |
Worx WG894E.5 2.0Ah ×1 | 16 | 60 | 20 | 2200 | no data | 1,3 | from 8 690 to 8 699 |
Professional electric hacksaws with battery
In cases where a tool is needed for constant and extensive work, you should definitely choose professional cordless hacksaws. These models can be quite expensive, but their quality is worth it. They can work without interruption for a long time and allow you to take on the most complex tasks.
MAKITA DJR186Z
Technical characteristics: Revolutions: up to 2800 per minute Blade stroke: 32 mm Maximum cutting thickness of wood / pipe: 255 / 130 mm Weight: 3.5 kg Quick-release fastening of the file: yes Speed adjustment: yes Pendulum stroke: no Soft start: no Backlight: yes | |
An electric hacksaw from a well-known manufacturer with protection from moisture and dust using XPT technology is suitable for construction and carpentry work. The switch is equipped with a safety lock against unintentional starting of the tool. The ability to independently replace the brushes, thanks to easy access to them, makes it easier to maintain the reciprocating electric saw. A backlight is provided for working in low light conditions. A set of files is included in the kit. The price of the tool is 12,000 rubles. Battery “BL1840B (18V, 4 Ah, Li-Ion)” – 5500 rub. Charger “DC18RC Makita 195915-5” – 4000 rub. In total - 21,500 rubles. |
AEG BUS18BL-0
Technical characteristics: Revolutions: up to 3200 per minute Blade stroke: 28 mm Maximum cutting thickness of wood / metal: 255 / 20 mm Weight: 3.1 kg Quick-release fastening of the file: yes Speed adjustment: yes Pendulum stroke: yes Soft start: no Backlight: yes | |
An excellent reciprocating electric saw with a brushless motor copes with thin metal structures, plastic and wooden materials. The instrument has a pendulum mechanism and a built-in backlight. Saw blades can be changed without a wrench. The price of the tool is 15,000 rubles. Battery “L1850R (18 V; 5 A*h; Li-ion)” – 6500 rub. Charger “BL1218 (12-18 V)” – 3000 rub. In total - 24,500 rubles. |
Metabo ASE 18 LTX
Technical characteristics: Revolutions: up to 2700 per minute Blade stroke: 30 mm Maximum cutting thickness of wood / metal: 210 / 18 mm Weight: 3.6 kg Quick-release fastening of the file: yes Speed adjustment: yes Pendulum stroke: no Soft start: no Backlight: no | |
The electric hacksaw is designed to work with wood, metal and plastic materials. The saw blade can be rotated 180°. The gearbox housing is made of die-cast aluminum. Due to this, the new cordless reciprocating saw has a long service life. You can also note the multifunctional battery pack protection system. The saw is equipped with 2 5.2 Ah batteries, a charger, a hexagon and a plastic case. The price of the tool is 11,000 rubles. Battery “LiHD 18V, 3.5 Ah” – 7000 rub. for 2 pcs. Charger “ASC 30-36 V” – 3800 rub. In total - 21,800 rubles. |
DeWalt DCS380M2
Technical characteristics: Revolutions: up to 2950 per minute Blade stroke: 28 mm Maximum cutting thickness of wood / metal: 250 / 20 mm Weight: 3.3 kg Quick-release blade mount: yes Speed adjustment: yes Pendulum stroke: no Soft start: no Backlight: no | |
A professional reciprocating saw with a brush motor is quite large in size and has wide functionality. A special 4-position saw blade clamp and the ability to cut in all directions allows you to cut protruding elements flush with the wall. The kit includes: a suitcase, a charger and 2 sliding batteries 18 V, 3 Ah. The price of the tool is 28,000 rubles. A charger and 2 batteries of 18 V, 3 Ah are included in the kit. |
Bosch 18V GSA 18V-32
Technical characteristics: Revolutions: up to 2500 per minute Blade stroke: 32 mm Maximum cutting thickness of wood / pipe: 230 / 175 mm Weight: 3.5 kg Quick-release fastening of the file: yes Speed adjustment: yes Pendulum stroke: yes Soft start: no Backlight: yes | |
A professional-grade cordless electric hacksaw can easily handle wood and metal materials. The tool has an electronic speed control function, and the SDS system allows you to change saw blades without even taking off your gloves. Additionally, the reciprocating electric saw is equipped with a backlight. The set includes 2 hacksaw blades: for metal and universal. The package also includes 2 cases: for files and the tool itself. Don’t forget to put a quick charger and 2 18 V, 5 Ah batteries in the package. The price of the tool is 24,000 rubles. Battery “GBA (Li-ion; 18V; 3.0 A*h)” – 4000 rub. Charger “AL 1820 CV (14.4-18 V)” – 6200 rub. In total - 34,200 rubles. |
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FAQ
What is the optimal weight for battery-powered reciprocating saws?
Non-professional units usually weigh 1.5-5 kg. It is preferable to choose lighter models, as they are more convenient to work with for a long time.
What power of reciprocating saw is optimal for home use?
For simple gardening and household work with low frequency of use, a 900-1200 W tool is sufficient.
What should be the stroke length of the working blade?
The optimal stroke size of the saw attachment is 19-32 mm.
What cutting speed is preferable for household models?
High-quality electric hacksaws perform from 2500 to 3000 cuts per minute.
What depth of cut is best to choose?
For domestic use, models with an indicator of 60-100 mm are suitable.
A reciprocating saw with a battery is a practical and functional purchase for the home. At an affordable price, you can buy a productive device with the necessary parameters and saw attachments for processing certain types of material.
Independence from the electrical network makes the device convenient when working in hard-to-reach places, at heights and far from sources of electricity.
The best cordless circular saws
A hand-held cordless circular saw is designed for sawing boards and timber. Features high performance. The choice in favor of a circular saw is relevant for a roofer, a specialist in working with slab lumber. The best manufacturers offer power tools with effective safety systems and protection against injury.
DeWALT DCS576N
Although small in size, it is equipped with a powerful motor that rotates a disk with a diameter of 190 mm. Speed of 5800 rpm ensures high performance. Brushless electric motor with overheating protection. The motor does not require constant maintenance. Easily cuts 60mm thick boards at right angles. Convenient guide rulers make cutting precise, regardless of the size of the workpiece.
Constant airflow of the cutting line allows for visual control. An industrial vacuum cleaner can be connected via the included adapter. The cutting depth is set with high precision. The smooth sole ensures easy gliding on rough workpieces.
Advantages:
- Protective cover;
- Instant disk stop;
- Availability of backlight;
- Rubberized handle with anti-slip material;
- 3 year warranty.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
Ryobi R18CS-0
Equipped with a reliable brushed motor powered by an 18V battery. The speed of 4700 rpm guarantees high performance. The battery capacity is enough for 270 cuts of 50x100 mm timber. Light weight makes it convenient to work in difficult conditions. Adjustment of the cutting angle and depth of cut is carried out without using a key. A rotating pipe is provided for connecting an industrial vacuum cleaner.
Works with a thin disc with a diameter of 165 mm. A distinctive feature is a neat, even cut at any angle. This is the ideal cordless saw for wood, plywood, chipboard and countertops. The depth of cut at a right angle is 52 mm.
Advantages:
- Smooth operation of the start key;
- Low level of vibration, noise;
- Performance is not inferior to network models;
- Easily handles oak boards;
- Transparent protective cover;
- Carved degree scale.
Flaws:
- Shortage of branded discs.