A power tool such as a jigsaw or reciprocating saw is a great option for DIY jobs.
When it comes to power tools, both jigsaws and reciprocating saws are essential cutting tools, but they serve different purposes. While they may look similar at first glance due to their back-and-forth blade motion, their functionality, precision, and applications differ significantly. If you're trying to decide which tool best suits your project, understanding their key differences will help you make an informed choice.
Jigsaw vs Reciprocating Saw: Key Differences
Choosing which saw is necessary for your next cutting task will depend on the results you require, as each power tool has its purpose.
Put simply, a jigsaw is a small hand-held power tool that typically rests on the material while in use. It utilises a small blade to cut very precisely and can be used to cut ornate curves with ease and accuracy.
Alternatively, a reciprocating saw is mainly used for straight cuts in larger materials which need to be cut down into smaller pieces. Reciprocating saws won't provide a fine or accurate cut due to them being demolition tools.
Reciprocating Saw or Jigsaw: Which Saw Should You Choose?
If you need a tool for precise, detailed cutting and working on delicate materials, a jigsaw is the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a powerful tool to handle demolition, rough cuts, or cutting in awkward spaces, a reciprocating saw is the way to go.
Ultimately, both tools have their place in a well-rounded tool collection. Depending on your project, you may even find that having both a jigsaw and a reciprocating saw allows you to tackle a wider range of tasks efficiently.
How to Use a Reciprocating Saw
Reciprocating saws are classed as a demolition tools so you won't achieve fine accurate cuts as with other types of sawssaws, but reciprocating saws have some clear advantages:
- Reciprocating saws remove the need to use a manual hand saw on a vast array of materials.
- A reciprocating saw is primarily used for quickly and easily cutting up materials into smaller pieces for processing or disposal.
- Reciprocating saws are great to use when cutting metal objects because they don't produce sparks as you would get with an angle grinder.
- You can also use a reciprocating saw for pruning trees and bushes instead of using a chainsaw.
How Thick Can a Reciprocating Saw Cut?
How thick of wood can a reciprocating saw cut, for example, will depend completely on the power output of the saw and the blade size fitted.
Ryobi offers various reciprocating saws for the job, including:
- The Ryobi 18V ONE+ Cordless Reciprocating Saw RRS1801M has a maximum cut depth of 180mm when used with the correct length of blade.
- The Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Cordless Reciprocating Saw RRS18X-0 has a maximum cut depth of 210mm when used with the correct length blade.
- The Ryobi Reciprocating Saw Blade Set RAK06RB (6 piece) includes a pruning blade, perfect for using a reciprocating saw to cut tree branches.
- The Ryobi Reciprocating Saw Blade Set RAK3RBWM features a selection of blades suitable for several different material types.
Which blade you use with the reciprocating saw will depend on what you want to cut as each blade will have a different specification and ability.
Get To Know Your Reciprocating Saw Blades
Can you use any blades for reciprocating saw and do all reciprocating saw blades fit?
Any blade with the industry standard reciprocating saw connection can be used. You can purchase blades with this attachment featuring different lengths, materials and teeth quantities suitable for cutting a vast array of materials.
But be aware, all reciprocating saw blades are not the same.
While reciprocating saw blades may look the same and have the same attachment but they can feature different body construction/material, higher or lower teeth count, can be rigid or flexible and will be suited to cutting specific materials.
However, all industry standard reciprocating saw blades will fit any Ryobi reciprocating saw. Similarly, all Ryobi reciprocating saw blades will fit most brands of reciprocating saws.
Browse all Ryobi reciprocating saws, blades and accessories.
Jigsaw Vs Reciprocating Saw FAQs
What is a reciprocating saw used for?
Reciprocating saws are classed as a demolition tool and are great for quickly cutting larger items down into smaller more manageable chunks.
While reciprocating saws are primarily demolition tools and are not used for fine accurate cutting, they are fantastic when renovating a room, workshop, or whole house.
- Reciprocating saws remove the need to use a manual hand saw on a vast array of materials.
- Reciprocating saws are great to use when cutting metal objects because they don't produce sparks as you would get with an angle grinder.
- You can also use a reciprocating saw for pruning trees and bushes instead of using a chainsaw.
Can I use a jigsaw instead of a reciprocating saw?
A jigsaw is not a direct substitute for a reciprocating saw. While both use a push-and-pull blade motion, a jigsaw is designed for precise, controlled cuts, whereas a reciprocating saw is built for rough, fast cutting in demolition and construction work.
Which saw is better for cutting curves?
A jigsaw is the best choice for cutting curves, thanks to its narrow, manoeuvrable blade and stable baseplate that allows for intricate designs.
Can a reciprocating saw make straight cuts?
Yes, a reciprocating saw can make straight cuts, but they tend to be rough and less precise compared to those made with a jigsaw or circular saw.
What type of blade should I use for metal cutting?
For cutting metal, use a bi-metal or carbide-tipped blade with fine teeth, as these are specifically designed to handle tough materials like pipes, nails, and sheet metal.
Which saw is better for DIY projects?
For most DIY projects that require precision, a jigsaw is the better option. However, if your projects involve heavy-duty cutting, demolition, or pruning, a reciprocating saw may be more useful.
Are reciprocating saws good for pruning trees?
Yes, reciprocating saws are excellent for pruning, especially when equipped with a pruning blade. They can cut through thick branches quickly and efficiently.
Do I need a different blade for wood and metal?
Yes, different blades are designed for different materials. A coarse-toothed blade is best for wood, while a fine-toothed bi-metal blade is ideal for cutting metal.
Can I use a jigsaw for demolition work?
A jigsaw is not ideal for demolition work because it is designed for precision cutting. A reciprocating saw is a better choice for rough demolition jobs.
Which saw should I use for cutting drywall?
A reciprocating saw is best for cutting drywall, as it can quickly remove sections without much effort, making it ideal for renovations and remodelling.
Browse all Ryobi reciprocating saws, blades and accessories.