Reciprocating Saw Vs Jigsaw: Which One To Buy?

There are various types of saws. There are circular saws, reciprocating saws, and jigsaws. But which one is the best for you? In this article, we look forward to comparing the reciprocating saw Vs jigsaw. Let’s try to reason which one is best. We will also look at their capabilities, advantages, and disadvantages.

Our Verdict

If you are not on a tight budget, then buy both. Both are excellent tools that have different purposes. Even though both employ the same cutting action, their functions vary. But if you are and need a powerful tool, then buy a reciprocating saw. But if you need to make plunge cuts or intricate cuts, then buy a jigsaw.

Reciprocating Saw Vs Jigsaw: Comparison Chart

Reciprocating Saw Vs Jigsaw: Differences

1. Safety

Reciprocating saw is regarded as a dangerous tool. The primary concern with using any saw is safety. Reciprocating saw is powerful, and the blade is the continuation of the body. This is quite useful when cutting overhead objects. But the exposed blade is a huge safety risk for novice users.

A jigsaw has a blade that is perpendicular to the tool. This places the blade away from the user and offers better safety. Also, a jigsaw can cut an object placed on a supporting medium. It’s is safer even for a novice user.

Bottom Line: Jigsaw. It offers more safety, and the blade position is also safer. Reciprocating a saw is a safety risk, be careful while using it.

2. Power

Both jigsaw and reciprocating saw have corded and cordless options. Corded ones tend to be more powerful. Usually, both have similar voltage figures, but their SPM can vary. Of the two, the reciprocating saw is more powerful. It is also regarded as a heavy-duty tool and is better suited for demolition sites.

A jigsaw, even though having the same voltage figure, is less powerful. Its SPM low compared to other tools.   

Bottom Line: Reciprocating saw. It has a higher SPM and is heavy-duty. 

3. Blade

The blades of the reciprocating saw and jigsaw are the most important aspects of it. Based on the cut, the material, and speed, the blades are different. Cutting through the metal and woods required other blades. 

In a reciprocating saw blade, various factors are essential. Which includes the number of teeth per inch (TPI), length, width, and thickness are significant. These factors are different for each object. TPI is the gullet size, width, and depth of the space between the teeth. Wider blades reduce bending and wobbling. The longer the blade is more profound, the cut.

In a jigsaw, the shanks are essential. There are T and U shank blades, and they are not cross-compatible. So be careful when you buy one. Also, material, teeth, and TPI are essential. The teeth shape can vary, so is the TPI. 

Bottom Line: Draw. The blade can vary based on the tool. The tool can vary based on their tool.

4. Accuracy

Jigsaw is the most accurate among the two. A reciprocating saw is a heavy-duty saw, and it makes for rough cuts. The cuts made with a reciprocating saw lacks the fine finish and is often very rough.

A jigsaw is more accurate. It can cut through different materials with ease. It is also used to make clean and intricate cuts on various materials. The cuts are often smooth and clean. 

Bottom Line: Jigsaw. It offers a clean cut. 

5. Dealing With Complicated Cuts

A reciprocating saw is not good when dealing with complicated cuts. There are thin saw blades that can make plunge cuts. But they are not efficient and effective. 

A jigsaw is far better suited for complicated cuts. It can follow curves accurately and offers plunge cutting. They can cut the material at an angle. This is pretty handy when woodworking.

Bottom Line: Jigsaw. It can make intricate cuts and can cut materials at an angle. 

6. Versatility

Reciprocating saw is more versatile than a jigsaw. Reciprocating saw can cut through hardwood, metal, and fiberglass. It is better suited for demolition works and clearing a site. It is fast and packs brute force. It can also clear branches and do other smaller works like it.

A jigsaw is not as versatile as a reciprocating saw. It is suited for a smaller spectrum of works and is less versatile than a reciprocating saw. 

Bottom Line: Reciprocating Saw. It can cut through many materials and also act as a pruner among many. 

Reciprocating Saw Vs Jigsaw: Similarities

1. Cutting Action

The cutting action on both tools are similar. Both tools produce a push and pull mechanism on their blade to cut. A reciprocating saw employs a crank or Scotch yoke or a swashplate type drive or a captive cam drive. These types of drives produce the reciprocating motion. In a jigsaw also creates a similar mechanism

But there are other types of saws. They are orbital reciprocating saw and jigsaw. It makes circular motion along with push and pulls action. This improves the cutting speed and removal of debris. It is useful for soft materials like foam board and all. 

2. Working Materials

Both jigsaw and reciprocating saw can cut various materials. A jigsaw can cut through plastic, wood, plywood, and metal sheets. A reciprocating saw can cut through more materials than a jigsaw. But both are similar except when cutting hardwood, which the jigsaw can’t. 

3. Portability

Both tools are portable. Both come as either corded or cordless. The corded ones are less portable than the two. Cordless ones are less powerful but offer greater portability. 

Overview Of Reciprocating Saw

Reciprocating saws are power saws. They have a reciprocating mechanism to cut through different materials. But there is an exception with some saws using pendulum/orbital action for cutting. A reciprocating saw employs a crank or Scotch yoke or a swashplate type drive or a captive cam drive. These types of drives produce the reciprocating motion. Reciprocating saws often find their use in demolition works. They can also be used in plumbing, construction, and electrical works. It is a heavy-duty tool that is also portable and maneuverable. There are different types of reciprocating saws.

They vary in their construction and reciprocating action rather than function. They are either corded or cordless. Also, they can be different based on their orbital or reciprocating action. The cordless ones are more portable of all. They can cut through wood, metal, fiberglass, plaster, and stucco, among many. Reciprocating saws can cut the material quite fast.

It is useful when cutting overhead objects. But it leaves a rough cut and is dangerous to use. The blades of a reciprocating saw are also critical. The number of teeth per inch (TPI), length, width, and thickness are significant. These factors are different for each object. TPI is the gullet size, width, and depth of the space between the teeth. Wider blades reduce bending and wobbling. The longer the blade is more in-depth, the cut. 

It also has an ergonomic handle for easy handling. It also offers free movement and does not need a supporting mechanism. It also has a variable cutting speed and is quite versatile. On the downside, it produces rough cuts. Too rough, which demands a thorough polishing. Also, it is not ideal for intricate cuts. It can’t make plunge cuts. But some blades can get the job done. But they are not preferred for this particular role. A reciprocating saw is also quite dangerous to operate. So be careful and take precautions.

Top 4 Reciprocating Saws

1. Milwaukee 6519-31 Reciprocating Saw

The Milwaukee 6519-31 reciprocating saw features a 1⅛-inch stroke. It also has a powerful motor producing 3000 strokes per minute (SPM). It also has a built-in vibration reduction system, which makes it easier to use. Changing the blades is comfortable and does not need specialized tools. It has a clutch system that helps protect the internal gears. It also comes bundled with a carrying case. 

Features:

• No-tool blade change
• 1⅛-inch stroke
• Vibration reduction
• 3000 SPM motor
• Carrying case
• Clutch

2. DeWalt DCS380B Reciprocating Saw

The DeWalt DCS380B has a variable speed 3,000 SPM and comes with a 1⅛-inch stroke length. It runs on a 20V battery. It has a 4-position blade clamp. This helps in flush cutting and increases versatility. It offers a variable speed. Just squeeze the trigger hard for higher speeds. It is also lightweight. 

The main problems include excessive vibration and hand fatigue due to this. Also, the tool comes without a battery and charger, which is bad. Yet it is one among the best cordless reciprocating saws out there.

Features: 

• Four-position blade clamp
• 1⅛” stroke length
• Variable speed
• 3000 SPM motor
• Pivoting shoe
• Lightweight

3. PORTER-CABLE PCC670B Reciprocating Saw

The Porter-Cable PCC670B has a variable speed, 3000 SPM motor. The motor meets a 20-volt lithium battery. It has reduced 1-inch stroke and the tool-free blade release. It is lightweight and portable, packing a 20V motor, which is excellent. Also, it is very cheap for the features it offers.

But it is quite loud and gives off strong vibrations. Also, you have to buy the battery and charger separately. The durability of the tool is in question, but for the asking price, it’s ok.

Features:

• Roughly half the price as others
• Battery-powered 
• 3000 SPM Motor
• Variable speed trigger
• Cheap 

4. Makita JR3050T Reciprocating Saw

The Makita JR3050T Reciprocating Saw features a 1⅛-inch stroke for fast cutting. It comes with an 11-amp electric motor. It easy to maintain and has extended life. It has a 2-finger trigger with a lock-on, which helps to reduce finger fatigue. It also has a built-in dust blower, which is handy.

But it is slower than its competition. It also produces excessive vibrations. The bundled case is of lower quality too.

Features:  

• 11-amp engine
• 1⅛” stroke
• Ball and needle bearings
• Storage case
• Lock-on
• Built-in dust blower

Overview Of Jigsaw

Jigsaws are best for cuts that are intricate, precise, and complex. The saw has a slim long bade that cuts by a push and pull action. Even though it falls in the same category as that of power saws, it is quite specialized.

The main advantage of the jigsaw is its ability to make plunge cuts. It can start the cut from the middle of aboard. It is also useful when creating complex cuts. And if you have the right blade, then you can cut through various materials. A jigsaw can cut wood, ceramic tiles, countertops, and sheet metal. In a jigsaw has perpendicular to the cutting surface. There are different types of jigsaws. They vary in their construction and reciprocating action rather than function. They are either corded or cordless.

Also, they can be different based on their orbital or reciprocating action. Orbital actions involve a circular motion along with the reciprocating action. Of the corded and cordless ones, cordless ones are more portable. It is also safer compared to a reciprocating saw.  The main disadvantage includes cutting hardwood. Jigsaws are not designed to cut through hardwood. They are also not useful for making flush cuts. They are also not as versatile as that of reciprocating saw.

Top 5 Jigsaws

1. Bosch JS470E Jigsaw

Bosch JS470E offers a smooth and accurate cutting experience. It provides a tool-less blade change. It also has a unique blade ejection mechanism. It also provides four orbital cutting actions. This helps you to choose between speed and precision. It is a 7-amp unit with variable speed. It can cut through wood, steel, and other materials. It can cut up to 6-inch thick wood and 1/2 -inch thick steel.

It also offers higher stability and can cut objects at an angle. But it is costlier than others. Also, at a lower speed, you can’t lock the trigger, which makes it difficult. 

Features:

• Very stable machine
• Extreme accuracy
• Great power
• Four orbital settings
• Bevel capabilities
• Tool-less blade release

2. Black And Decker BDEJS600C Jigsaw

BLACK & DECKER BDEJS600C Jigsaw is value-priced. It has a 5-amp motor. It has a smart select feature that has four settings. The motor produces 3,000 SPM with a ¾-inch stroke length. Also, you can make a 45-degree bevel cut using this. The BDEJS600C has a built-in dust blower. It also has a tool-free blade change feature. It also has a variable trigger speed. It also quite light at 4.6 pounds, which is great. Also, it produces fewer vibrations.

Even though it has a varied speed trigger, it doesn’t have a speed dial and ability to lock speed. Also, it won’t accept U-shank blades.

Features:

• Curve control technology
• Tool-free blade change
• Can make a 45-degree bevel cut
• Dust blower
• Cheap

3. DeWalt DCS331B Jigsaw

DeWalt DCS331B Jigsaw comes with four-position orbital action. It is also cordless hence more portable. It offers 3,000 SPM, which is similar to the speed and cutting power as of the corded version. It comes equipped with a blower fan. But the blower is relatively ineffective. But it offers cleaner and smoother cuts. Also, it has a 3-year warranty. 

On the downside, it is heavier than its competition. Also, it doesn’t come with a battery or a charger. With both the battery and charger, it is quite costly. 

Features:  

• Cordless
• Clean, smooth cuts
• Three-year warranty
• 3,000 SPM

4. Makita JV0600K Jigsaw

Makita JV0600K Jigsaw has a 6.5-amp saw with three orbital settings. It offers better power and control compared to the competition. It is capable of producing 3,100 SPM and has a stroke length of ¾-inch. It also makes significantly few vibrations. This is thanks to the presence of an internal counterbalance system. It also has a tool-less blade release system and a dust port. You can attach a vacuum machine to the dust port—a handy feature. 

One demerit is that the speed setting is not controlled by the trigger but by setting. It also comes with a fair price, not too expensive or nor too cheap. Also, they force you to choose Makita type-B blades. That is a perfect blade but is costly.

Features:

• Powerful 6.5-amp motor
• 3,100 SPM
• Low vibration for smooth operation
• Through-body dust port with vacuum attachment

FAQs

Final Talk

Reciprocating saws are powerful and heavy-duty. It is also a versatile tool. A reciprocating saw has a powerful motor and can cut through wood, metal, fiberglass. It can be used to prune wood. It’s more useful in clearing objects and in demolition sites. This showcases its versatility and ruggedness. This also attributes to its decreased safety while operating. Be careful always. 

Jigsaws are safer and more precise. They use a push and pull mechanism to cut, but the blades are places perpendicular to the equipment. It can make complicated, curved, and plunge cuts. A jigsaw with an appropriate blade can also cut through various materials. 

If you are not on a tight budget, then buy both. Both are excellent tools that have different purposes. Even though both employ the same cutting action, their functions vary. But if you are and need a powerful tool, then buy a reciprocating saw. But if you need to make plunge cuts or complex cuts, then buy a jigsaw.