How To Choose A Reciprocating Saw Professional Advice

Cordless circular saw

recently, such units seemed to us sheer fantasy. But as time goes on, wireless technologies are reaching a new level. Batteries have become so capacious, special motors are so economical, and chargers are fast, that even for such a powerful tool as a circular, the developers managed to organize an uninterrupted power supply. We take two modern batteries and a half-hour charge. That’s it, there won’t be any problems with energy (Makita BSS 610 RFE). It’s even easier if your circular saw is equipped with a unified battery from the same manufacturer as the rest of your tools. The power characteristics (output power, torque) of wireless circulars are in no way inferior to those of similar networked machines. Bosch GKS 18 V-Li (cutting depth 51 mm). Well, as for mobility and ergonomics, here they are beyond any competition, especially roofers-operatives who work at heights love them.

Makita BSS 610 RFE

How to choose a circular saw: professional advice

Today we will take a closer look at the main types of circular saws. Let’s define reasonable criteria for choosing a specific model. We will draw conclusions for recommendations based on the experience of practicing builders and employees of service centers. Join us.

• What is a circular for metal
• Plunge-cut circular saw
• Cordless circular saw
• Main selection criteria

• Power, speed, disc diameter, cutting depth
• Electronics on guard
• Mechanical features
• Ergonomics and something else

The electric circular saw (in the popular way “circular”, “parquet”) appeared in the twenties of the last century. As usual, several “organizations” have worked. At first, a radial-cantilever type of wood cutting machine was developed (Raymond DeWolt), a little later, under the Skilsaw brand, manual models (Salivan and Mitchell) began to be produced. There were also separate patents for side and integrated saws to A. Emmons and A. Steele, respectively. Well, the AEG company helped to “ground” the invention and promote it to the masses, the engineers of which were the first to connect the instrument to the general 220 volt network. Nowadays, the circular saw has reached perfection, the set of options and auxiliary systems for it has not changed for a very long time, not to mention the design features. It’s just that everyone is slowly pulling up to the premium class.

Circulars are considered to be one of the most technically challenging tools, even if you ignore the fact that they can have a full set of electronic bells and whistles available. The fact is that here it is necessary to constructively provide unprecedented safety measures (like all disk machines, “parquet floors” can be very traumatic), as well as to implement the high accuracy of many spatial mechanical settings. Self-repair of the circular is considered a risky enterprise due to the difficulty of restoring correct factory adjustments.

The main purpose of a circular saw is to perform longitudinal cutting of wood and its derivatives (OSB, chipboard, fiberboard, MDF, plywood), because this tool perfectly holds the line, a jigsaw is not comparable here. Naturally, cross-cutting for circulars will not be a problem either. But it would be strange if a modern cutting unit was not sharpened to work on other materials. Indeed, using various types of discs, and in some cases changing the shaft rotation frequency, it is possible to cut laminated workpieces, gypsum fiber board, plastic of various densities, multilayer materials (sandwiches), slate, plexiglass. In a word, almost all sheet panels are perfectly cut, including at an angle to the main plane. The only thing that is too tough for circulars is dense mineral materials (concrete, brick, plaster). True, some units can be equipped with a diamond disc and have a water supply, structurally these are full-fledged circulars (Makita 4101RH). There is still one iron “but”. A circular saw cannot cut along the curve of the mowing line.

Electronics on guard

Advanced circulars are stuffed with electronic systems to the eyeballs. This is quite predictable, since this tool is powerful and dangerous. The user needs help so that the mission is not impossible. If there is a financial opportunity, do not give up additional options, for performance and safety there are no unnecessary trifles.

For the benefit of the correct speed mode, the system for maintaining a constant spindle speed under load, the so-called constant electronics (DeWalt DWS520K), works. A special controller constantly reads the speed and when there is a local drop in speed (for example, when the feed is accelerated or when the tooling hits the compacted area of ​​the material), it is stabilized by an automatic increase in the outgoing power. The probability of a disc jam is reduced to almost zero, but the quality of the cut only improves. Obviously, this requires a certain power reserve (this is the prerogative of relatively large machines). Another point is the idle speed adjustment, preset. It is needed for manual selection of process parameters for materials with different physical characteristics (Metabo KSE 68 Plus). Not all models can boast of this option. And, by the way, the possibility of presetting is not a prerequisite for the presence of constant electronics, the only available frequency can also be stabilized.

Metabo KSE 68 Plus

In order not to overload the network when the tool is turned on, since the starting currents, albeit in a short period of time, significantly exceed their rating. Almost all more or less powerful circulars have a soft start system. The rig does not accelerate immediately, which eliminates the jerk of the tool and protects the gearbox parts from unnecessary shock loads, the unit lives much longer (“Fiolent” PD 3-70E).

If the operator is in a hurry to finish what he started and does not listen to the “well-being” of the circular saw, the overload protection system will receive a signal from overheated motor windings or react to a sharp drop in power consumption and turn off the power, preserving the performance of an expensive tool.

The electrodynamic brake stops the disc abruptly after the release of the start button (AEG BKS 18). The system is designed to protect the operator from possible injury, the part from damage, and the machine from kickback.

AEG BKS 18

Plunge-cut circular saw

Another class of circulars is the plunge saw. It is designed to plunge into the workpiece anywhere, not just from the edge. The lower automatic cover is completely absent here, and the disc is located above the base plate and is lowered only when the start button is pressed. Naturally, the cutting depth is adjustable, often with a range of millimeters (DWS520K).

Dewalt DWS520K

The submersible mechanism (something similar is implemented in the wall chasers) allows for local repair of the roof, dismantling several selective floorboards, and cutting an opening in the countertop. Grooves, slots, gutters can be made without much difficulty. For correct work with sandwiches and laminated materials. The top layer can be cut with a preliminary cut to an incomplete depth of the workpiece, thereby eliminating the risk of chips. All this is done not only perpendicular to the plane of the part, but also under a variable slope.

Mechanical features

If the rig is deafly jammed, the motor can fail very quickly, there is a possibility of a kickback. To protect against such a nuisance, a slip clutch is used. The working shaft of the motor will continue to rotate even if the disc is stationary. Don’t worry, the system won’t work unnecessarily.

Protection against accidental activation is realized by installing an additional button in the area of ​​the main handle. To energize the motor, press it simultaneously with the start button (Skil 5064AA). It is, perhaps, impossible to make such a chord unintentionally, especially since the “fuse” is usually sunk into the head. Often (for other tools) this button allows you to lock the trigger on, this will not work here. The toothed disk should always be under control.

For the convenience of replacing the disc, the spindle can be locked with a button or a lever, in some models literally in any position (you do not need to scroll to look for the gripping point. Bosch GKS 65 CE Professional). If there is no lock, you have to wield two keys at once. The nut itself can be tightened with a wrench / screwdriver, or it can be made in a “toolless” version. Quick-clamping.

Bosch GKS 65 CE Professional

A lot of the functionality of the circular depends on its base plate. Note that it is on it that all mechanical adjustments and fasteners for auxiliary elements are installed. Traditionally, platforms made by casting light alloys are considered to be of higher quality. They unambiguously indicate the professional class of the instrument, since they keep their geometry well (Interskol DP-235 / 2000M). However, do not discount thick stamped steel pads. They are more resistant to shock loads (do not crack from an accidental impact), have a lower impact on the price of the product, and are also used in tools for professionals (Bosch GKS 65 CE Professional).

“Interskol” DP-235 / 2000M

An important point is the adjustment of the inclined cut. Angle sawing is realized precisely by changing the position of the platform relative to the entire upper part and the disc in particular. Usually the tilt is set at different angles: 30 °, 45 °, and in some machines it is extended to 50–55 °. The mechanism for setting the cutting depth is also located here. As a rule, this is all made in the form of grooves in the shape of a quarter circle (in some cases graduated) and rods with wing / lever clamps. The main advantage of quality control elements is speed, reliability and accuracy of fixing (Kress 1400 HKS). Backlash here is extremely unwanted guests.

Another advantage of the well thought-out platform is the ability to set the saw in a stationary position. This refers to the option of creating a machine without using a special table. This moment will be relevant for all cars, but for especially powerful and heavy ones. Even more so.

To perform a high-quality straight cut, circular saws are already equipped with a parallel stop in the basic configuration, by the way, it can also be light-alloy. However, the most accurate sawing work can be achieved using a guide bar. The tire is bought separately (often they come from other manufacturers), but the sole must have a special groove. If it is necessary to work “by hand” on the markings. You need to control the fishing line, for this a special slotted opening is made in front of the base plate. An interesting option is implemented in the EVOLUTION 180 XTREME saw, where a laser mower line builder is built into the handle, during operation you just need to combine it with the markings.

EVOLUTION 230 XTREME

A compulsory accessory for the circular saw is a spring-loaded cover that completely hides the blade and releases it only when starting cutting (you need a stop on the workpiece). The cover should slide easily and always return to its original position. To prevent the disc from being squeezed from the sides by the already cut material and not stopping, a “riving knife” is used in the design.

Power, speed, disc diameter, cutting depth

The diameter of the cutting disc (outer, not the size of the bore). It can be said without exaggeration that this is the main parameter of the circular. Based on it, manufacturers are forced to compose a specific model. The larger the disc, the more powerful the motor must be in order to spin it up to the required speed, the more torque is required to maintain this speed and there is no jamming, the more technologically advanced the stabilization system should be so that there is no beating, vibration and noise, the heavier , overall, the saw will be more expensive. But on the other hand, large tooling allows you to saw more massive workpieces, thicker material.

However, it is not enough just to pay attention to the size of the circle, it is much more important to have an accurate idea of ​​the maximum cutting depth. Developers almost always indicate these parameters in their passports, both for perpendicular and beveled cut. There is some conditional separation:

1. Light class (40-50 mm). Sheet materials, work “on site”.
2. Middle class (50-65 mm). The most common, universal.
3. Heavy class (65–140 mm). These are massive, purely professional machines.

The convention is that many companies issue their own special classification (Makitov people, for example, do not release babies at all and move a little forward in this matter). It turns out that we, ordinary users, can only listen to our needs, choose a priority in the ratio “maneuverability / versatility / strength”, based on the specifics of the proposed work. For example, Hitachi C13U (weight 13 kg, disc 335 mm, 2000 watts) and Hitachi C6MFA (weight 3.4 kg, disc 165 mm, 1010 watts). Straight cut depth ratio for these models: 128 mm to 57 mm respectively.

Left: Hitachi C13U, right: Hitachi C6MFA

I would also like to note that in case of emergency, you can cut a very bulky part by making a cut from both sides (yes, for correct operation, the disc does not have to go through the workpiece).

What else gives a power reserve? If there is a need to compare two circulars with the same depth, then a stronger motor of one of them will provide better frequency stability, longer continuous operation, and faster cutting of a denser material. Watts under the hood are traditionally related to the diameter of the rig and, again, conditionally, the units are credited to one of the three corresponding classes:

1. Up to 800 W.
2. 800 to 1200 W.
3. than 1200 W (for example, Hitachi C9U2. 2 kW, Makita 5143R. 2.2 kW).

Makita 5143R

Disk rotation speed. What does it give, besides the speed itself? There are two main nuances. First, the faster the shaft moves, the cleaner the cut is (although cleanliness depends more on the type of disc. The number and shape of teeth). Second, high speed is the opposite of torque. Third, high speed is high temperature and some plastics can melt during sawing. If the frequency has become a stumbling block (read “choice”), then you need to compare saws with the same diameter of the cutting disc. Better yet, find a model with idle speed control.

How to choose a reciprocating saw: professional advice. The principle of operation of reciprocating saws

Working with a reciprocating saw is easy enough, but it’s worth a little practice if you need precision in your movements. The principle of operation of the device:

• The device of the reciprocating saw allows for reciprocating movements, which have the ability to swing.
• Due to the presence of an adjustable support “shoe” it is possible to cut in any direction, get to hard-to-reach places and make notches and cuts at an angle, close to vertical surfaces.
• The reciprocating chain saw chain is usually hidden in an ergonomic case to prevent contamination of this mechanism during operation.

This principle of operation makes using an electric saw simple.

Reciprocating saw care rules

The instrument requires constant maintenance. If the device is not serviced, it will fail or deteriorate its performance. How to properly care for your saw:

1. Before use, it is imperative to check the performance of all components of the mechanisms. If there are malfunctions, then it is not worth working with such a tool.
2. Periodically check the tightness of the fixture body bolts. Loose housing can cause more serious damage or injury.
3. Do not leave the instrument in a damp room, in frost or simply place it on a wet surface.
4. It is not recommended to press on the tool or blade during the sawing process. This leads to engine damage.
5. In order for the engine to have time to cool down and recover, it is recommended to let the device rest. 1 stop after 30 minutes of continuous operation.
6. After work, clean the tool from material residues and dust. It is enough to wipe the already cooled device, first with a slightly damp cloth, and then with a dry.

To avoid damage, it is worth keeping the device only in a special case designed for the tool.

A reciprocating saw is an irreplaceable assistant in working with different types of materials. It is enough to install a suitable blade and get to work

There are several types of devices with different technical characteristics, paying attention to which you can make the right choice

Specifications and types

Reciprocating saws can differ in the type of power supply (mains and battery) and field of application (household and professional). Each saw type has its own characteristics.

Electric reciprocating saws have the following characteristics:

• Power, which is an indicator of the health of the device.
• Cycles of current movement. In household appliances, the frequency of movement is approximately 2.5-3 thousand strokes in 60 s.
• Travel parameter (length). By standards it is 20-30 cm.
• Possible cutting depth for each type of material. Defined in mm.

The electric wood chopper can be equipped with additional functions:

• Possibility of speed regulation (step or smooth).
• Pendulum stroke.
• Special mechanism for changing the hacksaw blade. This tool helps you change attachments quickly and without using additional tools.
• Vibration isolation and ergonomics. These indicators make the work with the saw more convenient.
• Frequency stabilizer that adapts to the load.
• Overload protection, which manifests itself as an emergency shutdown when the blade is jammed.
• Electrodynamic brake for instant stop of the tool stroke.
• Illumination in the area of ​​the nozzle.

If the saw model is equipped with all the additional mechanisms, then it will be easy to work. Additionally, it is worth correlating the capabilities of the tool with the type of work. This will help keep the chain mechanism and the entire saw from breaking.

Choosing a reciprocating saw

To choose a reciprocating saw, you should consider the advice of professionals. Those who have worked with a saw for more than one year recommend making a choice based on the following conditions:

• What the saw will be used for. It’s not worth buying a professional tool home. Its functionality will not appear in everyday conditions, and the price will be high.
• Depending on what the saw is for, the power and other technical parameters are selected. A very functional and powerful saw is not needed for working with wood.
• You need to roughly calculate how long you will have to work with the saw and where. The choice of battery or network model depends on this.

The tool is selected according to individual needs.

Purpose of the reciprocating saw

Seeing such a tool, an inexperienced craftsman may not immediately think about what exactly a reciprocating saw is used for. In fact, it is a multifunctional device that can cut:

• Wood;
• Plastic;
• Shingles;
• Metal;
• Brick;
• Aerated concrete;
• Chipboard;
• MDF;
• Plywood;
• Composite materials.

A reciprocating saw is needed for straight and curved cutting of the base of the material. The tool will become relevant in the carpentry workshop, in the process of repairing and just for cleaning the suburban area.

The purpose of the reciprocating saw is varied, so the tool can easily replace other devices:

• Circular saw;
• Lopper;
• Angle Grinder;
• Jigsaw;
• Chain saw;
• File;
• Grinder.

This device is often used as an electric woodcutter. Thanks to the unique shape of the nozzle, you can cut branches from trees in inaccessible places, it is easy to cope with any type of wood in the manufacture of parts. Thanks to this, the cordless reciprocating saw belongs to the universal types of attachments that can perform any type of work of varying complexity and direction.

How to choose a reciprocating saw. Professional advice

Today we will deal with saber saws, find their strengths and weaknesses, outline the differences between different models, find out why they are so loved in the West.

The good reciprocating pilaVybiraem saber piluBytovaya or professionalnayaSilovye characteristics Reciprocating pilRegulirovka skorostiNalichie hodaNalichie pendulum support and functionality bashmakaMehanizm replacement polotnaPredohranitelnaya muftaZaschita from peregruzokPlavny puskElektrodinamichesky tormozBlokirovka accidental start-fixing kurkaDvoynaya insulation of current-carrying uzlovSistema blanking vibratsiiIzolirovanny korpusObsluzhivanie schotokSetevoy kabelVoprosy ergonomikiAkkumulyatornye Reciprocating saws

If you are interested in another tool, then we suggest referring to the previous works of the cycle, where the main characters were: a screwdriver, an angle grinder, a chain saw, a jackhammer, an industrial hair dryer, a spray gun, a construction vacuum cleaner, a miter saw, a mixer, a grinder, a wall chaser, a puncher , stapler, jigsaw. We also recommend that you read the interesting article “Power Tools and Safety. Professional advice “.

A dark horse. The Champion we know almost nothing about. So it is with saber saws. They are incredibly popular abroad, “sabers” are consistently in the top three best-selling instruments, and in some countries they even hold an unconditional leadership. Women and children operating at their site (at the ready with a saber saw). Classic picture of modern bourgeois cinema.

Why a reciprocating saw is good

This unit is simple and understandable for any user who has at least some experience with an electric tool. Long body, pistol grip, trigger, a couple of switches, working blade. Nothing new. Even a beginner can easily figure out what’s what and can easily find a worthy application for a multifunctional machine.

In fact, the reciprocating saw is an analogue of the familiar hand hacksaw, it is sometimes even called the “electric hacksaw”. The principle of this tool is the same as that of a jigsaw, it is not surprising that they are very often compared. In fairness, we note that the “saber” was developed a couple of decades earlier (1927) and became the progenitor of the jigsaw. The working blade reciprocates and selects the material with its teeth. Cutting occurs. At one time, the invention of the pendulum stroke became revolutionary, which significantly increased the efficiency of the saw. About him later.

Skeptics say that a reciprocating saw can be easily replaced with any other cutting tool, angle grinder, jigsaw, or a set of all kinds of saws. But is it

Firstly, the reciprocating saw is a truly versatile unit that will come in handy for the joiner, plumber, roofer, finisher, both at the amateur and professional level. It can cut wood, wood along with metal elements, steel, non-ferrous metals, stone, plastic, foam blocks, composites, ceramics, glass. You just have to choose the right canvas. We have absolute omnivorousness.

Second, this tool has a very good longitudinal layout. The narrow, elongated gearbox and long blade allow access into very confined spaces. Imagine that you need to saw off a pipe or beam flush with the wall, neither a circular, nor an angle grinder, nor a jigsaw will help here (with its short file, wide support platform and close body).

Third, the reciprocating saw is great for work on weight, even with parts of any shape. Corners, boards, bars, pipes, profile rolled products. For the same reason, the tool is very productively used for pruning trees (landscape architecture), when you need to carefully clear the crown, cut a large branch.

Fourth, having good maneuverability, a reciprocating saw with a narrow blade will help make a figured cut. Cutting out curved parts from sheet materials, rounding of workpieces, manufacturing of complex structures. Not a problem, especially since there is usually, although not a large, support shoe.

Fifth, the “saber” is indispensable for dismantling work. She very quickly sawed the old window frame, cut openings, disassemble the steel heating. And the ability of a reciprocating saw to cut a wooden beam along with nails or screws driven into it is really worth a lot.

Sixth, this tool is much safer than grinders, circular and chain saws. When working with a reciprocating saw, there is not so much dust, there is no need to be afraid of sparks, scale, overheating of the workpiece.

Seventh, such saws are unpretentious in maintenance, they serve for a very long time.

Those who could not make friends with the reciprocating saw blame the two-handed apparatus, the absence of a support roller and a full-fledged platform (web pulling). The disadvantages of these nuances can be called conditionally, after all, this is not a jigsaw. “Saber” solves a much wider range of tasks.

Choosing a Reciprocating Saw, Household or Professional

The reciprocating saw will be a good helper for the home craftsman, it will be useful both when working in the garden and when building a country house. That is why, for non-professional use, you can pay attention to the “hobby” class models from well-known manufacturers. They are of no less quality than their industrial counterparts, simply designed for less intensive work. They are well equipped and often have the same set of functions and capabilities. Household reciprocating saws need periodic “rest”, while a professional machine, thanks to particularly durable parts with a huge resource, is able to work without stopping the entire shift.

Many people have a question: why do they make a tool that must be turned off periodically It’s simple: the manufacturer makes it possible to choose a saw according to need, which is several times cheaper. over, without chasing super performance, it can make the machine lighter, more economical, more compact. Often, a larger number of universal or special equipment is included in a set for a household model. “Bought and drank”.

The purpose of a particular model (operating mode) is usually indicated in the user manual. Focus exclusively on the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding the period of continuous work, otherwise it is very easy to get lost in terms like “semi-professional”, “universal”, “hobby”, “for all types of work”. With those firms who delicately keep silent about such data, it is better don’t matter.

Power characteristics of reciprocating saws

Power for an electric tool is definitely one of the most important metrics. By giving preference to a more powerful motor, we can count on more performance. But it must be remembered that the reverse side of the medal will be a serious weight and dimensions of the product. This circumstance will also affect the price of the saw.

In the case of a reciprocating saw, we have the opportunity to choose a model with a power from 500 W (Metabo PSE 0525 or LEPSE PEN-0.5) to 1.5 kW (Makita JR 3070 CT). These are radical options, the bulk of the units consume in the region of 0.9-1.2 kW. Here is the time-tested sweet spot that gives the tool the greatest versatility.

Makita JR 3070 CT

Obviously, the maximum allowable size and type of equipment, its speed and stroke length directly depend on the power consumption of the engine. It turns out that the “voracious” machine will quickly cope with the task, cut a larger workpiece, and provide a better depth of cut in a harder material. These figures are just indicated by the manufacturers of saber saws in their passports. You should definitely pay attention to these numbers when choosing a model. The higher they are. The “better” the apparatus. So what are we looking for:

Number of strokes per minute, frequency (2.5-3 thousand strokes / min.). Length of the saw stroke, amplitude (19-32 mm). Depth of cut for certain materials (indicated in millimeters).

It is best to cut different materials at different speeds. It is a known fact. This is why saber manufacturers supply their tools with stroke rate limiters (Skil 4900AA). This function is available in all reciprocating saws, although it is implemented in different ways.

Skil 4900AA

The first option is to use a sensitive electronic button (usually large) with a long stroke, which can be “accelerated”. This method is stepless, but it will require a certain “sleight of hand” from the operator.

Option two. advanced. A wheel or a slider sets one of several modes for limiting the maximum speed, and a more precise adjustment is carried out by the trigger. Thus, even with a full press on the start key, we will not exceed the speed limit.

Pendulum stroke

The pendulum motion allows the blade to swing back slightly from the cut line (Kress 1200 SPE). Due to this maneuver, the file heats up less, waste is easier to remove from the working area, and the cutting speed increases noticeably. Note that this option is not available in all models, moreover, it is not always relevant. For example, with curved cuts, the pendulum must be completely turned off.

Kress 1200 SPE

The cunning manufacturers have gone further, they have made the pendulum stroke on their reciprocating saws adjustable. Advanced machines have a special multi-position lever for this (Hitachi CR 13 VA). For each material with its own density, you can choose your own range.

Support shoe availability and functionality

This device makes it possible to rest the tool against the workpiece and stabilize it relative to the cutting plane. As a result, the speed and quality of sawing increases, the worker gets less tired.

As a rule, the stop moves along the saw axis and is fixed in several positions, then with its help we change the blade overhang, being able to use all its teeth. It is especially chic when the shoe can change its slope, or turn, then without any problems it is possible to adapt to a part that is complex in shape, or to cut at an angle, from bottom to top. By changing the position of the stop, it is possible to use the blade resource rationally, especially if the equipment is multifunctional (different teeth in different areas).

The correct support shoe is rearranged in the maximum number of positions, does not require auxiliary tools for this (just press the button on the body, or turn the lever), does not “play” and can even be completely removed.

Blade replacement mechanism

The rule of good form is considered to be a tool-free replacement of a file, when you do not need to run to the garage every time for a special key or screwdriver. Manufacturers offer many interesting options, but usually, in order to remove or insert the blade, you need to turn the lock lever or slide the locking ring. Interestingly, in many saws, access to this unit is blocked by a casing (in the closest positions), and you have to drive the tool until the chuck stops “on the surface”. Pulling it out with your hands by the file will not work.

The top of perfection is considered to be a chuck that can fix the blade with the teeth upward (AEG US 1300 XE). Indeed, a very good option when it is necessary to cut from the bottom up.

AEG US 1300 XE

Be sure to check how hard the canvas is fixed, how easy it is to be removed, whether there are strong backlashes. The first enemies of quality and durability.

This option allows you to avoid kickback when the rig is jammed (AEG USE 900 X). This mechanical system helps protect the tool from damage and the operator from possible injury. It is a pity that not all “sabels” can boast of this feature.

Overload protection

The system will automatically turn off the machine in case of overheating, preventing the failure of an expensive unit (Flex SK 602 VV 230 / CEE). Considering the tendency of the domestic user to load the tool “in full”. Extremely useful thing.

Flex SK 602 VV 230 / CEE

Typically this option is offered for heavy duty tools to protect the network from inrush current overloads. In our case, its usefulness lies in the smooth “break-free” acceleration of the web, which has a positive effect on the safety of the unit. Yes, and let’s not forget that reciprocating saws with a capacity of up to 1500 watts. Not so rare.

After we release the start key, the canvas stops very quickly. This makes it possible to immediately put the tool on the platform, or start changing the equipment. A very important function for safe and comfortable work.

Locking against accidental start, locking the trigger

In the first case. It is a small extra button like on “large” angle grinders. Only when it is pressed simultaneously with the main button, voltage is applied to the motor. Not all models have such a system. In the second case. Also a small button on the handle, but it is responsible for fixing the trigger when it is on. An equally useful function, since you can relax the brush during prolonged work, of course, if the speed mode is correctly selected.

Double insulation of live parts

An effective way to protect the operator from electric shock, prescribed by the latest European safety standards. A serious advantage of this technical solution is the increased service life of the tool, and the ability to work from an outlet without grounding. Thanks to this system, we can safely work outdoors in fairly humid weather.

Vibration damping system

This is the prerogative of powerful, advanced reciprocating saws. These models use a dynamic counterweight construction (Makita JR 3070 CT. AVT technology), which significantly reduces noise and vibration. Usually, everything is limited to elastic pads on the gearbox and on the handles.

Makita JR 3070 CT

Several problems are solved here. The entire “internal” of the reciprocating saw in a special way (system of seals, labyrinth channels) is protected from outside dust and moisture. The reliability of the tool is increased. A rubber boot mounted over the gearbox will prevent electrical shock when “punched to the housing”.

The last word in technology. These are brushes that automatically turn off when critical wear is reached. It is better if convenient access to the brush assembly is provided from the outside of the case (special cover).

Reciprocating saws often work on the weight, “in place”, therefore, increased requirements are imposed on the length and quality of the supply cord. Manufacturers try not to economize on this element and often complete the tool with a strong four-meter cable (DeWALT DW310), which allows you to work far from the outlet or high on the scaffold, without resorting to carrying. Naturally, special attention is paid to the point of entry into the hull. For example, Bosch has applied its renowned know-how here. Swivel (Bosch GSA 1200 E).

Bosch GSA 1200 E

When choosing a reciprocating saw, you need to find a model that will be most convenient for you to work with, not only safety, but also the effectiveness of the tool depends on this. The average saw looks like a large drill with a D-handle. However, manufacturers, as usual, endow their instrument with a lot of features, which should be paid close attention.

First. This is a comfortable grip on the main handle. Here its thickness, slope, anti-slip pads or corrugation are important. For example, in the Metabo PSE 1200 model, the handle is swivel, it is fixed in four positions. There are “pistol” open-type options.

Second. This is a feature of the second hand grip. In this case, we are talking about a cover located on the gearbox housing. It is good if he immediately “lies in the hand” and has large sides. Alternatively, a pivoting additional handle can be included, such as on the BlackDecker RS1050EK.

Blackdecker RS1050EK

There are reciprocating saws with a Z-shaped layout (Metabo PSE 0525, LEPSE PEN-0.5), it is quite possible that someone will like them more.

An interesting model. Flex SKL 2903 VV 230 / CEE, in which the front of the housing can be rotated and fixed in 13 positions.

Cordless reciprocating saws

Such devices are increasingly pushing their network counterparts (Milwaukee V28 SX Sawzall, DeWalt DW008K). They are already practically not inferior to them in performance (Makita BJR181RFE, Bosch GSA 36 V-LI), the power reserve of their batteries has significantly increased, while the blocks are charged very quickly. Less than an hour. Cordless saws are getting lighter and cheaper (Metabo ASE 18 LT). Not surprisingly, a wide range of people who like to work wirelessly have recently emerged among professional builders. Almost all eminent manufacturers are seriously engaged in battery technologies, and in the coming articles we will definitely talk about them.

Metabo ASE 18 LT

So, what have we learned about the reciprocating saw This. Multifunctional, hardy, safe, high-tech, in many cases absolutely irreplaceable tool, which will certainly find its consumer in our country. While home craftsmen are just looking closely, cunning professionals are already armed with might and main with “sabers”. Pay attention to this humble worker, believe me, the reciprocating saw is worth it.

How to choose a reciprocating saw. Professional advice.

The movement of the nozzle on the cutting surface occurs by modifying the direct translational motion of the motor into a translational-rotating one. The main aspect lies in the modification of the power load in the use of only one of the two existing types of devices: a connecting rod-crank and a connecting rod having a triangular shape.

Both have their own defects: the problematicity of the crank-crank type is based on the requirement for the presence of a counterweight to provide a moving balance, which helps in reducing vibration during operation, and the drive, which has a Scottish mechanism, is susceptible to rapid wear of the tongues, which is caused by the discord of the sliding mechanism under high load.

In the numerous samples provided to the review on the industrial market of reciprocating saws, saws with a crank-sliding mechanism.

Comfortable handles

This is an often overlooked feature that can make a big impact if you use your reciprocating saw for a longer period of time. A soft handle can be much more comfortable than a hard plastic or metal handle.

Pendulum stroke setting

Natural forward and reverse motion of the saw blade back and forth, but with the presence of the rod stroke orbit setting, the saw blade produces few circular movements, both up and down, or to the sides, which creates additional cutting capabilities, turning simple work into strong aggression. It should be taken into account that the higher the vibration frequency, the more accurate the cut.

Battery powered or wired power

The main advantage is considered to be the power, which is enough for working with any material., As well as the unnecessary recharging of the battery. Among other things, AC saws are not equipped with batteries.

For this reason, they have a lightweight construction. Battery powered ones are much heavier. This advantage is considered standard on all mains operated power tools.

The main drawback is the wire, clinging to all objects in its path, which reduces the convenience of use. To resolve the dilemma, when choosing a model, you should take into account the material from which the wire is made. The best choice is rubberized or silicone-coated wire. Wires of this type are resistant to damage of any type.

The next dilemma is working close to a power outlet, you can solve the problem with an extension cord or carrying.

High-speed setup

A saber-type saw is used to cut material with a different name, then the speed setting must be present at the tool. The bottom line is that when working with some types of materials, a certain speed mode is required, more or less.

Reciprocating saws. How to choose the best?

The saber saw has earned the honorary title of the best saw and is rightfully considered the best today. A universal tool for cutting any kind of lumber. When working with this type of saw, everyone will be able to saw both metal and wood products, as well as bricks, clay products and much more.

You can apply it when working with joinery. Saws even metal pipes, which is not typical for many sawing and cutting tools. Mostly they work for her on construction sites, carpentry workshops, in auto workshops and so on.