If you’ve decided to venture into the world of craftsmanship, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with different kinds of saws.
Two of these saws that have an identical structure are reciprocating saws and jigsaws. So which between the two should you choose? More importantly, are there any differences between them?
To help you find answers to these queries, here’s a detailed overview of a reciprocating saw vs jigsaw.
What is a Reciprocating Saw?
We’ll start with the basics. A reciprocating or recip saw (in short) is also popularly referred to as a sabre saw or sawzall.
It’s handheld and it contains a blade that moves in forward and backward strokes, fairly similar to how a jigsaw works. Needless to say, this kind of motion is the root of its name.
As it operates in the back and forth pattern, the blade quickly breaks down and slices through objects. If you’re tackling projects that don’t involve performing intricate or delicate cuts, this piece of equipment can make quick work of them.
You might be wondering just how this tool should be held. For the best outcome, you ought to hold it out in front of you, using one hand to support the handle and the other to support the saw’s base.
What is a Reciprocating Saw Best For?
Demolition
Now that you know what a reciprocating saw is, just what sort of applications can you use it for? Well, the main job where you should use a reciprocating saw is in demolition.
It’s perfect for when you want to cut or rip out sections around windows and doors; or when you’re planning to cut through plasterboard and joists. Put simply, it’s the device that workers run to when hammers and crowbars fall short.
Cutting Different Materials
One thing you’re sure to love about a reciprocating saw is that it accepts a wide range of blades. Whether it’s cutting wood, plasterboard or metal, the reciprocating blade can handle anything you throw at it.
Other Uses
Apart from demolition, landscaping is another sector where reciprocating saws prove to be incredibly useful. Though a chainsaw is ultimately an indispensable tool for heavy tree work, reciprocating saws are ideal for trimming low-lying branches. You can also use it to chop firewood.
Interestingly, the versatility of reciprocating saws doesn’t end there.
You will often find these saws included in carrying cases of emergency services, window fitters, and construction workers. This is because of their ease of use in demolition and other heavy-duty cutting applications.
Pros and Cons of Reciprocating Saws
Pros
Cons
What is a Jigsaw?
Jigsaws are power tools that operate fairly similarly to reciprocating saws.
At the core, this tool comprises a blade, which is attached to a reciprocating motor. This motor works by pulling the blade upwards, then concurrently pushing it down. Before the invention of a jigsaw, achieving this cutting action required putting in a great deal of sweat equity.
Also important to note is that at the beginning, jigsaws were mainly available in corded models. But we now have a large market that constitutes cordless jigsaws, some of which offer pretty outstanding performance.
What is a Jigsaw Best For?
Making Curves
The core cutting job of both corded and cordless jigsaws entails cutting curves.
If you’re looking for a portable cutting tool that can efficiently create curves in wood, a jigsaw is the most suitable option. Though you can use a handheld coping saw, a jigsaw cuts faster without compromising on precision.
Cutting Different Materials
Furthermore, these power tools can be used to cut a wide variety of materials other than wood. As long as you fit your jigsaw with the right blade, you’ll be able to slice through materials such as fiberglass, steel, ceramic, drywall among others.
You’ll be particularly impressed with the ease of changing blades on a jigsaw. Start by disconnecting your saw from the electrical outlet.
Next, remove the battery compartment and figure out the location of the dial that connects the blade to the saw. Now all that’s left is turning this knob in a counter-clockwise direction, and the blade will be released.
Making Bevel Cuts
When you think of performing bevel and intricate cuts, the first tool that comes to mind is a table saw. However, a jigsaw is just as capable a tool as a table saw. In fact, when you're using a jigsaw, you can position it at a 45-degree angle, allowing you to perform precise bevel cuts.
Pros and Cons of Jigsaws
Pros
Cons
Similarities and Differences Between a Jigsaw and a Reciprocating Saw
Similarities
A jigsaw and reciprocating saw have several things in common. These include:
Mode of Operation
Both jigsaws and reciprocating saws employ a back and forth cutting motion. The saw’s motor powers the blade, causing it to move in a fast up-and-down pattern. This blade moves in the same way that a needle in a sewing machine does.
The workpiece, on the other hand, is pulled against the shoe as the blade continues to slice upwards and through the material.
Variable Speed Control
Both jigsaws and reciprocating saws have variable speed controls. This means you can configure your jigsaw or recip saw to work as fast or as slow as you’d like.
Ideally, you should configure your tool to work fast if you’re cutting soft materials like plastic, plywood, composite, pine, and fiberboard. Contrary, if you’re tackling tougher materials like ceramic, fiberglass, metal, or wood then set it up to operate at a slower pace.
Material
One feature you’re sure to love about reciprocating saws and jigsaws is that they can be used to cut any material.
You just need to fit the right blade on your jigsaw/ reciprocating saw, and you’ll be able to cut any material; be it wood, metal, concrete, steel, fiberglass among others.
Differences
Wondering which one to use amongst reciprocating saws vs jigsaws? Well, learning about their differences might help:
Speed and Power
One area where these power saws differ is in their speed and power.
Generally, recip saws are faster and tend to have greater power. This explains why they're the most suited for a demolition job. Although jigsaws are also powerful and fast, they come in second when compared to any type of reciprocating saw.
That said, if you’re looking for the most powerful and fastest devices, using a circular saw is best. The fact that it spins at high speeds is not too surprising considering the blade moves in just one continuous direction.
Functionality
When it comes to functionality, neither one is superior in the reciprocating saw vs jigsaw battle. This is because each of these power saws is designed for very distinct functions.
Reciprocating saws are designed for one core function and that is demolition. It’s the kind of tool you go for when you want to take apart beams, boards, pipes, and more.
Conversely, jigsaws are mainly used for cutting curves and irregular shapes. They can be used to make straight cuts as well, but a circular saw is the most suitable gadget for this particular job.
Size and Weight
When picking between a reciprocating saw vs jigsaw, you may also want to consider their sizes.
On that note, the blades of reciprocating saws range from 3 to 12 inches long, bringing the total length of the saw to 2 feet. In terms of weight, they can weigh up to 10 pounds. However, there are more compact models that extend to just 12 inches in length and weigh approximately 4 pounds.
Jigsaws are smaller and more compact power tools. In fact, most average a weight of 3 to 5 pounds. With regards to size, most range from 8 to 13 ¾ inches.
These aren’t the only features that make reciprocating saws differ from jigsaws. If you take a keen look at their blades, you’ll notice that they look different too. Specifically, a jigsaw blade is more brittle and narrower than that of a reciprocating saw
Cutting Capabilities
In the jigsaw vs reciprocating saw debate, a jigsaw is an indisputable winner in the cutting capabilities sector. Not only can these saws be used to perform accurate cuts but they can also be used to cut curves and irregularly-shaped patterns.
Reciprocating saws can’t cut straight lines or curved shapes. Rather, they're mainly used for demolition work.
How to Determine Which One You Need
We understand that it can be a little difficult to determine which kind of saw is best for your project. So here are a couple of pointers to make your selection easier:
You should use a reciprocating saw if:
- You’re looking for a highly versatile tool that’s suitable for tasks that aren’t necessarily related to woodworking.
- You plan to use it for a lot of demolition work
- You need a tool powerful enough to cut different materials; be it metal, tile, or plastic
- You’re looking to get a ton of work done within a short time, and don’t mind coarse results
You should use a jigsaw if:
- You work primarily in the woodworking sector
- You’re looking for a device that can perform clean and precise cuts (including curved cuts)
- You’re concerned for your safety
- You need to make articulate profiles on a project where a scroll saw wouldn’t be suitable
Generally, if you’re a DIY enthusiast, a jigsaw is the best tool to cut different materials. This is because you’ll be able to use it for a wide range of activities. It’s also very easy to wield and is an excellent fit for small-scale home improvement tasks.
A reciprocating saw, on the other hand, is more suited for heavy-duty work. It’s mainly beneficial in construction work, especially when it comes to demolition.
FAQs
Which is better: a jigsaw or reciprocating saw?
In the debate of a jigsaw vs reciprocating saw, no tool is superior to the other. It all boils down to the specific applications you’re looking to handle.
If you’re looking to do projects that require you to cut curves or irregular shapes, then use a jigsaw. On the other hand, if you want a tool to use for remodeling projects, then a reciprocating saw is a better option.
What is a reciprocating saw good for?
A reciprocating saw is ideal for working with PVC piping. If you have a couple of PVC pipes that you’d like to cut, this tool is the ideal choice. Similarly, if you have any demolition or remodeling tasks that you want to get done, consider getting a recip saw.
Can you cut straight lines with a reciprocating saw?
Speaking truthfully, a reciprocating saw is revered more for its power rather than its accuracy. So you may be slightly disappointed if you’re planning to use it for projects that require making straight cuts.
If you’re forced to use it for projects requiring accuracy, then ensure your recip saw has special features. For example, an anti-vibration handle that minimizes vibration can help you make better straight cuts.
Similarly, look for a recip saw with a variable speed trigger. This way, you can configure the device to cut slowly so that it’s easier to cut straight. Other elements include a LED lighting fixture, blade clamp and adjustable pivoting shoes.
Is a sawzall the same as a reciprocating saw?
Yes, these terms are often used interchangeably. The only difference is that Sawzall is a distinct brand of a reciprocating saw.
To be more specific, Milwaukee is the company responsible for registering this brand name back in 1951. However, the term “sawzall” became so popular that people now use it to refer to a reciprocating saw.
Is a jigsaw the same as a reciprocating saw?
No, a reciprocating saw and jigsaw aren't the same.
As we’ve learned from this article, there's a difference in how a jigsaw and reciprocating saw are used. Though their blades follow an identical cutting pattern, these tools differ not just in their structure but also in applications.
For instance, while a jigsaw can make flawless and accurate curved cuts, a recip saw is better suited for demolition-related tasks.
Can I use a jigsaw blade in a reciprocating saw?
Yes, you can. There are special kinds of blades that offer the precision cutting associated with jigsaws. And they’re designed to be compatible with reciprocating saws.
Conclusion
For professionals in the woodworking industry, making a decision between a reciprocating saw vs jigsaw can be tough.
Both a jigsaw & reciprocating saw operate in a fairly similar manner that entails a back and forth cutting mechanism. They can also be used to tackle different materials, and they’re both compact enough to carry around to a job site.
However, there are significant differences between them as well. The most important of these is their intended application. While a jigsaw is designed for performing straight, or curved precise cuts, a reciprocating saw is designed for demolition work.
This means that if you’re looking for a piece of equipment that’s suitable for intricate and accurate projects, a jigsaw is the best choice. But if your projects don’t require a great deal of accuracy, or cleanliness of cuts, then a recip saw is ideal.