5 Best Air Reciprocating Saw

An air-reciprocating saw is an electric hand saw that you can use when it’s not possible or convenient to plug in a power drill. They are usually used for cutting through wood, plastic, and metal. A reciprocating saw is also known as a Sawzall, after the most popular brand.

Air-reciprocating saws are also called air-powered reciprocating saws, pneumatic cut-off saw or just pneumatics. They’re primarily used to cut metal and steel and can also be applied for stone cutting. Air-reciprocating saws have a blade on the end of a piston that moves back and forth at high speeds. 

The operator moves the blade through the material to be cut by pushing the rubber grip forward and backward. The rapid up and down motion of the reciprocating action provides enough force to cut through many different materials in seconds. While they are sometimes considered similar to electric reciprocating saws, they can produce much more force, making them ideal for unusual jobs where an electric model would be less helpful.

Reciprocating saws are powered by compressed air, whereas a circular saw is typically electrically powered. The main difference between the two types of power tools is that an electric reciprocating saw requires the blade to be fixed in place and cannot be moved sideways for easier cutting. Air-powered tools are also more powerful than their electric counterparts, as long as there’s enough pressure from the compressor utilized for them. A smaller compressor may provide enough power to start up but not to actually do any real work with a pneumatic tool.

An air-reciprocating saw is a powerful and versatile tool that can be used on a variety of projects. They are mostly used by professionals, but many hobbyists also use them for home improvement or heavy-duty construction tasks. When you start to do some research about what kind of air reciprocating saws there are available in the market today, it may appear overwhelming at first with all the different brands and styles.

The air-reciprocating saw is an essential tool for any contractor, so it’s important to make sure you’re buying the best one. With so many different brands and models, it can be hard to know where to start. Experts have compiled a list of questions to help you find the right one for your needs – along with reviews of some of top picks!

Ingersoll Rand 429 Heavy Duty Air Reciprocating Saw – the Editor’s choice!

This Ingersoll Rand air saw can be used in both curved and flat surfaces as well as plastics. With an amazing ability to cut through all types of materials, this machine is your go-to solution for many different needs that require some extra strength.

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High-speed steel cutting blades are sharp and durable, but in case anything goes wrong, 6 of them come included with the tool. For even more convenience, this heavy-duty reciprocating saw provides a blade guide for exact angle cuts.

Whether you use this air saw to cut materials or trim vast amounts of metal sheets down to size, you’ll benefit from the tool’s 10,000 strokes per minute speed and 1.32 pounds weight – both of which allow easier mobility around the workplace during extended uses.

Pros

• Versatile uses;
• Provides extra safety;
• Durable and reliable;
• Adjustable blade;
• Includes 6 steel cutting blades;

Cons

• Slow work;
• The screws are easy to strip;
• Won’t cope with thick metal sheets;

The Ingersoll Rand 429 Heavy Duty Air Reciprocating Saw will get the job done most everywhere. It features 10,000-strokes per minute to assist in cutting any type of material you can think of. It also has some heavy-duty safety features that make your work experience safer.

Hammerhead 6-Amp Reciprocating Saw – the best for stability!

With a 6-amp power motor, this stable reciprocating saw is efficient at cutting through tough materials like wood and metal. Tool-free blade changes, including blades for wood and metal make it easy to use with versatile ability.

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The pivoting foot keeps your cuts in line as you work on stubborn surfaces while the ergonomic design makes usage easier and more comfortable.

Hammerhead 6-Amp Reciprocating Saw’s robust power and versatile cutting capability make it a wonderful addition to any toolbox. Easily cut wood, metal, PVC pipes, or whatever else you need with a powerful 0-3,100 SPM adjustment.

With this saw, you never have to worry about dropping blades in between cuts – just keep a few different blade types handy and swap them at your convenience for quick work!

Pros

• Needs only 1 Li-Ion battery;
• Easy blade change;
• Ergonomic design;
• Includes saw blades for metal and wood;

Cons

• Weak power;
• Won’t cope with thick wood;
• Doesn’t include batteries or charger;

The Hammerhead 6-Amp Reciprocating Saw is perfect for a variety of projects around the house and out on the job site. The shoe pivots at different angles so you can adapt to varying cutting angles without losing stability or muscle power.

Ingersoll Rand 529 Reciprocating Air Saw – the best for low vibration!

This lightweight Ingersoll Rand tool is beautifully balanced, giving you the ultimate cutting power for precision cuts on any material, whether it’s wood or fiberglass. With a guide that lengthens blade life, you know your tool will perform well from the moment you buy it. With a 360-degree cutting angle, you’ll get through any materials quickly.

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The lockout lever means accidental throttle operation is eliminated and blades will last much longer thanks to an easy grip handle and guide for blade replacement. Choose from six different blades in addition to many other cutting options so you can find exactly what it takes for any project: wood, semi-rigid plastic upholstery, drywall, or metal.

Pros

• Air-powered;
• 360 degrees of the cutting angle;
• Reliable;
• Low-vibration option;
• Can be used in the tight spaces;

Cons

• Poorly written instructions;
• Requires oiling each time;
• Only for light-duty use;

Simply put, the Ingersoll Rand 529 Reciprocating Air Saw is just what you need to get your job done with precision and low vibration. Compared to other power saws on the market, this one has a more ergonomic design that slips into even the tightest spaces.

Chicago Pneumatic CP7900 Reciprocating Air Saw – the best for portability!

The Chicago Pneumatic CP7900 Reciprocating Air Saw is lightweight, portable and offers three 18T, 28T and 32T replaceable blades giving you the versatility to tackle any job. At 10,000 strokes per minute, it’s just what your business needs to quickly cut down on overhead expenses while still producing high-quality results.

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The comfort of using an ergonomic design coupled with easy handling make every project feel accomplished even if you’re on a tight deadline and there’s some exhausting cutting ahead.

Pros

• Lightweight and portable;
• Ergonomic design;
• Good for tight places;
• Includes a few useful replacement blades;
• 10,000 strokes per minute;

Cons

• The replacement blades are flimsy;
• It may be stuck;

The portable Chicago Pneumatic CP7900 is ready to help you out. This powerful tool can cut through any size material and it’s lightweight and portable for tight spaces. With up to 18T, 28T, or 32T replacement blades included in your purchase, this handy device is fully equipped for all of your custom cutting needs!

OEMTOOLS 24409 Heavy-Duty Reciprocating Air Saw – the best for air compressors!

The perfect combination of professional quality and DIY functionality has been brought to you by OEMTOOLS. This air-powered saw is designed for cutting, trimming, or shaping aluminum, sheet metal, plastics, fiberglass, and more while working with both DC and garage-quality air compressors.

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The safety features on the OEMTOOLS tool include a blade guard that can’t be opened accidentally. A lock trigger switch that prevents accidental startup and an ergonomic design for safe handling.

Pros

• Compatible with most air compressors;
• Easy to use;
• Comfortable grip;
• 90 PSI pressure;
• Good for cutting in tight spaces;

Cons

• Heavy;
• Won’t cope with thick pipes;

The handheld OEMTOOLS reciprocating saw works with both DIY and professional-quality shop air compressors to generate the pneumatic motion that moves the blades back and forth.

The Buyer’s Guide

Main Features:

Blades

Use the same blade that you would use for wood. Your reciprocating saw will be able to cut through plastic, metal, and other materials as well. That’s a pretty versatile tool on its own. If there is any specific advice about which blades go with what material consult a user manual. It should have detailed instructions about this sort of thing somewhere. When you’re done using whatever blade you’ve chosen, simply return it to its slot securely so that it doesn’t slide out while working or rip apart when moving equipment around later on.

Some reciprocating saws come with a blade that can be used for both wood and metal. This is an excellent choice if you’re not sure which material you’ll need to work on most frequently in the future or don’t want to purchase two different blades right away. The downside of this particular type of reciprocating saw blade is that they usually only cut through one material well rather than being decent at both tasks like their counterparts are.

A reciprocating saw is an invaluable tool to have around the house or workplace. The blades on these saws allow for a number of damages to be repaired and various material types to be cut. That said, it’s good to know what blade sorts are available with your particular brand. Understanding the differences between them helps you choose which blade is best for the material that needs cutting. 

The most common types of blades for air-reciprocating saws:

1) General purpose blade

This type of blade will cut both metal and wood with reasonable ease. A general-purpose blade is used to make the simple cuts needed in situations where there’s no need for a specialist blade, or time is limited. These blades do not work well on harder material such as brick or concrete. Although it may be possible, this variety of blade should only be used in an emergency unless you have the correct knowledge on how to use it safely!

2) Metal cutting blade

A saw specifically designed for cutting metals can often perform a number of tasks with great success. Whether you’re looking to cut through thick bars or tubing that are too large for other blades, this sort of saw will help you do it. It’s important to note that metal cutting blades should only be used on ferrous metals and not aluminum or any other non-ferrous metals – the blade is designed to cut through the metal by shaving it off with each pass, so non-ferrous materials would give an uneven result when being cut. 

3) Tile/ceramic blade

Designed for tougher tiles and ceramic flooring, this sort of saw often has a diamond coating that grinds down the material rather than shaves off small bits as a metal cutting blade does. The result is a smoother finish than can often be achieved with other items, making it perfect for certain jobs where getting a smooth finish is necessary such as flooring.

4) Wood-cutting blade

This sort of blade is designed to make smooth, controlled cuts with a saw that has enough power behind it to cut through harder wood materials. A fine finish can be achieved with these blades as well as being able to drill accurate pilot holes quickly and efficiently on softer woods such as pine. 

5) Concrete-cutting blade

Designed for the toughest work around the home, a concrete cutting blade allows you to cut through toughened or poured concrete with ease. Although they may be slightly more expensive than other varieties of blades, their durability and toughness make them worth it in the long run. These blades are usually only available in hacksaw form but reciprocating saws will also use them.

6) Diamond blades

The teeth of a diamond blade are made from diamonds – giving it the ability to cut through even the hardest materials such as hard concrete, bricks, and stone with ease. As well as being used in saws they can also be used in drills and other high-powered tools that may need them. Diamond blades for cutting through granite are particularly popular amongst professionals who use their tools daily. 

7) Scraping blades

These blades have specially shaped teeth to allow them to lift off material very quickly without damaging or scratching surfaces too much. They’re ideal for stripping paint and varnish from wood surfaces. They’re not a saw blade in the true sense of the word and can’t be used to cut any material, however they make quick light work when removing these materials without damaging the surface below.

8) Nail set blades

These blades are ideal for sinking nails into concrete or hardwood with ease as well as being useful for cutting tiles and carpets if required. These blades usually feature chisel-shaped teeth that penetrate deep into the surface before splitting it upon themselves allowing them to then pull out the nail from its hole quickly. 

9) Rip-cut blades

Designed specifically for ripping wood, this type of blade is particularly good at precision cuts with high-powered saws such as circular and reciprocating saws. Usually used in combination with a guide or fence, this sort of blade comes in all kinds of sizes to ensure accuracy with every cut. 

10) Stainless steel blades

As stainless steel is an alloy that contains small amounts of other materials such as chromium, nickel, molybdenum, it’s very tough and withstands heat well making it an ideal material for use in many woodworking tools. Stainless steel blades are extremely sharp but don’t stay that way for long due to their softness so it’s best to be prepared to swap them over if they become blunted quickly. You can also buy serrated blades that can be used to cut through hard materials such as copper or stone.

11) Non-ferrous blades

Usually made from high-quality steel, these blades are designed specifically for cutting non-ferrous metals such aluminum and brass without damaging them too much in the process – particularly useful if you need to make intricate cuts with a saw. They’re also designed to resist heat build-up making them ideal for brazing jobs.

Weight

Weight of reciprocating saws varies greatly depending on model and manufacturer. It can range anywhere from 3 pounds all the way up to 15 pounds. A reciprocating saw will typically be held in one hand and the forward/backward motion of it is done by the use of a second hand on the opposite end. 

This allows for control over how much pressure can be applied to whatever material is being cut. If too much weight or pressure is put on something, that item could very easily break or give way – this could result in an injury to yourself or others nearby. Thus, manufacturers are careful about designing a reciprocating saw where it’s not too heavy for its intended purpose but still capable of withstanding quite a bit of force from the user.

Safety Lock Throttle

The air-reciprocating saws are used in various industrial and construction applications. The air-reciprocating saws have a safety lock that is meant for locking the trigger of the tool when not in use. The safety lock throttle is an important mechanism as it helps to prevent unintended triggering of the power tool. 

The air-reciprocating saws have a safety lock that is operated by a small knob on the rear side of the handle. When this mechanism is locked, it will physically prevent you from pulling the trigger and starting up the tool. To disengage this lock simply turn the knob down while holding it in that position with your fingers to keep it disengaged when you want to use your power tool.

The primary reason for having such a mechanism is to make these tools safe for use so that they do not cause any injury during accidental or unintended operation. This safety feature makes air-reciprocating saws an important part of various industrial processes where utmost care for the wellbeing of people and machinery is necessary.

The safety lock mechanism will prevent any accidental firing or unintended operation of the saw when it is stowed away or kept in a workbench. It can also be actuated easily if you intend to use it without having to search out tools or other objects to disengage it from its present position. 

As this design makes use of gravity as well as a spring which would otherwise require the use of a second hand, this feature makes air-reciprocating saws even more convenient and safe to operate without causing any risk of an injury.

Speed Control

Speed control is the main advantage of an air-reciprocating saw over a cordless model. It’s important to note that you should use your air-reciprocating saw at its maximum RPM unless otherwise instructed by the manufacturer. This is because it will help keep cuts more accurate, particularly if they require precision (you might find yourself losing time switching between speeds). 

Also, some companies produce variable speed models so users can choose their desired cutting speed based on material and application type. While there are other reasons for using intermittent speeds with this tool, controlling blade RPM is one of them and using the right speed will greatly enhance your experience.

Vibration Reduction

One of the most common problems with air-reciprocating saws is excessive vibration. Some models even come equipped with a built-in anti-vibration system that can be found on the handle. This feature automatically makes your unit more comfortable to hold and reduces arm fatigue during long periods of use.

Air-Reciprocating Saw Uses

Reciprocating saws are a versatile tool with many uses, but they’re most commonly used for the following:

• Cutting metal – especially in tight spaces like when repairing machines. This type of reciprocating saw is very powerful and should be handled with care to avoid accidents or injury. They can also cut drywall, concrete and other solid surfaces aside from steel;
• Light demolition work such as cutting through stud walls during renovations to make room for wiring or plumbing etcetera. Be aware that this will create lots of dust requiring proper protection for your lungs and eyes (and nose too) so you don’t look nasty afterwards;
• Cleaning up tree limbs on houses since these tools can cut through wood very easily. Just be careful not to get too close to the house and don’t overextend your reach;
• Cutting floorboards, insulation panels and roof shingles for proper ventilation of attics or repairing leaks. Keep in mind that you should always check local regulations before starting any work on a building’s exterior with these saws since there are safety concerns such as falling branches etcetera when using power tools near homes;

Safety and Maintenance

Air-reciprocating saws are a powerful tool, so it’s important to keep safety in mind. Before you begin cutting anything ensure the blade guard is securely attached and that all moving parts have been lubricated with machine oil or lithium grease. Reciprocating blades should be changed when they become damaged beyond use or if there is any interference as you try to rotate them through their full arc of motion. It’s also advisable to wear gloves while using an air-reciprocating saw and hearing protection will help reduce the risk of damage from noise pollution. 

Make sure to use a firm grip on the saw. Don’t allow your hand or fingers to be pinched between the workpiece and blade, which is one of the most common causes of injury with an air-reciprocating saw. If you have safety concerns about using this type of power tool it’s best not to attempt any project requiring its usage alone. Try asking for assistance from someone who has experience operating them before tackling anything too difficult on your own just in case something does go wrong at least you’ll know where help can be sought out quickly.

When operating the power saw, keep your body and feet well-planted. Avoid making any quick moves or jerks while cutting to avoid losing control of the tool which can lead to serious injury. 

You should always wear appropriate safety gear when using an air-reciprocating saw including a pair of protective glasses as metal dust is often ejected from the blade at high speeds during operation. Ensure you have plenty of lighting in the work area so you don’t end up stumbling around with this potentially hazardous equipment if you need to do some close-range work. 

Make sure that surrounding objects such as furniture are not left too close or they could be damaged by stray blades being ejected. A heavy-duty drop cloth will also help protect surfaces underneath it from any falling debris.

Any safety concerns with using an air-reciprocating saw are easily avoided if you take the time to read and follow all of your owner’s manual instructions as well as wear personal protective equipment, particularly ear protection which can prevent hearing damage due to loud noise levels while operating it. 

Ensure that surfaces in close proximity are protected from flying sparks or metal shavings expelled by this power tool during use along with surrounding objects such as furniture left too close to where it’s being used for example covering them up with a durable drop sheet will help contain anything that falls off of them damaging other nearby pieces instead. 

Always ensure blade guards are securely attached before beginning work on large materials plywood sheets since blades exposed without them can pose a serious risk of injury. 

Factors to Consider When Buying an Air Reciprocating Saw

When looking to purchase an air reciprocating saw, there are several important factors to consider. These factors include the power of the tool, the stroke length, the blade speed, the weight, and the price. To help you make an informed decision, the following table compares the typical ranges of various indicators for different air reciprocating saw models.

This table compares the typical ranges of important indicators for different air reciprocating saw models. It shows that the power typically ranges from 0.5 to 1.5 HP, the stroke length typically ranges from 0.75 to 1.5 inches, the blade speed typically ranges from 8,000 to 12,000 strokes per minute, the weight typically ranges from 1.5 to 3.5 pounds, and the price typically ranges from $50 to $200. These ranges can vary depending on the specific model, brand, and features of the air reciprocating saw.

FAQ

Who makes the best air saw?

There are many different manufacturers of the best air reciprocating saws. These companies include Milwaukee, Makita, Bosch, and DeWalt. All these tools have been proven to be the most durable and reliable on today’s market so you should definitely consider them for your tool collection.

What’s the difference between a Sawzall and a reciprocating saw?

Sawzall is a brand name of the Milwaukee Electric Tool Corp. Sawzall refers to their specific type of reciprocating saw, which has a powerful motor and aggressive blade that can make short work of any material from wood or metal to concrete. 

Many people use “reciprocating saw” and “Sawzall” interchangeably when referring to both types of tools in general, but, strictly speaking, they are not actually interchangeable because there are other brands besides Milwaukee with their own offerings for electric reciprocating saws.

Can you cut logs with a reciprocating saw?

Yes, some reciprocating saws are powerful enough to cut through wood. It depends on the blade and how much pressure you apply; make sure that the blade is long enough so it doesn’t break when cutting through a log or thick piece of timber.  You should be able to cut through a few inches of wood.

Do you need an air compressor for this tool? Some models require one, but there are also cordless versions that don’t use any compressed air and can work like a Dremel in terms of how they operate. You will have more mobility without having to worry about the hose or carrying around an extra piece of equipment if you choose cordless reciprocating saw

Can you cut branches with a reciprocating saw?

If you are intending to cut branches with a reciprocating saw, several things should be considered. Firstly, the blade of your tool must have appropriate teeth per inch (TPI) for cutting through the wood – this will typically be between 12-24  TPI. 

At a higher TPI level than recommended, the blades wear out very quickly as they tend to overheat when used against harder materials such as lumber or metal. If you only need to cut softwood like pine trees then it is okay but if your target is hardwoods like oak tree trunks then buying a different product may be more suitable. 

As well as considering what kind of material you want to work on, also think about how thick these materials are. This is why it is important to remember that the higher TPI your blade has, the smoother and slower you will need to cut. If you go too fast then this can lead to overheating which in turn may cause cracks or damage within the material being worked on due to uneven cooling.

How thick can a reciprocating saw be cut?

While reciprocating saws can cut through a wide variety of materials, some are better than others. For example, most reciprocating saw blades will stay sharp for an extended period of time when used to cut more lightweight metals and metal alloys (e.g., brass). 

However, many models cannot effectively cut thicker or denser material such as steel without additional effort on the part of the user – which may include changing out your blade with one that is designed specifically for this type of material. In addition to choosing a model equipped with variable speed capabilities and a high horsepower motor, it’s important to purchase blades intended for cutting thick or dense stock if you plan on using your saw in these types of applications.

Can a reciprocating saw cut plywood?

Yes, it can! The reciprocating saw is the best tool for cutting plywood. You don’t need to make a lot of cuts; just follow your lines and use the right blade. Reciprocating saws are not only for plywood, though. They can cut through wood with nails and metal at high speed and with great ease. You’ll be able to get the job done quickly if you use this type of saw.

Which is better: a jigsaw or reciprocating saw?

A reciprocating saw has many advantages over a jigsaw. In fact, it’s hard to find any good reason not to use an air reciprocating saw if you have one available versus using a hand tool like the Jigsaw or Sawzall. 

One of the biggest reasons to buy an air-reciprocating saw is that you can get one tool with many different uses. For example, these tools are great for cutting metal and wood. You might be able to find a Jigsaw or Sawzall blade that will cut through metals but it’ll likely not do both very well — if at all.

Are reciprocating saws dangerous?

Reciprocating saws can be dangerous. They do not have a grip handle, which means that the user must hold the blade when it is running or risk cutting their hands off! The blades are also sharp and pointed on both ends so if they fly out of control then you could injure yourself. There is no safety shield to protect your face from flying debris either. 

You should always wear proper protection including eyewear and gloves when using tools like this one because accidents happen very quickly and without warning.

If done improperly, reciprocating saws can cause serious injuries such as shattered bones, severed limbs, cuts, bruises, lacerations (to soft tissue), disfigurement (from facial injury), and even brain injuries. If you are not experienced with using a reciprocating saw then it is best to go slow and use extreme caution until you know how to handle one safely.

What is a reciprocating saw good for?

Reciprocating saws are very versatile tools that can be used for a variety of applications. They have so many uses because they come with blades and accessories to create different types of cuts. Because reciprocating saws are so flexible, you could say their ability is unlimited! 

A few examples include carpentry projects such as:

• cutting through wood/plastic boards or metal sheets;
• working on plumbing installations;
• making your own furniture;
• doing some home remodeling;
• cutting drywall;

You can also use reciprocating saws to cut through steel and concrete when you’re working on industrial projects or renovations.

The best thing about them is that they are very helpful during emergencies too! For example, a person could quickly remove broken glass from your car window in case of an accident – with the help of a special attachment that fits any standard reciprocating saw.

What are the benefits of using an air reciprocating saw?

An air reciprocating saw offers a range of benefits, including increased power, faster cutting speeds, and improved precision. It’s also lighter and more portable than electric saws, making it ideal for use in tight spaces and remote locations.

What features should I look for in the best air reciprocating saw?

When shopping for the best air reciprocating saw, look for models that offer variable speed control, a comfortable grip, and a durable construction. Other important features to consider include blade change systems, adjustable shoe plates, and orbital action.

What types of materials can I cut with an air reciprocating saw?

Air reciprocating saws are ideal for cutting a wide range of materials, including wood, metal, plastic, and fiberglass. With the right blade, they can also be used to cut through thick and tough materials, such as concrete and masonry.

What are some of the best applications for an air reciprocating saw?

Air reciprocating saws are ideal for a variety of applications, including demolition work, pipe fitting, HVAC installation, and automotive repair. They are also commonly used for cutting through materials in tight spaces, such as between wall studs.

How do I maintain and care for my air reciprocating saw?

To keep your air reciprocating saw in top condition, it’s important to regularly clean and lubricate the tool, as well as replace the blades as needed. Store the saw in a dry and protected location, and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or moisture.

Useful Video: Ingersoll Rand 429 Heavy Duty Air Reciprocating Saw – Overview

Final thoughts 

With so many different brands and models of air reciprocating saws, it can be hard to know where to start. However, with the help of the guide, you should have no problem finding a model that meets your unique needs! Check out some reviews of top picks above for more information on which one is right for you.