Reciprocating Saw vs. Jigsaw: What’s Are The Differences?

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It’s a difficult decision between a reciprocating saw vs a jigsaw. Both of them are chart-toppers for versatility and are great choices for anybody from the average homeowner to the professional handyman. Although they have some similarities, each one shines in specific circumstances. Let’s take a look at their design and then see how they compare in a few common situations. We hate to be the ones to break it to you, but you’re going to need a reciprocating saw and a jigsaw in your toolbox.

What is a Reciprocating Saw?

A reciprocating saw is named for a reason, and it’s no surprise that it does. A reciprocating saw moves in and out, back and forth. The piranha’s most distinctive feature is its enormous, tooth-like blade, which works to break down and cut through whatever comes in front of it as it swims. For more rough-cutting projects, a reciprocating saw is used. If you don’t have a precise or delicate cut to perform, the reciprocating saw will get the job done rapidly. When using a reciprocating saw, you usually hold it out in front of you with one hand on the handle and another supporting the center base of the saw. 

What is the purpose of Reciprocating Saw?

  • Demolition: The reciprocating saw is one of the finest demolition tools available. You may quickly swap out blades and proceed to the next section of the map that must be destroyed. The reciprocating saw is very versatile for demolition since it can cut through a variety of materials.
  • Landscaping: A reciprocating saw is an excellent tool for light tree pruning, particularly when it comes to low-hanging branches that must be trimmed or even used to break through firewood.

Jigsaw

It sticks out of the bottom of the tool and resembles a jigsaw, which is a reciprocating saw with only one end of the blade anchored. Jigsaw blades, unlike those used in a recipe saw, are smaller, narrower, and more delicate. They come in a variety of forms to match the material you’re working with. A jigsaw may be used in front of you, but it’s more frequently utilized when you’re leaning over the work surface.

What is the purpose of Jigsaw?

  • Patterns: The use of a jigsaw will be required if you’re cutting anything such as a wooden sign. Your sign will appear to have been created by a toddler if you use a reciprocating saw. The jigsaw blade is far more delicate and skilled at following a specific design than the circular blade. Many jigsaws come with laser lines to assist you in staying on track.
  • Circles: A circle is an exception rather than a rule. Few saws can cut a circle. Although a reciprocating saw may be used to cut a circle, this would result in a very rough cut. The jigsaw is also ideal for cutting a circle out of a piece of wood.
  • Tiny Cuts and Detail Work: You’re aware of the trim that requires only a 45-degree angle cut, which is 2.5cm long. For those areas that aren’t accessible, we recommend using a jigsaw. When you need to perform detailed work with the jigsaw, it will be your go-to tool.

Comparison of blades

The jigsaw blades are thinner and more delicate, making them ideal for intricate cutting. With these knives, cutting ragged, crossing, or forming strange forms is a breeze. There are three distinct types of blades for each material.

Reciprocating saw blades, on the other hand, are thicker and more durable. The saw has a bigger engine than a jigsaw and works quicker. Plumbing, electrical, and building operations are all possible with the serrated blades.

The ideal blade in the proper power saw makes your job so easy and gratifying that you develop an affection for it.

Safety comparison

A jigsaw is one of the safest saws on the market. There’s very little danger of injury if you follow the appropriate safety procedures and steps while using a jigsaw. A reciprocating saw, on the other hand, might be a bit hazardous. You’ll see that the blade isn’t well defended, so you’re open to it while you’re hacking. When using a circular saw on demolition or landscaping work, being aware of the blade’s location is critical so you don’t end up on the incorrect side.

Economic comparison

There is no significant difference in the pricing of these saws that would influence which one is best for you based on price. The power of a jigsaw or reciprocating saw is determined by the range dial on top. The maximum speed for a jigsaw or reciprocating saw is set at a medium setting.

Regardless of whether you’re opting for a reciprocating saw or a jigsaw, there are several things to think about.

Some Features Will Always Apply. You’ll Need to Think About the Following: Whether you’d Rather Use a Jigsaw or a Reciprocating Saw, Some Things Will Remain Constant. You’ll Have to Consider the Following:

  • Weight (smaller machines are easier to use but they are less powerful)
  • Blade size and type is an important factor to be considered
  • Corded vs Cordless (corded is more powerful as compared to cordless)
  • The design of the machine and reviews about it
  • Battery type of the motor and life of the machine
  • Multiple speed adjustment is important
  • The voltage/ Power of the machines should also be considered during the purchase
  • Speed, or cuts per minute
  • How easy is it to switch out blades?
  • Does it leave swirl marks, and is that important to me?
  • Other features, such as ergonomic handles
  • Does it come with a warranty?

Conclusion

If you compare a reciprocating saw vs jigsaw and want to know which one is better, there is no straight answer. One of these saws is not superior to the other; they’re used for very different purposes. It’s virtually hard to use a jigsaw for some of the same tasks as a reciprocating saw, and vice versa. Although we usually try to assist and locate your equipment that is versatile and suitable for a range of applications, you might want to add both a jigsaw and a reciprocating saw to your tool collection.

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