Cordless reciprocating saws: features and model rating

The cordless reciprocating saw is a popular tool and is widely used in various fields of human activity. The popularity of the device is due to its ease of use, low weight and safety in use.

The battery-powered reciprocating saw is a modern cutting tool that looks like an electric jigsaw. However, the power and operational capabilities of the saw are much higher than that of a jigsaw, which significantly expands its scope, making the device a frequently purchased tool. Lithium-ion and nickel-cadmium batteries act as a power source for battery models, one charge of which is enough for 1-4 hours of continuous operation of the device.

The main advantage of such models is their autonomy and mobility. And if an electric saw requires a nearby constant power source with a voltage of 220 V, then battery products do not need sockets and are capable of being operated in the field. Such devices, unlike network devices, do not have an electric wire, which makes it possible to use them when performing work in hard-to-reach places and confined spaces. Cordless reciprocating saws have an elongated shape and are compact and streamlined.

This is very useful when cutting pipes or beams that are close to the wall, and distinguishes saber models from other saws. And it should also be noted that deformation processes or heating of pipes during the sawing process does not occur. This is one of the main advantages of a reciprocating saw over a grinder, when working with which a huge number of sparks are formed, which can lead to a fire. Another important advantage of saber saws is the ability to cut timber and boards with nails and self-tapping screws in them. The device easily copes with metal, providing an even and smooth cut.

But like any other tool, cordless samples have their weaknesses. They include a lower power, in comparison with network devices, which somewhat limits their scope, not allowing them to be used in work with especially hard materials. The disadvantages include not too long time of continuous operation, limited by the battery charge time. The disadvantage is also the weight of the devices, which exceeds the weight of networked electric saws. This is due to the presence of a rechargeable battery, which significantly increases the weight of the device.

However, despite a number of disadvantages, the scope of use of cordless reciprocating saws remains very extensive. The functional capabilities of the device are so wide that it quite effectively replaces tools such as an electric chewer, a lopper, a grinder, a jigsaw, a circular saw and a chain saw. It is used for sawing wood, plastic, drywall, sheet metal, pipes, metal tiles and other roofing materials.

Therefore, the saw is often used when carrying out carpentry, construction, plumbing and roofing work, as well as when repairing and installing windows and doors. Moreover, the tool acts as an irreplaceable assistant in the care of the garden, where it is used for pruning the branches of fruit trees and shrubs. With the help of saber saws, they carry out figured cutting of glass and tiles, and also use them when installing air conditioning and heating systems.

The battery-powered reciprocating saw is quite simple: it consists of a durable plastic case with a built-in electric motor powered by a battery. At the front of the instrument, there is a support platform, called a shoe, which is made in the form of a small metal structure. The shoe is responsible for the accuracy of sawing and has an adjustable angle of inclination and overhang, which allows you to set the cutting depth required for each specific material. In most models, adjustment is made in a keyless way using a latch.

Another important element of the reciprocating saw is the chuck, which is designed to hold and secure the saw blade. In budget models, unscrewing the chuck to replace the file is performed using a hex key, in expensive models, using a lever or a side button.

The principle of operation of reciprocating saws is as follows: the torque of the motor is converted into a reciprocating movement of the rod, which, in turn, moves the working blade back and forth. Many saber models are equipped with a pendulum stroke system, which means that during the return stroke of the rod, the working blade rises slightly above the material. Thanks to this feature, the files do not heat up during operation and serve for a very long time. The amount of sawdust during the pendulum stroke is significantly reduced, which allows you to keep the workplace relatively clean. Moreover, the pendulum system makes it possible to perform not only longitudinal cuts, but also curved cuts in the transverse plane with an angle of up to 45 degrees.

The main operating parameters of battery-powered reciprocating saws are the voltage and capacity of the battery, as well as the stroke frequency and length of the working blade.

• Battery voltage is a very important indicator and determines the power of the device. In professional samples, batteries with a voltage of 18 to 54 V are installed, while in household ones there are more often batteries of 10.8 V. Battery from 2 to 5 A. h.

So, especially powerful professional models with a battery capacity of 4 to 5 A. h are capable of working without recharging for up to five hours. Therefore, when choosing a tool, first of all, you need to focus on the type of battery. So, the best power sources include lithium-ion and lithium-polymer models that are not burdened with the "memory effect". This allows them to be charged at any stage of the battery discharge, without waiting for its complete discharge.

• Working blade speed affects the performance of the device and varies from 0.3 to 3.5 thousand cycles per minute. Almost all models of reciprocating saws are equipped with a function of adjusting the frequency of the stroke, which allows you to set the value required for cutting a specific material. This approach avoids chipping and jagged edges when cutting.
• Working blade length is also an important technical parameter for reciprocating saws. The most convenient files for work are considered to be files ranging in size from 16 to 24 cm. Usually, this length is sufficient for most of the joinery and construction work.

The classification of cordless saber saws is made on the basis of their functionality, distinguishing two categories of devices: industrial (professional) and household models. The first ones have a long working life and are made of extra strong wear-resistant materials. This allows them to withstand heavy loads and work for a long time without breakdowns. Rechargeable batteries of such models are characterized by high capacity and voltage, do not have a "memory effect" and are equipped with overheating protection.

Household saws are not designed for high regular loads, therefore, especially stringent requirements are not imposed on the materials of their manufacture. During operation, it is recommended to give them a short break to cool the engine. However, in general, they can cope with work in a summer cottage or in a home workshop, and with proper operation they can last up to 10 years.

The modern market presents a wide range of cordless reciprocating saws. Among them there are both inexpensive models of little-known firms, and branded devices from well-known manufacturers. Below is an overview of the most popular samples based on consumer feedback and the Popularity Rankings for online retailers.

• In the first place in terms of recognition and demand is the easy Japanese mini model Makita JR105DZ... The device is equipped with a lithium-ion battery with a voltage of 10.8 V and a capacity of 2 A. h, is capable of cutting workpieces up to 5 cm thick and weighs 1.1 kg. The saw has an electronic speed controller and LED backlighting, allowing you to work in the dark. The stroke rate is 3300 cycles per minute, and the cost of the model varies from 5,020 to 5,800 rubles. 12 months warranty.

• In second place is the device of the American brand, produced by in China, DeWALT DCS380M2... The tool is equipped with a 4-position blade clamp function, which allows cutting in any direction, and is equipped with an open, adjustable sole, which provides good stability of the device and a wide view of the cutting line. The lithium-ion battery of the XR series has a voltage of 18 V and a capacity of 3 A. h. The working blade is replaced by a keyless method, the weight of the device is 3.3 kg, the stroke rate is 2950 cycles per minute. The cost of the unit is 27,170 rubles.
• Further located brushless model DeWALT DCS388N, designed for sawing wood blanks, steel profiles and pipes. Like all brushless saws, the device has a long service life and a large motor resource. The model is equipped with a lithium-ion battery of the XR FLEXVOLT brand with a voltage of 54 V, which gives it the highest power and performance. For work in darkened spaces, LED backlighting is provided. The cutting depth of wood reaches 30 cm, of metal - 13 cm. The weight of the device is 3.6 kg, the cost is 19,000 rubles.

In addition to the obvious three leaders, saws from Dexter, Ryobi, Metabo and Bosch, equipped with lithium-ion or nickel-cadmium batteries, which have high reliability and long service life, are in stable demand.

Before proceeding with the purchase of a cordless reciprocating saw, it is necessary to determine in what mode it will be used. So, if the tool is purchased for professional activities, then it is better to choose a model with a powerful lithium-ion battery with a capacity of at least 4 A. h.Such devices can operate on a single charge 30% longer than their counterparts with a battery of 2.5-3 A. h.

Lithium batteries do not remember the charge level at which they were last charged. Due to this, such devices, unlike nickel-cadmium devices, can be recharged during operation as needed. And also for a professional tool, it is desirable to have a pendulum movement system, which protects the working blade and allows you to perform corner cuts.It will be useful to pay attention to the frequency of the file stroke, remembering that the harder the material being processed, the higher this indicator should be.

Another important condition for choosing a professional tool is its weight and ergonomics. It is desirable that the device be equipped with an anti-vibration system, have a keyless saw blade change function and have a comfortable non-slip grip. The presence of additional functions will be a pleasant bonus of the professional tool. They have no effect on the quality of work, but they certainly can increase the comfort and ease of use of the saw.

These options include a battery charge indicator, LED backlight, a thermal relay that turns off the device in case of overload, and a safety clutch. The latter does not allow unpleasant kickback of the tool when the working blade is jammed. The presence of a soft start, which starts the tool without sudden jerks and vibrations, as well as a run-out brake, which stops the movement of the blade immediately, as soon as the start key is released, is also welcomed. The latter option prevents accidental damage to the workpiece and increases the safety of the tool.

When choosing a household model, there are no strict criteria. The device is selected based on the purpose, intensity of use and financial capabilities.

In order for the cordless reciprocating saw to last as long as possible, and its operation was convenient and safe, a number of simple rules must be followed.

• Before starting sawing, it is necessary to clear the workplace of foreign objects.
• Work should be performed using personal protective equipment: glasses and gloves.
• The work piece must be securely held in place with carpentry clamps. Metal products need to be clamped in a vice.
• If the work is carried out by two people, it is necessary to ensure that the hands of the partner are not closer than 20 cm from the cutting surface.
• It is strictly forbidden to work with the instrument while it is suspended.
• If the blade is caught in the cut, the tool should be pulled out in a horizontal plane towards you. It is forbidden to pull out the saw upwards along the cut already made.
• Do not allow the saw to fall out of your hands. It is also not allowed to place the device on the edge of a table (workbench) or on a sloping surface.
• It is prohibited to use the saw for persons under 18 years of age.

The following video will show you how to replace the stem on a reciprocating saw.