Most reciprocating saws are equipped with long saw blades, so they work better in heavy-duty commercial and DIY projects than other power tools. The only problem is you might end up with a corded model that will hinder and limit your wood-cutting operations.
Fortunately, our resident workshop owners tested and listed the best cordless reciprocating saws in the market to elevate your woodworking experience.
Reviews of the Top Cordless Reciprocating Saws
1. DEWALT DCS387B Reciprocating Saw
Unlike older corded reciprocating saws, DEWALT DCS387B only weighs around 5.5 pounds. Thanks to its compact saw design, going through tight spaces and fitting between studs didn’t become an issue during our hands-on experience.
You can rely on its versatility as it features a four-position clamp and tool-free blade change settings. It can also deliver a blade stroke length of 1-1/8-inch that can catch up with the tool’s fast cutting speed.
Since DEWALT Reciprocating saw works with a variable trigger, you can adjust the blade’s speed from 0 to 2900 strokes per minute.
What We Like
- LED work lights for clear and precise cutting
- Variable speed settings for maximum control
- Equipped with variable speeds of 0 to 2900 SPM
- Smaller than other cordless reciprocating saws
- It has just as much power as bigger models
What We Don't Like
- It only comes with a bare tool
- Moderately expensive than other power tools
2. Makita XRJ07R1B Reciprocating Saw
Despite its higher price tag, Makita XRJ07R1B can make your cutting experience more convenient with its 13/16-inch blade stroke. Newbies can also change the reciprocating saw blades without hassle because it doesn’t require any external tool wrench.
Read Next: Best Reciprocating Saw Blades
The unit’s brushless motor can operate up to 3000 strokes per minute to get the job done quicker than other power tools.
We included it as one of the best cordless reciprocating saws because of its electric brakes for added safety and LED lights for extra visibility during operations. It’s also built with Extreme Protection Technology that makes it stand strong against dust and moisture.
What We Like
- It comes with a battery and charger
- More power than 12V cordless reciprocating saws
- Equipped with brushless motor engine
- Standard stroke length of 13/16-inch
- Vibration control and reduced user fatigue
What We Don't Like
- Not suitable for heavy-duty DIY projects
- More expensive than other cordless models
3. PORTER-CABLE PCC670B Cordless Saw
The price range of PORTER-CABLE PCC670B may be cheaper, but this cordless reciprocating saw doesn’t lack versatility with its variable speed trigger. If you’re engaged with an extensive cutting operation, its over-molded handle will allow you to grip firmly on the tool without feeling muscle fatigue.
This cordless reciprocating saw also belongs to the brand’s 20V Max System. Because of this, you can use the same battery and charger as other power tools manufactured by the same company.
Despite being a compact model, it can deliver more power than other tools for cutting tree branches and other light-duty tasks.
What We Like
- Very light and maneuverable bare tool
- Adequate stroke length to reach tight areas
- More power than standard cordless reciprocating saws
- It can maintain consistent contact with the material
- Variable speed trigger of up to 3000 SPM
What We Don't Like
- Not the best reciprocating saws for heavy-duty tasks
- The wood blade adjustment isn’t tight enough
4. BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C Cordless Reciprocating Saw
Another affordable cordless reciprocating saw we tested was BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C. Our firsthand experience proved that its dampening technology offers better vibration control while cutting wood.
Because of their pivoting blade shoe, you can rely on these compact cordless reciprocating saws for better user control when cutting turns and angles.
You’ll also feel extra safe during usage because this cutting machine works with an electric brake. Given this feature, we deem BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C a reliable cordless reciprocating saw for power tool newbies and casual woodworkers.
What We Like
- Budget-friendly cordless reciprocating saw option
- It’s suitable for high-temperature conditions
- Compact enough for hard-to-reach spaces
- Dampening technology to reduce vibration
What We Don't Like
- Shorter stroke length than other compact models
- It’s bulkier than other reciprocating saw options
5. BOSCH PS60-102 Cordless Reciprocating Saw
At first glance, it’s hard to ignore how smaller BOSCH PS60-102 is compared to most reciprocating saw tools, especially with a ⅝-inch stroke length. However, the unit’s wrap-around rubber design proved its durability against dust, water, and other external elements.
Safety is undoubtedly the best feature of this cordless reciprocating saw since it includes a lock-off switch. Thanks to this, the tool’s trigger will stay secured to prevent accidental motor startups. On top of that, it’s equipped with a saw brake that can halt the blade in a snap.
You can also monitor the unit’s battery levels through a visible gauge to prevent the cutting operation from too many disruptions.
What We Like
- Impressive maximum operational speed
- Battery life indicator for better productivity
- Capable of multiple grip positions
- Lock-off switch and brakes for extra safety
What We Don't Like
- The LED light is a bit dim
- Mot equipped with brushless motors
6. Milwaukee 2620-20 M18 Cordless Reciprocating Saw
Out of all the excellent reciprocating saws we discussed, Milwaukee 2620-20 M18 is the only one built with a patented gear-protecting clutch. You may not know, but this feature protects this tool from wearing on its crucial parts.
Upon closer inspection, we concluded that this cordless reciprocating saw has a durable and rugged construction. It’s a power tool design we’d recommend for larger and tougher projects.
With its 1-¼ inch stroke length, we all know it can cut through thick and tough materials without problems as long as it’s geared with the right blade.
What We Like
- Comfortable and over-molded grip design
- Long stroke range for different materials
- Rugged and robust tool construction
- Fuel gauge for battery runtime monitoring
What We Don't Like
- Not the best cordless reciprocating tool for home use
- Not the cheapest reciprocating saw model
7. Makita XRJ06PT Brushless Reciprocating Saw
If power and long strokes are what you seek, Makita XRJ06PT Brushless Reciprocating Saw is right on your money. While it’s not as widely reviewed as other models, this unit’s brushless motor [1] can manage up to 3000 SPM.
And did you know that this cordless reciprocating saw carries two 18V batteries? Because of this, it can last longer than standard battery-operated tools. The only problem is these batteries add up to the tool’s weight.
Unlike models with a brushed motor, its brushless engine protects the internal components from wearing during extended usage.
What We Like
- It offers more runtime than other cordless units
- Long blade reach than most models
- Wear-resistant and longer battery life
- Ergonomic handle design for less muscle fatigue
What We Don't Like
- Heavier tool because of two batteries
- More suited for tough applications
Cordless Reciprocating Saw Buyer’s Guide
Standard or Compact Reciprocating Saw?
Standard models are reciprocating saws operated by both hands. These options are more powerful, so they’re the best cordless reciprocating saw to handle tougher materials.
These power saws are also longer, with most models having a length of around 2 inches. You can also enjoy better user control because these units weigh around 10 pounds.
Meanwhile, compact options are undoubtedly smaller than their alternatives. Because they only weigh around 6 pounds, you can operate them with one hand. However, we still recommend two-handed operations for more accurate cutting results.
Size and Weight
While buying a lighter reciprocating saw can be tempting, you must get one with enough weight for a smoother cutting action. The only catch is that you shouldn’t buy a tool that fatigues your muscles after extensive use.
The power saw’s overall weight and size can affect the quality and speed of your cutting results, so it’s only natural to consider this matter seriously. Although it’s more expensive, purchasing models with slight heaviness and length should give your more accuracy and productivity.
Motor Power
Your tool’s motor power depends on your task’s complexity. You won’t need a powerful motor to finish the job if you’re simply pruning branches in the backyard. However, you must know you’ll need all the power you can get when cutting denser materials.
Variable Speed Settings
Some of the best cordless reciprocating tools include speed adjustments in the form of variable speed triggers. If you can, buy models that deliver at least 2500 strokes per minute or SPM.
The tool can execute more precise cutting results and deliver great performance while maximizing the unit’s battery life through this feature.
Orbital Action
True to its name, a reciprocating tool can either move in a back-and-forth direction or orbital action. For the prior, it’s recommended for harder materials.
On the other hand, orbital action has the blade traveling in a circular motion to cut workpieces faster. It generally works well for soft lumber like pine and redwood.
Blade Changes
Even if you’re a newbie, most reciprocating tool models today have clamps you can utilize to change the blades without hassle. You wouldn’t need to look through your toolbox for a wrench or screwdriver because you can easily release the blade for replacement or maintenance.
Type of Blade
As mentioned earlier, these models are most equipped with an interchangeable blade system. Because of this, you can add different blade attachments to the tool depending on the material you plan to cut.
Metal
These blade types are often manufactured with small and fine teeth constructions. With this design, they can slice metal chunks from pipes, iron, and other hard materials.