Jigsaws are a type of reciprocating saw, but they have several key differences when it comes to specs and functionality. Chances are, you’ve heard the phrase Jigsaw vs. reciprocating saw in relation to power tools.
What does Jigsaw mean when it comes to power tools?
They’re just not as powerful or versatile. We’ll discuss some key differences between these two types of power tools and help you decide which one is right for your project!
Which saw should you choose for your project, a jigsaw or reciprocating? Let’s find out!
Jigsaw:
A jigsaw is a saw that can cut accurate curves into whatever material you’re working with. It has many different uses, including making circular or parallel cuts. You must use the guide to make straight lines and patterns.
Jigsaw is an excellent craftsman when it comes to cutting different materials. However, depending on what material you are working with, the speed will need adjusting. For example, if cutting wood using a fast speed but for metal or ceramic slower speeds should be used.
To make compound and bevel cuts, you simply need to move the base 45 degrees. This can cut various materials including wood or metal by moving it along a groove in an optimal way.
Jigsaw Blade:
When you need to cut a countertop or out circle in the door, whether it’s for your house or workspace, having the best jigsaw blade is something that will improve and make things easier.
When you buy a jigsaw, make sure it’s made of high-quality materials and can cut wood that is no more than 3/4″ thick or softwoods up to 1.5″. As soon as the base plate hits 90-degrees from what you’re cutting, start making your cuts slowly until there are none left!
If you’re cutting a circle, and not starting on the edge of it, simply drill a hole in whatever material you’re trying to cut big enough for the jigsaw blade to fit into. Then start by placing your saw at an angle facing away from what will be visible when finished with this step.
What to Cut
- ceramic tile
- countertops
- doors
- sheet metal
Our Top Pick of Jigsaw:
BOSCH Power Tools JS470E Corded Top-Handle Jigsaw
Specifications:
- Brand: BOSCH
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Number of Batteries:1 Product Specific batteries required
- Item Weight: 10.4 Pounds
It’s one word that perfectly describes the Bosch JS470E: that means smooth. Plus, it doesn’t jump around, and the blade doesn’t grab. Moreover, it is the Best Jigsaw on the market for cutting curves Because it is entirely made for a smooth and straight cut.
Reciprocating Saw:
A reciprocating saw is a great tool for various projects. It’s perfect when you need to cut things in the open because it features an exposed blade that makes cutting easier and faster.
Reciprocating saws are excellent demolition tools, especially if they’re cordless so you can carry them around with ease from one section of your project site to another without worrying about tripping over extension cords or fighting through dusty air by using blowers!
These saw typically cut in a push/pull (reciprocating) motion, but can be found using an orbital or pendulum action. One type of oscillating blade has multiple settings that you can choose from to minimize the amount of dust on your project.
You can use it to cut things above your head!
This saw is used to cut through nails in a door jam, and then you would use the same tool to remove the entire piece of wood.
This saw is designed for DIY-ers who are looking to take their skills from the amateur level into being more professional. It’s also great if you’re interested in making a major remodeling job happen since it has an extremely powerful motor and a high-quality blade that’ll cut through both wood or metal like butter!
The jigsaw is the ideal tool for making precise cuts but this saw, it’s not.
Our Top Pick of Reciprocating Saw:
BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw
Specifications:
- Brand: BLACK+DECKER
- Power Source: Battery Powered
- Number of Batteries:1 Lithium-ion batteries required
- Item Dimensions:15 x 3 x 7 inches
The BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit (BDCR20C) is a compact, lightweight saw that puts safety first thanks to the built-in electrical brake. The variable-speed trigger gives you control over cutting power up to 3,000 spm with this cordless reciprocating saw.
Main Differences Between Reciprocating Saw vs Jigsaw
The Main Differences Between Reciprocating Saw vs Jigsaw are:
- A reciprocating saw is similar to a hacksaw, whereas the jigsaw has an intricate design.
- The feature of a reciprocating saw that makes it different from other kinds of power tools is the ‘hog nose’. The hognose helps with cutting through thick materials and rough surfaces more easily than any other tool can do. In contrast, jigsaws are compact in size, vertically layered for easy handling as opposed to being bulky like some models found on the market today.
- The weight of Reciprocating Saws ranges from three to five pounds, while that for Jigsaws ranges between six and twelve pounds.
- A reciprocating saw is a powerful tool that can be used for both horizontal and vertical strokes. Jigsaws, on the other hand, are also able to make compound cuts as well as bevels.
- When it comes to demolition, Reciprocating Saws are the way to go. Jigsaws take a bit more skill and precision for smaller project work but they still get the job done nonetheless.
- The jigsaw is a saw that cuts on the push and pulls stroke, meaning you have to guide it.
- A reciprocating saw has a blade at the end of an arm that moves back and forth
- Jigsaws are more expensive than reciprocating saws because they’re more versatile
- Reciprocating saws are easier for beginners because they don’t require as much skill or precision
- Reciprocating saws can be used in tight spaces where a jigsaw would be difficult to use
- You should choose which type of tool best suits your needs based on what you will be cutting, how often you’ll need to change blades, and how much money you want to spend.
Final Notes Of Jigsaw vs Reciprocating Saw.
Conclusion paragraph: The jigsaw is typically designed to cut wood, metal, or plastic. It has a blade that can be adjusted for different thicknesses and uses an electric motor as the power source.
A reciprocating saw (also called a Sawzall) is used mainly for cutting drywall, sheetrock, or plywood in construction projects.
They are powered by gasoline engines and have two blades that move back-and-forth quickly at high speeds while it cuts through the material. So what’s your preference?
Moreover, read difference the between Jigsaw vs Circular Saw here!