There are many tools available for cutting metal and wood. One tool to use is a reciprocating saw. This type of saw is applicable for a variety of uses. Hence, it is a versatile tool.
For this reason, we will discuss all reciprocating saws along with their many uses.
What Is A Reciprocating Saw Used For And How Does it Work?
A reciprocating saw is a small and compact tool that is used by metal and woodworkers. It uses a backward motion called “strokes” to penetrate the cutter through the wood or metal.
The motor drives the strokes that allow the saw to cut through different materials. Once it switches on, the saw produces a high speed.
A reciprocating saw can reach 2,700 strokes per minute, which means it can easily cut through different materials. Some models can also allow you to adjust the speed and cut length.
Most Common Uses
There are various ways you can use a reciprocating saw. For this reason, we will give you some of its most common uses for you to know how you can use it effectively when you’re doing a DIY project in your home.
Pruning
If you have these overgrown trees in your backyard, a reciprocating saw is the best way to cut it.
A reciprocating saw is portable and light. This means that you can prune or trim your trees in no time. It is the most suitable tool for this type of activity because of how simple and flexible it is to use.
Straight or Curved Cuts
If you find it difficult to make a straight or curved cut on wood or metal, a reciprocating saw will provide you that.
Usually, a typical saw finds it hard to push through curves and straight cuts. However, with a reciprocating saw, you can make these cuts easily with wooden and metal surfaces. You can also use it with most blades on the market, which makes it versatile.
Demolition
Demolishing requires a heavy tool to achieve its purpose. Fortunately, you can do so with a reciprocating saw.
It is a recommended tool because of its longer blade, which is designed to demolish objects. There are also other types of saw blades you can use with a reciprocating saw, depending on how intensive the demolition job requires.
Decorate Wooden Pieces
You can easily trim or decorate the wooden scrap in your home into an art piece using a reciprocating saw.
Since it is compact and versatile, you can create well-shaped wooden pieces to use as a design or decoration for your home.
Plumbing
If you need a tool to cut through the holes and notches, you can do so with a reciprocating saw. You can use it despite the pipe structure without causing any damage.
Hence, you can see this type of saw with plumbers along with other tools.
Construction
Aside from using a reciprocating saw to destroy an object, it can also be used to repair roof construction shingles. You can also trim the shingle into a beautiful piece for your roof.
Which Type of Reciprocating Blade Should I Use?
A reciprocating saw is durable. However, you should choose the right type of reciprocating blade, especially if you’re doing a DIY project on your home.
By choosing the right one, you can handle various tasks. Moreover, these are the uses of a reciprocating saw according to its type of blade:
- Use a fine-tooth blade that resembles a hacksaw for cutting metallic materials such as pipes and nails
- A coarse blade is preferred when cutting a wood
- When cutting through plaster, use the coarsest blade
- For cutting ceramic tiles, stone, or cast iron, use a toothless blade coated with tungsten carbide abrasive grit.
- Use nail-cutting wood blade for roof shingles and regular and nail-embedded 2×4 plywood.
Summary
In a nutshell, a reciprocating saw is a versatile and compact tool that comes with many features and uses. You can use it to prune your tree, decorate wood, cut your roof shingle, and many more.
This type of saw is applicable to use for both wood and metallic materials. Hence, it is essential to use the right kind of blade according to where you want to use it.
Finally, choose the best reciprocating saw for your needs and budget. Make sure it is durable and high-quality. And if possible, maintain it regularly to last you for many years.