Jigsaw vs. Reciprocating Saw: Which Tool Is the Best for You?

Choosing the Right Tool for Your Project

Choosing the right tool for a certain project should be among your priority. Without the right tools, you won’t be able to finish a project smoothly and successfully. However, if you’re new to DIY projects, there are some things you need to know about first.

In choosing the right tool, assess your project first. For instance, do you need to create, refine, and polish woodwork? Or, do you need to cut through, destroy or clear something out instead?

For example, you will find that a jigsaw and a reciprocating saw actually looks and works similarly. But as their names imply, they are obviously made to serve some purpose. Know what is the clear purpose of your project.

This is where the next step comes in. Know what the purpose of a certain tool is . What are the uses of a jigsaw and a reciprocating saw? What are their strengths and weaknesses? A specific tool can only do so much. Not all tools are multipurpose.

Finally, know how to use that specific tool first. In the end, the best way to learn what a tool is for is to use it. Only then will you see it yourself where a certain tool is best used.  

Jigsaw vs. Reciprocating Saw: Who is the winner?

A jigsaw is a type of a reciprocating saw. This is why both seem to work and look similar. Both blades “reciprocate” or need a pull/push motion to cut through something. They both have variable speeds and a “foot” at the base of the blade as well.

However, again, they serve different purposes. The jigsaw is meant to create or cut accurate, curved lines. It can also make circular and parallel cuts. Compounds and bevel cuts are among its strengths as well.

As for the materials you can use it with, jigsaws work well with ceramic tiles, wood, and sheet metal. Also, take note that jigsaw speed depends on what material you are going to work with.

If you plan to do some woodwork, it is best to keep the jigsaw at high speed. On the other hand, if you plan to work on ceramic, it is best to keep the jigsaw at low speed.

On the other hand, reciprocating saws are great for “destroying,” cutting through or clearing away. Thus, they are best used for demolition projects. The reciprocating saw is best used for cutting things that are already out in the open.

So to be specific, cutting pipes, framing out windows and remodeling jobs are among its strengths. Whether it’s wood, piping, plaster or brick, if you want to take them out, then the reciprocating saw is your option.

Thus, whichever you choose, it will all depend on the nature of your project. Nonetheless, maintenance is always out of the question. Both the jigsaw and the reciprocating saw need proper maintenance and care to stay in top working condition.

Don’t forget to change your blades every now and then especially, if you are using your tools often. Most importantly, clean them properly after every project.

You wouldn’t want debris or small particles to get inside your equipment. This may affect your tool’s performance.

Conclusion

To answer the original question, there is no clear winner between a jigsaw vs. a reciprocating saw. At the end of the day, tools are a means to finish a project. And different projects call for different tools.

Both the jigsaw and the reciprocating saw have their own set of strengths and weakness. Most importantly, however, they also serve different purposes. If you want to refine woodwork, the jigsaw is your best bet.

If you want to “destroy,” clear out or cut through something, then the reciprocating saw might be the better option. It all boils down to your purpose. So, we wish you luck in your DIY project!