Best Reciprocating Saws: DEWALT, Milwaukee, Makita Demolition Tools

The Milwaukee 2720-20 M18 FUEL Sawzall at $199 (tool only) is the professional benchmark for reciprocating saws — a brushless motor pushing 0-3,000 SPM with a 1-1/8-inch stroke length, the maximum on this page. POWERSTATE brushless technology maintains consistent speed under load, preventing the blade from bogging down in dense wood or steel pipe where cheaper motors stall. The REDLINK PLUS intelligence monitors motor and battery temperature to prevent overheating during extended demo work. Anti-vibration from the ORBITAL setting keeps hands less fatigued during all-day use. Against the DEWALT DCS380B ($99), Milwaukee costs $100 more for brushless vs. brushed motor, meaningfully better sustained power, and Milwaukee's M18 ecosystem advantage for contractors already on M18. Against the RYOBI ($59), Milwaukee delivers 3x the performance at 3x the price — justified for daily professional use, not for the homeowner cutting a branch quarterly.

The DEWALT DCS380B 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw at $99 (tool only) is the value leader for homeowners and light trades use — a brushed 20V motor with 0-3,000 SPM and a 1-1/8-inch stroke that matches the Milwaukee's stroke length at less than half the price. The keyless blade clamp swaps blades without tools. Variable speed trigger provides low-speed control for accurate starting cuts and high speed for demolition. DEWALT's 20V MAX platform means the battery works with over 200 DEWALT tools. Against the Milwaukee M18 FUEL ($199), DEWALT uses a brushed motor (shorter brush life, more heat under sustained use) but at $100 less it's the correct choice for users who won't run the saw for 8+ hours weekly. Against the RYOBI PCL515B ($59), DEWALT costs $40 more for the 20V MAX platform's broader compatibility and better build quality. Best for homeowners and part-time contractors who need professional-grade hardware on a budget.

The Makita XRJ07ZB 18V LXT Sub-Compact Brushless Reciprocating Saw at $119 (tool only) offers brushless motor performance at a lower price than the Milwaukee, in a notably shorter and lighter package. The 'sub-compact' designation means the saw body is 2-3 inches shorter than full-size models — critical for cutting in tight spaces like wall cavities, between studs, and plumbing access holes. Brushless motor delivers 0-3,000 SPM with less heat than the DEWALT's brushed motor. The LXT battery platform covers 260+ Makita tools. Against the Milwaukee ($199), Makita costs $80 less with comparable brushless efficiency in a smaller footprint — the better choice for users who prioritize maneuverability over raw power. Against the DEWALT ($99), Makita adds brushless for $20 more. For plumbers, electricians, and finish carpenters who cut in tight spaces daily, the sub-compact format is often the deciding factor.

The RYOBI PCL515B ONE+ 18V Cordless Reciprocating Saw at $59 (tool only) is the entry-level price point for battery-powered reciprocating saws — $40 less than the DEWALT and $140 less than the Milwaukee. The 18V ONE+ motor delivers basic 0-3,000 SPM variable speed for pruning, occasional demolition, and standard home maintenance cuts. ONE+ platform compatibility means the battery works with all Ryobi ONE+ tools (200+ tools). The tool weighs slightly more than competitors at this spec level. Against the DEWALT ($99), RYOBI saves $40 with a narrower ecosystem and slightly less torque under heavy loads. Against the BLACK+DECKER ($79), RYOBI saves $20 with a comparable feature set — both are budget-tier units for light household use. Best for homeowners already on the ONE+ platform or those doing infrequent cutting who can't justify $99-199 for occasional use.

The BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C 20V Max Reciprocating Saw at $79 is the cheapest entry into the 20V Max battery format — a platform that includes some DEWALT compatibility depending on the specific batteries. The BDCR20C delivers 0-2,900 SPM (slightly below the 3,000 SPM of the other models), adequate for standard pruning, window and door demolition, and occasional renovation cuts. The lightweight design suits users who find full-size saws heavy. Against the RYOBI ($59), BLACK+DECKER costs $20 more for the 20V platform — potentially better battery ecosystem value if you own other BLACK+DECKER 20V tools. Against the DEWALT ($99), BLACK+DECKER saves $20 with slightly lower SPM, brushed motor, and narrower professional tool selection on the platform. Best for light home maintenance users who want an affordable cordless saw in the 20V format.