Reciprocating Saw Guide

Complete reference for reciprocating saw (Sawzall) blade selection, demolition techniques, plumbing cuts, pruning, and safety practices. Essential for remodeling, demolition, and rough-in work.

When to Use a Reciprocating Saw

The reciprocating saw (Sawzall) excels at:

  • Demolition: Cutting through walls, floors, removing old framing
  • Plumbing: Cutting pipes in tight spaces, removing old pipes
  • Remodeling: Cutting nail-embedded wood, removing door frames
  • Electrical: Notching studs, cutting conduit
  • Pruning: Thick branches, roots, storm cleanup
  • Metal work: Cutting steel, cast iron, threaded rod
  • HVAC: Cutting ductwork, removing old systems

The reciprocating saw is the go-to tool for demolition and remodeling. It's not for precision cuts - it's for getting things done quickly in rough conditions.

Blade Selection Guide
Blade TypeTPILengthBest For
Wood5-86"-12"Clean wood, framing, demolition
Bi-metal10-146"-9"Wood with nails, general remodeling
Metal18-246"-8"Steel, copper, aluminum pipe
Carbide-tippedVarious6"-12"Cast iron, hardened steel, high wear
Carbide gritN/A6"-9"Ceramic tile, cement board, brick
Pruning5-69"-12"Green wood, branches, roots

Blade Length Considerations:

  • Shorter blades are stiffer, more controllable
  • Longer blades reach into tight spaces, cut thicker material
  • Use shortest blade that reaches through material
Cutting Technique

Proper Form

  • Press shoe firmly against workpiece before starting
  • Let blade reach full speed before cutting
  • Apply moderate pressure - don't force the blade
  • Keep firm two-handed grip - high vibration tool
  • Let the blade do the work

Orbital Action

  • Many saws have adjustable orbital action
  • Higher orbital = faster cutting, more vibration
  • Use orbital for wood, turn off for metal

Tips for Specific Materials

  • Nailed wood: Bi-metal blade, moderate speed
  • Metal pipe: Metal blade, no orbital, let blade cut
  • Cast iron: Carbide blade, very slow, patience required
  • Plaster walls: Bi-metal, expect dust, hidden obstacles
Safety Considerations

⚠️ Hidden Hazard Warning

Reciprocating saw blades can easily cut through hidden pipes, wires, and gas lines inside walls and floors. Always verify what's behind the surface before cutting.

Required PPE

  • Safety glasses: Debris flies unpredictably
  • Hearing protection: Loud, especially in demo
  • Dust mask/respirator: Demo creates lots of dust
  • Gloves: Vibration and sharp materials

Before Cutting Into Walls

  • Turn off power to area if possible
  • Use a stud finder with wire detection
  • Look for outlet and switch locations (wires run to them)
  • Know where plumbing supply lines run
  • Make shallow cuts first to check for obstructions

Operating Safety

  • High vibration - maintain firm two-handed grip
  • Shoe must contact work before blade touches
  • Don't pry with the blade - it will break
  • Be aware of blade exit point on opposite side
Common Demolition Tasks

Removing Door Frames

  • Cut nails/screws between frame and rough opening
  • Use bi-metal blade angled into the gap
  • Cut hinge and strike plate screws if stuck

Cutting Through Walls

  • Mark cut area, check for utilities
  • Make perimeter cuts with blade depth controlled
  • Cut between studs, not through them (unless removing)

Removing Deck Boards

  • Cut nail shanks between boards and joists
  • Angle blade down into gap
  • Bi-metal blade handles hidden screws

Cutting Pipes

  • Support pipe on both sides of cut
  • Metal blade for steel/copper, bi-metal for PVC
  • No orbital action for metal cuts
  • Drain pipes before cutting if possible

Additional Information

About This Reciprocating Saw Guide

The reciprocating saw (commonly called by the brand name "Sawzall") is the workhorse of demolition and remodeling. It cuts through virtually anything - wood, metal, plastic, even masonry with the right blade - and reaches into spaces no other saw can access.

This isn't a precision tool - it's designed for getting work done quickly and efficiently in rough conditions. Understanding blade selection is crucial: using a wood blade on nailed wood destroys it quickly, while a bi-metal blade handles the same task easily. Matching the blade to the material makes the difference between efficient work and frustration.

Safety awareness is particularly important with this tool because the blade can easily cut through hidden utilities inside walls and floors. Always check for electrical wires, plumbing, and gas lines before cutting into any concealed space.

Why Use This Reference Guide?

Quick reference for blade selection and techniques makes demolition and remodeling work more efficient and safer.

  • Select the right blade for each material
  • Understand TPI and blade length choices
  • Learn proper cutting technique
  • Know what to check before cutting into walls
  • Tackle common demolition tasks efficiently
  • Work safely with this powerful tool
Frequently Asked Questions

Free Reciprocating Saw Guide - Blade Selection, Demolition & Safety | DIYProject.ai