What do you use when you want to cut something with precision, a Reciprocating Saw or a Jigsaw? A saw is a tool that is used to cut through various types of material.
A reciprocating saw and a jigsaw are two types of saws that are commonly used for different jobs. In addition to their differences in blade movement, they have different uses and applications.
The reciprocating saw is often used for demolition or making precise cuts with tough materials. Jigsaws are often best at cutting curves and work well with soft materials, such as wood. Here, are some of the main differences between them.
PRODUCT | RECIPROCATING SAW | JIGSAW |
POWER | X | |
ACCURACY | X | |
BLADE | X | |
SAFETY | X | X |
USES | X | X |
What is a Reciprocating Saw?
A reciprocating saw has multiple blades that are arranged around a central axis. This makes it possible for the saw to move in any direction, allowing it to cut in any direction.
The blades are capable of being reversed, making it possible to cut in reverse. The saw also comes with a table on which to place the material that is to be cut.
This is useful in situations where a precise cut is required and the saw may not be very strong. The saw is usually very strong and easy to use, considering its components and overall size.
What is a Jigsaw?
A jigsaw is a tool that is used to cut straight lines, curves, and curves with straight pieces of wood, metal, or plastic. A jigsaw may be more precise than a reciprocating saw.
The jigsaw blade has moving blades on it. These move through the blade assembly to cut the material on the base. The base is the surface of the board that the blade moves on.
Also Read: Best Cordless Jigsaw
Product Comparisons
POWER
The jigsaw usually uses bigger blades and cuts with a small surface area. The reciprocating saw, on the other hand, uses smaller blades and cuts with a larger surface area. To cut through different materials, the tools have different sizes.
The reciprocating saw has more power than the jigsaw. With a reciprocating saw, you can generally expect to cut thicker material.
WINNER: RECIPROCATING SAW
ACCURACY
The reciprocating saw is best for wood and many tough materials, such as metal. The jigsaw is a more accurate tool for hard materials. It’s used for cutting even jagged edges.
How much accuracy does a jigsaw have?
Jigsaws can be as accurate as a reciprocating saw in many situations. The best jigsaws can cut a tiny bit finer than a reciprocating saw, and some jigsaws are even better at cutting curves.
How can you check your jigsaw’s accuracy?
Most jigsaw models can be tested for accuracy. You can check if the jigsaw has a 1.5-degree stop or not by inserting a ruler 1.5cm inside the jigsaw, then turn the jigsaw upside down and make a mark. If the jigsaw has 1.5 degrees, you know that the jigsaw is perfectly accurate.
WINNER: JIGSAW
BLADE
The speed at which the blade moves from one part to another is important in any type of saw. The faster the blade moves, the more accurately the blade cuts.
The speed that is fastest is referred to as a turning speed. It’s imperative that the blade has a fast rotating speed in order to make better cuts. Since the blade travels on the base, it needs a large angle to cut the material, thus, it has to move fast.
Saw a door ajar with a jigsaw, and you’ll need a file afterward. But a reciprocating saw makes it easy to precisely cut through tight material, making it a good choice if you don’t need to.
WINNER: RECIPROCATING SAW
SAFETY
Both types of saws have more than enough safety features to keep you safe while using them.
Jigsaws are normally operated by trigger action. Once you release the trigger the power stops immediately. They also come with locks that will let you change the blade without any danger.
Jigsaws and reciprocating saws also have grippy handles, blade mounting sections, and guards to keep you safe.
WINNER: TIE
USES
Reciprocating saws are often better at cutting through very hard materials. Since they are based on a motor, it is easy to use and hold. The motor usually spins on the shaft and uses a rubber pawl to create a grip for gripping the material. This makes it easy to keep a steady grip and not pull the blade up when cutting.
Handles a broad range of applications: Jigsaws can be used for many different kinds of jobs and are especially good for constructing small objects that need to fit together perfectly. They can also be used to cut through paper and cardboard. They are particularly useful when you want to cut a shape out of a piece of wood.
WINNER: TIE
Conclusion – Which One Should I Buy?
Thanks for reading our article about reciprocating saw vs jigsaw. We hope you enjoyed it. As you learned, each type of saw manages to do quite a few tasks.
If you are looking for pure power, you will probably want to consider a reciprocating saw. If you are looking for slightly better accuracy then the jigsaw is for you. Happy Sawing!
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I am a woodworker with over 19 years of experience crafting everything from furniture to ornamental pieces. I take pride in my ability to bring out the beauty of the wood I work with, creating unique and lasting objects. My passion for woodworking has been a life-long pursuit and I strive to push myself further and further with each new project. I am dedicated to the craft and take great satisfaction in the final product that I create.Read More.