Sawzall might be a registered Milwaukee Tool trademark, but it is a general term used to describe any type of a reciprocating saw blade. So, whether you call it a Sawzall blade or a reciprocating saw blade, this is one of the most powerful cutting tools out there.
We understand that it is not just about finding any, but the best Sawzall blades for metal.
So, which is the best reciprocating saw blade for cutting metal out there? That depends on a few factors. Does it meet your project needs and personal preferences? What about the features, are they good enough to handle metal accordingly?
Generally, several reciprocating saws are considered the best out there. So, we did some testing and research to help you find the perfect Sawzall blade for metal.
Read on to learn about our findings.
Our 10 Best Sawzall Blades For Metal
As we mentioned earlier, the best reciprocating saw for you is that which meets your project needs and personal preferences. Besides that, there are a few units that qualify as the best, according to most customer reviews. Take a look at them:
1. Saw Blades, Metal/Wood Cutting Set, 6-Piece
The list kicks off with this reciprocating saw from a renowned top power tool brand, DeWalt. This product is a set of six reciprocating saw blades, which are made of high-quality metal to cut through any material. It is ideal for both metal and woodwork projects.
We loved the set because it gives you the chance to choose multiple blades that will suit different applications. The best part is that all these blades are compatible with all reciprocating saw brands. So, you can use them on your reciprocating saw regardless of the manufacturer.
By the way, you can also use these blades on drywall without ruining their condition. All the blades in this package are six inches long. Besides that, you get the 6-TPI taper-back blade, 10-TPI straight-back blade, 14-TPI straight-back blade, 18-TPI straight-back blade, 24-TPI straight-back blade, as well as 5/8-TPI taper-back blade.
Plus, we loved the fact that all the blades come with Raker tooth design. With such a design, you can be sure of a better tooth contact area, which will then assure you of faster cuts.
Key Features :
- Six-pieces of reciprocating blades
- High-quality metal construction
- Compatible with all reciprocating saw
brands - Raker-tooth design for better tooth
contact area and faster cuts - 6-inch blades
- Ideal for multiple applications
- UP TO 50% LONGER LIFE*: Patented tooth forms optimize chip removal for efficient cutting and long life. *Average performance of DEWALT reciprocating saw blade range vs. prior generation DEWALT blades
- STRAIGHT CUTS & INCREASED DURABILITY: Tall, thick blade profile provides straight cuts in heavy metal cutting applications and adds durability for tough demolition applications
- DURABLE BLADE DESIGN: Bi-metal construction delivers blade flexibility and a long-lasting cutting edge
2. Sawzall Reciprocating Saw Blade Set
Here is yet another unit that qualifies among the best Sawzall blades for metal. First off, this product comes in a pack of 12 blades that will cater to any of your sawing projects.
Furthermore, it comes in different colors that you can choose as you wish. If you are the type of person that prefers going for thick blades, this package right here will suit you perfectly. These blades are thicker than most reciprocating saw blades out there. They come in two thickness variations, .042-inch and .062-inch.
With the two thickness variations, you can be sure of working on the extreme projects without any problem. Regardless of your project or the material that you are cutting through, these blades will comfortably slide through without any problem.
But we weren’t just impressed by the thickness. Instead, this product comes with a sturdy storage case for portability and safe storage. With this case, you can carry your blades wherever you wish. But what made the case extra unique is the fact that it is stretchable.
You can expand the case up to 9 inches, which allows you to store more blades.
Key Features :
- Comes in a pack of 12 blades
- Extra thick in .042-inch and .062-inch variations
- Ideal for any type of project
- Wide enough to fit in tight spaces
- Instruction guide included
- Features the Ax blades for cutting embedded nail in wood
- Thick blades - .042-inch and .062-inch for extreme applications.
- 1-Inch height for added strength
- Wide, allowing it to fit in tight spaces.
3. 32-piece Reciprocating Saw Blade Set
For those professionals or DIYers that work on multiple projects, then you’d enjoy working with this one. Do you know how many blades are in this package? It has 32 incredible reciprocating saw blades.
Best of all, the blades are made of CrV top-grade steel that makes it ideal for cutting metal and the coarse or fuelwood. The blades are between 20mm and 175mm thickness that makes them strong enough to cut through any sort of material.
If you combine the variable thickness and the 32 blades on board, you are confident of reciprocating saw blades that cater to multiple applications and sawing projects. The metal saw blade is made of bi-material that is strong enough to cut through metal.
Plus, the blades on this package are compatible with all reciprocating saw brands out there. In general, you get 21 pieces of wood-cutting blades. 16 of them are 6 inches long, while 5 blades are 9 inches long. Also, there are 10 pieces of metal-cutting blades. Eight of them are 6 inches long, whereas two blades come in 4-inch length.
Besides being made of chrome-vanadium steel for extra strength, these blades come with silver spray paint coating that makes them corrosion and rust-resistant. Oh, and there is a wet wood or pruner saw blade, along with other blades for coarse wood. The blades come packed in a strong organizer/case for easy transportation.
Key Features :
- Comes in a set of 32 blades
- Blades are made of high-quality chrome-vanadium steel for extra strength
- They are silver-spray coated for corrosion and rust-resistant
- They are arranged in an organizer for easy portability and better storage
- Metal blades are made from bi-material
for sturdiness
- Woodcutting saw blades are made entirely of Cr-V steel construction for cutting coarse/fuel wood with a 20-175mm thickness, FREE OF NAIL. Pruning saw blade for cutting branches with less than dia.180mm.
- Metal saw blades are made of Bi-material for cutting metal with a thickness of 0.7-8mm, pipes/profiles with dia.5-100mm, effortless, fine out.
- Compatible with all reciprocating saw brands. The combination set provides a selection of blades for typical applications. Ideal for use with metal, plastic, wood, and drywall.
4. Freud Steel Blades for Metal Cutting
We move on with the best Sawzall blades for metal and usher you to this set of blades from Freud. The blades here have been designed to solve your sawing needs and also cut through any material that you might be working on.
If you work on multiple sawing projects and you are looking for the blades that will handle multiple applications, this one might not be the perfect choice for you. The reason for that is that it is only one saw piece, unlike others that come in a variety of sizes and options.
But since we are reviewing the best reciprocating saws for metal, then this should be a good choice if you only need a saw blade for your metal projects. The blade is made of carbide tipped bi-metal, which will easily cut through any metal that you are working on.
It is a 9-inch blade that is also thick enough to withstand the heavy projects. For better results, you can add a few drops of cutting oil on the blade. This is a one-piece blade that might not be reliable as such if you handle heavy projects too often. For that reason, you should buy one or more blades of the same type just for reliability.
Key Features :
- High-quality design
- Thick for cutting through metal easily
- Carbide tipped bi-metal material
- 9-inch blade length
- Impact and rust-resistant
- High performance carbide for greater durability and cutting performance in metals with a thickness from 3/16" to 9/16"
- Enhanced carbide tip to blade connection for extreme impact resistance
- 1 in. oversized blade body for straighter cuts with less vibration
5. IRWIN Tools Reciprocating Saw Blade Set
With this IRWIN Tools Sawzall blades set, you get 11 pieces of blades that you can use in multiple applications.
The blades come with teeth that are electronic beam weld for extra strength and durability. These teeth are also 8% cobalt, so you are sure of long-lasting teeth without wearing out. But our reason for buying this blade set wasn’t because of the teeth alone.
Rather, this one comes with a strong-construction blade construction that can handle just about any material. The blades are made of bi-metal construction for durability. Furthermore, the precision-set teeth assure you of smooth and fast cuts.
Keep in mind that the teeth on these blades are welded on. They are not sharpened or pressed as most reciprocating saw blades out there. We thought that was a drawback because you can easily lose the blades’ teeth when they are welded. The blades are also not too thick as compared to other blades out there.
So, does that make this one a wrong choice for metal cutting? Not at all. Instead, these sets of blades will work well for a home-based sawing on occasional projects. Plus, they are best for hardwood and soft metal. Remember to take good care of your blade and store them safely to prevent the welded teeth from coming off too quickly.
Key Features :
- 11-piece blade set
- Bi-metal construction assures you of durable blades
- Precision set teeth offer smooth and fast cuts
- They cut through any type of material
- 8% of cobalt teeth are long-lasting
- Electronic beam weld teeth
- Electronic beam weld for stronger, longer lasting teeth. 8% cobalt keeps teeth sharp longer
- Bi-metal construction for faster cutting and added durability. Precision-set teeth for faster, smoother cuts
- Cuts composition materials, plastic, pipe, carbon steel, and stainless steel
6. Bosch Metal Cutting Reciprocating Saw Blades – 5 Pack
If all you want is a good reciprocating saw blade for metal cutting, then this would be a good pick for you. One thing that you will love about this blade is that they come in 5 similar pieces.
So yes, it will be a great choice for your metal cutting project. The blades come with an 18 teeth-per-inch range that seems satisfying enough. Plus, there is a 3-degree tilt that assures you of faster and cleaner cuts through the metal.
But it is not always about the teeth and the number of the blades. Instead, most people out there will consider the material used to make the blade. This is actually one of the things you must keep in mind before you purchase a reciprocating blade saw for metal cutting.
In terms of the material used, the blades are made of bi-material to assure you of top-quality and durable units. The 0.75-inch height makes it strong and durable enough. We also noticed that the blades would fit in just about any type and brand of reciprocating saw out there. So, you don’t have to worry about its compatibility.
There was one point of concern with this blade. It tends to get dull too quickly, especially if you are working on a heavy project. In other words, it might not be the best choice for industrial metal cutting projects since it is slightly thinner than most blades out there.
Key Features :
- They come in 5 similar pieces
- Each blade is 6-inch tall
- 0.75-inch height enhances its durability
- 18 teeth-per-inch range
- The 3-degree title delivers fast and clean cuts
- Coated for rust resistance
- Power Tools and Accessories
- Package Dimensions: 22.275 H x 1.676 L x 5.994 W (centimetres)
- Package Weight: 0.086 kilograms
7. Freud Metal Demolition Reciprocating Blade Set
Whether you are working on the coarse wood or metal projects, this blade set from Freud would serve you accordingly.
This is a 14-piece kit that comes with multiple blades to cater to your sawing needs and projects. And this type of saw has been designed to easily cut through nail-embedded wood as well as other metal materials. What’s more, the blades come with bi-metal technology that offers you up to four-time longer life than regular saw blades.
Moreover, this pack comes with two types of blades, the Demo Demon, and the steel Demon. The Demo Demon blades come with patented variable tooth technology, which offers faster cuts and limited vibrations.
On the other hand, Steel Demon blades come with dual tooth configuration with small gullets. These tiny gullets offer you extra durability and faster material removal.
Any professional sawing specialist would love this product. You also get a storage case that lets you carry the blades safely and move with them wherever you wish. We noticed that all the blades come with an anti-stick coating and rust/corrosion resistant, as well. This coating also protects the blade from gumming and heat.
The cutting edges have been ultra hardened, so you can be sure of durability and precise cuts.
Key Features :
14-piece blade set
Bi-metal construction
Demo Demon and Steel Demon blade variations
6-inch and 9-inch length variations
Anti-stick and corrosion-resistant coating
Ultra-hardened cutting edge makes it extra durable
- (4) DS0614BF, (4) DS0614BGP, (4) DS0612BW, (1) DS0912BW, (1) DS0914AFC
- 6-inch blade length, 9-inch blade length
- Bi-Metal blade
8. Heavy Duty Metal Cutting Reciprocating Saw Blades
We are almost getting to the end of our list, and the Janchi Heavy-Duty Blade set wins the ninth spot. You get 10 pieces of blades with this set, which are strong and durable, as well.
This is a professional-grade set of blades that assures you of excellent cuts through the metal or woods. All the blades are made of a high-quality bi-metal composition that has proven to be stronger than HSS blades. Another thing to mention is the flexible thin blade and the ideal blade height.
So yes, the blade is thinner than most blades out there. Does that mean that it will break quickly? Not at all. On the contrary, the thin and flexible blade will remain strong while resisting shattering or breakage. But if you are not a fan of thin blades, you can always choose a stronger and thicker blade.
The blades are made to offer straight cuts, and they also work with all the popular reciprocating saw brands, including Makita, DeWalt, Porter, Milwaukee, and more. There’s a hook angle on the teeth that offers aggressiveness when cutting through metal. This also means that you will enjoy fast-cutting blades with this unit.
Key Features :
- 10-piece blade set
- Bi-metal composition
- Thin and flexible blades
- Coated for anti-stick and corrosion resistance
- Compatible with most reciprocating brands
- Hook angle on teeth offers aggressive and fast cutting
- ★10-PACK, 6-Inch, 14TPI Reciprocating Saw Blade For Metal Cutting.
- ★Made of high quality Bi-Metal (stronger than HSS) composition for extra 50% longer lifetime
- ★Suitable blade height and flexible thin blade body is more resistant to breaking and shattering
9. DEWALT Reciprocating Saw Blades
Finally, a leading brand closes our list for the best reciprocating saw blades. This doesn’t mean that it is the least favorable or that it is a poor performer.
Conversely, this set of blade comes in 5 pieces to offer you the best cutting on your metal projects. These blades are made of a high-quality bi-metal that assures you of durable blades all along.
The blades come with a variable pitch 14/18 teeth-per-inch special angle geometry. This will then offer you the most efficient cutting performance. Even when working on hardened materials, this blade will easily cut through.
All the 5 blades come with an inch tall bode that is 0.42 inches thick. In other words, these blades are wide and thick enough hence durable and unbreakable. They also won’t bend when you are cutting through metal or wood projects.
Besides that, all five blades are coated. This means that they will resist corrosion as they prevent gumming as you cut the materials.
Key Features :
- Comes in 5 pieces
- Bi-material construction
- Variable pitch 14/18 TPI unique back angle geometry
- 0.42 blade thickness
- A 1-inch tall blade body
- Non-stick and rust resistance coating
- Taller high speed steel strip of the reciprocating saw blade reduces breakage and maximizes tooth durability
- Aggressive shank angle increases tooth contact, maintaining cutting speed as blade wears for longer blade life in heavy metal cutting applications
- Patented tooth design utilizes shaper tooth geometry for faster cut rates
Things to consider before buying Sawzall blades for metal
So, there we go. Now you have a clue of the best Sawzall blades for metal. But maybe you are not completely impressed by any of the blades on our list. There is no problem with that.
However, you can always follow the proper buying guide to help you with your choice. That being said, here is a look at the top factors to consider when buying a reciprocating saw blade for metal:
TPI (Teeth per Inch)
The TPI of the blade is supposedly the major factor that determines the reliability of the blade. If you have blades with the same TPI range, they will be used for the same application, regardless of the length or thickness.
In case you get a saw blade with less than 10TPI, it will be great for cutting wood. Such saw blades can be used for pruning, creating firewood, or working on other wood projects. They can also be used to cut nail-embedded wood.
But blades that come with 14TPI or more are the best choice for metal and PVC. Therefore, make sure that you choose wisely. However, you can always go for 24TPI or more if you are working on tough metal projects.
Durability
The durability of the saw is another thing that you must keep in mind. In this case, you will need to consider the material used to make the blade. The blade that you choose for metal cutting must be strong and sturdy enough.
Ideally, consider material such as bi-material, which is the best for metal cutting. Besides the material, you should also go for a blade that is thick enough to dig into metal without breaking. A blade that is not rigid will usually not be strong enough.
But just because the blade is thick and stiff doesn’t always mean that it will be strong and durable. On the contrary, the blade might break easily since it is too stiff even with less force. Some thin and flexible blades have proven to work efficiently, and they will flex to reduce breakage.
Still, some people consider a flexible blade annoying, which can also be a drawback in terms of durability. With the teeth, some people prefer the welded-on type.
However, the best option is a blade that is sharpened by machine or hand. The stamped or pressed sharp blade isn’t a bad choice either for minor DIY projects. Nevertheless, the pressed and stamped sharp blades are less durable. And when you go for the welded teeth, make sure that they are firmly welded.
Length
The last feature that you should consider when you are choosing a reciprocating saw for metal cutting is the length. Generally, there is no specific length that you should pick when choosing a reciprocating saw. When choosing the length of the blade, it will depend on your personal preferences for the project needs.
Also, the longest blade you will find out there will be 12 inches, which is ideal for heavy-duty cutting. The long length blade is also perfect for cutting down trees or trimming bushes. The six-inch blades are best for cutting most projects like metal pieces, PVC pipes, as well as other lumber projects.
But if you have a reciprocating saw with a large front, then you should go with the 3-inch blade. Most blades come in either 6 inches or 9 inches, which is ideal for any type of project. But that’s not all. Another thing that you should keep in mind is the brand of the blade.
A blade from a reputable brand is more likely to serve you efficiently for a long time. The reputable brand will also assure you of excellent performance along with money-back guarantees and warranties.
And yes, you must also consider if the blade will work on your saw or not. This means that it should be compatible with most reciprocating saws for it to be efficient enough.
Some people will consider the number of blades that come in one pack, especially if they have a heavy project to handle. The variety of blades in one pack means that you will be able to work on different applications. Generally, it is all about finding a blade that matches your needs accordingly.
How to Use Sawzall Blades for Metal Cutting
Having the right reciprocating saw blade is one thing and knowing how to use it is another. The proper use of the Sawzall blade will help you get the most out of it. That being said, here are some tips to help you use the reciprocating saw blade accordingly.
Step One: Set the Orbital Action
Before you start using the blade, you must ensure that you set the orbital action. This is the motion that the blade makes when moving. Normally, a reciprocating saw will go in and out of the housing is set in the normal stroke pattern.
But the orbital action enhances the jiggle of the blade to make it move in a circular motion. Furthermore, this will help to remove the chips quickly hence letting you cut faster. The saw shouldn’t wiggle as you cut through metal.
Step Two: Insert the Blade
When the orbital action is set, you can now install the blade based on the type of metal you are cutting. If you have your blade ready, simply insert it into the reciprocating saw accordingly. Luckily, most modern reciprocating saws won’t come with nuts. In this case, you can simply insert the blade without the need for any specialized tools.
All you have to do is insert the blade into the slot behind the show of the saw. This is the metal that sits between the blade and the opening at the end of the saw.
Step Three: Adjust Settings
After installing the blade, you can now adjust the settings accordingly. In terms of the settings, you can adjust them by changing the circular action and the speeds of the saw. Make sure you do it accordingly, depending on the type of reciprocating saw that you are using.
Step Four: Start Cutting
When everything is installed and set as needed, it will now be time to start cutting through your metal. Before you start cutting, make sure that the blade is in place and that everything is okay. Always ensure that you start cutting slowly to keep the saw steady.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here we have some of the most commonly asked queries regarding Sawzall blades:
Should I use a corded or battery-powered reciprocating saw?
Your choice of the saw will depend on the type of project you are handling. Corded reciprocating saws will need a socket outlet, and they don’t need to be charged. On the other hand, cordless saws are easy to move around, but they need a reliable battery based on the type of project.
Is there a difference between a reciprocating saw and a Sawzall saw?
As we mentioned earlier at the beginning of this article, the Sawzall and reciprocating saw are the same things. It is just a name used in place of the other.
Which blade is ideal for demolition work?
For demolition work, you should go for the bi-metal or carbide grit blade. These blades are strong and durable enough to handle any of your projects.
What should I do to prevent my saw from slipping?
All you have to do is practice how to use it to ensure that the shoe is set firmly.
When should I replace my reciprocating saw blade?
Do this whenever you notice the blade is worn out, and the teeth are dull.
Final Words
So, now we believe that you can make the right decision when choosing the best Sawzall blades for metal. You have enough information to guide you when buying one and also use it appropriately.
All in all, make sure that you choose the one that meets your project needs and personal preferences. Don’t forget to take good care of your saw and store it safely to enjoy using it for a long time.