Reciprocating Saw VS Jigsaw

Ever since I was a kid, I've been interested in heavy-machinery. 

One of my favorite pastimes as a child was maintaining a diary with detailed descriptions of the tool my dad used. However, two kinds of equipment that I have always found difficult to differentiate between are reciprocating saws and jigsaws. 

So, when my husband asked me which saw to use for a DIY task, I failed to provide him with a definitive answer. That's when I decided to take off my gardening hat and put on my thinking cap to get to the bottom of this unsolved question. 

I went on the internet and visited various websites to make a comprehensive list of the pros and cons of both types of saw. And the next evening, I explained to my husband all that there was to know about these two tools. 

Frankly, I impressed myself with my research skills, and it would be a waste to keep this information to myself. Therefore, to help fellow Texans, I've decided to highlight all the relevant points in the tussle between reciprocating saw vs jigsaw. 

Hi! I'm Stacy Smith and let's begin. 

Reciprocating Saw Vs. Jigsaw

Instead of writing a boring guide, narrowing down the differences between the two saws, I've decided to distinguish them based on certain attributes. I'll look at how both saws perform in relation to certain indispensable qualities while bringing to light some exciting features exclusive to these tools.

Without further ado, let's get started.

1. Design

I should tell you that reciprocating saws and jigsaws belong to the family of power saws. Now, a jigsaw is a type of reciprocating saw, so there's very little that separates the two. However, one form of distinction lies in their design. 

A reciprocating saw is modeled on hacksaws and features a hog-nose, permitting you to get more power behind each stroke. Apart from that, it has an external blade and trigger, as part of its horizontal design, complete with a dust collection port and orbital settings. 

Coming to jigsaws, you'll find that it has a slightly complex structure, owing to its layered body and vertical settings. As a result, it may not be the most flexible tool, but it's certainly efficient, thanks to its clamp mechanism, lock-on button, and orbital action. 

2. Weight

The next determining factor is weight, and traditionally, both these saws tend to be lightweight. But reciprocating saws weigh 3-5 pounds while jigsaws are heavier at 6-12 pounds. Having said that, irrespective of your choice, you won't face difficulty using the push and pull mechanism of these tools. 

3. Versatility

At the very outset, I should tell you that both saws prove versatile, permitting you to handle large-scale and small-scale tasks. But reciprocating saws have a slight advantage since they deliver vertical and horizontal strokes with ease. Moreover, you can alter the stroke length to reduce the length of cuts for precise output. 

With jigsaws, you can use a combination of bevel, compound, and circular strokes, making them stand out. However, they don't deliver the best long strokes, meaning they are not apt for cutting thicker materials. The upside to this is that you get improved accuracy as they perform better around curved edges. 

4. Materials

Speaking of materials, I must mention the type of projects for which you can use these saws. While reciprocating saws and jigsaws prove suitable for woodworking tasks, the difference in output is visible when used on metals. 

Reciprocating saws cut through most metals like aluminum, steel, copper, cast-iron, and even wood with nails. On the other hand, jigsaws only work with metals like steel and copper but offer fantastic performance when used on plastic and ceramic. This is one area where you can't use reciprocating saws. 

5. Types Of Projects

So, what are the projects suitable for using a reciprocating saw and a jigsaw? I've found that reciprocating saws offer unmatched output when it comes to demolition projects, thanks to their long strokes for cutting through metals. Hence, they can quickly demolish walls, highlighting their efficiency on heavy-duty tasks. 

Therefore, whenever you need power or are under pressure to complete a task quickly, you can opt for reciprocating saws. Moving on, jigsaws come in handy for precision work, enabling you to cut in straight or curved lines. While you may not get the best results on demolition projects, they still deliver sufficient power when working in tight spots. 

6. Cost

Another important factor that most buyers would want to find out is the price of these two tools. While it's not possible to say exactly how much they cost, reciprocating saws are priced higher than jigsaws. 

It's possible to find a budget-friendly unit with a little research, but most people who want to save a few bucks opt for jigsaws. 

7. Ease Of Use

If you're an aged individual like me, user-friendliness plays a crucial part in choosing the right tool. In that regard, you should know that a jigsaw is tougher to operate, and it takes time to get used to its mechanism.

Initially, it might wobble while making straight cuts, for which you’ll need to use a straight strip of wood and G-clamp, lending stability. In comparison, reciprocating saws are pretty straightforward to use with their long strokes, reducing the chances of wobbling. 

8. Battery Backup

Finally, jigsaws offer a longer runtime than reciprocating saws since they are more suitable for light-scale projects. But the difference is minute, and it boils down to how efficiently you can make varying cuts.

Final Words