The best cordless reciprocating saws make fast work of demolition, plumbing, pruning, remodeling, and other jobs where control and portability matter. This lineup includes full-size saws, compact one-handed models, and versatile options for DIY projects.
We selected models across major battery platforms and price points, including tool-only kits and options with batteries and chargers. Use the guide below to compare performance priorities and choose the right saw for your workload.
Best 10 Cordless Reciprocating Saws Picks for 2026
Best All-Around Kit
DEWALT 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw
- Battery and charger included
- Four-position clamp for flexible cuts
- 1-1/8-inch stroke with variable speed
Best For: Ready-to-use DIY and general cutting projects
Best One-Handed Design
- Compact one-handed design
- POWERSTATE brushless motor
- Pivoting shoe helps reduce bucking
Best For: Controlled metal cutting and tight work areas
Best 2-in-1 Value
- Reciprocating saw and jigsaw modes
- Includes four material-specific blades
- Lightweight 4.2-pound design
Best For: Lightweight, multi-purpose DIY cutting
Best Long-Stroke Performance
Makita 18V LXT Reciprocating Saw
- 1-1/4-inch stroke for faster cuts
- Two-speed brushless motor
- Tool-less blade change
Best For: Existing Makita LXT users tackling demanding cuts
Best All-Around Pick
DEWALT 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw
- Brushless motor with 1-1/8-inch stroke
- Compact body with LED and pivoting shoe
- Works with DEWALT 20V MAX and FLEXVOLT batteries
Best For: DEWALT battery-system users seeking a versatile bare tool
Best for Extended Cutting
- 1-1/4-inch stroke with up to 2,800 SPM
- Tool-less blade changes and variable speed
- Compact ergonomic design with rubber handle
Best For: Makita LXT users wanting productive, controlled cutting
Best for High-Speed Cutting
- Brushless tool rated at 3,000 SPM
- Lever-actuated blade clamp for quick changes
- Reinforced battery connection and built-in LED
Best For: M18 users seeking a fast, durable bare tool
Best Compact One-Handed Pick
Makita XRJ08Z Brushless Compact Recipro Saw
- Brushless motor reaches up to 3,100 SPM
- One-handed design with low vibration
- Includes wood, all-purpose, and metal blades
Best For: Compact one-handed cutting with Makita 18V LXT batteries
Best Value V20 Option
CRAFTSMAN V20 Variable-Speed Reciprocating Saw
- Variable-speed trigger reaches up to 3,000 RPM
- 1-inch stroke length for efficient cutting
- Tool-free blade release and compact design
Best For: General cutting for owners of CRAFTSMAN V20 batteries
Best Lightweight Compact Pick
Milwaukee M12 HACKZALL Cordless Saw
- Lightweight 2.1-pound bare-tool design
- Variable-speed trigger for controlled cuts
- Accepts HACKZALL and SAWZALL-style blades
Best For: Portable cutting for Milwaukee M12 battery users
Best All-Around Kit – DEWALT 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw
DEWALT 20V MAX* Cordless Reciprocating Saw, Battery and Charger Included (DCS380P1)
Check Price On AmazonFor shoppers who want cordless reciprocating saws with a battery and charger included, the DEWALT DCS380P1 is a practical all-around kit. Its 1-1/8-inch stroke, variable-speed trigger, and four-position blade clamp support both fast cuts and flexible positioning.
Best For: Homeowners and DIY users who need a versatile, ready-to-use saw for wood-focused cutting projects.
Pros:
- Battery, charger, and kit box are included.
- Four-position blade clamp supports flush cutting and tool-free blade changes.
- Pivoting shoe, rubber overmold grip, and variable speed improve control and comfort.
Cons:
- At 11 pounds, it is heavier than several compact alternatives.
- The supplied specifications identify wood as the surface recommendation.
The DEWALT stands out when you want a complete 20V package rather than a bare tool. Its longer stroke and adjustable shoe favor productive general-purpose work, while the added weight may matter during extended overhead cutting.
Best One-Handed Design – Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hackzall
Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall (Bare Tool), Red, Black, | Saw (Tool Only) Model 2719-20
Check Price On AmazonThe Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hackzall is one of the more maneuverable cordless reciprocating saws, using a one-handed design for control in tighter work areas. Its POWERSTATE brushless motor, 4,500 rpm speed, and pivoting shoe are geared toward fast cutting with reduced bucking and vibration.
Best For: Users who prioritize one-handed handling and compact control for metal-oriented cutting tasks.
Pros:
- One-handed format offers control and versatility over standard reciprocating saws.
- Brushless motor and REDLINK Plus electronics provide power and overload protection.
- Pivoting shoe helps maintain work-piece contact for smoother cuts.
Cons:
- This listing is a bare tool; the battery is not included.
- The 7/8-inch stroke is shorter than the stroke lengths of some full-size models.
Choose the Hackzall when access and handling are more important than a traditional full-size form factor. Remember to budget for a compatible REDLITHIUM battery and charger if you do not already own them.
Best 2-in-1 Value – WORX 20V AXIS Saw
The WORX WX550L.9 combines a reciprocating saw and jigsaw in one compact tool, making it a flexible option among cordless reciprocating saws. Its pivoting head, included blades, LED light, blower, and 4.2-pound battery-weight design support varied DIY cutting jobs.
Best For: DIYers who want one lightweight tool for both reciprocating and jigsaw-style cuts across wood, metal, plastic, and other listed materials.
Pros:
- Two-in-one design switches between reciprocating saw and jigsaw modes.
- Includes four blades for different materials and cutting applications.
- Lightweight design includes an LED light, blower, and tool-less blade change.
Cons:
- This WX550L.9 listing does not include a battery.
- Its 3/4-inch reciprocating stroke is shorter than those of several full-size saws.
The WORX is a strong space-saving choice for mixed DIY projects where versatility matters more than maximum reciprocating stroke. Its PowerShare compatibility can also be useful if you already own compatible WORX batteries.
Best Long-Stroke Performance – Makita 18V LXT Reciprocating Saw
Makita XRJ05Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Recipro Saw, Tool Only | Tool only
Check Price On AmazonThe Makita XRJ05Z targets users who want productive cutting from cordless reciprocating saws without a cord. Its brushless motor offers two speed ranges, while the 1-1/4-inch stroke and tool-less blade change are suited to demanding, repeated cuts.
Best For: Makita LXT users seeking a powerful bare tool with a long stroke and adjustable cutting speed.
Pros:
- 1-1/4-inch stroke supports faster cutting.
- Two-speed brushless motor provides low and high stroke ranges.
- Tool-less blade changes and a variable-speed trigger improve productivity and control.
Cons:
- Battery and charger are not included.
- At 8.2 pounds with a battery, it may cause fatigue during prolonged use.
The Makita is a sensible platform choice for existing 18V LXT owners who want a longer-stroke saw with brushless performance. As a tool-only purchase, it is less convenient for new users who need a complete kit.
Best All-Around Pick – DEWALT 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw
The DEWALT DCS382B is a practical choice among cordless reciprocating saws for users who want a compact, brushless tool with useful speed and handling features. Its 1-1/8-inch stroke, variable trigger, pivoting shoe, keyless blade clamp, and LED light support a range of cutting tasks, though the battery and charger are sold separately.
Best For: DIYers and professionals already invested in DEWALT 20V MAX or FLEXVOLT batteries.
Pros:
- Brushless motor is designed for cutting power and efficiency.
- 1-1/8-inch stroke length supports fast cutting through various materials.
- Compact design, pivoting shoe, LED light, and keyless clamp improve usability.
- Compatible with DEWALT 20V MAX and FLEXVOLT batteries.
Cons:
- Battery and charger are not included.
- Supplied specifications list a 20-volt tool rather than a complete kit.
With its brushless motor and balanced set of convenience features, the DCS382B is a versatile cordless reciprocating saw for routine demolition, remodeling, and maintenance work—provided you already have compatible batteries.
Best for Extended Cutting – Makita 18V LXT Recipro Saw
Makita XRJ04Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Recipro Saw, Tool Only, Blue | Tool only
Check Price On AmazonThe Makita XRJ04Z is one of the cordless reciprocating saws to consider when stroke length and variable-speed control matter. Its motor delivers up to 2,800 strokes per minute with a 1-1/4-inch stroke, while the tool-less blade change system and ergonomic design are aimed at productive, less tiring use. It is a bare tool, and the battery is not included.
Best For: Makita 18V LXT users who prioritize a longer stroke and a compact ergonomic design.
Pros:
- 1-1/4-inch stroke length is suited to faster cutting.
- Variable-speed motor and trigger offer control across applications.
- Tool-less blade changes help speed up installation and removal.
- Compact 19-1/8-inch design and rubber handle support operator comfort.
Cons:
- Battery and charger are not included.
- At 8.3 pounds with a battery, it may feel substantial during prolonged use.
The XRJ04Z combines a long stroke with straightforward controls and tool-less blade changes. It makes the most sense for buyers already using Makita’s 18V LXT platform and looking for a productivity-focused bare tool.
Best for High-Speed Cutting – Milwaukee M18 FUEL Sawzall
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Sawzall is a brushless option among cordless reciprocating saws, offering a listed speed of 3,000 strokes per minute for demanding cutting work. A lever-actuated blade clamp, reinforced battery connection, and built-in LED add practical durability and convenience. This listing is for the bare tool only, with no battery or charger.
Best For: Milwaukee M18 users who want a fast-cutting brushless saw with rugged connection and blade-change features.
Pros:
- Brushless design with a listed speed of 3,000 strokes per minute.
- Wear-resistant lever-actuated clamp enables quick blade changes.
- Metal-reinforced battery connection improves retention and durability.
- Built-in LED light illuminates the work surface.
Cons:
- Battery and charger are not included.
- Supplied notes do not list a variable-speed trigger or stroke length.
Milwaukee’s 2821-20 emphasizes speed, brushless operation, and durable high-use details. It is a sensible bare-tool upgrade for existing M18 owners who value fast cutting and easy blade changes.
Best Compact One-Handed Pick – Makita XRJ08Z Brushless Compact Recipro Saw
Makita XRJ08Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Compact One-Handed Recipro Saw, Tool Only
Check Price On AmazonFor shoppers comparing cordless reciprocating saws, the Makita XRJ08Z stands out as a compact one-handed option. Its brushless motor delivers up to 3,100 strokes per minute with a 7/8-inch stroke length, while the low-vibration design is intended to make cutting more comfortable and efficient.
Best For: Users who want a compact, one-handed saw for controlled cutting and already own Makita 18V LXT batteries.
Pros:
- Brushless motor provides up to 3,100 strokes per minute.
- One-handed grip and loop-shaped handle guard support control and rigidity.
- Low-vibration design and up to 55% faster cutting claim.
- Includes wood, all-purpose, and metal-cutting blades.
Cons:
- Battery and charger are not included.
- Designed around the Makita 18V LXT battery system.
The XRJ08Z is a focused choice for compact work where one-handed handling matters. Its included blade selection adds versatility, but the bare-tool format means new Makita users will need to budget for a battery and charger.
Best Value V20 Option – CRAFTSMAN V20 Variable-Speed Reciprocating Saw
The CRAFTSMAN CMCS300B is a practical choice among cordless reciprocating saws for shoppers who want variable-speed control and straightforward blade changes. Its 1-inch stroke length, 3,000 RPM top speed, and compact 14.5-inch design suit a range of cutting tasks, including work in tighter spaces.
Best For: CRAFTSMAN V20 users who need an affordable bare-tool saw for general cutting applications.
Pros:
- Variable-speed trigger provides control from zero to 3,000 RPM.
- 1-inch stroke length is designed for faster application completion.
- Tool-free blade release simplifies blade changes.
- Contoured overmolded handle supports comfort during use.
Cons:
- Battery and charger are sold separately.
- Only one 6-inch reciprocating blade is included.
- Best value depends on already owning compatible V20 batteries.
With a compact body, variable-speed trigger, and tool-free blade release, the CMCS300B covers the fundamentals without adding complexity. It makes the most sense for existing V20 owners who want a compatible saw for routine work.
Best Lightweight Compact Pick – Milwaukee M12 HACKZALL Cordless Saw
Milwaukee 2420-20 M12 12-Volt Lithium-Ion HACKZALL Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Tool-Only)
Check Price On AmazonThe Milwaukee 2420-20 HACKZALL is a lightweight option for shoppers comparing cordless reciprocating saws in a smaller 12-volt format. It accepts both HACKZALL and SAWZALL-style blades, and its variable-speed trigger helps users manage the cut across different applications.
Best For: Lightweight, compact cutting for Milwaukee M12 users who value portability and blade compatibility.
Pros:
- Lightweight 2.1-pound bare-tool design.
- Variable-speed trigger supports controlled cutting.
- Accepts both HACKZALL and SAWZALL-style blades.
- Battery fuel gauge displays remaining runtime.
Cons:
- Battery and charger are not included.
- Uses a 12-volt platform rather than a higher-voltage system.
- Brushed motor design.
The M12 HACKZALL prioritizes portability over platform power, making it a sensible fit for lighter-duty work and tight areas. Its broad blade compatibility and onboard fuel gauge are useful additions for existing Milwaukee M12 owners.
How We Picked the Best Cordless Reciprocating Saws
We evaluated these saws by focusing on the features that matter during real cutting jobs: motor performance, stroke speed, stroke length, handling, vibration control, blade-change convenience, and battery-platform compatibility. We also considered whether each model is better suited to demolition, rough construction, pruning, installation work, or occasional household repairs.
Because tool-only packages are common, we also considered kit value separately from saw performance. A bare tool can be economical if you already own compatible batteries, while a battery-and-charger kit may be the better starting point for a new platform.
Quick Comparison
| Best For | Recommended Options |
|---|---|
| All-around remodeling | DEWALT DCS380P1, DEWALT DCS382B |
| Heavy-duty demolition | Milwaukee M18 FUEL Sawzall, Milwaukee 2719-20 HACKZALL |
| Compact one-handed cutting | Makita XRJ08Z, Milwaukee 2420-20 |
| Multi-purpose DIY projects | WORX WX550L.9 |
| Value within an existing battery system | CRAFTSMAN CMCS300B, Makita XRJ04Z |
Key Buying Factors for Cordless Reciprocating Saws
Power, Stroke Length, and Speed
Longer strokes and higher strokes-per-minute ratings can improve cutting speed, especially through lumber, pipe, and demolition materials. However, maximum speed is not everything. Variable-speed triggers help you start cuts cleanly and reduce damage to delicate materials. For demanding demolition, choose a full-size brushless model with strong sustained performance.
Size, Balance, and Vibration
A compact saw is easier to control in tight spaces and may be preferable for pruning, electrical work, or overhead cuts. Full-size models generally deliver more power but can be heavier. Look for an adjustable shoe, comfortable grip, and effective vibration control if you expect long cutting sessions.
Battery Platform and Package Contents
Check whether the saw includes a battery and charger. Tool-only models are often the best value for users already invested in DEWALT 20V MAX, Milwaukee M18 or M12, Makita 18V LXT, WORX 20V, or CRAFTSMAN V20 batteries. Battery capacity also affects runtime, weight, and balance.
Blade Changes and Cutting Flexibility
A keyless clamp makes switching between wood, metal, and pruning blades faster. Orbital action can speed aggressive wood cutting, while a standard reciprocating mode offers smoother control for metal and finish-sensitive work. Confirm that the saw accepts the blade types you plan to use.
Who Should Buy Which Cordless Reciprocating Saws?
Choose a full-size DEWALT or Milwaukee model for remodeling, framing, and frequent demolition. Makita’s brushless options suit buyers who want efficient performance within the LXT platform, while the compact Makita and Milwaukee HACKZALL models are better for one-handed work and confined spaces. The WORX 2-in-1 is appealing for DIY users who want added jigsaw versatility. CRAFTSMAN is a practical budget choice for V20 owners, and the M12 HACKZALL is ideal when low weight and portability matter more than maximum cutting power.



