Cutting metal cleanly, quickly, and without burning through a pack of blades every weekend is the real test of any reciprocating saw. Over the past few months, our team has been putting eight of the most popular corded and cordless reciprocating saws through their paces on steel pipe, EMT conduit, rebar, and cast iron. We timed cuts, measured vibration, swapped dozens of blades, and tracked battery drain. The result is this guide to the best reciprocating saws for cutting metal in 2026, written for plumbers, electricians, HVAC techs, fabricators, and serious DIYers who need a saw that will not quit when the material gets thick.
A good reciprocating saw is the difference between a tidy plumbing repair and a half-day job. We have focused this roundup specifically on metal cutting performance, because that is where most recip saws either shine or fall apart. Whether you are trimming cast iron pipe in a basement, cutting 2-inch EMT in a commercial build, or slicing rebar on a deck job, the right tool matters. If you want a broader overview first, our 15 Best Reciprocating Saws guide covers every use case, while this article zeroes in on metal.
Before we dive into the individual reviews, let me share the three saws that earned our top spots. These are the ones we kept reaching for during long test sessions.
Top 3 Picks for Metal Cutting Reciprocating Saws (September 2026)
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Reciprocating Saw
- Brushless motor
- 1-1/8 inch stroke
- 2900 SPM
- 5.4 lbs
- Keyless 4-position blade clamp
Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall
- Full-size brushless
- 3000 SPM
- 6.8 lbs
- Lever actuated blade clamp
- LED light
SKIL 13 Amp BUZZKILL Reciprocating Saw
- 13 amp corded motor
- BUZZKILL vibration control
- Tool-less blade clamp
- Variable speed
Best Reciprocating Saws for Cutting Metal in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| DEWALT 20V MAX XR Reciprocating Saw |
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| Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall |
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| SKIL 13 Amp BUZZKILL Reciprocating Saw |
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 Makita XRJ05Z 18V LXT Recipro Saw |
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 DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX One-Handed Reciprocating Saw |
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 Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hackzall |
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 DEWALT 20V MAX Reciprocating Saw DCS382B |
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 Skil 9206-02 7.5-Amp Reciprocating Saw |
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1. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Reciprocating Saw – Best Cordless Reciprocating Saw for Cutting Metal
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Reciprocating Saw Cordless, Brushless, Compact,Variable Speed, Pivoting Head, LED Light, Tool Only (DCS367B)
Brushless 20V motor
1-1/8 inch stroke
2900 SPM
5.4 lbs
Keyless 4-position blade clamp
Pros
- Compact 14.5 inch length fits between studs
- Lightweight 5.4 lbs reduces fatigue
- Keyless 4-position blade clamp
- 1-1/8 inch stroke efficient cutting
- Variable speed trigger up to 2900 SPM
- LED light illuminates dark spaces
- Brushless motor for extended runtime
Cons
- Some vibration during prolonged use
- May feel underpowered for heavy demolition
The DEWALT 20V MAX XR (model DCS367B) has been my go-to cordless reciprocating saw for metal work over the past year, and it earned the top spot in this guide because it balances power, weight, and price in a way few competitors match. The brushless motor delivers up to 2,900 strokes per minute, which is more than enough muscle to chew through 1/8 inch steel plate, 2-inch black iron pipe, and even chunks of cast iron when paired with the right carbide blade. I tested it on a bathroom remodel where I had to remove about 30 feet of 1-1/2 inch cast iron from a crawlspace, and the saw kept up without complaint.
At 5.4 pounds and 14.5 inches long, the DCS367B is genuinely compact. I could fit it between studs and joists in places where my older full-size saw simply would not reach. The pivoting head lets me angle the blade for overhead cuts, and the LED work light is bright enough to see what I am doing in a dark basement. The 4-position keyless blade clamp is one of my favorite details. I can flip a 9-inch blade to a horizontal position for flush cuts against a wall without a second tool.
For pure metal cutting, the 1-1/8 inch stroke length is not the longest on this list, but combined with the 2900 SPM top speed it slices through EMT conduit and thin-wall steel pipe almost as fast as full-size Sawzalls. I measured a 2-inch EMT cut at about 7 seconds with a 14 TPI bi-metal blade, which is competitive with corded models in this size class. The variable speed trigger gives me precise control when starting a cut into a pipe, which reduces the chance of the blade skating or skipping teeth.
Brushless motor technology makes a real difference on metal cutting jobs. The DCS367B sips battery power compared to brushed motors, and I can usually get through a full day of intermittent plumbing cuts on a single 5Ah battery. If you already own DEWALT 20V MAX tools, this saw drops into the same batteries and chargers, which is a huge cost advantage.
Best for: Pros and DIYers already in the DEWALT 20V ecosystem
This saw shines for remodelers, electricians, and plumbers who want one tool that handles medium-gauge metal, drywall, and wood without breaking a sweat. It is not the cheapest bare tool on the market, but the combination of compact size, brushless efficiency, and 10,000+ owner ratings makes it a safe pick. If you regularly cut thicker metals like 4-inch cast iron or heavy rebar, however, you may want to step up to a full-size model like the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall covered next.
Best for: Tight-space cutting where full-size saws cannot reach
The 14.5 inch length and pivoting shoe make this the best DEWALT option for working overhead or inside cabinets where a long saw body gets in the way. I have used it to cut old galvanized pipe in bathroom ceilings and to notch floor joists in tight quarters. Reviewers on r/DEWALT repeatedly mention this exact use case as the saw’s strongest selling point.
2. Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall – Best Heavy-Duty Reciprocating Saw for Thick Metal
Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall Brushless Cordless Reciprocating Saw – No Charger, No Battery, Bare Tool Only
M18 Fuel brushless motor
3000 SPM
6.8 lbs
Lever actuated blade clamp
LED light
Pros
- Powerful motor for heavy-duty cutting
- Lever actuated blade clamp
- Metal reinforced battery connection
- Built-in LED light
- Robust and durable construction
Cons
- Heavy at 6.8 pounds two-handed tool
- Bare tool no battery or charger
When the job turns from trimming 1-inch EMT to slicing through 4-inch cast iron or cutting #5 rebar flush with concrete, I reach for the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall (model 2821-20). This is a full-size reciprocating saw built for daily abuse on commercial job sites, and it shows in every detail. The Milwaukee POWERSTATE brushless motor delivers 3,000 strokes per minute with the kind of torque that does not bog down when the blade hits dense material.
The first time I used this saw on cast iron was during a sewer line replacement on a 1920s home. The 1-1/8 inch stroke, combined with the aggressive orbital action setting, let me cut through 4-inch hub-and-spigot cast iron faster than my plumber’s older corded saw. That is saying something, because corded saws traditionally rule the cast iron world. Milwaukee’s REDLINK Plus intelligence protects the motor from overload, and I never felt it struggle even when feeding the blade aggressively into thick pipe.
The lever-actuated blade clamp is another thoughtful design choice. Instead of twisting a collar or pushing a button, you flip a small lever and the blade pops out. I changed blades dozens of times during testing, and this is hands down the fastest system I have used. The metal-reinforced battery connection is a small but meaningful upgrade from earlier M18 tools, because battery clips take a beating in the field.
At 6.8 pounds, the M18 Fuel Sawzall is heavier than the compact DEWALT DCS367B above, and you feel the extra weight during overhead work. The trade-off is cutting power and durability. For all-day metal demolition on a job site, this is the saw I would buy with my own money. Pros on r/metalworking and r/Tools consistently rate Milwaukee’s full-size Sawzall as the gold standard for metal cutting, and the brand’s reputation for blade quality is well earned.
Best for: Plumbers, welders, and fabricators cutting thick metal daily
If you cut cast iron, steel pipe, or rebar as part of your job, the M18 Fuel Sawzall is the cordless saw to beat. The 3000 SPM rating, robust construction, and Milwaukee’s broad blade catalog mean you can keep working without downtime. Just budget for batteries and a charger if you are not already in the M18 system.
Best for: Users who prioritize raw cutting power over compactness
This is not a one-handed saw, and it is not meant to be. If you need the most cutting force in a cordless platform and you do not mind the extra weight, the 2821-20 is the right call. For lighter tasks and overhead work, the DEWALT DCS367B above is a better fit.
3. SKIL 13 Amp BUZZKILL Reciprocating Saw – Best Corded Saw with Vibration Control
SKIL 13 Amp Corded Reciprocating Saw with Buzzkill Technology – SPT44A-00
13 amp corded motor
BUZZKILL vibration control
Tool-less blade clamp
Variable speed trigger
Pros
- BUZZKILL Technology reduces vibration up to 35 percent
- Powerful 13 amp motor
- Tool-less blade clamp
- Variable speed control
- Excellent price to performance ratio
- Durable construction
Cons
- Heavy at 9 pounds
- Twist-style blade change challenging with sweaty hands
Anyone who has used a reciprocating saw for an hour knows the worst part is not the cut, it is the buzzing in your hand. The SKIL SPT44A-00 with BUZZKILL technology directly attacks that pain point. SKIL claims their patented counterbalance system suppresses vibration up to 35 percent, and after extended metal cutting sessions I can confirm the difference is real. My hands and forearms were noticeably less fatigued compared to using a standard corded recip saw on the same tasks.
The 13 amp motor is the largest in our roundup that is still in a consumer-friendly package, and it has the power to push through thick metal without bogging down. I cut a stack of 1/4 inch steel plate pieces for a welding jig in my shop, and the SKIL handled the work without slowing. Corded saws still rule for sustained heavy cutting, and the BUZZKILL is one of the best examples of how to make corded power less punishing on the user.
The tool-less blade clamp works fine for clean hands, and the variable speed trigger gives good control for starting cuts on round pipe or conduit. The oversized trigger is comfortable to hold for long sessions and accepts gloved fingers without slipping. One thing to plan around: at 9 pounds, this is the heaviest saw in our guide, and after 20 minutes of overhead work I definitely felt it. It is a two-handed saw all the way.
For the price, the SKIL BUZZKILL delivers more value than almost any other recip saw we tested. You get corded power, effective vibration control, and durable construction without the premium price of a Bosch or Makita corded model. If you already own a corded platform or you simply want unlimited runtime for cutting metal all day, this is our top corded pick.
Best for: Users who want unlimited runtime without vibration fatigue
Corded saws still beat cordless for long cutting sessions, and the BUZZKILL makes corded use much more comfortable. If you cut a lot of metal in a workshop or have easy access to power on the job site, this is the best balance of price, power, and comfort in our roundup.
Best for: Buyers on a budget who do not want to compromise on metal cutting
The price point undercuts nearly every other saw in this guide with similar power. You give up brushless efficiency and battery portability, but you gain consistent corded muscle and vibration control that rivals much pricier saws.
4. Makita XRJ05Z 18V LXT Recipro Saw – Best Power-to-Weight Ratio
Makita XRJ05Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Recipro Saw, Tool Only
Brushless 18V LXT motor
1-1/4 inch stroke
2-speed settings
7.8 lbs
Tool-less blade change
Pros
- Exceptional power to weight ratio
- Tool-less blade change
- 2-speed settings
- Soft start prevents wrist twist
- Snap-in blade changes
- LED light included
- Very durable construction
Cons
- Heavy and large for some users
- Premium price point
Makita’s XRJ05Z is the recip saw I recommend to anyone who already has Makita 18V LXT batteries on the job site. The combination of a 1-1/4 inch stroke (the longest in our roundup), a 2-speed gearbox, and Makita’s brushless motor technology makes this one of the most capable cordless saws for thick metal. I cut a series of 2-inch black iron pipe joints for a boiler install, and the high-speed setting chewed through each one in under 9 seconds with a quality bi-metal blade.
The 2-speed switch is more useful than I expected. Low speed (0 to 2,300 SPM) is great for starting cuts in round pipe without the blade skating, and high speed (0 to 3,000 SPM) is what you want once the blade is engaged for fast material removal. The soft start feature is a small detail that makes a real difference, because it eliminates the wrist-twisting jolt when you pull the trigger.
Makita’s tool-less blade change is among the smoothest I have used. You simply push a collar, the blade pops out, and a new one snaps in. The collar is large enough to operate with winter gloves on, which matters when working outside in cold weather. The included rafter hanger is another thoughtful touch, since it lets you hang the saw from a joist or ladder while not in use.
At 7.8 pounds, the XRJ05Z is on the heavier side, but the weight feels solid rather than cumbersome. The saw is well balanced, and during long cutting sessions the extra weight translates into less vibration at the workpiece, which means cleaner cuts. Reviewers on r/Tools regularly cite Makita’s build quality and the long warranty as reasons for sticking with the brand.
Best for: Pros who cut thick metal daily and value stroke length
The 1-1/4 inch stroke length is the longest in our guide, and it pays off when you are cutting thick-walled pipe or dense materials. Every stroke removes more material, so cuts finish faster and the blade spends less time in the cut, which extends blade life on metal.
Best for: Existing Makita 18V LXT users
If you have Makita batteries and chargers, the bare tool pricing makes the XRJ05Z a smart addition. The fit and finish match the rest of the LXT system, and the soft start, tool-less blade change, and LED work light add up to a premium cutting experience.
5. DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX One-Handed Reciprocating Saw – Best Compact for Tight Metal Cuts
DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX* Reciprocating Saw, One-Handed, Cordless, Tool Only (DCS369B)
Brushless 20V motor
12.5 inch length
16 oz
One-handed operation
Tool-free blade release
Pros
- Extremely compact one-handed design
- 37 percent lighter than DCS367
- Brushless motor
- Tool-free blade release
- Variable speed trigger
- Pivoting shoe
Cons
- Requires strong wrist for one-handed operation
The DEWALT ATOMIC DCS369B is the recip saw I toss in my bag when I know I am going to be working overhead or in cramped spaces. At 12.5 inches long and only 16 ounces for the bare tool, it is small enough to fit in places where no other saw on this list can reach. I have used it to cut rusted plumbing lines behind drywall, slice EMT in electrical panels, and trim old galvanized pipe in ceiling cavities, and it is a revelation compared to wrestling a full-size saw into those spots.
Despite the small size, DEWALT did not skimp on the motor. The brushless power plant delivers enough torque for most metal cutting chores, especially when paired with a quality bi-metal or carbide blade. The pivoting shoe helps stabilize the cut, and the variable speed trigger gives the precise control you need when starting a cut on a pipe without a clear line of sight.
The tool-free blade release is one of the best on the market. You pull a small collar and the blade slides out. I appreciate this because small saws tend to be fiddly, and DEWALT got this detail right. The LED work light is a nice addition for dim spaces like mechanical rooms and ceiling cavities.
The trade-off with a one-handed recip saw is stroke length and absolute power. The DCS369B’s stroke is shorter than full-size saws, so thick cast iron cuts take longer and you go through more blades. But for the jobs where you cannot bring a full-size saw, the ATOMIC is in a class of its own. Reviewers on r/DEWALT consistently recommend it as the go-to backup saw for any tradesperson already in the 20V MAX ecosystem.
Best for: Electricians and HVAC techs working in crowded panels and ceilings
If your work involves reaching into electrical panels, mechanical rooms, or above drop ceilings, the ATOMIC pays for itself the first time you avoid prying out a full-size saw. It also works well for plumbing repairs under sinks where the cabinet restricts access.
Best for: DIYers who want a lightweight second saw
The bare tool pricing is friendly for a secondary purchase, and the same DEWALT 20V batteries you already own will run it. Pair the ATOMIC with a full-size saw like the DCS367B and you have a versatile metal cutting setup without doubling your battery investment.
6. Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hackzall 2719-20 – Best One-Handed Saw for Metal Work
Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall (Bare Tool), Red, Black,
POWERSTATE brushless motor
7/8 inch stroke
One-handed design
REDLINK Plus
4 lbs
Pros
- POWERSTATE brushless motor for cutting speed
- One-handed operation for tight spaces
- 7/8 inch stroke for faster cuts
- Pivoting shoe reduces vibration
- Compact and lightweight design
- Milwaukee REDLINK Plus intelligence
Cons
- Bare tool battery and charger sold separately
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hackzall is Milwaukee’s answer to the one-handed recip saw market, and it earns its place in this guide because it delivers Milwaukee-grade cutting power in a package small enough to use one-handed. The POWERSTATE brushless motor paired with REDLINK Plus intelligence gives it surprising torque for a 4-pound saw. I have used mine to cut 1-1/2 inch black iron pipe hanging from a basement joist, and it handled the cut without needing to switch to two hands.
The 7/8 inch stroke is short compared to full-size saws, but Milwaukee designed the Hackzall specifically for one-handed control and tight access. The pivoting shoe helps reduce vibration and improves cut accuracy, which matters when you are working without a clear sight line to the workpiece. REDLINK Plus monitors the motor and battery in real time to prevent overload, so you can push the saw without worrying about burning it up.
For plumbing and electrical work in tight spaces, the Hackzall is one of the most popular compact recip saws on the market. Pros on r/Tools and r/metalworking consistently recommend it for anyone doing overhead work or working inside cabinets where a longer saw is impractical. The bare tool price is reasonable for the performance, though you will need an M18 battery and charger to run it.
The main limitation is the same as any one-handed saw: you give up the long stroke and absolute power of a full-size Sawzall. For thick cast iron or large diameter pipe, I reach for the full-size Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall covered above. For everything else where access is the challenge, the Hackzall is hard to beat.
Best for: Plumbers and electricians doing overhead and one-handed cuts
If you regularly cut pipe, conduit, or small-diameter metal in awkward positions, the Hackzall is purpose-built for that work. It is one of the few one-handed saws that genuinely delivers pro-grade cutting power without forcing you to switch to two hands.
Best for: Existing Milwaukee M18 users who want a backup
Pair the Hackzall with the full-size M18 Fuel Sawzall above and you have a complete metal cutting kit using the same batteries. The Hackzall also works well as a standalone tool for trim out and finish work.
7. DEWALT 20V MAX DCS382B – Best Ergonomic Trigger for Metal Cutting
DEWALT 20V MAX* Reciprocating Saw, Cordless, 2-Finger Variable Trigger, Keyless Blade Clamp, Tool Only (DCS382B)
Stout brushless motor
2-finger trigger
1-1/8 inch stroke
Twist-style keyless blade clamp
Pivoting shoe
Pros
- Brushless motor delivers strong cutting power
- 2-finger trigger comfortable and reduces fatigue
- Twist-style keyless blade clamp
- Compact size for high range of motion
- Pivoting shoe stabilizes cuts
- LED light for dark workspaces
Cons
- Some vibration at higher speeds
- No orbital action for heavy demolition
- Battery not included
The DEWALT DCS382B sits in DEWALT’s 20V MAX line as a comfortable, well-balanced recip saw with one of the best triggers in the business. The 2-finger variable trigger design is wider and softer than traditional single-finger triggers, which reduces finger fatigue during long cutting sessions. After 30 minutes of continuous metal cutting, my index finger was noticeably less sore compared to saws with single-finger triggers.
The brushless motor delivers plenty of power for 1-1/8 inch stroke cuts through EMT, black iron, and light gauge sheet metal. The twist-style keyless blade clamp is fast and secure, and the pivoting shoe stabilizes the cut when you are feeding the saw into round pipe. The on-board LED light is bright enough to see into dark mechanical rooms, and the saw is compatible with all DEWALT 20V MAX and FLEXVOLT batteries.
Where the DCS382B falls slightly short of the DCS367B above is the absence of orbital action. Orbital action makes aggressive cuts in wood faster, but for metal cutting you generally run in straight mode anyway, so this is rarely a deal-breaker. The other small concession is some vibration at higher SPM, which is typical for a saw in this weight class.
For users who already have DEWALT 20V MAX batteries and want a comfortable, capable metal cutting recip saw, the DCS382B is a strong option. It pairs especially well with a small 3Ah or 5Ah battery for one-handed use in lighter applications, or a 6Ah or larger pack for all-day cutting.
Best for: Users with hand or wrist fatigue issues
The 2-finger trigger design is genuinely easier on the hands than traditional triggers. If you have arthritis, carpal tunnel, or simply want a more comfortable grip for long cutting sessions, the DCS382B is worth considering over the DCS367B.
Best for: DEWALT 20V MAX users who want a versatile all-rounder
The DCS382B handles wood, plastic, drywall, and metal with equal competence, making it a great general-purpose recip saw. It is not as specialized as some competitors, but for a household or small business tool that does everything well, it is hard to argue with.
8. Skil 9206-02 7.5-Amp Reciprocating Saw – Best Budget Reciprocating Saw for Metal
Skil 9206-02 7.5-Amp Variable Speed Reciprocating Saw
7.5 amp corded motor
Tool-less blade change
7.1 lbs
Heavy duty metal gear housing
Counter balance
Pros
- Powerful 7.5 amp motor at affordable price
- Tool-less blade change is quick and easy
- Heavy duty metal gear housing
- Counter balance vibration control
- Pivoting foot adds stability
- Variable speed for different materials
Cons
- Heavy for one-handed use
- Basic model lacks advanced features
Not every metal cutting job needs a brushless motor or a premium brand name. The Skil 9206-02 is a basic, no-nonsense 7.5 amp corded recip saw that handles metal cutting for DIYers and occasional users without a premium price. At nearly 2,000 reviews with a 4.6 average rating, this is one of the most popular budget recip saws on the market, and our testing confirmed that it does the job.
The 7.5 amp motor is enough for cutting EMT, thin-wall steel pipe, and small rebar, though it does not have the headroom for sustained thick metal work. I cut a stack of 1/2 inch rebar pieces for a fence project and the Skil handled every cut, just a bit slower than the more powerful saws on this list. For DIY plumbing repairs, automotive work, and occasional metal fabrication in the garage, this is plenty of saw.
The tool-less blade change works well and the counter balance vibration control helps reduce fatigue during longer sessions. The pivoting foot adds stability for through cuts, and the heavy duty metal gear housing is reassuringly solid for the price. Reviewers consistently mention that the build quality punches above the price point.
The compromises are predictable for a budget model: no brushless motor, no orbital action, and at 7.1 pounds the saw is on the heavier side relative to its features. If you are a contractor cutting metal daily, you will want to step up to the SKIL BUZZKILL above or a Milwaukee or DeWalt cordless model. If you need a reliable, affordable saw for occasional metal work, the 9206-02 is a smart pick.
Best for: Occasional DIY users and homeowners
If you cut metal a few times a year for home projects, the Skil 9206-02 delivers the cutting power you need without the cost of a brushless model. It is also a great first recip saw to learn on, because the controls are simple and the build is forgiving.
Best for: Buyers on a strict budget
The price point is the lowest in our roundup, and the rating is high enough that you are not sacrificing too much quality for the savings. For under a typical pro-grade bare tool price, you get a complete corded saw ready to cut metal out of the box.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Reciprocating Saw for Cutting Metal
Choosing the right reciprocating saw for metal cutting is less about brand loyalty and more about matching the saw to the work you do. I have watched too many people buy a saw that is either too small for their jobs or too heavy for their hands, and then blame the brand. Here are the key factors I recommend considering before you buy.
Stroke Length and SPM
Stroke length is how far the blade travels with each stroke, and SPM (strokes per minute) is how fast the blade moves. Both matter for metal cutting. A longer stroke (1-1/8 inch to 1-1/4 inch) removes more material per pass, which speeds up thick cuts and reduces blade wear. A higher SPM rating (2500 to 3000 SPM) means faster cutting in general. For most metal cutting, a 1-1/8 inch stroke and 2800 to 3000 SPM is the sweet spot. Compact one-handed saws trade stroke length for portability, so consider what you actually need.
Vibration Control
Reciprocating saws vibrate, and that vibration transfers directly to your hands and arms. Extended use without effective vibration control leads to numbness, tingling, and reduced cut quality. Look for saws with counterbalance systems, counter-weighted mechanisms, or proprietary vibration control like SKIL’s BUZZKILL. Corded saws in the 13 to 15 amp class tend to vibrate more than brushless cordless models, but the best corded designs use counterbalances to offset that.
Corded vs Cordless for Metal Cutting
The corded vs cordless debate is real, and there is no single right answer. Corded saws deliver unlimited runtime, consistent power, and tend to be more affordable for the same cutting performance. They are ideal for shop work, fixed locations, and long cutting sessions. Cordless saws offer portability, no cord management, and the convenience of battery swap. For job site metal cutting, cordless is often the practical choice. Our roundup includes strong options in both categories.
Blade Compatibility
A reciprocating saw is only as good as its blades, and blade quality matters more than the saw itself for metal cutting. Look for saws that accept standard 1/2 inch universal shank blades, which is the industry standard and gives you access to Milwaukee, Diablo, Lenox, and other top blade brands. Tool-less blade change is now nearly universal and a huge convenience when swapping between wood, metal, and demo blades.
Brushless Motor Advantage
Brushless motors are more efficient, run cooler, and extend battery life compared to brushed motors. They also tend to deliver more consistent power under load, which matters when cutting thick metal. For cordless recip saws, brushless is well worth the price premium. For corded saws, brushed motors are still common and perfectly capable, since runtime is not a concern.
Reciprocating Saw Blade TPI Guide for Metal
Choosing the right TPI (teeth per inch) blade is the single biggest factor in metal cutting performance and blade life. I learned this the hard way by burning through cheap blades on cast iron. Here is the cheat sheet I now share with anyone new to reciprocating saw metal work.
For thin sheet metal and EMT conduit: Use a fine-tooth blade with 18 to 24 TPI. The high tooth count produces clean cuts and prevents snagging. Diablo and Lenox both make excellent 18 TPI and 24 TPI metal blades in 6-inch and 9-inch lengths.
For black iron pipe and steel pipe: Use a 14 to 18 TPI bi-metal blade. Bi-metal construction holds up to the heat and shock of metal cutting far better than high-carbon steel. Milwaukee Torch blades and Lenox Lazer blades are popular choices among plumbers for this work.
For cast iron pipe: Use a carbide-tipped or carbide-grit blade with 8 to 14 TPI. Cast iron is abrasive and brittle, and regular bi-metal blades will burn out quickly. Carbide-tipped blades cost more per blade but last many times longer. The Milwaukee Torch carbide blades are a go-to for plumbers cutting cast iron.
For rebar and thick steel: Use a 10 to 14 TPI carbide-tipped blade. The fewer teeth and tougher carbide edge handle the heat and shock of heavy cuts. Expect to replace the blade more often than with lighter metal work.
For auto body and exhaust work: Use a 14 to 24 TPI fine-tooth blade with a thin kerf. The thin kerf cuts faster and the high TPI count produces clean cuts in sheet metal. A 4-inch or 6-inch blade works best in tight automotive spaces.
The most common mistake I see is using the wrong blade for the material. A wood blade on metal will burn out almost immediately, and a coarse metal blade on thin sheet metal will produce jagged, ugly cuts. Buy a small selection of quality metal cutting blades and match the TPI to the material, and you will be surprised how much better your cuts look and how much longer your blades last.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a reciprocating saw good for cutting metal?
Yes. A reciprocating saw is one of the most versatile tools for cutting metal, especially in tight spaces where larger saws will not fit. With the right blade (14 to 24 TPI bi-metal or carbide-tipped), a recip saw can cut steel pipe, EMT conduit, rebar, sheet metal, and even cast iron. The key is matching the blade TPI to the material thickness and letting the saw do the work without forcing it.
What TPI blade is best for cutting metal with a reciprocating saw?
For thin sheet metal and EMT, use 18 to 24 TPI. For black iron and steel pipe, use 14 to 18 TPI bi-metal. For cast iron and rebar, use 8 to 14 TPI carbide-tipped. Higher TPI produces cleaner cuts but cuts slower, while lower TPI cuts faster but leaves a rougher edge.
How thick of metal can a reciprocating saw cut?
Most reciprocating saws can cut metal up to about 1/2 inch thick with standard bi-metal blades, and up to 1 inch or more with carbide-tipped blades. The blade length and stroke length also matter: longer blades and longer strokes allow deeper cuts. For very thick plate steel, a portable band saw is faster and produces cleaner cuts.
Reciprocating saw vs angle grinder for cutting metal: which is better?
It depends on the job. Reciprocating saws are safer, more versatile, and easier to control, especially in tight spaces or overhead. Angle grinders cut faster and leave cleaner edges on flat stock but produce sparks, kick back more easily, and require more safety gear. For plumbing, electrical, and demolition work, a reciprocating saw is almost always the better choice.
What is the best reciprocating saw for cutting thick metal?
For thick metal like cast iron pipe and heavy rebar, full-size saws with longer stroke length and high SPM perform best. Our top pick for thick metal is the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall, which delivers 3000 SPM with a robust brushless motor that does not bog down in dense material.
Which brand is better for reciprocating saws: DeWalt or Milwaukee?
Both brands make excellent reciprocating saws for metal cutting. DeWALT tends to focus on compact, lightweight designs that fit between studs and in tight spaces. Milwaukee focuses on heavy-duty, full-size Sawzalls with maximum cutting power. For most users, the choice comes down to which battery platform they already own. Pros in r/Tools generally rate Milwaukee slightly higher for pure cutting power and DeWALT higher for ergonomics and compact designs.
Final Verdict on the Best Reciprocating Saws for Metal
After months of testing, the DEWALT 20V MAX XR DCS367B remains our top pick for the best reciprocating saws for cutting metal in 2026. It balances cutting power, compact size, brushless efficiency, and value better than any other saw in our roundup, and the 10,000+ user reviews back up what our hands-on testing confirmed. If you need more raw cutting power for thick cast iron and heavy rebar, step up to the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall. If you want the best corded value with class-leading vibration control, the SKIL BUZZKILL delivers. And if you are working in tight spaces or overhead, the DEWALT ATOMIC or Milwaukee Hackzall will get into places the full-size saws cannot reach.
No matter which saw you choose, invest in quality metal cutting blades. A mediocre saw with a great blade will outperform a great saw with a mediocre blade every single time. For more tool recommendations and metal working guides, check out our related 10 Best Metal Cutting Band Saws roundup and our comprehensive 15 Best Reciprocating Saws guide for use cases beyond metal. Whatever your metal cutting job looks like in 2026, one of these saws will handle it cleanly, quickly, and without burning through a fortune in blades.