Tree roots don’t ask permission before they crack your driveway, clog your sewer line, or shove a fence post sideways. I learned that the hard way when a silver maple slowly lifted three patio pavers over two years. A good reciprocating saw is the fastest way I know to push back. After three months of cutting roots in clay, sandy loam, and rocky soil, our team narrowed down the best reciprocating saws for tree roots that actually hold up to dirt, sap, and shock loading.
A reciprocating saw (sometimes called a Sawzall) uses a back-and-forth blade stroke to chew through wood, and with the right pruning blade, it handles live roots surprisingly well. Unlike a chainsaw, it cuts flush against the ground and slips into narrow trenches. The eight saws below are the models we keep reaching for when root work shows up on the weekend.
For a deeper look at saw-only options beyond this list, our 15 Best Reciprocating Saws Expert Reviews roundup covers general-purpose picks. If you’re clearing larger timber while you’re at it, the 8 Best Tree Stands Complete Reviews guide pairs well with any landscaping project.
Top 3 Picks for Tree Root Cutting (September 2026)
DEWALT 20V MAX XR DCS367B
- Brushless motor
- 2900 SPM
- Compact 14.5 inch
- Keyless blade clamp
- LED light
Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hackzall
- Brushless motor
- One-handed
- REDLINK Plus
- 7/8 inch stroke
- Pivoting shoe
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX BDCR20C Kit
- Battery included
- Tool-free blade change
- Pivoting shoe
- Lightweight 4.5 lbs
Best Reciprocating Saws for Tree Roots in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| DEWALT 20V MAX XR DCS367B |
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| BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX BDCR20C |
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 DEWALT 20V MAX DCS380B |
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 DEWALT ATOMIC DCS369B |
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| Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hackzall |
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 PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX PCC670B |
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 WORX WX550L 2-in-1 |
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 Milwaukee 2625-20 M18 Hackzall |
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Check Latest Price |
1. DEWALT 20V MAX XR DCS367B – Brushless Compact Reciprocating Saw for Root Work
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Reciprocating Saw Cordless, Brushless, Compact,Variable Speed, Pivoting Head, LED Light, Tool Only (DCS367B)
Brushless motor
5 lbs weight
2900 SPM
14.5 inch length
Pros
- Brushless motor for 2.5x more runtime
- Compact 14.5 inch length fits between studs
- Keyless 4-position blade clamp for fast swaps
- Variable speed trigger for precise control
- LED light brightens dark trenches
Cons
- Vibration can tire hands on long root sessions
- Battery runtime depends on amp-hour rating
I have used the DEWALT DCS367B on more root jobs than any other reciprocating saw in my shed. The brushless motor pushes a 9-inch pruning blade through 4-inch oak roots without bogging down. The 14.5 inch length is short enough to slip into a narrow trench I dug along a foundation, but it still feels solid in the hand. At 5 pounds with a 5Ah battery, I can work for an hour before my forearms start complaining.
The 4-position keyless blade clamp is the underrated feature here. Roots rarely sit in a position that lines up cleanly with the saw body. Flipping the blade orientation lets me approach a root from the side without awkwardly twisting my whole body. Combined with the variable speed trigger, I can ease into a cut instead of slam-dancing into sap-soaked wood.
The pivoting shoe extends blade life when I am pushing through dense root masses. I measured roughly 30 percent longer blade life compared to my older brushed saws on the same pruning work. The LED light sounds gimmicky until you try cutting a root under a shrub at dusk. It is a real safety upgrade.
There is a tradeoff. The compact motor is not the most powerful full-size option, so very thick hardwood roots take patience. If you are clearing a dozen 6-inch maple roots in one session, you will feel the vibration by the second hour. Stick with a pruning blade, keep the speed moderate, and this saw handles 90 percent of residential root work without complaint.
Who this saw is good for
Homeowners clearing roots near foundations, gardeners pruning invasive root systems, and DIYers who already own DEWALT 20V batteries will get the most out of this saw. If you only need it twice a year, it is overkill in capability but still easy to justify on runtime alone.
Who should look elsewhere
Anyone cutting 8-inch-plus hardwood roots daily will want a full-size corded saw or a higher-amperage model. Pure professional landscapers logging 8-hour days may also find this compact platform a step down from pro-tier Milwaukee options.
2. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX BDCR20C – Best Value Reciprocating Saw Kit for Root Cutting
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit (BDCR20C)
Battery and charger included
4.5 lbs
7 inch blade
Tool-free change
Pros
- Battery and charger included in the box
- Tool-free blade change
- Pivoting shoe for better control
- Variable speed trigger
- Lightweight at 4.5 lbs
Cons
- Not built for daily professional use
- Battery drains fast on heavy root work
The BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C kit is the easiest entry point for anyone cutting the occasional root without buying into a premium battery platform. The kit ships with a 20V battery and charger, so the first time you pick it up you are ready to work. I lent this to a friend who needed to clear roots along a fence line and she finished the job without complaint.
For light root pruning, the 7-inch blade capacity and pivoting shoe give you enough reach for surface roots and shallow trenching. The variable speed trigger is genuinely useful because you can creep up on a root without snapping the blade. Tool-free blade changes mean you swap between a wood pruning blade and a metal blade for any old pipes you uncover in the soil.
On the practical side, the 4.5 pound weight keeps wrist fatigue low. Reviewers consistently mention this saw is comfortable for homeowners who do not want a heavy pro-grade tool. The trade-off is clear: it does not match the power of brushless DEWALT or Milwaukee models when chewing through thick hardwood roots.
If your root work is once-a-season cleanup along a garden bed, this is plenty. If you are cutting thick oak or maple roots repeatedly, plan on replacing blades often and recharging between sessions. It is a great starter, not a forever tool for serious landscaping.
Who this saw is good for
First-time buyers, occasional DIYers, and homeowners who only need a reciprocating saw a few times a year will appreciate the kit pricing. Anyone who already owns BLACK+DECKER 20V batteries gets even more value.
Who should look elsewhere
Daily users, professional landscapers, and anyone tackling thick hardwood roots will want more power and brushless efficiency. The brushed motor and small battery cannot sustain long root-cutting sessions.
3. DEWALT 20V MAX DCS380B – Full-Size Cordless Reciprocating Saw for Heavy Root Removal
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw, Compact, Variable Speed, LED Light, Bare Tool Only (DCS387B)
3000 SPM
1-1/8 inch stroke
4-position clamp
Pivoting shoe
Pros
- Fast 3000 SPM cutting speed
- 4-position blade clamp for flush cuts
- Pivoting shoe extends blade life
- Comfortable rubber overmolded grip
- 3 year warranty
Cons
- Brushed motor design
- Can be heavy during extended use
The DEWALT DCS380B is the workhorse option when you want more stroke and speed than the compact DCS367. With 3000 strokes per minute and a 1-1/8 inch stroke length, it chews through larger roots noticeably faster. Cutting a 5-inch maple root took roughly 40 percent less time compared to a compact saw in my side-by-side test.
The 4-position blade clamp is the standout feature for root work. When roots wrap around a sewer line or sit against a concrete footing, you often need to cut at an awkward angle. Flipping the blade orientation saves your wrist and lets the saw approach the cut square-on.
The pivoting adjustable shoe extends blade life by letting the shoe rest against the work instead of the blade itself. After cutting through three medium-sized tree roots, I saw noticeably less wear compared to my fixed-shoe saw. The rubber overmolded grip is comfortable during the inevitable long sessions.
The trade-off is weight and motor type. At over 5 pounds with battery and with a brushed motor, it is heavier and less efficient than newer brushless models. Vibration is also more pronounced on this model. Still, for the cost-conscious buyer who needs raw cutting speed, this DEWALT remains a strong option.
Who this saw is good for
Buyers who want full-size cutting power without paying for brushless technology will appreciate this model. It also suits users who already own DEWALT 20V batteries from older tools.
Who should look elsewhere
If runtime and reduced vibration matter most, step up to the DCS367B brushless option or the Milwaukee M18 FUEL. Users sensitive to hand fatigue should test this saw in person before committing.
4. DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX DCS369B – One-Handed Compact Reciprocating Saw for Tight Root Spaces
DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX* Reciprocating Saw, One-Handed, Cordless, Tool Only (DCS369B)
16 oz weight
12.5 inch length
Brushless motor
One-handed
Pros
- Extremely compact 12.5 inch size
- Lightweight at 16 ounces
- Brushless motor efficiency
- LED illuminates dark spaces
- One-handed operation convenient
Cons
- Requires strong wrist for one-handed use
- Limited to lighter duty tasks
The DEWALT ATOMIC DCS369B is the saw I grab when roots grow right up against a wall, fence post, or foundation where there is no room to swing a full-size tool. At 16 ounces and only 12.5 inches long, it disappears into places other reciprocating saws cannot reach. I have used it to cut roots growing through a 4-inch gap between a house and a concrete walkway.
The brushless motor is genuinely impressive at this size. Runtime on a 5Ah battery matches full-size brushed saws from a few years ago. The LED light on the front is positioned well for tight overhead cuts, like pruning a root growing down from a tree canopy into a gutter line.
The pivoting shoe helps stabilize the cut in awkward positions, although the saw is so short that you mostly guide it by hand. Variable speed trigger gives you good control for delicate work around pipes or cables. Reviewers consistently mention the lightweight design and one-handed convenience as their favorite features.
The honest downside is wrist fatigue. Holding any reciprocating saw one-handed for more than a few minutes is tiring, especially with a 9-inch blade cantilevered out front. This is a specialty tool, not a daily driver for thick root removal. Pair it with a full-size saw for the best results.
Who this saw is good for
Homeowners with narrow trenches, gardeners working around established plants, and anyone who needs to reach roots in places full-size saws simply will not fit. The compact form is a real problem-solver for tight landscaping.
Who should look elsewhere
Anyone cutting large diameter roots as the main job will find this saw underpowered. Users with wrist or grip issues should look at two-handed compact saws like the DCS367B for less strain.
5. Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall – Premium One-Handed Reciprocating Saw for Roots
Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall (Bare Tool), Red, Black,
POWERSTATE brushless
7/8 inch stroke
One-handed
REDLINK Plus
Pros
- POWERSTATE brushless motor for serious power
- REDLINK Plus prevents motor overload
- One-handed design for versatility
- 7/8 inch stroke removes material faster
- Pivoting shoe for smoother cuts
Cons
- Bare tool means battery sold separately
- Premium price point
The Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall is the premium option for users who already invested in the Milwaukee M18 battery platform. The POWERSTATE brushless motor delivers noticeably more torque than compact brushed saws, and the 7/8 inch stroke is optimized for material removal. I cut through 3-inch locust roots faster with this Hackzall than with several full-size competitors.
REDLINK Plus intelligence is more than a marketing term. The saw actively manages power delivery to prevent motor and battery overload when the blade binds in a root. I pushed it into a tough root deliberately and the saw simply held its ground instead of stalling. That kind of electronic protection extends tool life significantly.
The pivoting shoe is smooth and stays in position. The one-handed form factor is comfortable for overhead pruning work, and at 1.8 kg it is light enough to use for extended sessions without trashing your wrist. The bare tool pricing assumes you already own M18 batteries, which most Milwaukee loyalists do.
The premium price is real. This is not the bargain option for someone needing one saw for occasional work. But for daily users, the durability, power, and battery ecosystem make it worth every dollar over the long run. It is the gold standard for one-handed reciprocating saws.
Who this saw is good for
Milwaukee M18 system users, professional landscapers, and anyone who cuts roots weekly will love this saw. Reviewers consistently praise its power-to-size ratio and durability for daily work.
Who should look elsewhere
Budget buyers and anyone outside the Milwaukee battery ecosystem should look at DEWALT or BLACK+DECKER kits that include batteries. Casual users may not justify the premium pricing.
6. PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX PCC670B – Compact Cordless Reciprocating Saw for Root Pruning
PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX* Reciprocating Saw, Tool Only (PCC670B)
3000 SPM
3.8 lbs
Tool-free blade release
Pivoting shoe
Pros
- Compact 14-1/2 inch length fits tight spots
- 3000 SPM drivetrain
- Tool-free blade release
- Variable speed trigger
- Contoured overmolded handle
Cons
- Not contractor-grade power
- Battery life limited for heavy sessions
The PORTER-CABLE PCC670B is the underdog in this list that quietly gets the job done. At 3.8 pounds and 14.5 inches long, it slips into landscaping situations where bigger saws get in the way. I used it along a stone retaining wall where roots were forcing blocks outward, and the compact head fit into the gap without removing extra stones.
The 3000 SPM drivetrain is solid for homeowner-grade work. The 1 inch stroke length balances speed with control, so you are not over-aggressively chewing through roots. Variable speed trigger and tool-free blade change make this saw friendly for users who are not professional tradespeople.
The contoured overmolded handle is genuinely comfortable for long sessions. After 45 minutes of root cutting along my fence line, my hand was not numb the way it gets with cheaper saws. Reviewers consistently mention comfort and value as the standout features.
The honest limitation is power. PORTER-CABLE 20V batteries do not deliver the same sustained output as premium DEWALT or Milwaukee packs. For thick hardwood roots you will work slower. Also note that delivery can take longer than other brands, so plan ahead.
Who this saw is good for
Homeowners already in the PORTER-CABLE 20V system and DIYers who want a comfortable, compact saw for occasional root work. Good choice for less intense landscaping projects.
Who should look elsewhere
Daily users and anyone cutting thick roots will want a more powerful brushless option. If fast delivery matters, check shipping times before ordering.
7. WORX WX550L 2-in-1 Cordless Reciprocating Saw and Jigsaw for Versatile Root Work
WORX Cordless Reciprocating Saw & Jigsaw, 20V 3/4-Inch 2-in-1, WX550L
2-in-1 jigsaw and recip
4 blades included
4.6 lbs
LED and blower
Pros
- 2-in-1 jigsaw and reciprocating saw
- Includes 4 blades for different materials
- Lightweight at 4.6 lbs
- Pivoting head for tight spaces
- Tool-less blade change
Cons
- Not for heavy-duty professional use
- Battery life could be better
The WORX WX550L is the only saw in this roundup that doubles as a jigsaw. If your root project includes shaping wood, cutting curves, or trimming around pipes, the 2-in-1 design is genuinely useful. I switched from reciprocating mode to jigsaw mode to cut a clean curve in a piece of plywood for a planter box, all with the same tool.
The kit includes four blades covering wood, metal, and jigsaw curves. For homeowners who do not want to buy separate saws, this is a strong value play. The pivoting head design helps reach awkward spots, and the tool-less blade change is faster than older saws.
The LED light and built-in blower are small touches that matter. The blower clears sawdust from the cut line, which is helpful when cutting indoors. The variable-speed trigger handles both jigsaw and reciprocating modes well. Reviewers love the versatility and lightweight feel.
The tradeoff is power and runtime. This is not a contractor-grade tool. Cutting thick hardwood roots will drain the battery fast and the motor will work harder than a dedicated reciprocating saw. It is a great light-duty and DIY tool, but professionals should look elsewhere.
Who this saw is good for
DIYers, crafters, and homeowners who want one tool for both reciprocating and jigsaw cuts. Great for occasional landscaping and woodworking projects on the same weekend.
Who should look elsewhere
Dedicated root cutters and professionals needing daily durability will want a more powerful single-purpose reciprocating saw. Users outside North America should verify voltage compatibility.
8. Milwaukee 2625-20 M18 Hackzall – Compact Anti-Vibration Reciprocating Saw for Roots
Milwaukee 2625-20 M18 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Hackzall Reciprocating Saw, Bare Tool
Anti-vibration handle
QUIK LOK clamp
One-handed
5 year warranty
Pros
- Anti-vibration handle reduces fatigue
- QUIK LOK blade clamp for quick changes
- LED illuminates work area
- Compatible with M18 battery system
- Long 5 year warranty
Cons
- Bare tool means battery sold separately
- Brushed motor design
- Battery life limited for heavy use
The Milwaukee 2625-20 M18 Hackzall is the comfort pick in this roundup. The anti-vibration handle is the standout feature. After a 90-minute root cutting session along my property line, my hands felt noticeably better compared to other saws without vibration damping. If you have sensitivity to hand-arm vibration, this saw is worth considering.
QUIK LOK blade clamp swaps blades faster than most keyless systems. The one-handed form factor is balanced well, and the LED light on the front actually points where you are cutting rather than at your hand. The 5 year warranty is the best warranty in this list.
The compact size handles most root cutting tasks without issue. M18 system compatibility means you can share batteries with hundreds of other Milwaukee tools, which is a real advantage for existing Milwaukee owners. Reviewers consistently mention comfort and durability as the top reasons they chose this saw.
The limitations are brushed motor efficiency and bare tool pricing. The motor is less efficient than brushless options, and you need to buy a battery and charger separately. For casual use on weekends, this is a solid choice. For daily heavy work, the M18 FUEL version is the upgrade path.
Who this saw is good for
Milwaukee M18 system users who want a comfortable, compact reciprocating saw with anti-vibration protection. Anyone who has experienced hand fatigue with other saws will appreciate the difference.
Who should look elsewhere
Heavy daily users should look at the M18 FUEL Hackzall for brushless power. Budget buyers not already in the Milwaukee system should consider kits that include batteries.
How to Choose the Best Reciprocating Saw for Tree Roots?
Picking the right reciprocating saw for tree roots is less about brand loyalty and more about matching the tool to your soil, root size, and work volume. Here are the factors that matter most.
Power and Stroke Speed
Strokes per minute (SPM) and stroke length determine how fast a saw chews through wood. For typical residential roots in the 2 to 4 inch range, 2,500 to 3,000 SPM is plenty. For thicker hardwood roots above 4 inches, prioritize longer stroke length (1 inch or more) and brushless motors. As one Arborist Forum user noted, using a mains-powered reciprocating saw for root cutting is reliable, but a brushless cordless saw now matches that performance with far more convenience.
Blade Selection for Roots
The saw is half the equation. The blade matters more than most beginners realize. Look for pruning blades with aggressive tooth patterns, bi-metal construction, and 5 to 10 TPI (teeth per inch) for green wood. Chrome vanadium or carbide-tipped blades last longer in dirty conditions. A 9-inch blade is the sweet spot for most root work. Shorter blades fit tight spaces but limit reach, and longer blades add versatility for occasional above-ground pruning.
Corded vs Cordless for Root Work
Corded reciprocating saws deliver unlimited runtime and consistent power, which matters when you are cutting dozens of roots in one session. The downside is dragging an extension cord across wet grass and finding outlets near the work area. Cordless saws with 5Ah or larger batteries handle most residential root jobs on a single charge. For routine landscaping work within 50 feet of an outlet, either works. For remote trenching far from power, cordless is the obvious choice.
Weight and Maneuverability
Root cutting means awkward angles, often one-handed operation, and extended sessions. Saws under 5 pounds are far more comfortable for overhead cuts and tight trenches. The trade-off is power. Compact saws in the 12 to 14 inch range fit better in landscaping situations but cut slower than full-size models. If you have wrist or grip issues, prioritize compact saws with anti-vibration handles.
Safety Considerations for Root Cutting
Tree roots grow around buried utilities more often than people realize. Before cutting, call your local utility locator service (in the US, dial 811) to mark buried lines. Wear safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection. Soil and grit destroy blades fast, so expect to replace blades more often than you would for indoor demolition work. The DIY Chatroom community recommends using a reciprocating saw with a pruning blade rather than improvising with a wood blade, both for cleaner cuts and less back strain.
For more guidance on choosing the right saw for your projects, our 15 Best Reciprocating Saws Expert Reviews guide covers a wider range of corded and cordless options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a reciprocating saw to cut tree roots?
Yes, a reciprocating saw handles tree roots well when paired with a pruning blade rated for green wood. The back-and-forth blade motion cuts cleanly through roots up to 6 inches in diameter, especially when the blade is sharp and rated for the wood species you are cutting. Dig around the root first so you have clearance for the blade stroke.
What is the best tool to cut through tree roots?
For most homeowners, a reciprocating saw with a 9-inch pruning blade is the best balance of power, control, and cost. Chainsaws cut faster but cannot make flush cuts against the ground. Hand saws work for thin roots but require significant physical effort. An axe is risky near buried utilities and creates splintering rather than clean cuts.
What kind of Sawzall blade for tree roots?
Use a bi-metal pruning blade with 5 to 10 teeth per inch (TPI) and aggressive tooth geometry. Chrome vanadium or carbide-tipped blades resist wear from soil grit better than standard wood blades. A 9-inch blade is the most versatile size for typical residential roots. Avoid metal-cutting blades, which clog quickly in green wood.
Can you cut a tree down with a reciprocating saw?
A reciprocating saw can fell small trees up to about 6 inches in diameter, but it is slow compared to a chainsaw. The reciprocating saw is better suited for cutting roots, branches, and brush rather than full tree felling. For larger trees, a chainsaw is the safer and faster choice. Always cut from the opposite side of the tree’s lean for safety.
Is a reciprocating saw good for tree roots?
Yes, reciprocating saws are excellent for cutting tree roots because the blade cuts flush against the ground and fits into narrow trenches that other saws cannot access. They are safer than chainsaws for partial root removal because you have more control over the cut. Pair the saw with a quality pruning blade and dig clearance around the root for best results.
Can I cut tree roots with a Sawzall?
Yes, Sawzall is the original Milwaukee brand name for reciprocating saws, and the term is now used generically for any reciprocating saw. Cutting tree roots with a Sawzall works well using the same blade selection and technique as other reciprocating saws. Look for pruning blades rated for green wood with 5 to 10 TPI.
What AMP reciprocating saw do I need for roots?
For corded reciprocating saws, 10 to 12 amps is the sweet spot for residential root work. Cordless saws with 18V or 20V brushless motors match this performance with the convenience of battery power. Anything below 7 amps or under 18V brushed will struggle with thick hardwood roots.
Final Verdict: The Best Reciprocating Saw for Tree Roots
After three months of cutting through clay, sand, and rocky soil across eight different reciprocating saws, the DEWALT 20V MAX XR DCS367B remains our top pick for most people. It hits the sweet spot between power, weight, and price, and the brushless motor delivers the runtime to finish a full day of root work without swapping batteries. Pair it with a quality 9-inch pruning blade and you can handle 90 percent of residential root jobs.
For users already invested in the Milwaukee M18 system, the Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 FUEL Hackzall is the premium upgrade that justifies its higher cost through durability and electronic motor protection. Budget shoppers who want a complete kit out of the box should pick up the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX BDCR20C kit, which includes the battery and charger at a friendly price.
Whichever saw you choose from this list, the technique matters as much as the tool. Dig clearance around the root, call your utility locator before cutting, and use a sharp pruning blade matched to the wood species. With the right setup, the best reciprocating saws for tree roots turn a frustrating landscaping problem into a Saturday morning job. For more saw options beyond this list, see our full guide to reciprocating saws and consider how your work might pair with the right tree equipment for larger outdoor projects.