Reciprocating Blade Saws

Reciporacting saws move a straight blade back and forth and slightly at an angle at a rapid speed to tear through materials. The electric knife in your kitchen can be thought of as a reciprocating saw.

Jigsaw or saber saws utilize a thin narrow blade for cutting irregular shapes in thinner materials, typically held in one hand with the barrel perpendicular to the saw blade. Jigsaws require a bit of skill to operate accurately, but can make very precise cuts. Historically, the term jigsaw was also commonly used for what is now usually called a scroll saw.

Reciprocating saws feature a reciprocating action similar to a jigsaw, but are larger, more powerful and have a longer stroke with the blade parallel to the barrel of the tool. Reciprocating saws are normally held in both hands and are useful for demolition work or for cutting pipes. These types of saws are not good for making fine accurate cuts, but rather for quick rough cuts. The larger versions of these are powered by compressed air.

Scroll saws are similar to jigsaws, but are much larger and heavier as they are designed for use on a benchtop. Scroll saws are great for making intricate curved cuts (scrolls) on materials.  They are great for hobbyists and serious woodworkers alike.