We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Makita Reciprocating Saws 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Makita XRJ04T 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Recipro Saw Kit (5.0Ah)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,361
Motor Power
Stroke Length
Blade Change Mechanism

Most important from
1838 reviews

Motor Power
Durable and powerful, this saw has handled cutting down fences and small trees without any issues.
Stroke Length
The long reciprocation travel makes project cuts faster and easier, outperforming shorter stroke saws.
Blade Change Mechanism
The quick release for the blades is incredibly helpful, simplifying blade changes.

The Makita XRJ04T is a cordless reciprocating saw powered by an 18V LXT Lithium-Ion battery, ensuring mobility and convenience for users who need to work in various locations without worrying about power outlets. The motor delivers up to 2,800 strokes per minute with a 1-1/4 inch stroke length, providing efficient and fast cutting performance. Additionally, the variable speed trigger allows users to adjust the cutting speed according to their needs, enhancing control and precision in diverse applications.

The tool-less blade change system greatly simplifies the process of switching blades, boosting productivity by minimizing downtime. Furthermore, the refined crank mechanism reduces vibration and blade deflection, making the saw easier to handle and improving cut accuracy. Weighing only 0.16 ounces and measuring 19-1/8 inches in length, the saw is compact and ergonomic, making it comfortable to use for extended periods.

The inclusion of additional features, such as the brake for safety and the complete kit with batteries, charger, and tool case, adds significant value for users. Users looking for a reliable, versatile, and portable reciprocating saw would find the Makita XRJ04T a solid choice. The 3-year limited warranty on the tool, battery, and charger also provides peace of mind and assurance of quality.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,361
Motor Power
Stroke Length
Blade Change Mechanism

Most important from
1838 reviews

Motor Power
Durable and powerful, this saw has handled cutting down fences and small trees without any issues.
Stroke Length
The long reciprocation travel makes project cuts faster and easier, outperforming shorter stroke saws.
Blade Change Mechanism
The quick release for the blades is incredibly helpful, simplifying blade changes.
#2

Makita XRJ01T 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Cordless Compact Recipro Saw Kit (5.0Ah)

Rating
9.1
Motor Power
Ergonomics and Weight

Most important from
1690 reviews

Motor Power
Ideal for small jobs, though it doesn't replace a full-sized sawzall due to its lower power.
Ergonomics and Weight
This tool is lightweight, well-built, and easy to handle, making it a great addition to any Makita power tool collection.

The Makita XRJ01T is a cordless reciprocating saw, powered by an 18V lithium-ion battery, making it highly portable and convenient for use in various locations. It features variable speed control, allowing for up to 3,000 strokes per minute, combined with a 1/2” stroke length. This combination enables faster and more efficient cutting, suitable for tasks involving wood and metal. The dual-position on/off switch offers flexibility in how you operate the tool, either using a paddle or trigger switch, which can be useful for different positions and preferences during use.

The tool-less blade change system enhances productivity by letting you swap out blades quickly and easily without the need for additional tools. Weighing only 3.9 lbs with the battery installed, this saw is designed to reduce operator fatigue, making it more comfortable to use over extended periods. The compact design, at 15-5/8” long, adds to its ease of use in tight spaces. However, with a total item weight of 12.1 pounds when considering the package, it might still be a bit hefty for some users.

Additional features include brushless motor technology, which generally means longer battery life and better efficiency. The product might not be the most powerful option available, with a motor wattage of 90 watts, which could limit its effectiveness in heavy-duty applications. The Makita XRJ01T is a versatile and user-friendly choice for those seeking a cordless reciprocating saw for lightweight tasks around the house or workshop.

Rating
9.1
Motor Power
Ergonomics and Weight

Most important from
1690 reviews

Motor Power
Ideal for small jobs, though it doesn't replace a full-sized sawzall due to its lower power.
Ergonomics and Weight
This tool is lightweight, well-built, and easy to handle, making it a great addition to any Makita power tool collection.
#3

Makita JR3070CTZ Recipro Saw with 15-Amp Tool Less Blade Change and Shoe Adjustment

Rating
8.2
Motor Power
Blade Change Mechanism
Ergonomics and Weight

Most important from
865 reviews

Motor Power
This saw offers a powerful motor and smooth orbital cutting action that stays consistent even under tough loads.
Blade Change Mechanism
The tool-less blade clamp and guide stop are strong, easy to use, and built to withstand heavy use.
Ergonomics and Weight
Anti-vibration features significantly reduce fatigue, making it easier to handle despite its professional-grade power.
Additional Features
Adjusting the orbital settings is simple and protected from impact, adding to the saw’s durability and versatility.

The Makita JR3070CTZ reciprocating saw is a solid choice if you need a powerful, reliable tool for heavy-duty cutting tasks like framing, plumbing, or demolition. It runs on corded electric power with a strong 15-amp motor that keeps a consistent speed even under tough loads, which means it won’t slow down easily when cutting through thick materials. The variable speed dial allows you to adjust how fast the blade moves, helping you match the speed to the job for better control and precision. One feature that stands out is the 4-position orbital cutting action, letting you choose between more aggressive or smoother cuts based on your needs.

Changing blades and adjusting the shoe is tool-less, making it quick and hassle-free to switch blades or tweak the cutting depth on site. The built-in clutch helps protect the gears if the blade gets stuck, which can extend the life of the saw. However, this model is on the heavier side at just over 10 pounds, which might make it tiring for long periods of use or working overhead. While it doesn’t come with a very long warranty—only one year—it has earned strong user reviews for durability and performance.

This saw suits professionals or serious DIYers looking for a robust, versatile reciprocating saw that can handle demanding jobs, especially with metal and wood. If you want a tool that’s easy to adjust and powerful enough for most heavy cutting tasks, the JR3070CTZ is worth considering, but keep in mind the weight if you’ll be using it for extended times.

Rating
8.2
Motor Power
Blade Change Mechanism
Ergonomics and Weight

Most important from
865 reviews

Motor Power
This saw offers a powerful motor and smooth orbital cutting action that stays consistent even under tough loads.
Blade Change Mechanism
The tool-less blade clamp and guide stop are strong, easy to use, and built to withstand heavy use.
Ergonomics and Weight
Anti-vibration features significantly reduce fatigue, making it easier to handle despite its professional-grade power.
Additional Features
Adjusting the orbital settings is simple and protected from impact, adding to the saw’s durability and versatility.

Buying Guide for the Best Makita Reciprocating Saws

When choosing a reciprocating saw, it's important to consider the specific tasks you plan to use it for. Reciprocating saws are versatile tools that can cut through a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic. They are commonly used for demolition, remodeling, and plumbing work. To find the best fit for your needs, you should evaluate several key specifications that will impact the saw's performance and suitability for your projects.
Power SourceReciprocating saws can be powered by electricity (corded) or batteries (cordless). Corded saws offer continuous power and are ideal for heavy-duty tasks and prolonged use. They are best suited for jobs where you have easy access to an electrical outlet. Cordless saws provide greater mobility and convenience, making them perfect for tasks in remote locations or where maneuverability is crucial. However, they rely on battery life, so they may not be suitable for extended use without recharging. Choose a power source based on the nature of your work and the availability of power outlets.
Motor PowerThe motor power of a reciprocating saw is measured in amps for corded models and volts for cordless models. Higher motor power means the saw can handle tougher materials and more demanding tasks. For light to medium-duty tasks, a motor with 7-10 amps (corded) or 18-20 volts (cordless) should suffice. For heavy-duty tasks, look for a motor with 11-15 amps (corded) or 20-24 volts (cordless). Consider the types of materials you will be cutting and the intensity of your projects when selecting the motor power.
Stroke LengthStroke length refers to the distance the blade travels in one complete cycle. A longer stroke length allows for faster cutting and is more efficient for thicker materials. Stroke lengths typically range from 1/2 inch to 1-1/4 inches. For general-purpose use, a stroke length of around 1 inch is usually sufficient. If you plan to cut through thicker materials or need faster cutting speeds, opt for a longer stroke length. Match the stroke length to the demands of your projects for optimal performance.
Strokes Per Minute (SPM)Strokes per minute (SPM) indicates how many times the blade moves back and forth in one minute. Higher SPM means faster cutting speeds. Most reciprocating saws offer variable speed settings, allowing you to adjust the SPM based on the material you are cutting. For light materials like wood, a higher SPM (around 2,500-3,000) is ideal. For tougher materials like metal, a lower SPM (around 1,000-2,000) is better to prevent blade wear and overheating. Choose a saw with adjustable SPM to provide versatility for different tasks.
Blade Change MechanismThe blade change mechanism determines how easily you can replace the saw blade. Tool-free blade change systems are the most convenient, allowing you to quickly swap blades without the need for additional tools. This feature is especially useful if you frequently switch between different types of blades for various materials. Look for a saw with a reliable and easy-to-use blade change mechanism to save time and effort during your projects.
Ergonomics and WeightErgonomics and weight are important factors that affect the comfort and ease of use of a reciprocating saw. A well-balanced, lightweight saw reduces user fatigue and allows for better control, especially during extended use. Look for features like a comfortable grip, anti-vibration technology, and an overall design that feels good in your hands. Consider the weight of the saw in relation to the duration and intensity of your tasks to ensure you can work comfortably and efficiently.
Additional FeaturesSome reciprocating saws come with additional features that can enhance their functionality and convenience. These may include LED lights for better visibility in dark areas, adjustable shoe for better stability and control, and orbital action for faster, more aggressive cutting. While these features are not essential, they can make your work easier and more efficient. Evaluate which additional features would be beneficial for your specific needs and choose a saw that offers those enhancements.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now