Any manual labor can be mechanized. Just as the usual screwdrivers were replaced by screwdrivers, so the hacksaw acquired good analogue - reciprocating saw. The devices are suitable for operation on various materials. The subject of this review is a reciprocating saw for metal. Varieties, principle of operation, device, rules for choosing a tool - further.

To some extent, reciprocating hacksaws resemble an electric jigsaw. They are equipped with a working element - a file, which makes a pendulum movement. It differs from reciprocating in that the part moves not only up and down, but also along a curve, as if filing the metal in front of itself. The length of the files varies from 100 mm, and the shape of the teeth is selected depending on the purpose of the work.

Without going into details, it consists of the following main elements:

• long body;
• handle (for ease of operation);
• trigger (start button);
• speed shifter;
• replaceable file.

There are several elements hidden under the body that make working with a reciprocating saw more convenient than using a hacksaw. For example, a support shoe allows you to rest the tool against the workpiece and get a more even cut, and double insulation of current-carrying nodes makes possible job even in wet weather. Thanks to the pendulum system, the device does not heat up and does not deform the metal during the return movement.

Types of reciprocating saws

There are two large groups of tools:

• battery;
• network.

The former have more power and are quite convenient to use, since their range of action is not limited. Suitable for work carried out in large areas where there is no access to sockets (for example, when roofing work in a country house).

Cordless reciprocating saws for metal have only one drawback - a limited service life, amounting to only a couple of hours. The issue can be resolved by purchasing several batteries.

Network tools are good for local work. In addition to the device, you only need an extension cord. They work for a long time as long as there is voltage in the network. The main disadvantage is the limited range. Also, the cord can get in the way, getting tangled under your feet, and its length is not always enough for the required work.

A special place in the classification is occupied by pneumatic analogues, which weigh less than an electric saw (up to 1 kg, when they weigh about 3). Typically, such a tool has high power and easily cuts even pipes with a diameter of about 150 mm. The pneumatic drive allows you to work in an aggressive environment (explosive, wet). The main disadvantage of the products is that they are much more expensive than their electrical counterparts.

Classification of reciprocating saw files

The standard blade included in the kit does not always meet the requirements for the job. Therefore, manufacturers offer files that differ from each other:

• the shape of the teeth, their number, size;
• the shape of the blade itself (it can be straight, curved for cutting along a given path and for through cuts);
• pitch between teeth (constant - the most common, variable - for special works like cutting thick workpieces);
• blade length (based on recommendations for a specific tool).

Before choosing a blade for a reciprocating saw for metal, you need to know the product labeling. When visiting a store construction tools When studying saw blades, the following designations are encountered:

• HCS – files with a high carbon content, more suitable for wood, plastic, and other “soft” surfaces;
• HSS - high-speed tool steel blade, excellent for ferrous or non-ferrous metals;
• BIM – combination of HCS and HSS; The canvas is universal, working equally well with metal, wood and other materials;
• HM and CT are carbide blades suitable for cutting steel.

When choosing a blade for a reciprocating saw for metal, it is important to know the specifics of the work for which it will be used.

How to make a reciprocating saw with your own hands?

Some craftsmen prefer not to spend money on new equipment, but to make their own saw using a jigsaw. In addition to this device, you will need:

• block 180x70x45 mm (or more/smaller, based on the dimensions of the saw and blade);
• rounded timber for the handle;
• metal tube with a diameter of 10-12 mm, a length of about 150 mm;
• metal plate that serves link between the jigsaw and the tube;
• two flat wooden parts measuring about 140x70 and 140x50 mm, 7-10 mm thick (will be attached to the sides of the block).

The operating procedure is as follows:

1. On one side, a sheet is attached to the tube, on the other, a plate (bolted connection in both cases).
2. A hole is drilled in the plate for fastening to the jigsaw by adjusting it.
3. In one of wooden parts is drilled out square hole under the canvas so that it passes through it freely.
4. In another part, a narrow slot is made for the file, and a roller stop is also attached, with which the latter will be in contact.
5. A groove is cut out in a large block for the blade.
6. Two parts are attached to the block on both sides using self-tapping screws.
7. The handle is fixed.
8. The plate is attached to the electric jigsaw using a factory bolt.

The jigsaw has now been converted into a reciprocating saw, which is ready to go.

Detailed video on how to make a reciprocating saw:

How to choose a good saw

A wide range of saws presented in stores will allow the buyer to find best equipment for certain purposes. Before purchasing a reciprocating saw, it is advisable to comparative analysis several models, based on the recommendations below.

1. Decide whether household or professional equipment will be purchased. The first models are aimed at less intensive use and are designed for 20-25 hours of operation per month. The second ones are more powerful, heavier (4-5 kg), and can work for a long time without a break every day.
2. The desired power for a household tool is from 800 to 1000 W. The more powerful the saw, the faster the cutting and better quality work with large workpieces.
3. The stroke frequency must be adjustable, as well as the cutting speed.
4. Smooth start of work. This increases user safety, as sawing starts without jerking.
5. Pay attention to the method of fastening the equipment. This can be a locking ring (sliding) or a locking lever (rotating).
6. It is imperative to have a blade travel limiter so that if additional force is required, the user can rest on the workpiece.
7. The blade should be changed easily, without additional tools and preferably manually.
8. Automatic shutdown when overheating is welcome.
9. It is desirable to have an electromechanical brake, which quickly stops the tool after finishing work.
10. There should be no vibration during operation even at idle.
11. The device should be easy to use, and for both hands. Also, the limbs should not become numb from prolonged use (for example, metal scissors cannot boast of this).

Choice is important good manufacturer, because any product has low-quality fakes on the market.

The most popular among users are the German brands Bosch, Metabo, Japanese Makita and American DeWALT.

Reciprocating saws for metal - an innovative solution for various works. The tool is universal, although very specific. The user can choose equipment in an acceptable price range, since the range of models is huge. At first, the saw may seem uncomfortable, but after a while it will lie smoothly in the hand, and the buyer will understand what he has done right choice. Familiarization with the information above and the tips given will allow the user to buy a reciprocating saw for metal High Quality and enjoy its work for a long time.

Reciprocating saw KRESS 1200 SPE its technical characteristics

Two-mode speed adjustment using a “wheel” and a start button is also convenient. Using the electronic adjustment wheel you can set maximum number revolutions required for the work being performed. Smoothly pressing the start button of the switch, regulate the number of revolutions of the already switched on tool. As the load increases, the electronics ensure that the required power is maintained.

The saw fits well and comfortably in the hands. although it weighs about 4 kg. Thanks to the soft rubberized non-slip coating on the surface of the gearbox and handle, additional comfort is created, vibration is smoothed out and hands hold the tool securely, which ensures safe work even in conditions of high humidity.

The saw blades in this tool can be replaced without using a special key: just turn the ring counterclockwise (there is a marking on the ring) until it stops, insert the blade and then release the clamping ring (photo 4). Be sure to check the strength of the blade before work. It can also be secured “tooth up”. The support saw sole (platform) does not require use additional tools to install it in a position convenient for specific work. It is fixed in the selected position with a special lever (photo 5). If necessary, you can adjust the “exit” of the saw blade to improve access to hard-to-reach areas. By using this adjustment, you can optimally use the length of the saw blade and thereby increase its service life. Do not change the position of the lever during operation.
Rubberized network cable 4 m long provides sufficient freedom of maneuver at the workplace. A special plastic suitcase is designed for storing and carrying the reciprocating saw. Since the number of power tools in my workshop is gradually increasing, I treat the convenience of storing them with a certain pedantry.

RECIPIAN SAW TESTS

Now let’s evaluate the processing accuracy of this saw. For precision carpentry work, such a tool with a thin vibrating blade is not always suitable. Although, with some skill and experience, the quality of work will be no worse than when using a conventional hand tools. But for construction work where special precision is not required, it can be very useful (photo 10).
Another important point. Thanks to the ability to smoothly adjust the speed by pressing the start button of the reciprocating saw, you can “cut” into the wood without first drilling it. To do this, the tool must be supported and held at a slight angle to the surface. Gradually, rotating it vertically above the fulcrum, immerse the saw into the material being cut. The initial position of the tool is shown in photo 11.
This technique can be very useful when performing construction work.

How is a reciprocating saw more effective than a jigsaw at the same cost?

Nowadays, you can buy a tool that can simplify any manual labor. These include a jigsaw and a reciprocating saw - mandatory tools in a summer resident’s arsenal. But why spend money on both when, with a little effort, you can transform one into the other?

Reciprocating saw or jigsaw? What is the difference?

Essentially, “Sabre” is electric hacksaw, which appeared back in 1927 (of course, not in the form it is now). Designed for cutting wood and some metal materials, which it does very well. Narrow and long form The tool allows you to work in the tightest spaces. In addition, when selecting the required blade, Saber cuts stone, ceramics, foam blocks, some composites, plastic and glass. Small reciprocating saws are convenient to work while suspended.

The reciprocating saw and jigsaw can be called distant relatives. They are similar in many ways and at the same time they are opposites that complement each other. Therefore, many come to the question: “What is better to choose?” One of the main differences is that the jigsaw allows you to cut oval, round and wavy profiles, while the Saber is only available in rectangular ones. In addition, the jigsaw produces more accurate cuts, while the opponent is a kind of “destroyer”, compensating for sloppiness with speed. Obviously, both mechanisms have their advantages over each other, so it is wrong to say that one is better than the other.

But with a combination of these two devices, perhaps we will get something special. Let's finally find out how to assemble this indispensable household tool yourself.

DIY reciprocating saw from a jigsaw

Parts and fixtures required for manufacturing

• Bar 180 x 70 x 45 mm (perhaps a little more or less, depending on the dimensions of the saw and blade).
• A metal plate designed to connect a jigsaw to a tube.
• A metal tube is about 12 mm in diameter and 150 mm in length (can be a little longer).
• Beam for handle (rounded).
• Two flat pieces of wood that are fixed along the edges of the block (approximately 140 x 70 and 140 x 50 mm, no more than 10 mm thick).

Assembly order

1. We start by using bolts to attach the sheet to one side of the tube and the plate to the other.
2. To attach it to a jigsaw, drill a hole of the appropriate size in the plate.
3. In one of the wooden parts you need to drill a square hole of sufficient size so that the canvas can easily pass through it.
4. Therefore, for the second part you need to make a narrow slot for the file and attach a roller stop to it, which will be in contact with the file.
5. A groove for the blade should be cut in a large block.
6. Using self-tapping screws, we fix both parts from the two edges of the block.
7. We secure the handle.
8. We attach the plate to the jigsaw using a factory bolt.

Like this in a simple way The jigsaw has been transformed into a reciprocating saw that you can start working with.

Advantages and disadvantages

Why make this homemade product if you can simply insert a longer file into the jigsaw? How are the efforts justified?

Well, first of all, even the longest file electric jigsaw inferior in size to a reciprocating saw file. This modification makes it possible to saw thicker objects. Secondly, sawing fairly thick bars is simplified by the fact that this product allows you to cut downward and away from you, while a jigsaw, for example, can only cut forward and away from you.

Of course, this homemade product also has some disadvantages. For example, a small amplitude value for a fairly long “Sabre” canvas. An electric jigsaw has a less comfortable handle when used as a conversion equipment.

In any case, if the use of this tool is required only occasionally, then it is quite suitable as a worthy replacement for the original, thanks to which you will not have to spend money in vain.

Conclusion

As a result, we have equipment that is not inferior in performance to its real counterpart. It will cut fittings and pipes with the same efficiency. In addition, it will serve excellent assistant during construction, home decoration and gardening and landscape work.

I didn’t want to permanently place my expensive Makita jigsaw on the table, so I decided to buy another one to create a table. I was very lucky to find a jigsaw in the “Our House” store Caliber LEM-610E for only 862 rub. Includes: wood saw, side stop, adapter for vacuum cleaner, spare brushes for the motor.

There was an outlet next to the display case and I looked at it in action. It is quite well made, convenient, there is a speed control with a wheel, and the activation is fixed with a button. The saw holder moves smoothly without any play.

It’s very fortunate that I was able to twirl it in my hands before buying it; I wouldn’t risk ordering it from the Vseistrumenty.ru website without knowing what it is. (Although they write good reviews about it) By the way, it costs more there and there is also a delivery fee... so I successfully bought it at Our House. :)

Despite its advantages, it has a number of disadvantages that I noticed upon closer examination:

1) The file does not fit into the saw holder. Apparently this is a defective copy, but I did not waste my time on the exchange. Each file has to be sharpened. (Although I won’t be able to use them on the second jigsaw after grinding - it doesn’t matter, they are relatively inexpensive)
2) And this flaw is visible even in the picture. The canvas is tilted strongly forward. (This was also corrected by placing tin strips under the back of the sole, achieving 90 o.
3) The speed control wheel turns heavily, not very clearly and with jamming. At the minimum speed value, the tool cannot start at all (However, the same garbage with the start is also true for my other “calibrated” drills. This is unpleasant, but does not spoil life much)

As always, everything is in the spirit of minimalism. I did not make a separate switch. It is quite convenient to turn on with a standard button and lock into place.

To do this, I bought a bracket at KrepMarket (this is a fastening element from some kind of system iron structures)

By the way, I really love CrepeMarket. Any screws, nuts, screws, fasteners. Every time I design something, I wander around in thought and collect the necessary details.

I cut off the excess and sharpened it.

Back view. Now the distance between the bearings has a fixed clearance for the file of 1.2mm. I have a plan for the future: to make a gap adjustment.

For thin materials can be lowered below.

As an experiment, I drew a star and tried to cut it out evenly

For a 130mm file, the maximum possible thickness is 5cm. It turns out there are very long files; I recently saw a 300mm file on the market

I sawed off a 1.5mm slice from a 40x40mm block

Which is what I did. Now you can use it to cut long workpieces 11.5 cm wide. Old L-shaped design also remained, and if greater strength of the holder is needed, it can be installed again, although the new design remains quite strong and reliable.

I also came up with the idea of ​​making a knife from an old dull file, grinding off its teeth and sharpening it.

Well, that's probably all. The table turned out to be reliable and comfortable. Now I have a tool on which I can produce more fine work than on a circular machine.