Reciprocating saw blade opinions

[xfactor9]

I'm planning to buy an inexpensive reciprocating saw but I'd like to use good quality blades. For now I'll use it to cut wood, but in the future perhaps metal too.

What are the best, reasonably priced blades out there? Also, should I get 6" or 9"? This is just for light, occasional use.

 

[BISCUT]

Luckily for me I haven't had to use my reciprocating saw much in the last few years! When I was building my house I used a whole lot of different brands. DeWalt were decent and mid priced.

The only ones that stood out as lasting longer, at least cutting wood and nails, was a white blade from Lennox. I got a few of those from a plumber friend. They were the best I found.

I would think a lot of these are stamped out somewhere in China and probably all very similar to each other.

Size will depend upon the task at hand.

 

[edwardh1]

when they were made in the usa many brands were made in one plant in north carolina. one metal source, one assembly line, different names put on at end. possibly the same in China

 

[Russ300H]

Originally Posted By: BISCUT
Luckily for me I haven't had to use my reciprocating saw much in the last few years! When I was building my house I used a whole lot of different brands. DeWalt were decent and mid priced.

The only ones that stood out as lasting longer, at least cutting wood and nails, was a white blade from Lennox. I got a few of those from a plumber friend. They were the best I found.

I would think a lot of these are stamped out somewhere in China and probably all very similar to each other.

Size will depend upon the task at hand.


+1 I have used Lennox for years and they are by far the best.

 

[dwcopple]

Bosch blades are very good and cheap at Menards

 

[Stelth]

One word: Lenox. More words: I've never used any blades that worked better than Lenox blades. I've used some that work as well, but not better. Plus Lenox makes specialty blades such as carbon grit and diamond.

If you don't buy Lenox, at least get bi-metal blades. They won't shatter like plain blades will.

 

[tom slick]

I prefer Lennox blades also but also use a lot of Milwaukee. I think having the correct blade for the application is more important than the brand as long as they are a decent brand.

 

[DBMaster]

As an employee of Lennox, the HVAC company, I have to state that the company that makes saw blades is spelled with only one "n" - Lenox.

 

[expat]

I have found many of the Brand name 'wood and nails' blades to be equally good, DeWalt, Bosch, Lennox etc. Best deal lately has been Diablo in a bulk pack from HD.

Personally I only buy 8" blades or longer for wood, If you 'bottom out' a short blade it will bend.
Metal, you may as well go with a 6" blade.

Blades tend to break at the base if you bend them too much, regardless of brand. One reason I no longer buy the Diablo Carbide tipped blades, They break before they wear out.

 

[sleddriver]

I've used Lenox, Milwaukee, and Bosch mostly. Bi-metal is worth it when cutting through nails and for demolition. Fine Homebuilding tested several blades, you might look up their report. I use my RS to trim trees as well using a long wood blade.

 

[Cujet]

Don't cheap out too much on the saw. You will not regret spending a few extra dollars for one that cuts true, due to tight bearings.

Agreed on the Lennox blades. I don't like the longer blades as they sometimes hit something with the tip, and bend. Plus they cost more. And the part that wears out is close to the saw.

Often times, homeless depot has "rescue and demolition" blades on sale. Generally, these are bi-metal blades and will hold up well in general use.

 

[expat]

Fine Homebuilding Test:
http://www.finehomebuilding.com/tool-guide/articles/tool-test-demolition-blades.aspx