Reciprocating Saws

Best Reciprocating Saws in the UK: A Practical Buyer's Guide and Where to Shop

Why a reciprocating saw should be in your toolbox

If you’ve ever had to wrestle with a stubborn branch, cut through old piping, or demolish a small section of drywall, a reciprocating saw will feel like a superpower in your hands. These cutters are the go-to tool for demolition, pruning, and rough cutting because they’re fast, versatile, and work on wood, metal, plastic, and even masonry with the right blade. Think of a reciprocating saw as a Swiss Army knife for big, messy jobs — it’s not about finesse, it’s about getting things done quickly and safely.

Key features to look for when buying

Motor type and power

Whether you pick a corded or cordless model depends on how and where you work. Corded saws deliver steady power for long jobs and are ideal when you’re near an outlet. Cordless models give you freedom on site or in the garden, and modern batteries keep up with many tasks. Look for brushless motors if you want better efficiency and longer life; they run cooler and use less battery or mains power under load.

Stroke length and cutting performance

Stroke length is how far the blade moves each cut, and it’s usually measured in inches. A longer stroke (around 1" to 1¼") lets you remove more material with each motion, which speeds up demolition and heavy cutting. If you’re tackling thick branches or cutting through lumber, that extra inch of stroke makes a noticeable difference.

Speed control and strokes per minute

Variable speed control is essential because different materials need different cutting rates. Saws are rated in strokes per minute (SPM); higher SPM equals faster cutting on thin material, while lower SPM with a longer stroke is better for heavy sections. A good reciprocating saw will give you a wide SPM range so you can dial in the pace for precision or brute force.

Orbital action and balance

Some reciprocating saws have orbital action, where the blade moves in a slight elliptical pattern. This helps speed up rough cuts in timber but can be messier and less precise on metal. Balance and ergonomics matter too — pick a saw that feels comfortable and stable in one hand, especially if you’ll be working overhead or in tight spots.

Blade system and compatibility

Quick-change blade systems save time and keep you safer by reducing fiddly moments. Check that the saw accepts a wide array of blade styles and lengths, all measured in inches to match your cutting needs. Universal fitments are handy if you already own blades from other brands.

Stores in the UK where you can buy reciprocating saws

There are many places to buy reciprocating saws in the UK, from specialist tool outlets to big-box home improvement stores and online marketplaces. Below I’ll walk through well-known options and what each one is best for, so you can choose based on price, aftercare, and convenience.

Screwfix

Screwfix is a staple for tradespeople, and for good reason. It stocks a wide range of reciprocating saws from professional brands like DeWalt, Makita, and Milwaukee, plus budget-friendly options. Screwfix offers next-day delivery and click-and-collect services, making it convenient if you need a tool fast. Their product pages often include user reviews and spec details to help you compare models side by side.

Toolstation

Toolstation competes closely with Screwfix and is handy for price-conscious shoppers. It carries a strong selection of cordless and corded models and is a great place to find deals on bare tools or complete kits. Toolstation’s local branches are useful for last-minute purchases and swapping blades on the go.

B&Q

B&Q is ideal for DIYers who want a balance between price and variety. You’ll find reliable entry-level and mid-range reciprocating saws here, along with accessories like extra blades and protective gear. If you want to test a saw’s feel before buying, visiting your local B&Q can make the difference.

Wickes

Wickes is another well-known home improvement retailer. Their range tends to focus on DIY and light trade tools, and they frequently stock models tailored for home renovation jobs. Wickes is a solid choice for homeowners renovating kitchens or fitting out a workshop without needing the most heavy-duty options.

Homebase

Homebase provides a convenient middle ground between big-box chains and specialist tool shops. Their inventory includes dependable brands for weekenders and hobbyists. Homebase also runs seasonal deals, so it’s worth watching for discounts if you’re not in a hurry.

Amazon UK

Amazon has the widest selection and you’ll find everything from top-tier professional tools to bargain-basement imports. The advantage is customer reviews and fast shipping options. The downside is that warranty and aftercare can be hit-or-miss unless you buy from a reputable seller or the brand’s official store on the platform.

Robert Dyas

Robert Dyas is a good choice for homeowners and gardeners. They often stock compact, user-friendly models suitable for pruning and light demolition. If your projects are more in the DIY or garden maintenance category, this store blends convenience with accessible prices.

Tyres.net (mentioned in site data)

Tyres.net appears in the provided data but it’s primarily a tyre and wheel specialist rather than a traditional tool retailer. If you came across it while researching reciprocating saws, it’s likely a miscategorization or an odd listing on a comparison page. For tools, stick to the specialist and home improvement retailers above, and use tyre shops for vehicle-specific cutting tools or accessories.

Top brands and what they offer

Choosing the brand can be as important as choosing the model. Each brand has strengths: some focus on durability for trade use, others on value for weekend DIYers. Here’s a quick guide to help match your needs with a brand.

DeWalt

DeWalt consistently produces rugged, reliable saws built for tradespeople. Their cordless systems are popular because batteries are interchangeable with many other DeWalt tools, which is great if you want to build a kit. Expect solid build quality and excellent service options.

Makita

Makita balances performance and ergonomics. Their saws often feature good vibration control and long-lasting batteries. Makita is a great pick if you need a tool that’s comfortable for long jobs and performs well in professional settings.

Milwaukee

Milwaukee is synonymous with industrial performance. Their reciprocating saws are built for heavy-duty cutting and long-term reliability. If you need maximum cutting speed and durability for daily trade use, Milwaukee is a top contender.

Bosch

Bosch offers a range that suits both the DIY market and professionals. Their saws tend to have smart features like refined speed control and efficient motors. Bosch is a dependable middle-ground brand for many users.

Ryobi

Ryobi is great for homeowners who want value and compatibility. Their cordless tools share a common battery platform, making it easy to expand your kit without breaking the bank. Ryobi saws are ideal for infrequent users who still want reasonable performance.

Professional vs DIY: choosing the right spec

Don’t buy pro-grade unless you need it. Professional saws are heavier, more powerful, and more expensive, but they handle continuous use and tougher materials. If you’re a weekend DIYer, a mid-range model from a reputable brand is often the smartest purchase — you get reliability without paying for capability you’ll rarely need. Work out your typical tasks first: pruning and light remodels need different specs than cutting thick timber or metal daily.

Safety gear and accessories you’ll want

Never underestimate PPE. Safety glasses, a dust mask, gloves, and ear protection should be on your shopping list. Also pick up spare blades for wood, metal, and mixed materials, and consider a blade storage case. Clamps and a cutting guide can help keep cuts straight and reduce kickback, and a cordless model benefits hugely from a spare battery so you don’t stop mid-job.

How to get the best deal in the UK

Compare prices across retailers and watch for seasonal sales — bank holidays and Black Friday often bring solid reductions. Consider buying a bare tool if you already have compatible batteries from the same brand. Warranty and local service matter; sometimes paying a little more for a trusted seller means easier repairs and faster replacement parts. Don’t forget to check for refurbished or ex-demo tools from reputable outlets if you want trade-quality performance at a lower price.

Maintenance tips to keep your saw running

Keep blades sharp and clean, and change them at the first sign of dullness. For corded tools, check the power cable for cuts; for battery tools, follow the manufacturer’s charging recommendations to prolong battery life. Lubricate moving parts sparingly if specified in the manual, and store the saw in a dry place. Quick maintenance prevents bigger problems later and keeps the saw cutting like new.

Where to buy replacement blades and spare parts

Most of the stores listed earlier — Screwfix, Toolstation, B&Q, Wickes, Homebase, and Amazon UK — also stock a wide range of replacement blades and parts. Brands often sell genuine spares online, and specialist retailers provide third-party blades made for specific materials. Keep blades organized by material and length so you can grab the right one when you need it.

Final thoughts before you buy

Pick a saw that matches your workload, budget, and existing tool ecosystem. If you own batteries from a brand already, consider staying in that system to save money and weight. Prioritize comfort and control — you’ll use the saw more effectively and safely. And if you’re ever in doubt, visit a local store to handle different models and feel which one fits your grip best.

Good luck with your search — with the right saw and blades, that next cutting or demolition task will be quicker, cleaner, and more satisfying than you thought possible.