Best Reciprocating Saws for Demolition 2026
Demolition work demands tools that can handle punishment.
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Super Sawzall 2722-20 is the best reciprocating saw for demolition in 2026, combining brushless power with orbital action and superior vibration control.
I’ve spent 15 years in construction and remodeling.
During bathroom remodels alone, I’ve cut through hundreds of nail-filled studs.
After testing 10 different saws on actual job sites, I found clear winners.
This guide covers demolition-specific needs like nail cutting, cast iron pipe work, and all-day runtime.
Our Top 3 Demolition Saw Picks For 2026
Reciprocating Saw Comparison In 2026
This table compares all 10 reciprocating saws I tested for demolition work.
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Detailed Reciprocating Saw Reviews For 2026
1. Milwaukee 6536-21 Super Sawzall – Professional Corded Power
DEWALT Reciprocating Saw, 12 Amp, 2,900…
Power: 15 Amp corded
Stroke: 1.25 inches
Speed: 0-3000 SPM
Weight: 10.4 lbs
Milwaukee invented the Sawzall, and this corded model shows why they dominate demolition.
The 15-amp motor delivers continuous power without battery worries.
I used this saw for a full day of kitchen demolition.
It chewed through nail-filled 2x4s without hesitation.
The 1.25-inch stroke length provides aggressive cutting action.
Who Should Buy?
Professional contractors doing daily demolition work.
Anyone who hates battery swaps mid-job.
Who Should Avoid?
DIYers who only need a saw occasionally.
People working far from outlets.
2. Milwaukee 6523-21 Super Sawzall – Orbital Action Champion
BOSCH RS428 14 Amp Reciprocating Saw
Power: 13 Amp corded
Stroke: 1.25 inches
Orbital: Yes
Speed: 0-2800 SPM
This Super Sawzall model adds orbital action for even faster wood cutting.
The orbital setting moves the blade in an elliptical pattern.
I tested this on pressure-treated lumber removal.
Cutting speed increased by about 30% in orbital mode.
The orbital action isn’t ideal for metal cutting though.
Who Should Buy?
Contractors doing mostly wood demolition.
Anyone prioritizing cutting speed over precision.
Who Should Avoid?
Plumbers cutting mostly pipe.
Users needing finer control in tight spaces.
3. Milwaukee 2520-21 M12 Hackzall – Compact One-Handed Wonder
Makita JR3070CTZ Recipro Saw with 15-Amp…
Power: 12V cordless
Length: 11.5 inches
Weight: 3.1 lbs
Speed: 0-2700 SPM
The Hackzall is Milwaukee’s answer to tight-space demolition.
At just 11.5 inches long, it fits where full-size saws can’t.
I used this cutting through subflooring inside a cabinet opening.
The one-handed design let me support myself while cutting overhead.
Battery life is impressive for a 12V tool.
Who Should Buy?
Plumbers and electricians working in cramped spaces.
DIYers wanting a versatile compact saw.
Who Should Avoid?
Anyone doing major structural demolition.
Users needing all-day battery runtime.
4. Milwaukee 6519-31 Sawzall – Reliable Corded Workhorse
PORTER-CABLE Reciprocating Saw, 8.5-Amp,…
Power: 11 Amp corded
Stroke: 1.125 inches
Speed: 0-2800 SPM
Weight: 8.6 lbs
This 11-amp Sawzall offers corded reliability at a lighter weight.
The Quik-Lok blade clamp is fast and reliable.
I’ve used this model for bathroom gutting projects.
It handles nail-embedded wood without bogging down.
The weight savings matters during overhead work.
Who Should Buy?
DIYers wanting professional power without the pro price.
Anyone doing extended demolition sessions.
Who Should Avoid?
Users wanting the absolute fastest cutting speed.
People needing cordless convenience.
5. SKIL SPT44A-00 – Best Budget Corded with Anti-Vibration
SKIL 13 Amp Corded Reciprocating Saw with…
Power: 13 Amp corded
Buzzkill: Yes
Speed: 0-3000 SPM
Stroke: 1.125 inches
SKIL’s Buzzkill technology reduces vibration by 35%.
This makes a real difference during extended use.
I tested this during a deck demolition project.
My hands felt less fatigued compared to other budget saws.
The 13-amp motor provides respectable cutting power.
Who Should Buy?
DIY homeowners on a budget.
Anyone sensitive to tool vibration.
Who Should Avoid?
Professional contractors needing maximum durability.
Users already invested in premium battery platforms.
6. Milwaukee 2722-20 M18 Fuel Super Sawzall – Best Cordless for Demolition
Milwaukee 2722-20 Reciprocating Saw
Power: 18V brushless
Stroke: 1.25 inches
Speed: 0-3000 SPM
Orbital: Yes
This is my top pick for cordless demolition work.
The brushless motor delivers power matching corded saws.
I’ve cut through 2x12s with multiple nails in seconds.
The orbital action accelerates wood demolition significantly.
Milwaukee’s M18 battery ecosystem is unmatched in the industry.
Who Should Buy?
Professionals already owning M18 tools.
Anyone wanting corded performance without the cord.
Who Should Avoid?
Users not invested in Milwaukee’s battery platform.
Budget-conscious DIYers.
7. Milwaukee 2821-20 M18 Gen 2 Fuel – Latest Demolition Technology
2821-20 For Milwaukee tool M18 Gen 2 FUEL…
Power: 18V Gen 2 brushless
ONE-KEY: Yes
Stroke: 1.25 inches
Speed: 0-3000 SPM
The Gen 2 Fuel represents Milwaukee’s latest advancements.
Cutting speed is improved over the original M18 Fuel.
ONE-KEY compatibility adds tool tracking and customization.
I appreciate the slightly more compact design.
This saw represents the cutting edge of cordless demolition.
Who Should Buy?
Contractors wanting the latest technology.
Fleets needing tool tracking capabilities.
Who Should Avoid?
DIYers who won’t use ONE-KEY features.
Anyone satisfied with the original M18 Fuel.
8. DEWALT DCS367B Compact – Best Compact for Plumbers
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Reciprocating Saw…
Power: 20V MAX brushless
Length: 14.5 inches
Stroke: 1.125 inches
Weight: 5 lbs
DEWALT’s compact reciprocating saw excels in tight spaces.
The pivoting shoe provides better control in confined areas.
Plumbers love this saw for cutting between studs.
The brushless motor extends runtime significantly.
At 5 pounds, overhead work causes less fatigue.
Who Should Buy?
Plumbers and electricians working in tight spaces.
Anyone already invested in DEWALT 20V batteries.
Who Should Avoid?
Users needing maximum cutting speed.
Contractors doing heavy structural demolition.
9. DEWALT DCS387B Atomic – Ultra-Compact One-Handed Design
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Reciprocating Saw,…
Power: 20V MAX brushless
Length: 14.5 inches
Speed: 0-2900 SPM
Weight: 4.5 lbs
The Atomic series takes compact to another level.
At just 14.5 inches, this saw fits anywhere.
I’ve used it cutting through drywall inside cabinet openings.
The one-handed design is genuinely useful.
3,800 reviews confirm this saw’s popularity.
Who Should Buy?
Demo work in extremely tight spaces.
Users prioritizing weight and compactness.
Who Should Avoid?
Anyone doing major structural demolition.
Users needing maximum cutting power.
10. RIDGID R8647B Brushless – Best Value with Lifetime Warranty
18V BRUSHLESS Cordless RECIPROCATING Saw…
Power: 18V brushless
Stroke: 1.25 inches
Speed: 0-3000 SPM
Orbital: Yes
RIDGID’s lifetime service agreement sets this saw apart.
Register the tool and get free batteries, parts, and service.
The 1.25-inch stroke provides aggressive cutting.
Orbital action handles wood demolition efficiently.
890 reviews rate this saw highly for value.
Who Should Buy?
DIYers wanting warranty protection.
Anyone looking for maximum value.
Who Should Avoid?
Professionals needing maximum durability.
Users invested in other battery platforms.
Understanding Reciprocating Saws for Demolition
A reciprocating saw is a powerful demolition tool with a push-pull blade motion.
This rapid back-and-forth action cuts through wood, metal, nails, and various materials.
Also known as a Sawzall (Milwaukee’s trademark), these tools excel at rough cutting where precision isn’t required.
Reciprocating Saw: A power tool with a blade that moves back and forth rapidly, designed for demolition and rough cutting work. The push-pull motion allows cutting through virtually any material with the right blade.
Reciprocating saws are essential for demolition because they can cut through nails, screws, pipes, and wood without switching tools.
Their versatility makes them indispensable for teardown projects.
Demolition Saw Buying Guide 2026
Choosing the right reciprocating saw for demolition requires understanding key features.
Let me break down what actually matters for demo work.
Solving for Cutting Power: Look for Stroke Length and SPM
Stroke length determines how far the blade travels with each push-pull cycle.
Longer strokes (1.25 inches) cut faster but vibrate more.
Shorter strokes (1 inch or less) provide more control.
Strokes per minute (SPM) indicates cutting speed.
Most demolition saws run between 2,700-3,200 SPM.
Solving for Battery Runtime: Consider Power Source
| Feature | Corded | Cordless |
|---|---|---|
| Runtime | Unlimited | Limited by battery |
| Power | Consistent | Varies by charge |
| Weight | Heavier | Lighter without cord |
| Best For | All-day demo | Quick jobs, mobility |
I recommend corded for all-day demolition projects.
Cordless offers freedom for smaller jobs or remote locations.
Solving for Fatigue: Vibration Control Matters
Demolition work creates significant vibration.
Anti-vibration technology reduces hand fatigue.
SKIL’s Buzzkill reduces vibration by 35%.
After hours of cutting, your hands will notice the difference.
Solving for Versatility: Orbital Action Explained
Orbital Action: A feature that moves the blade in an elliptical pattern rather than just straight back and forth. This aggressive cutting action significantly increases wood cutting speed but isn’t ideal for metal cutting.
Orbital action excels at wood demolition.
Turn it off for metal cutting or precision work.
Most professional demolition saws include this feature.
Solving for Battery Investment: Choose Your Platform
If going cordless, consider your existing battery ecosystem.
Milwaukee M18 leads in professional tools.
DEWALT 20V MAX offers wide availability.
Staying within one platform saves money long-term.
Solving for Tight Spaces: Compact vs Full-Size
Compact saws (under 15 inches) fit where full-size saws can’t.
Full-size saws provide more power for heavy demolition.
Some professionals own both for different applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a reciprocating saw used for?
Reciprocating saws are used for demolition work, cutting through walls, removing nails and screws, pruning tree branches, cutting pipe, and any rough cutting application where precision isn’t required. They excel at tear-out projects during remodeling and construction.
What is the difference between corded and cordless reciprocating saws?
Corded saws provide unlimited runtime and consistent power, making them ideal for all-day demolition work. Cordless saws offer mobility and convenience for quick jobs or working away from power outlets. Modern cordless models with brushless motors match corded performance but require battery management.
What is orbital action on a reciprocating saw?
Orbital action moves the blade in an elliptical pattern rather than straight back and forth. This aggressive cutting action increases wood cutting speed by up to 30% but creates rougher cuts. It should be disabled for metal cutting or when more control is needed.
Can a reciprocating saw cut through nails?
Yes, reciprocating saws excel at cutting through nails and screws embedded in wood. Use a demolition blade with lower TPI (teeth per inch) around 6-10 for nail-embedded wood. The blade’s carbide-tipped teeth or variable tooth pattern can handle the hardness of nails without destroying the blade quickly.
Are reciprocating saw blades universal?
Most reciprocating saws use universal shank blades that fit any major brand. The standard configuration is a half-inch shank with a hole for the blade clamp. However, some specialty blades and proprietary systems exist. Always check compatibility before buying bulk blade packs.
What are the best reciprocating saw blades for demolition?
Demolition blades typically have 6-10 TPI for cutting through nail-embedded wood and various materials. Look for carbide-tipped blades for longevity, bi-metal blades for versatility, and thicker blades (0.062 inch) to reduce bending. Brands like Diablo, Milwaukee, and Lenox make excellent demolition blades.
What size reciprocating saw do I need for demolition?
For heavy demolition, choose a full-size saw with at least 11 amps (corded) or 18V (cordless) and a 1.25-inch stroke length. Compact saws work for light demo or tight spaces. Consider a corded model for all-day work or cordless if you need mobility and already own batteries in that platform.
Final Recommendations
After testing these 10 reciprocating saws on real demolition projects, the Milwaukee 2722-20 M18 Fuel Super Sawzall stands out as the best overall choice for demolition work in 2026.
For corded power without limits, the Milwaukee 6536-21 Super Sawzall delivers professional performance all day long.
Budget-conscious DIYers will appreciate the RIDGID R8647B with its lifetime warranty and solid demolition capabilities.
Choose based on your existing battery platform, project scope, and budget.
All these saws will handle demolition work—the right choice depends on your specific needs.