How to Use a Reciprocating Saw to Cut Metal, Wood, PVC, etc for Beginners

[@yogeshshrama9739]

Finally got my tree branches cut using my new saw kzbin.infoUgkx84IcU5pbZd1Qrz8u4-YRLmJax7kdRi7B , and it was effortless. Then tackled taking pallets apart by just cutting through the nails. Zip Zip, like butter, took no time at all! Absolutely love that you just push a button to change the blade, so quick and easy. I chose cordless because of all the outside projects I need to do, and most are too far to extend an extension cord to. Incredibly lightweight, and easy to handle. I will be using this all the time. There is a reason they call them Sawzalls , because they literally saw all the things you need cut. Once you buy one you'll kick yourself for not doing it sooner ~ Just make sure and buy the right blades for the job you want to tackle. The blades are not expensive, and there are lots of various multi-packs available.

[@kylefogle6022]

When cutting through metal, don't just start slow, but keep it slow through the entire cut. This will prevent overheating and increase the longevity of the blade. As a plumber I've seen guys burn through multiple blades on on section of cast iron pipe using the highest speed, when you slow it way down you can cut multiple pipes with one blade.

[@Joelo7734]

Thank you

[@caseyschmidt6532]

This happens to me. When cutting all the way around an oil tank. It’s takes a few minutes to get all the way around so if you go slow or fast the blade still overheats. I go through blades like crazy. My boss hates me. My job is steel demo. I’m known as the destroyer of blades

[@parkourandfreerunning4214]

Thank you, gonna write down in my assignment

[@Oldtimecarpenter]

Hi Leah, Somehow I came across your channel and watched a few of your videos and was so impressed that I subscribed. I've been a professional contractor and own a custom cabinet shop for over 40 years now. I'm not one to comment often but rather enjoy seeing someone as yourself providing excellent knowledgeable and skillful information to folks finding this most helpful. I am truly impressed with your skills and excellent communication abilities you are providing to your viewers. Thank you and big thumbs up!!

[@seejanedrill]

+Peter Stanhope Thank you so much, Peter, I really appreciate your kind comments!

[@omarra6781]

I just came across this channel a week ago and was so impressed with Leah I subscribed immediately. If it weren't for her video on changing out the wax ring of a toilet, I'd still be too scared to try. But, I got it done and it was super simple.

[@wingsister1]

Thanks! I'm about to head out to my deck-railing modification project. I just bought one of these saws, never used one, and am grateful for this simple and clear tutorial...and especially that last part (which I played twice!) "You Can Do This". Thanks!

[@gailrod2096]

You are a great teacher; giving scenarios ('do this so X doesn't happen'). I so appreciate your communication skills :) Best ~ Gail

[@seejanedrill]

+Gail Roderick thanks, Gail!

[@nanjemoyal-kursi3078]

@@seejanedrill * Great teacher. Iam just learning about these saws. Thanks Gail

[@sherik233]

Sitting here with my brand new Ryobi cordless but much less nervous about using it than I was 5 minutes ago. I really appreciate all of the help I get from your channel.

[@wenc.4424]

Leah, you are a rock star. Thank you so much. I am learning all of this at 64! I couldn't do it without you!

[@pennyinadiamondmine]

I just plugged in my saw to use it for the first time but I got freaked out after pressing the trigger lol. Your video was so helpful and reassuring. Thank you!

[@cecillec2331]

Thank you so much, Jane! I just bought a reciprocating saw after my neighbor recommended it. I did not know it existed before that. Seeing a female use it with confidence makes me think I can do it too.

[@seejanedrill]

yes, you can!

[@chiefscrubadub3928]

I am a life long Klutz. Never knew how to use tools but now you inspire me. You are such a good teacher. Live long and prosper Leah.

[@input0output]

I have been afraid of DIY for a long time due to inexperience. Your channel has helped me get a base understanding of so much. I've been able to knock off so much from my "honey-do" list because of your teaching. Thank you!

[@rebeccalynntenbrink6254]

My dad gave me a saw like this and I had no idea what all I could do with it. I'm a bit on my own for projects now. Your video was great. I have so many ideas now and I'm somewhat confident that I can use this saw. All around good thing to have. Thank you

[@RosieGamgee]

thank you for your help. i was seriously cutting small branches with a hand saw because i was afraid to use this tool on my husband's workbench. our crabapple tree died and needed removing. This gave me the confidence and information, which was all i needed. :)

[@loisbentley4046]

Leah - thank you. You are clear and to the point - no waffle and full of 'you can do it'. I'll certainly be disregarding the rest and look for you for future learning. thanks!

[@lindamarsden8024]

another awesome video, I learned woodworking from my dad and I've done a little bit of everything. From building 3 large pole barns to cutting fine dovetails. I aspire to be as good as my dad, he plays on the harpsichord that he built, and makes beautiful furniture. You are a treasure and fabulous teacher. One of the best things in life, for me, is to never stop learning and I always learn something from your videos and your can do spirit.

[@seejanedrill]

+Linda Marsden Thank you, Linda,, I appreciate you writing in. Sounds like you have been avid DIY-er for a long time! :)

[@vicievee1095]

Thank you, Leah. I needed this lesson because I was getting ready to purchase more saws to do the jobs that my reciprocating saw can do. I am a retired teacher and a beginner with hand tools. I decided to do some of my own home repairs. Your videos have helped me with my DIY's. I appreciate your videos.

[@kikiselfmastery]

Thank you Leah.. You gave me wisdom and courage.. I CAN DO THIS!!! Thank you 🙏🏽.

[@kenbeaton9871]

Very informative and inspiring and showing the actual cuts of varying materials was very educational for my Grandson’s as I’m teaching them how to handle power tools properly and safely.

[@jonathanfromohio6022]

Straight to the point. I wish more KZbin videos were like this! Great work

[@shayg.4897]

Your videos make it so much easier following tips and tricks and lessening the chance of mistakes. Keep them comin'!

[@seejanedrill]

+Shay Baybay thanks!

[@orangejjay]

I am so happy this video AND this channel is here. I'm working on my car and need to saw through an exhaust pipe. Never done this kind of work nor have I ever used my reciprocating saw (or sawzall as everyone seems to call it). This is PERFECT. ❤

[@jenkurtz412]

As always Leah, you are so helpful and building confidence to do a new job someone has not done before! I have recently purchased a reciprocating saw to do some projects, one of which will be cutting down rather large and half dead shrubs in my front yard. And I cannot wait to take them on this spring! :)

[@wondabub]

Thanks Leah! I just bought my first reciprocating saw today and your video was an enormous tutorial for me! Glad I'm subscribed!

[@leeleehewhughes]

Leah, you have been an inspiration. Thank you for your wonderful teachings and I love your tutorials!

[@oobaka1967]

One extra tip. If you find the saw is jerking wildly in your hands, be sure to press the shoe firmly against the surface you are cutting (if possible)

[@seejanedrill]

+oobaka1967 Thanks that's a good tip!

[@palkhera4977]

I just got a small reciprocating saw by Worx and it jerks a lot when using. Makes your whole body jerk with it - very uncomfortable! We used it to cut a small tree in our back yard, and it jerked the hell out of my brother and I while we were using it! Even when placing the shoe on the tree.

[@oobaka1967]

I can only think of three reasons your saw is jumping. Either the shoe is broken, the blade is incredibly dull or the blade got pinched in the tree. A recip saw will not jump under normal working circumstances.

[@palkhera4977]

Its a new saw that came with a new blade. The shoe looks fine too. Even before placing it on the tree, its a bit jerky!

[@oobaka1967]

Most, if not all, recip saws will be jerky when not placed against a solid surface. I just realized the problem, I think. When you say a small tree, how small? Was the tree shaking too? I'm assuming it was. When you put the shoe against a solid surface like a large tree that you wouldn't be able to shake with your hand, the saw will be a lot less jerky.

[@mdelight2488]

Im glad to know the one saw can do all that. You did an excellent job of introducing, explaining and giving examples of the use of your tool 👍

[@stanwebb2272]

Thank You Leah!!!!!! Just bought one to do many small and big jobs around the house... Starting with the old analog TV antenna on the roof......will leave about 2 feet for a lightning rod...which it is being used for all ready........

[@lung-huahu8895]

This is such a great video. It's got everything a clear instructional demo video should have. You enunciate clearly, the close up shots are extremely helpful, and the step-by-step demo is definitely fool proof. Thank you very much.

[@seejanedrill]

+Lung-Hua Hu you're very welcome, and thank you for your comments!

[@spdykat]

This is great, I was just looking into buying a reciprocating saw and trying to rip up my bathroom tile floor, but I wasn't that confident about how to use one. Magically this video appeared on my feed and was very helpful, thank you for another great tutorial Leah!

[@seejanedrill]

+spdykat you're welcome, glad it was helpful!

[@kg4boj]

+spdykat You don't want to use a sawsall to rip up tile, yes they make scraper blades for them but if you get it bound by the wrong position it will KILL your saw. Instead look for a hilti hammer with tile removal blade or one of those air powered "floor scapers" however for the air powered floor scrapers (about 100$ at harbor freight) you will need a BIG and POWERFUL air compressor. Hit the floor with a sledge hammer to shatter the tiles then use the air scraper/hilti electric hammer to scrape up the tile remnants and then the thinset. Make no mistake it IS a backbraking job but while you can rip the tiles up without shattering them with a hammer first it is VERY difficult and inadvisable.

[@mecruzn]

OMG!! Jane has every video I've been searching for. I think i prefer this saw over a circular saw for my needs. Signed: the handy woman!

[@StateofPeaches99]

Thanks Leah!! I need to cut studs out of wall, you even given me the type of blade. You are such a good teacher. Thank you for Posting!!!!

[@Petite43]

I just ran across your video...thank you so much, I'm a newbie, 55 yr. old single woman trying to do different things around the house on my own. thank for sharing really appreciate it. you have a new subscriber.

[@docmacg6315]

Great. Going to buy one today for small projects at home. Your videos are very educational. Your a good teacher who explains purpose and provide formulas in other videos. Love it.

[@seejanedrill]

Thank you so much!

[@taz9221]

I absolutely adore you. your teaching gives me the power and courage to do things around the house. thanks..

[@qcitizen6738]

Nice, explanatory video for the total novice. No assumptions that the viewer knows this, or that, already. Good video. Considerate person. Good luck on future tutorials.

[@springbornes]

Great demonstrator. I learn't one new thing today. Thanks Jane. Keep 'em coming.

[@almc-wi5vo]

A comment on not the produce. I already send for one from... let me say the Jungle. It is the way she speaks and presents the product. Short and to the point. A clear voice no-nonsense. Good Job

[@cindywilson6520]

I got more information from her Channel than I did in the other 10 guys that I watched thank you Leah most appreciative now off to cut the rebar!

[@judyf3684]

This is just what I needed to see to get me started with my new reciprocating saw. Your video was simply informative, direct and complete. Previously scared, I'm now feeling confident. Thanks Leah.

[@seejanedrill]

you're welcome, Judy, glad to be of help!

[@dindyluvsfall1198]

Glad I found you , just bought a re-saw, never used one , I cracked up when you said " you can do it" I never can find anyone to help me , so I have take apon myself to do it. I trying to build a workbenche for she shed. Had Lowes cut the wood some pieces are not even. Well glad I found you.

[@leepiper4621]

Thx Leah, ur vid in less than 5 min explained everything and more than the videos that are 15 minutes plus

[@Timtalks_]

your teaching style is so easy to follow & well explained & detailed...I love it

[@pcking2008]

Excellent video Leah. This is exactly what I wanted to see before I bought my DEWALT 20-Volt Reciprocating Saw Kit. Thank you Angel from The Bay

[@darmou]

Taking out that stud ... truly nailed it:)

[@Matthew-e3u7r]

Thanks for the video, Leah. I like the way you say "it's so much more than that" (regarding demolition). I'm beginning to realize how true that is.

[@EllenMHelms]

Just subscribed because this is MY kind of channel! I love my reciprocating saw (which my husband gave me for a birthday) and just bought new blades since I wore out one that came with it. it makes working/cleaning in the yard so much easier!! Looking forward to learning more through your videos!

[@seejanedrill]

+Ellen Helms thanks, Ellen, glad you found us!

[@bigfacts1914]

I truly appreciate u and how u went into detail and showed a clear path to the topic at hand..great job keep going

[@vero0992]

I just got one of these for Christmas and I came here to see what all I can use it for. Awesome!

[@KimberlyMadison953thebear]

Thank you so much for taking the time to video a simplified understanding for the use of these tools. My husband's busy and I have stuff I need to do. You and your videos are amazing!

[@seejanedrill]

+Kimberly Madison Nice to hear from you Kimberly. Glad the videos have been helpful.

[@lucyjarosiewicz8760]

Thank you for this simple and helpful video. I've never used a reciprocating saw before and this is just what I needed! :)

[@dougarcher37]

An excellent video. Leah you have a gift for teaching.

[@andreathorpe7035]

This video has been up for a while, but I just found it while searching for a reciprocating saw tutorial. This was perfect! Thank you!

[@cyshultz9095]

Leah, thank you. I need to use one and thought I needed to drill a hole for the blade before I cut the shape out of B Board. I need to cover an a wall that goes to the outside and the DIY owners did not where the washer and dryer are. I need to cover it- just insulation between the behind the washer and dryer and now wall covering.

[@AdriaRichards]

This was a great intro video for the Makita recipro saw I picked up. Thanks Leah!

[@seejanedrill]

you're welcome, Adria!

[@Whissht]

Just picked up my DeWalt Recip. saw.......very helpful video in understanding blade uses, variable speed needs etc. Thanks!

[@seejanedrill]

you're very welcome, Alan, thanks for watching!

[@APWoodworking]

I used those in demo decks. it's never stopped me from cutting anything! & it's great finish cut with beams/posts outside your saw blade cuts.

[@Rshen11]

Hey my deck boards are touching spaced to close together.. do you think I can use this to creat space between them?

[@anthonyga]

Used mine to cut up a trampoline that was crumbled by the wind, they are so useful! Great video.

[@seejanedrill]

+anthonyga :)

[@circle4922]

This woman is awesome. You make very helpful videos, Jane. Thanks.

[@seejanedrill]

thank you very much!

[@aaaacooo5250]

I just bought one of these to make yard cut outs for the holidays. My boyfriend brings me home a lot of spare wood like pallets but I was terrified to use it ! This video definitely gave me a little more insight .

[@seejanedrill]

:)

[@beachwalker2245]

Thank you so much for your great videos I just got my reciprocating saw today and I’ll be using it tomorrow thanks to you!!

[@tristantaus4556]

I got a new reciprocating saw of that model, I used it a few times it is beautiful to use.

[@rondamon8004]

I recently bought one of this tools cordless and is very versatile...and I like it a lot, thanks for ur very useful tips..

[@rachelcrain149]

That. Was. AWESOME!! I could watch you saw through random materials all day! Thanks for the lesson!! I'm gonna go grab a sawzall and cut stuff up.

[@seanalexander6310]

They are very versatile tools and referred to as the "sawsall" because they can saw it all. I just bought my steppop a 20v max Dewalt compact brushless for his bday and Xmas that came with a charger, 5ah battery, additional 5ah battery with the promotion, and a bag. I told my mom and she didn't like me spending that much saying he doesn't need it, but then I explained that the batteries cost that much alone, and now he has another charger and 2 extra batteries to use between his drill and that the saw was basically free for buying 2 batteries and an extra charger. :) I'm anticipating that he'll use it a lot in the yard for tree limbs and such that would be overkill for a chainsaw.

[@rad_bad_mad]

This is the first time I have been on your pages and it's amazing. Thankyou for doing it first. I'm off to demolish some pallets now!!!

[@kkirk70]

Thank you Leah! I just went through a hurricane and there are some fallen tree branches I need to cut down and I needed to know how to use a sawzall. Your video was clear, simple and thorough.

[@jstriker623]

I stopped using my saw because the end of the blade would whip back and forth violently... I never knew they have a variable speed trigger. Time to start using it again. Great video!

[@madwonderland5536]

I absolutely love my Dewalt 20v max battery-powered reciprocating saw. Although I like the Milwaukee brand blades much more than Dewalt blades.

[@mid-west_man]

Great video right to the point and no stupid music. Thanks for sharing

[@TheBayoubreeze]

Thanks for a full vid w complete info. Makes it so I don't have to watch 5 or more vids to get the answers I need. Really Thanks!!!

[@seejanedrill]

you're very welcome, glad it was helpful!

[@jfrison6974]

Great video, I watch a lot of yours because of how helpful they are.

[@H.pylori]

I wanted to cut 2X4s and did not want to invest in a circular saw or jigsaw, and this video helped a lot. I think I can do it. Thanks.

[@zoltantapai3716]

Nice video. I use my cordless recip saw for pruning trees a lot. It is smaller than a chainsaw and can be held with one hand if you are reaching high on a ladder for example. There are tons of different blades for it so it can be used to cut almost anything with the right blade. It's not really a precision tool tough. At least I wasn't able to use mine in fine woodworking projects.

[@NicoleVolvoFH]

Thank you so much, for help me to use the reciprocal saw with less fear .Love to work with wood but when comes to cutting, it’s hard for me because of my fear towards electric tools.

[@jeannefaciane9341]

It’s good to see a female give instructions on tools like this. Thanks a million.

[@105milimeter]

I work for a demolition company and these things can take a beat. I love using them. Also, half the things we do are done with this bad boi.

[@shurdoo]

Oh! I want one of these! You're the best teacher Leah. I love your videos!

[@seejanedrill]

Thanks, Rae! 🙂

[@carolinewells4355]

Thanks Leah your motivation is just what I needed to hear

[@yayag1226]

Omg this totally motivated me

[@TheMultiGunMan]

Great advice Leah. Most people don't know about the things you talked about in this video.

[@seejanedrill]

+TheMultiGunMan Thanks, Jason!

[@jaiiwoo3652]

Thanks 😊 got one a few weeks ago to take apart an old metal shell....and haven't started yet.

[@nyer0708]

You are awesome! Thank you so much. You did not waste any time, you just got to the point and you were very thorough and complete in your tutorial. AMAZING INSTRUCTOR

[@seejanedrill]

thank you very much!

[@ChristianLatson]

Great video. Great teaching. Great advice! Picking up a reciprocating saw this month and now I feel much more confident!

[@seejanedrill]

Thanks, Christian, and have fun with your new saw!

[@deborahbelden3588]

Thank you Leah for teaching me the basics

[@paxruns775]

I LOVE this. Based on this video, I know a reciprocating saw would have helped me with "a million" jobs I have done much more clumsily with other tools. I immediately went to the web to see if it was something I felt would be worth the expense, and Home Depot has a battery powered one that will work with Li batteries I already own for a portable fan for about $40!

[@seejanedrill]

+Pax Runs that's great! :)

[@joannapocock6055]

I agree with Gail Roderick 100% you are a great teacher.Thanx again for a great video

[@seejanedrill]

+Joanna Pocock you're welcome, and thanks!

[@GrahamOrm]

Good video, you covered all the bases. It's such a versatile tool, people think it's just for wrecking, but with a little care it's extremely handy. I use mine for plunge cutting floor boards the way that you showed it cutting a wall. If you keep it low you can cut to a set depth without the risk of dinging an expensive circular saw blade on a nail. There are smaller cordless versions available now which I will add to my wish list I think......hmmmm I'm off to Ebay to look at prices!

[@seejanedrill]

+Graham Orm Hello Graham, Thank you for commenting and sharing your personal experience.

[@Ivote4353]

Thank you Lea. I've been so intimidated by this tool. I really liked the close ups n attention to basics (part names, sawblade differences) You're really great at demystifying the tool n encouraging me to try. I'm so Excited ! Thank you!

[@svenschindler5649]

Don't be intimidated - this is a much safer tool than a skilsaw or an angle grinder. About the only truly dangerous thing that can happen with a recip saw is you sawing while standing on a ladder, the blade binds and you are pushed off the ladder. But it won't kick and sever your leg like a skilsaw, nor will the disc explode embedding the shards in your belly or eyes, which can happen with an angle grinder. Sawzall all the way for me.

[@mrangel8009]

I'm so glad I found you. You're a awesome teacher! 😃

[@seejanedrill]

thank you, Marie, I'm glad you found us too!

[@PlayinBanjo]

Nice video, great instruction! I've been using power tools for years, so nice to see a woman comfortable with power tools, so much satisfaction to be gained in fixing and building things. I think it would be wise to also advise beginners to be cautious about letting the tip of the blade on a recip saw come in contact with something while cutting, to avoid an unpleasant kickback (voice of experience!)

[@seejanedrill]

thanks, Irene, that is a good tip!

[@accomplishedtheory9502]

You have the best how to videos. Thanks Leah!

[@bluemantom77]

Friend of mine I've known forever couple years ago gave me his uncles Porter-Cable that I originally gave his uncle that's a gift that's a great made in America product before Stanley Black & Decker bought out Porter Cable to grown up I was always good with wood so I used to watch this Old House Yankee workshop growing up in New York City I always thought that my services would be needed and didn't work out that way but I still did things in that field

[@jay1232000]

Thanks Leah. I like your all videos. You explain thoroughly. Please make a video on the pros and the cons of circular vs reciprocating saw.

[@blkstone8071]

Love your videos, my grandmother actually put me on to your channel

[@sambalfour5094]

Very professional presentation. Thank, you! You convinced me to buy one! I have been using a small skilsaw jigsaw/sabre saw for years. I need to power up to a big boy tool.

[@CONCRETEJUNGLE-be6ic]

Nice,my Circular Saw just stopped working so now i gotta learn how to use my Reciprocating Saw.

[@TitusMatthewsYCCMT]

thank you! i was very nervous about using the sawzall that’s been sitting in my storage and was using a hand saw which took forever

[@novalover5033]

This was so awesome! Thank you for posting! I had a few different jobs to do around the house and didn't know if my saw could be used in that particular way and now I know thank you so much.

[@seejanedrill]

you're very welcome!

[@denisewhitney6183]

I am building the inside of my van. First time I've seen one of these, (nephew loaned it to me). After watching your video... I can do this!

[@seejanedrill]

yes, you can! 👍

[@uncleblack7946]

Always enjoy, all of your demo's...What could be next I'll always watch you work...

[@seejanedrill]

+Blackie Kane thanks so much Blackie, I appreciate it!