What is an alligator saw. What is the best reciprocating saw to buy
Devices that do not require a permanent connection to the mains, but are powered by a battery, are more convenient in terms of mobility than network counterparts. But for the sake of autonomy, you have to sacrifice functionality, performance and often put up with a large weight of the tool. However, you can always choose the optimal combination of parameters. Especially if you choose products of famous brands. The popularity of the manufacturer does not necessarily mean high cost. Budget-class models can quite cope with the task, if they are chosen correctly.
Features of cordless saws
Cordless electric saws have the same features as their corded counterparts. The main advantage of such tools is the ability to work autonomously, without requiring a constant connection to an electric current source. In addition, a reciprocating saw with a battery is more convenient to work at height, as the cord does not interfere and does not distract attention.
The disadvantages include less power, and, accordingly, performance. It should be borne in mind that the battery makes the tool heavier, and if there are several of them, even more so. A fair amount of weight can limit movement (after all, the tool is manual) and lead to rapid fatigue.
Experienced specialists generally believe that it is wrong to apply the term power to electric cutters of this type. It is more correct to evaluate the efficiency in terms of battery performance. The duration of the tool depends on the capacity of the battery, which is measured in ampere-hours.
As a rule, new tools are powered by removable batteries. This significantly increases the service life of the electric saw, because the failure of a non-removable battery will lead to the need to replace the tool completely. In addition, removable batteries do not require interrupting work while recharging.
When choosing an electric saw with a battery, first of all, you need to decide how often the power tool will be used, what amount of work to be done with it. For small loads, a not very expensive reciprocating cordless saw will do. As a rule, kits of basic consumables come with such options, but very rarely such tools are supplied with batteries. Usually batteries, as well as chargers, have to be purchased separately.
If you need to work in low light conditions, a cordless electric saw with LED backlight on the front can be useful.
Another important criterion is the type of engine. There are two options to choose from: brushed (collector) and brushless (brushless). The second option has the significant advantage of longer tool life.
Meaning of specifications
The average weight of battery operated electric cutters is between 1 and 3.5 kg. Typically, professional-grade models are heavier than compact household tools. In expensive quality units, durable materials are used, as well as various add-ons to expand functionality. All this, of course, increases the mass of the reciprocating saw.Modern high-quality models from reliable manufacturers can last up to 5 hours on a single charge. But you should always remember that the battery can run out at the most inopportune moment. It's a good idea to take spare reciprocating saw batteries with you, especially if you have a lot of work ahead of you. For ease of use, some models of cordless electric saws are equipped with a charging indicator. It can be placed either on the battery itself or directly on the body of the tool.
The best batteries include lithium-ion and lithium-polymer batteries that do not have a “memory effect”. You can charge them in any state. In addition, these batteries have protection against overcharging and overheating. 10.8V Li-Ion batteries charge from minimum to maximum in approximately 3.5 hours. The operating time of the tool with such a battery will be about 2 hours. During this time, you can cut from 30 to 190 branches with a diameter of up to 60 mm. A budget reciprocating saw on a 3 Ah battery can work for about 1 hour. More accurate values are indicated in the operating instructions for each specific model.
The best reciprocating saw manufacturers
When choosing an electric saw, it is quite reasonable to give preference to manufacturers who have proven themselves on the positive side. A quality tool will last a long time and will not present unexpected unpleasant surprises.
First of all, you should consider cordless reciprocating saws from trusted companies with a long history and a good reputation.
The German company Bosch is well known to many. Almost everyone has used some kind of tool from this manufacturer. Bosch appliances are traditionally distinguished by their reliability and functionality, meet internal quality standards and are able to satisfy the needs of the most sophisticated consumers. In the model range of Bosch reciprocating saws, you can find both budget and quite expensive models.
The Japanese manufacturer Makita is deservedly considered a giant in the field of power tools. This is not to say that each reciprocating saw of this company is devoid of flaws. Owners of budget models often complain about the lack of power, and even the wrong parts. But on the other hand, professional-class electric saws are considered one of the best, both in terms of ease of use, and in terms of performance and, of course, reliability.
The German quality of Metabo electric saws speaks for itself. There are practically no complaints about reciprocating saws from this manufacturer.
The products of one of the oldest German power tool manufacturers Aeg are rightfully included in the list of the best in quality. The disadvantages noted by the owners of the budget models of this manufacturer, as a rule, are the result of using the tool not in accordance with the loads recommended by the manufacturer.
The American company DeWalt, which specializes in the production of various power tools, is also widely known. The company is actively implementing innovative solutions in its products, which cannot but arouse interest.
Budget cordless reciprocating saws
Inexpensive reciprocating electric saws are usually household models that are not designed for a large amount of complex work. But for occasional use, they will become effective assistants. When choosing, keep in mind that many of them do not come with batteries and chargers. | Specifications: Revolutions: up to 2600 per minute Blade travel: 22 mm Maximum cutting thickness wood / metal: 100 / 6 mm Weight: 2.1 kg Speed control: yes pendulum action: no Soft start: yes Backlight: no |
| One of the smallest reciprocating saws powered by an 18V Li-Ion battery, it is ergonomically shaped, has a soft handle, and allows you to change the saw blade without additional tools. Unfortunately, this model cannot boast of special performance. It will not withstand sawing on an industrial scale, since there is no overheating fuse. Only suitable for dry wood (also stated the ability to cut steel up to 6 mm). The saw comes with a blade for working with wood. The price of the instrument is 4800 rubles.
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| Specifications: Revolutions: up to 3100 per minute Blade travel: 22 mm Maximum cutting thickness wood / metal: 180 / 6 mm Weight: 1.9 kg Quick-release blade attachment: yes Speed control: yes pendulum action: no Soft start: no Backlight: no |
| A good Japanese instrument in terms of price and quality. Equipped with anti-vibration protection and a quick-lock door leaf. The Li-Ion One+ 18V battery increases performance by 10% compared to conventional batteries. The set includes a saw blade for wood. The price of the instrument is 5000 rubles.
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 | Specifications: Revolutions: up to 3500 per minute Blade travel: 16 mm Maximum cutting thickness of wood: 75 mm Weight: 1.2 kg Quick-release blade attachment: yes Speed control: no pendulum action: no Soft start: yes Backlight: no |
| Very light cordless electric saw, mainly used for pruning branches. The design provides a clamping paw to hold the sawn material. When fitted with suitable saw blades, it is suitable for working with metal and plastic. This model is equipped with a charge indicator. The kit also includes a canvas for wood, instructions, a 10.8 V Li-Ion battery and a charger. The price of the instrument is 6500 rubles.
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 | Specifications: Revolutions: up to 3300 per minute Blade travel: 13 mm Maximum cutting thickness of wood: 50 mm Weight: 1.1 kg Quick-release blade attachment: no Speed control: no pendulum action: no Soft start: yes Backlight: yes |
| An interesting version of a reciprocating saw with a backlight, two switches (one on the body, the other on the handle), the possibility of electronic speed control. The body of the tool has ventilation holes for engine cooling. And most importantly, jigsaw blades are suitable for this reciprocating saw. True, without a key, the canvas cannot be changed. Includes 2 saw blades and a key for the lock. The price of the instrument is 4800 rubles.
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 | Specifications: Revolutions: up to 1600 per minute Blade travel: 20 mm Maximum cutting thickness of wood: 80 mm Weight: 1.1 kg Quick-release blade attachment: yes Speed control: no pendulum action: no Soft start: no Backlight: no |
| A small tool with a built-in 10.8 V battery is suitable for working with branches. The switch is implemented according to the trigger type, the speed of the saw depends on the force of pressure on it. To prevent accidental switching on, a special stopper is provided in the design. There is a charge indicator on the case, a key is not required to change the blades. Supplied complete with charger, wood saw blade and A-clamp for trimming overhanging branches. The price of the instrument is 5400 rubles.
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Professional electric saws with battery
In the case when the tool is needed for permanent and voluminous work, you need to choose, unambiguously, professional cordless saws. These models can be quite expensive, but their quality is worth it. They can work without interruption for a long time and allow you to take on the most difficult tasks. | Specifications: Revolutions: up to 2800 per minute Blade travel: 32 mm Maximum cutting thickness of wood / pipe: 255 / 130 mm Weight: 3.5 kg Quick-release blade attachment: yes Speed control: yes pendulum action: no Soft start: no Backlight: yes |
| An electric hacksaw from a well-known manufacturer with protection against moisture and dust using XPT technology is suitable for construction and carpentry work. The switch is equipped with a safety lock against unintentional starting of the tool. The possibility of independent replacement of brushes, thanks to easy access to them, facilitates the maintenance of a reciprocating electric saw. A backlight is provided for work in low light conditions. A set of saw blades is included in the kit. The price of the instrument is 12,000 rubles.
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 | Specifications: Revolutions: up to 3200 per minute Blade travel: 28 mm Maximum cutting thickness wood / metal: 255 / 20 mm Weight: 3.1 kg Quick-release blade attachment: yes Speed control: yes Pendulum move: yes Soft start: no Backlight: yes |
| A wonderful reciprocating electric saw with a brushless motor copes with thin metal structures, plastic and wood materials. The instrument has a pendulum mechanism and a built-in backlight. Saw blades can be changed without using a key. The price of the instrument is 15,000 rubles.
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 | Specifications: Revolutions: up to 2700 per minute Blade travel: 30 mm Maximum cutting thickness wood / metal: 210 / 18 mm Weight: 3.6 kg Quick-release blade attachment: yes Speed control: yes pendulum action: no Soft start: no Backlight: no |
| The electric saw is designed to work with wood, metal and plastic materials. The saw blade can be rotated 180°. The gearbox housing is made of die-cast aluminium. Thereby new cordless reciprocating saw has a long service life. You can also note the multifunctional battery pack protection system. The saw is equipped with 2 batteries 5.2 Ah, a charger, a hexagon and a plastic case. The price of the instrument is 11,000 rubles.
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 | Specifications: Revolutions: up to 2950 per minute Blade travel: 28 mm Maximum cutting thickness wood / metal: 250 / 20 mm Weight: 3.3 kg Quick-release blade attachment: yes Speed control: yes pendulum action: no Soft start: no Backlight: no |
| Professional reciprocating saw with a brushed motor has a fairly large size and wide functionality. A special 4-position saw blade clamp and the ability to cut in all directions allows you to cut protruding elements flush with the wall. The set includes: a suitcase, a charger and 2 sliding batteries 18 V, 3 Ah. The price of the instrument is 28,000 rubles.
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 | Specifications: Revolutions: up to 2500 per minute Blade travel: 32 mm Maximum cutting thickness of wood / pipe: 230 / 175 mm Weight: 3.5 kg Quick-release blade attachment: yes Speed control: yes Pendulum move: yes Soft start: no Backlight: yes |
| A professional-grade cordless electric saw that cuts wood and metal with ease. The tool has an electronic speed control function, and the SDS system allows you to change saw blades without even taking off your gloves. Additionally, the reciprocating electric saw is equipped with a backlight. The kit includes 2 hacksaw blades: for metal and universal. The package also includes 2 cases: for files and the tool itself. Don't forget to put in the package a quick charger and 2 batteries 18 V, 5 Ah. The price of the instrument is 24,000 rubles.
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The widespread use of automatic sawing tools is due to ease of use and the ability to choose according to user conditions. So, for private households and construction sites, a saw powered by electricity is well suited. For work on the road, it is better to look at the option of a chainsaw.
Circular saws
The needs of the private sector will be able to provide saws with power.
Bosch PKS 40
Interskol DP-140/800
For high loads, such a tool is not suitable, you will need fault-tolerant models that consume. .
The increased power supply mode is accompanied by structural reinforcements, including the equipping of special nozzles and cutting tools that are designed for processing large workpieces.
Chain (petrol) saws
They are actively used for carrying out work, provided that they are far from the main objects on the road. Independence from the power supply and high power ratings allow you to cope with sawing thick logs, felling trees. Such saws are indispensable in carrying out landscape works in the urban area. If you need a gasoline tool for private work, compact saws with low productivity will be an excellent solution. The main cutting tool in such equipment is. It is both a cutter and a drive for the movement of the chain itself along the contour of the web.
The low level of sound insulation has an impact on the operator. In addition, gasoline-powered engines require extensive maintenance - refueling with oil and fuel. In all other respects, a chainsaw is the best equipment for organizing field work.
If you plan to process workpieces in places where it is possible to connect to a power source, it is recommended to use an electric tool. The presence of concomitant harmful emissions and high noise levels make the use of gasoline equipment impossible in enclosed spaces. If you need to combine favorable working conditions on the road, you can consider purchasing products equipped with a rechargeable battery. The leading parameter of such a tool will be the duration of work on a single charge.
Power equipment for electric saws is given in watts. For this parameter, take in watts or horsepower (as for motors). The power tool line up to is well suited for use on or.
Husqvarna 445e
Stihl MS 250
If the power in the range is indicated on the saws, this equipment belongs to the category of semi-professional. They are actively used by city services. A serious tool with high fault tolerance is necessary for long-term work, including on the road. The power of the tool up to means that this is a professional equipment that can cut wood for a whole shift.
In order to select a specific modification of the product for the conditions of use, pay attention to the length of the tire. well suited for processing branches or felling small trees near the site. A large tool () is suitable for working with almost any thickness of trees. The width of the blade will allow you to quickly cope with the longitudinal cut of the workpiece. If you need to periodically saw logs, select a model with a length of the working part.
Reciprocating saw
Among professionals, the so-called are common. They are powered by electricity. the name of the unit is given by the design of the tool, - the cutting blade is on the same axis as the motor rotor. Such a tool is brought into position on the side. The equipment is used when carrying out particularly complex work - dismantling, laying pipelines and others. Reciprocating saws can cut almost any material that can be processed (metal products, wood, drywall and aerated concrete). You can always choose the appropriate modification of the reciprocating saw, including.
Bosch Keo
AEG US 400 XE
There are two main modifications of saws: straight cut and curved (the cutting blade moves in pendulum mode). This greatly speeds up the work process. In the line of reciprocating saws, there are models that run on battery power. Thanks to this, the tool can be used on the road.
The determining factor when working with a tool is the "sweep" of the canvas during operation. The smaller the amplitude, the higher the speed of movement, suitable for processing and sawing wood. With an increase in the amplitude and a decrease in the speed of the cutting blade, the product in terms of parameters approaches a tool for processing materials that are harder in structure (fiberglass, metal).
Band saw
Makita 2107FW
JET JWBS-9
Spiral saw
The cutting part in this type of tool rotates around its own axis. The spiral saw is suitable for equipping the working arsenal of plumbers, electricians or tile installers. The use of various nozzles expands the functionality of the units: you can make curly cuts and cuts.
Saw type "Alligator"
The design of this type of tool allows you to reduce recoil during operation. This is achieved by stretching the cutting part on two blades that move in opposite directions. copes with the processing of materials such as brick, aerated concrete or thermal insulation. Depending on the conditions of the place of work and frequency of use, compact models (500 W and above) and
The tool is a modification of the classic hand saw - the saw is driven by an electric motor. On the other hand, an electric saw is close to a jigsaw. The cutting element reciprocates in one plane. Some models are equipped with a pendulum stroke function - in countermovement, the blade moves back from the cutting line. The tool differs from each other in drive power, stroke rate, and design layout. It is used on wood, plastic, aerated concrete, brick, metals.
The tool performs movements inherent in a hand saw or jigsaw - reciprocating. It can work on weight or with the use of a support sole. Performs straight and curly cuts on wood, metal and plastic blanks.
ELITECH PS-500 - the most inexpensive
Compact, lightweight, equipped with a comfortable anti-slip handle, the tool will be an excellent assistant in solving household problems. Sawing boards, timber, small logs. Overcomes sheet metal resistance. Prepares plastic elements for the installation of the greenhouse. The design provides fast, without use of additional equipment, change of a file. Allows adjustment of the cutting blade in eight positions.
- Compact, lightweight tool.
- Affordable price.
- Easily copes with tree branches during spring and autumn pruning.
- Not enough power when working with thick boards.
- Feel strong vibration in the hands.
STAVR NE-550 - optimal for a garden plot
The power saw does an excellent job of cutting thick branches of shrubs. Removes dried parts of trees, helps to form a crown. A wide blade is convenient when working with sheet materials - plywood, fiberboard, chipboard, hardboard, cement particle board. The long cable does not hinder movement during operation. The case is equipped with an additional handle for the convenience of the operator. The start button is fixed.
- The possibility of adjusting the number of revolutions.
- Inexpensive, taking into account the additional configuration with saw blades and carbon brushes.
- Good ergonomic body design.
- Not much power for sheet metal work.
CALIBER ESP-800 - good for small jobs around the house
A fairly powerful reciprocating saw. Perform operations on straight or figured cutting of workpieces made of wood, plastic, metal. Processes laminate flooring. Equipped with an adjustable stop to increase the accuracy of the cut and unload the operator's hands. The optimal mode is provided by setting the required engine speed. Provides universal fastening of saw blades.
- Powerful tool.
- It is convenient to work on sheet blanks and wooden materials.
- Very helpful in thinning trees.
- Makes a very loud noise when working, already ringing in the ears.
- It is inconvenient to work with one hand, strong vibration.
BLACK&DECKER RS890K – universal application
Power tool with a good case design. Ergonomic handle, the ability to set the support sole in the “lopper” or “jigsaw” position. The increased footprint allows you to cut with high precision. The design incorporates advanced technology for automatic selection of the processing mode, depending on the type of sawn material specified by the selector.
- Combination of several functions: "reciprocating hacksaw-jigsaw-lopper".
- Automatic setting of cutting modes.
- Very comfortable ergonomic saw body.
- There is no illumination of the working area, it is difficult to catch the direction of the cut.
EINHELL TH-AP 650E - a good solution for a summer cottage
High-quality assembly of a reciprocating saw in combination with the "Soft start" functions and maintaining the motor constant with a floating external load. Allows you to perform most tasks in the suburban area. Trimming trees and shrubs, working on the roof or erecting a wooden outbuilding - all this is on the shoulder of a power tool. The saw differs in reliability and long time of operation.
- High-quality assembly, ergonomic case.
- Great price for such quality and technical capabilities.
- Quick change of cutting equipment.
- There is no pendulum movement.
- Weak saw blades are included.
SKIL LYNX F 0150788RA - the lightest
The electric saw differs in ergonomics, the convenient handle. It is convenient to cut branches with one hand while on a stepladder with the tool - this is facilitated by a small mass. It will help to cut small boards, plywood. The universal locking system allows you to change the saw blade without the use of additional tools. The unit during operation produces no more noise than a household vacuum cleaner.
- Very light, compact saw.
- Conveniently performs garden work.
- Great for cutting small firewood.
- The baby is small, but it sounds like a big vacuum cleaner.
- Strong vibration on the hands, you will not work for a long time.
AEG US 400 XE is a great commercial saw
Powerful and fairly compact tool for wood, metal and plastic work. Easily cuts plywood, chipboard, MDF boards. It is used to perform cuts on the car body during repair and restoration operations. The versatility of the tool is facilitated by the ability to install the saw blade in two positions - regular and up with teeth (180 ° rotation). With success it is applied to works in private auto repair shops.
- Powerful and quiet motor, low vibration level.
- The ability to adjust the position of the support sole.
- Versatile at work. If necessary, you can change the direction of the cut, rearrange the file on the contrary.
- There is no safety clutch - when biting, it can pull the tool out of the hands.
- There is no pendulum movement.
Bosch PSA 700 E 06033A7020 - for building your own wooden house
Sufficiently powerful power tool for woodworking, metal, plastic. Easily saws bars, boards. Ergonomic handle with rubber inserts provides a secure grip. This allows you to work in the upper layers of the tree crown. Light weight is convenient for roofing installation operations. High productivity is ensured by the keyless saw blade fixation system.
- Powerful high performance tool.
- High build quality, tool reliability.
- Almost no vibration is felt.
- Start button missing.
- No case or storage case.
AEG US 1300 XE – cuts through all materials
A great tool with a powerful electric motor for cutting wood, plastic parts, steel and non-ferrous metals. Cope with sawing terrace boards, laminated parts based on high-density MDF boards. It will help in cutting sheets based on cement-bonded composites. During operation, it is possible to adjust the engine speed by pressing the trigger.
- Excellent power with low weight.
- Possibility to rotate the saw blade 180° around its axis, with the teeth up.
- Long cable that does not restrict movement during operation. The presence of a convenient case.
- No safety clutch.
- Expensive for maintenance and parts.
Makita JR 3070 CT - for professionals in their field
Professional level reciprocating saw. Equipped with a powerful motor. Equipped with a pendulum. The possibility of smooth unstressed start-up is provided. The accuracy of the cut and the cleanliness of the cut are facilitated by the function of electronic speed control and the maintenance of constant engine parameters with increasing and decreasing external loads. A mechanism for blowing sawdust from the cutting zone is mounted to facilitate visual control of the cutting path.
- The presence of a pendulum stroke with four degrees of adjustment.
- An anti-vibration mechanism is provided.
- High performance, large power reserve, excellent reliability.
- A rather weak emphasis, bending and deforming under heavy loads.
- Too heavy for work on weight.
DeWALT DW 311K - the deepest cut
High-performance tool with impressive cutting depth in metal and wood. It is used in construction and finishing works during the installation or dismantling of structures made of various materials. The reciprocating saw is designed for long-term loads in carpentry, plumbing operations. The built-in pendulum mechanism contributes to the accelerated rough cut. The convenience of the sawing process in hard-to-reach places provides the ability to install the file up or down with the teeth.
- Very deep cut in wood and metal. Good power and reliability of the electric motor.
- The ability to change the number of revolutions with the start button.
- Comfortable grip on the handle, soft long cable, pendulum action.
- Strong enough vibration, leading to stiffness and fatigue of the hands.
- Probably overpriced.
The best alligator saws
The tool is a subspecies of the electric cutter. It is equipped with two movable saw blades that perform an oncoming reciprocating motion. Some models have a third, fixed guide element. The alligator saw is designed for sawing wood, hollow, porous or gas-filled blocks.
RITM PEL-1400E - the smallest of alligators
Compact, lightweight, inexpensive saw of domestic production. It is used for sawing round timber, boards, beams and trimming work. In the presence of an appropriate blade, it cuts gas or foam concrete. The design is equipped with a soft shockless start, protection against overheating and overload.
- Quality local product.
- Copes with boards, sometimes saws metal.
- Love the soft start feature.
- Narrow choice of cutting equipment.
Bosch GFZ 16-35 AC 601637708 - for precision work
Very convenient ergonomic case with the additional arched handle. Engine power is sufficient for felling and sawing small trees, timber, boards. Changing the cutting equipment will allow you to work with porous, hollow materials and blocks. The tool differs in high accuracy and purity of a cut.
- Powerful electric motor.
- Ergonomic, easy-to-handle body.
- High cutting precision.
- Overly thick guide rail - during operation, hooks on the edges of the cut are possible and the withdrawal is complete.
DeWALT DWE 397 - optimal for construction work
The reliable powerful engine of an alligator saw will cope with the most difficult types of works. With the help of a carbide double blade, it cuts wood, PVC blanks, insulating material. It copes well with porous gas-filled slabs, which is why it has found wide application in the construction of houses from a gas block.
- Power, comfortable grip.
- Optimum blade length for aerated concrete work.
- Easy.
- I would like canvases about larger sizes.
Eibenstock EDB 480 - the most powerful
The tool provides sawing of aerated concrete blocks, hollow ceramic bricks. Cuts foam concrete, plastic, wood, insulating material, plastic pipes. Convenient body and handle layout. Differs in high productivity.
- Power, performance, durability.
- Saws blocks, bricks.
- Excellent canvas length.
- Price.
There are several types of electric saws: chain, circular, miter, jigsaw, reciprocating. Relatively recently, a new tool has appeared - an alligator saw. What it is, why it has such a name, how it differs from other tools, its obvious advantages and significant disadvantages - you will learn about this in the proposed article.
Fancy Alligator Saw Blades
Externally, the alligator saw resembles the well-known chain saw, while the tire literally copies the blade of a hand saw for wood or aerated concrete. By design, the closest analogue is. The difference between them is that the reciprocating saw has one cutting blade (like a jigsaw), while the alligator has two, and they are not installed cantilevered, but in the guide grooves of the saw bar. The rotational movement of the drive is converted into reciprocating movements of the blades. Two types of saws are often confused: reciprocating and alligator saws, calling the alligator saw a reciprocating saw.
A reciprocating saw is nothing more than an electric jigsaw, only with a larger and more durable cutting blade. At the same time, the layout of the device has been changed and there is no guide sole. Just like a jigsaw, there may be a pendulum motion of the blade, designed to increase the durability of the cutting tool. Another reciprocating saw resembles a kitchen knife with cutting teeth, which is convenient to cut bread. At the same time, the cutting blade is always one, has the shape of a saber, from where the name of the saw comes from.
The alligator saw has two saw blades that move like the jaws of a crocodile, only at a faster speed. These saws do not have a pendulum movement. Instead of a saber-shaped cutting blade, they have a fixed saw bar.
How is it different from other saws?
Below are the features inherent in alligator saws.
Advantages:
- Compared to a chainsaw, they give a smoother cutting line, since when the tool heats up, the guiding accuracy does not deteriorate. In a chain saw, the endless chain lengthens when heated and breaks the cut, causing the bar to deviate from the intended direction.
- More precisely, the cut is obtained in comparison with a reciprocating saw due to the rigidity of the saw bar.
- There are no vibrations inherent in a reciprocating saw, since the forces of inertia of the moving blades are mutually balanced.
- Safer than chain and circular saws - there is no reactive kickback in case of jamming of the tool.
- Compared to a circular saw, the thickness of the material being cut is not limited.
- You can make straight plunge cuts that a chainsaw cannot do.
- Easy access for working in hard-to-reach, inconvenient places.
Do you want to know ?
Disadvantages:
- Unable to cut metal due to the large width of the cut, and also due to the fact that the blades for metal have unidirectional teeth and there will be no cutting during the reverse stroke;
- Unlike a reciprocating saw, it is possible to cut into the sawn surface only from the edge;
- The rigid guide bar does not allow sawing off the protruding bar flush with the wall;
- For the same reason, it will not be possible to cut out, for example, a detail of curvilinear outlines from a drywall sheet;
- Compared to a circular saw, the cutting accuracy is lower;
- The performance is lower than that of chain saws;
- High price.
Scope of alligator saws
Although even a log can be cut with an alligator saw, sawing firewood is not at all her element. The work will require effort, it will go extremely slowly. In addition, saw blades are short-lived, and their cost is indecently high. Firewood will cost a pretty penny. For carpentry, such a saw is also not entirely suitable. The cut is wide, and the accuracy leaves much to be desired.
Where she will be in her element is carpentry, when, for example, it is impossible to get close with a circular saw, and it is dangerous with a chain saw. The "alligator" will be a good helper for professional builders involved in the construction of wooden and frame houses, laying walls from gas silicate or ceramic blocks, erecting wooden truss structures.
With its help you can:
- sawing joints of wooden structures;
- saw off additional blocks from porous materials;
- cut the elements of slab insulation (mineral wool, polystyrene foam and others).
To do this, there are special canvases for sale: for wood, porous concrete, insulating materials.
DeWalt and Bosch alligator saws
As an example, a description of the two most popular tools is given.
Professional electric saw Bosch GFZ 16-35 AC
- high-performance tool for sawing wood, chipboard, OSB and more durable building materials;
- electronic stabilization system Constant Electronic allows you to adjust and maintain a stable number of revolutions with a changing load;
- the tire of the increased rigidity provides an exact cut;
- the aluminum base of the unit dampens drive vibrations;
- thanks to the SDS quick-release fastening system, blades can be changed without the use of additional tools;
- the presence of a start blocking increases the safety of work;
- additional adjustable handle creates a comfortable grip for both right-handed and left-handed people;
- balanced ergonomics allows you to use the hacksaw for a long time without signs of fatigue;
- there is a suction channel for connecting a chip removal system.
It costs from 32 to 36 thousand rubles.
Alligator saw Dewalt DWE 397
- ideal for sawing bricks, building cellular blocks (gas, foam concrete);
- magnesium alloy gear housing effectively removes heat, dampens vibration and noise;
- bearing seals reliably protect the gearbox from dust penetration;
- electronic system allows you to work with the optimum cutting speed;
- the saw allows sawing at various angles without losing ease of use;
- the electric braking system allows the engine to stop in a matter of seconds after removing the finger from the start button;
- the brand of the company is registered in the USA, the assembly is carried out in the Czech Republic.
The cost of the device is about 21 thousand rubles.
The technical characteristics of the tools are given in the table.
Bosch GFZ 16-35 AC Dewalt DWE 397
Power, kW 1.6 1.35
Number of double strokes per minute 800–2500 3300
Blade travel, mm 50 38
Saw bar length, mm 350 425
Weight, kg 5.2 4.3
Which is better to buy: a reciprocating saw or an alligator?
You can give advice only after answering a counter question: what are you planning to do with the tool you are buying?
An alligator saw is convenient and effective in one case - if you are a professional builder. It is expensive and unproductive to cut firewood, metal is impossible, you can cut off a sheet of drywall or plywood faster and more accurately with a circular saw, and a brick with a grinder.
For everyday life, a reciprocating saw is better. This is truly a unique instrument. Probably, there is no material that is too tough for her. Take, for example, the roof. Roofing cake consists of many different layers: here and drywall, and insulation, and roofing iron (slate, ondulin). Cutting an opening for a skylight or chimney in such a sandwich is easiest with a reciprocating saw. You just need to pre-drill a few holes to let the hacksaw blade inside. It will come in handy for pruning fruit trees, when repairing a fence, in many types of gardening and dacha work. Yes, and it costs several times cheaper than the alligator.
So, alligator saws, along with disadvantages, have undeniable advantages, due to which they are widely used by builders. They combine ease of use in hard-to-reach places and work safety with high cutting accuracy.
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