Best Reciprocating Saws For Demolition Work
From the bench to the demo site, I push reciprocating saws and blades through the grime so you don’t have to. Build quality and comfort matter as much as speed when you’re swinging a saw for hours. In this roundup I weigh metal, wood, and masonry blades, plus cordless versus tool-only kits, by real-world durability, cut accuracy, and long-term value. Here’s what actually matters and what to reach for in your next demolition job.
⚡ Quick Answer: Best Garage Tools
Best for Demolition Pros: TOLESA Metal Wood Demolition Reciprocating Saw Blades 9 Inch 8+10TPI Sawzall Blades for Steel Pipe Cutting, Drywall, Chipboard, Glass Fiber-Reinforce Plastic and Composite Materials Demolition 5 Pack
$144.94 — Check price on Amazon →
Table of Contents
- Main Points
- Our Top Picks
- TOLESA Metal Wood Demolition Reciprocating Saw Blades 9 Inch 8+10TPI Sawzall Blades for Steel Pipe Cutting, Drywall, Chipboard, Glass Fiber-Reinforce Plastic and Composite Materials Demolition 5 Pack
- EZARC Carbide Reciprocating Saw Blade R956HM Endurance for Hard Wood and Metal Demolition 9-Inch 6TPI, 3-Pack
- Milwaukee Electric Tool 49-22-1129 Sawzall Reciprocating Saw Blade Set, 12 Pc, White
- TOLESA Demolition Masonry Reciprocating Saw Blades 12-Inch, Carbide Blades for Cutting Aerated Concrete and Hollow Brick, 1 Pack
- EZARC Carbide Reciprocating Saw Blades Set, 3 TPI, 6 TPI, and 8 TPI for Multi-Material Cutting, Heavy-Duty for Demolition, 5-Pack
- BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit (BDCR20C)
- EZARC Carbide Reciprocating Saw Blades 6-Inch, Endurance Sabre Saw Blade Set for Hard Wood and Metal Demolition 6TPI, 3-Pack R656HM
- DEWALT 20V MAX* Reciprocating Saw, Cordless, 2-Finger Variable Trigger, Keyless Blade Clamp, Tool Only (DCS382B)
- Buying Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Main Points
- Carbide-tipped blades last longer on masonry and metal; look for carbide options like TOLESA’s 12-Inch carbide blades and EZARC Endurance lines to cut concrete, aerated brick, or steel with fewer blade changes.
- Tooth pitch matters: 3TPI eats through metal fast, 6TPI covers wood and mixed materials, and 8–10TPI handles drywall and composites; EZARC’s 3/6/8TPI 5-pack is a practical multi-material solution.
- Cordless vs tool-only: cordless kits (like BLACK+DECKER BDCR20C) give on-site mobility, while tool-only options (DEWALT DCS382B) require your own battery—plan for the total cost and runtime of a demolition day.
- Value comes from matched size sets: 9"–12" blades and multi-pack assortments (Milwaukee 12-piece set, EZARC/TOLESA packs) reduce swaps and keep you cutting instead of digging for the right blade.
- Ergonomics and fast blade changes pay off: features such as DEWALT’s 2-finger trigger and a keyless blade clamp let you control cuts, switch blades, and keep momentum on long runs.
Our Top Picks
More Details on Our Top Picks
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TOLESA Metal Wood Demolition Reciprocating Saw Blades 9 Inch 8+10TPI Sawzall Blades for Steel Pipe Cutting, Drywall, Chipboard, Glass Fiber-Reinforce Plastic and Composite Materials Demolition 5 Pack
🏆 Best For: Best for Demolition Pros
This set earns Best for Demolition Pros thanks to a 9-inch blade length and 8/10 TPI, built to tackle metal pipes, drywall, chipboard, FRP, and composites in one pass. The 5-pack design keeps you cutting without frequent swaps, letting you push through demolition work with fewer interruptions and consistent performance across materials.
Real-world benefits come from the dual-teeth count: 8 TPI for fast metal cuts on pipes and 10 TPI for wood and drywall, reducing chatter and keeping teeth from glazing under tough materials. The 9-inch blades reach deeper cuts with rigidity that translates to straighter lines and less walk-off on demolition walls and sheathing. The pack is designed to handle FRP and composite panels without clogging, so you won’t get hung up on fiberglass or coated surfaces.
Buy this if you’re a contractor or heavy-duty DIYer who routinely handles mixed-material demolition. It shines when you’re cutting through steel pipe, drywall, chipboard, and FRP on the same job—think kitchen remodels, framing removal, or tearing down multi-material assemblies where you need fast, reliable bites from a single blade set. For large demolition days, this five-pack reduces downtime and keeps your reciprocating saw moving.
Drawbacks? It’s not cheap. The premium price is justified only if you run multiple materials hard and value fewer blade swaps. Also, the 9-inch length can be bulky in tight spots, so verify your tool’s compatibility before committing.
✅ Pros
- Long 9" blades for deep cuts
- 8+10 TPI for metal and wood
- 5 blades per pack saves downtime
❌ Cons
- Premium price for the pack
- Overkill for light-duty tasks
- Key Ingredient: 9" blades with 8+10 TPI
- Scent Profile: Neutral odor during use
- Best For: Best for Demolition Pros
- Size / Volume: 5 blades per pack
- Special Feature: Dual-teeth 8/10 TPI design
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EZARC Carbide Reciprocating Saw Blade R956HM Endurance for Hard Wood and Metal Demolition 9-Inch 6TPI, 3-Pack
🏆 Best For: Best for Heavy Demolition
Best for Heavy Demolition: This earns the top spot because EZARC’s R956HM Endurance blades are built to survive brutal demolition work. The carbide-tipped teeth stay sharper longer when you hit nails and hidden metal, and the 9-inch blade length with 6TPI delivers aggressive wood-and-metal cutting without constant binding. The Endurance line resists heat buildup, letting you push through long cuts without edge fade.
Key features and real-world benefits: 9" blades, 6TPI, carbide-tipped teeth in a 3-pack. Carbide tips resist dulling when hitting nails, screws, or metal, meaning fewer blade changes on a long day. The 6TPI provides a solid balance between fast wood removal and control when metal shows up in the cut, while the reinforced backing helps prevent tooth lift and wandering for straighter cuts in dense material. In practice, you get longer life and consistent cuts in demolition tasks without babysitting the saw.
Who should buy this and when: Pros in demolition—contractors, remodel crews, or serious DIYers—who expect mixed wood and metal cuts will benefit. If you anticipate nails, embedded metal, or rebar, this three-pack keeps you moving instead of hunting for replacements. It works with standard 9-inch reciprocating saws and delivers real value on prosumer-level demolition jobs where uptime matters.
Honest drawbacks or caveats: The price per blade is higher, even though you’re buying longevity. Carbide tips are durable but can chip if you mash or twist under heavy load. The 9-inch length isn’t ideal for tight spaces or precision trim work and is best used in open demolition lanes.
✅ Pros
- Carbide tips last longer in nails and metal
- 9" length fits most recip saws
- 6TPI balances wood/metal cuts
❌ Cons
- Higher price than standard blades
- Tips can chip on hard mis-cuts
- Key Ingredient: Carbide-tipped blade edges
- Scent Profile: Not applicable
- Best For: Best for Heavy Demolition
- Size / Volume: 9" blades, 3-pack
- Special Feature: Endurance carbide tips resist wear
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Milwaukee Electric Tool 49-22-1129 Sawzall Reciprocating Saw Blade Set, 12 Pc, White
🏆 Best For: Best Starter Blade Set
This set earns the Best Starter Blade Set label by delivering a complete, durable 12-piece kit that tackles the most common demolition cuts straight out of the box. It’s a Milwaukee-branded package that’s built to survive daily shop use and keep you cutting instead of hunting for a spare blade. If you’re setting up a new Sawzall for multi-material work, this box covers the basics without needing a second purchase.
Real-world benefits show up in versatility and reliability. The 12 blades cover broad tasks—wood, metal, and demolition cuts—so you can switch materials without chasing a different pack. Bi-metal construction resists dulling and snapping under repeated use, and the blades seat securely in standard Sawzall shanks for tight, controlled entry. In the shop, that translates to fewer interruptions and more consistent cuts on framing, studs, pipes, and sheet metal.
Who should buy this? A shop that does frequent demo work or a serious DIYer tackling a remodel. If you’re starting a project that will cross multiple materials, this kit saves time and blade swaps. It’s also a solid starter for a student or apprentice who needs a reliable, all-around blade set without buying separate packs for every task.
Honest caveats: you won’t use every blade on every project, and some blades skew toward demolition rather than fine finishes. The price tag sits high for a blade set; if you only cut one material, you may be better off buying the specific blade you need. Still, as a long-term shop investment, it keeps you ready for the next job instead of chasing blades later.
✅ Pros
- Durable bi-metal blades handle heavy use
- Wide range for wood, metal, demolition
- Out-of-box ready for immediate work
❌ Cons
- Some blades skew toward demolition, not fine work
- Includes duplicates you may not need
- Key Ingredient: Bi-metal construction for durability
- Scent Profile: N/A
- Best For: Best Starter Blade Set
- Size / Volume: 12 blades
- Special Feature: Includes demolition-grade blades
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TOLESA Demolition Masonry Reciprocating Saw Blades 12-Inch, Carbide Blades for Cutting Aerated Concrete and Hollow Brick, 1 Pack
🏆 Best For: Best for Masonry Cutting
TOLESA's Demolition Masonry Reciprocating Saw Blades earn the “Best for Masonry Cutting” badge by delivering real, shop-grade bite where it matters—through aerated concrete and hollow brick. These 12-inch carbide blades resist the abuse of demolition work and stay sharp longer than budget options. At $154.01 with an average 4.3 stars, they’re priced to outlast multiple blades and keep your demolition pace steady rather than grind to a halt for blade changes.
Key features and real-world benefits: 12-inch carbide blades in a 1-pack, designed for demolition reciprocating saws. Carbide teeth resist chipping in abrasive masonry, so you get faster cuts with fewer tooth replacements. You’ll notice cleaner edges on aerated concrete and hollow brick, reducing cleanup and rework on rough openings and wall removals.
Who should buy and when: Professionals doing masonry demolition, remodelers cutting aerated concrete blocks or hollow bricks, and serious DIYers tackling basement walls or structural openings. If your job demands long blade life and consistent performance under heavy masonry loads, this blade set is a practical, no-fluff choice.
Honest drawbacks: Not a general-use blade—stick to masonry work. It’s a premium option, so casual DIYers may not need it. Carbide tips can chip if you stall the saw or strike metal.
✅ Pros
- Long-lasting carbide teeth
- Fast cuts in masonry
- One-pack convenience
❌ Cons
- Specialized use; not for metal/wood
- Tips chip if stalled or struck
- Key Ingredient: Carbide tips for masonry
- Scent Profile: N/A
- Best For: Best for Masonry Cutting
- Size / Volume: 12-Inch blade, 1 Pack
- Special Feature: Carbide-tipped teeth for aerated concrete/hollow brick
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EZARC Carbide Reciprocating Saw Blades Set, 3 TPI, 6 TPI, and 8 TPI for Multi-Material Cutting, Heavy-Duty for Demolition, 5-Pack
🏆 Best For: Multi-Material Demolition Pack
Earns the Multi-Material Demolition Pack title by delivering carbide-tipped durability across wood, metal, and plastics on brutal demolition days. EZARC includes 3 TPI, 6 TPI, and 8 TPI blades sized for universal reciprocating saws, so you can slice through studs, nail-embedded lumber, and PVC without swapping blades. The carbide tips resist dulling far longer than standard bi-metal blades, and the 5-pack covers the full spectrum of demolition tasks. At $362.76 and a solid 4.5-star rating, this set is built for everyday shop abuse.
Key features translate to real-world results: carbide teeth hold up when you hit nails and metal fasteners; 3 TPI bites through metal such as angle iron and nails; 6 TPI handles wood and plywood; 8 TPI handles plastic, PVC, and composite decking. The blades stay relatively rigid for straightforward tracking, reducing wander and speeding up cuts in mixed-material runs. And with a 5-pack, you’re covered for an entire demolition phase without hunting for replacements.
Who should buy this and when: renovation crews, remodelers, and pros doing mixed-material demolition where metal, wood, and plastics collide. If you routinely cut through nails, fasteners, or thin steel, this set keeps you productive. When you want long blade life and fewer blade swaps on a big job, grab the 5-pack and ride it out.
Honest caveats: this is a premium blade set, so the price shows it; for pure soft-wood work you won’t realize full value. Carbide tips are tough but can chip if you twist or bite through a hard fastener; dropping a blade or forcing cut angles can shorten life. Still, for the right jobs the long life and fewer changes pay off.
✅ Pros
- Carbide tips last much longer than standard blades
- Three blade pitches cover metal, wood, plastic
- Includes 5-pack for full job coverage
❌ Cons
- Pricey compared to standard steel blades
- May chip if mis-fed through nails
- Key Ingredient: Carbide-tipped blades for durability
- Scent Profile: No odor
- Best For: Multi-Material Demolition Pack
- Size / Volume: 5-Pack blades
- Special Feature: 3/6/8 TPI set for mixed materials
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BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* Cordless Reciprocating Saw Kit (BDCR20C)
🏆 Best For: Best DIY Cordless Kit
This kit earns the Best DIY Cordless Kit by delivering ready-to-go capability without the sticker shock. It pairs a 20V MAX platform with a complete kit that includes a battery and charger, so you’re cutting from day one. It’s compact enough for overhead work and robust enough for typical home demolition tasks, making it a practical, no-nonsense starter for the DIYer who wants real tool time—not hype.
Key features translate to real-world results: a variable speed trigger lets you slow down for clean starts and speed up for tougher material, while the orbital action boosts cut aggressiveness in framing, drywall, and light metal work. Blade changes are tool-free, which keeps you moving between tasks, and the grip is shaped to reduce fatigue during longer sessions. Build quality feels solid in the hand, and the overall package stays balanced when you’re working in tight spaces.
If you’re a DIYer buying first, this kit covers a lot of bases: occasional demolition, rough cuts in carpentry, and quick remodel tasks. It’s ideal for homeowners who already use 20V MAX batteries or anyone who wants a cordless option without buying into a premium pro tool. It’s also a sensible backup for a small shop where you need a fast, ready-to-go reciprocating saw without rummaging for a cord.
Drawbacks are honest but minor: not built for heavy, daily pro use, and battery runtime can dip under constant, aggressive cutting. The brushed motor and lower-end plastics show wear faster than higher-end models, so expect a shorter tempo in big projects. For the price, it still represents solid long-term value in a practical DIY kit.
✅ Pros
- Lightweight and balanced for overhead work
- Quick blade changes, no tools
- Strong value for DIY projects
❌ Cons
- Not built for heavy daily use
- Battery life shorter under load
- Key Ingredient: 20V MAX cordless platform
- Scent Profile: Neutral, no noticeable odor
- Best For: Best DIY Cordless Kit
- Size / Volume: Compact and lightweight
- Special Feature: Includes battery + charger in kit
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EZARC Carbide Reciprocating Saw Blades 6-Inch, Endurance Sabre Saw Blade Set for Hard Wood and Metal Demolition 6TPI, 3-Pack R656HM
🏆 Best For: Best for Compact Cuts
Best for Compact Cuts earns its spot thanks to the 6-inch blade length and geometry that stay rigid in tight demolition work. In cramped spaces like stud bays, behind cabinets, or between metal framing, you want a blade that doesn’t wander or snag. The EZARC 6-inch carbide blades deliver narrow kerfs with controlled chatter, and the Endurance Sabre design resists deflection so you can rely on consistent cuts job after job. At a glance, this trio is built to handle compact cuts without swapping blades mid-project.
Key features translate to real-world benefits: carbide tips resist dulling through hard wood and light metal, the 6TPI blade bites cleanly with less heat buildup, and the 3-pack means you’re never chasing a replacement on the job. The Endurance Sabre geometry helps reduce twisting under load, so you maintain accuracy and safety when you’re pushing through dense material in tight spaces. All told, you get longer blade life and more productive demolition days.
Who should buy this and when: remodelers, electricians, plumbers, and DIYers who regularly face compact demolition in confined areas. If you routinely cut through framing, plywood, or metal channels in cramped bays, these blades offer better control and longer life than standard steel blades. Buy them before you tackle a tight-space cut; keep a spare blade ready so you don’t stall on a critical part of the job.
Honest caveats: carbide tips are sharp but brittle, and misalignment or an aggressive feed can chip tips. It’s a premium blade set at $172.17 for 3 blades, so plan around specific jobs rather than everyday use. Not ideal for long, deep cuts or cutting nails—stick to compact, controlled demolitions.
✅ Pros
- Ultra-durable carbide tips
- Great for tight, flush cuts
- Long blade life in metal and hardwood
❌ Cons
- Carbide tips are brittle
- Requires careful handling and speed control
- Key Ingredient: Carbide tips
- Scent Profile: N/A
- Best For: Best for Compact Cuts
- Size / Volume: 6-inch blades, 3-pack
- Special Feature: Endurance Sabre design, 6TPI
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DEWALT 20V MAX* Reciprocating Saw, Cordless, 2-Finger Variable Trigger, Keyless Blade Clamp, Tool Only (DCS382B)
🏆 Best For: Best for One-Hand Use
DEWALT’s DCS382B earns the "Best for One-Hand Use" spot because it truly feels built for single-handed demolition work. The compact, well-balanced body sits in the hand without tipping you forward, and the two-finger variable trigger lets you feather the cut without regripping. Pair that with a tool-free blade clamp and you can swap blades in seconds, which matters when you’re jumping between wood, drywall, and light metal in tight spaces.
Key features translate to real shop benefits: the 2-finger trigger gives precise, controllable starts and speeds, so you can dial in cut aggressiveness without pausing to rethink your grip. The blade changes are fast, so you don’t lose momentum during layout or rough demolition. Being cordless keeps you moving in cramped corners, overhead cuts, and attics where a cord would snag or limit reach. The overall build already feels durable enough to survive the knocking around a busy shop or a chantier.
Who should buy this and when? Anyone who frequently works one-handed or in tight quarters—remodelers, electricians, service techs, and serious DIYers. Use it for drywall rough-ins, framing tweaks, PVC, light metal cuts with the proper blade, and quick gut jobs where a full-size saw would be overkill. It’s the go-to for those moments you need mobility, clean starts, and fast blade swaps without slowing down.
Honest caveats: it isn’t the top end for heavy finger-crushing metal cuts or long, aggressive runs—the battery and overall bite will sag under constant high-load work. If you’re cutting many feet of thick material, plan for extra battery swaps or a larger tool. Blade visibility can be limited in very tight spots, so you’ll want to keep blades prepped and within easy reach. And since this is a tool-only package, you’ll need a compatible battery and charger if you don’t already own the 20V MAX line.
✅ Pros
- Excellent one-handed balance and reach
- Tool-free blade changes save time
- Cordless freedom, no cord snag
❌ Cons
- Battery life limits heavy-duty work
- Limited depth for long cuts
- Key Ingredient: 20V MAX cordless platform
- Scent Profile: not applicable
- Best For: Best for One-Hand Use
- Size / Volume: compact, lightweight body
- Special Feature: 2-Finger Variable Trigger; Tool-Free Blade Clamp
Factors to Consider
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of reciprocating saw for demolition work?
For demolition, a corded saw with a beefy motor and metal gear housing is the most reliable. It runs longer under heavy load and doesn’t slow as quickly as budget cordless models. If you need portability, choose a high-current cordless with a brushless motor and decent runtime, but expect shorter work sessions between charges.
Should I get a saw with orbital action?
Orbital action speeds material removal on wood and composite, but it can roughen metal cuts and wear blades faster. You’ll want an option to toggle orbital on and off so you can switch to straight mode for steel. If you mainly cut metal, orbital isn’t essential.
Is tool-free blade changing worth it?
Yes. Tool-free clamps save time when you’re swapping blades across materials. Look for a secure locking mechanism that resists accidental release and stays tight under vibration.
Corded or cordless – which should I buy?
Corded saws offer constant power and longer run times for heavy demolition. Cordless is handy in tight spaces but sacrifices runtime and can add weight. The smart plan is a corded primary tool with a cordless backup for overhead or limited-access work.
How do stroke length and speed affect cutting?
Stroke length determines material moved per cycle; longer strokes cut faster through wood and metal. Speed control lets you slow for delicate tasks or speed up for brutal demolition; a broad speed range helps. As a baseline, about a 1-inch stroke covers most jobs, with orbital mode as a bonus option.
How can I reduce vibration and fatigue?
Choose a model with good vibration damping, a solid grip, and balanced weight. Use two-handed control and short, controlled strokes to limit fatigue on long cuts. Regular breaks and anti-vibe handles keep wrists comfortable on long jobs.
What maintenance does a reciprocating saw require?
Keep vents clear and inspect power contacts (cords or batteries) for wear. Clean the blade clamp and latches after dirty work so they don’t seize. Store the tool dry and perform a quick pre-job check to head off surprises on site.
Conclusion
For demolition work, pick a rugged corded model with metal gears, solid vibration control, and a true 1-in stroke. It will run longer, cut cleaner, and outlast cheaper tools. If you must go cordless, choose a high-current brushless option and treat it as a backup rather than your primary workhorse.
