12 best reciprocating air saws

A reciprocating air saw, also known as an air-powered reciprocating saw or pneumatic reciprocating saw, is a type of power tool used for cutting various materials. It belongs to the family of reciprocating saws, which are characterized by their back-and-forth, or "reciprocating," cutting motion. Here's what you need to know about reciprocating air saws:

Power Source: Reciprocating air saws are powered by compressed air, which is typically supplied by an air compressor. The compressed air drives a piston mechanism that powers the saw's cutting motion.
Versatile Cutting: These tools are versatile and can cut through a wide range of materials, including wood, metal, plastic, and even some masonry materials. They are commonly used in construction, automotive repair, demolition, and other industries.
Blade Types: Reciprocating air saws use various types of blades designed for specific materials and cutting tasks. Blades with different tooth configurations are available to achieve precise cuts or faster material removal.
Portability: Unlike corded or cordless reciprocating saws, pneumatic reciprocating saws are typically lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them suitable for tasks in tight spaces or overhead cutting.
Speed and Power: The cutting speed and power of a reciprocating air saw can vary depending on the model and the air compressor's capacity. Higher air pressure and volume will result in increased cutting speed and power.
Safety: As with any power tool, safety precautions are crucial when using a reciprocating air saw. Users should wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including safety glasses and hearing protection. It's also essential to follow manufacturer guidelines and handle the tool with care to avoid accidents.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance of the air saw and the associated air compressor is essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity.This includes lubricating the tool, checking for air leaks, and keeping the blades sharp.
Noise and Vibration: Reciprocating air saws can produce noise and vibrations during operation. Operators should be aware of these factors and take necessary precautions to protect their hearing and reduce hand-arm vibration exposure.
Cost: The cost of a reciprocating air saw can vary depending on the brand, features, and accessories included. While air tools generally require an initial investment in an air compressor, they can be cost-effective for heavy-duty applications in the long run.
Applications: Reciprocating air saws find applications in various industries, including construction, automotive repair, plumbing, and HVAC work. They are particularly useful for tasks such as cutting exhaust pipes, removing body panels, trimming pipes, and more.

In summary, a reciprocating air saw is a versatile and powerful cutting tool that operates using compressed air. It is valued for its ability to cut through a wide range of materials and is commonly used in professional settings where precision cutting or material removal is required. Proper safety precautions and maintenance are essential when using this tool.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best reciprocating air saws on the market

Ingersoll Rand 429 Heavy Duty Air Reciprocating Saw

Ingersoll Rand

Based on 538 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The 429 air reciprocating saw is versatile air saws designed for all types of cutting tasks, including intricate shapes and light radius curves in various materials.

The Ingersoll Rand Heavy-Duty Air Reciprocating Saw is a versatile air saw for cutting intricate shapes and light radial curves in all types of plastics, fiberglass, and composite materials, as well as aluminum and sheet metal. With an on-board vibration-reducing feature, the tool is an ideal choice for body shop repair, muffler, and exhaust work, and sunroof installations. For added versatility, it comes with six high-speed steel cutting blades and two hex wrenches. Other features include capabilities of 10,000-strokes per minute, and a positive blade retainer with adjustable blade guide.

What's in the Box

Air saw, six cutting blades, and two hex wrenches.

From the Manufacturer

Ingersoll Rand cutting tools provide the versatility and power you need to tackle the toughest jobs. Cut-off tools, air shears and power nibblers chew up sheet metal to get the job done fast. The 429 is a versatile air saw for cutting intricate shapes and light radius curves in all types of plastics, fiberglass, and composite materials, as well as aluminum and sheet metal. This reduced vibration tool is excellent for body shop repair, muffler and exhaust work, and sun roof installations.

Lock-Out Lever - These saws contain a unique system that prevents accidental throttle operation by utilizing a spring-loaded latch that resets each time the lever is released.
Access - With an inline configuration, these saws allow for easier access in tight spaces, so even the toughest jobs can get done.
Reliability - With a guide that increases blade life, you can count on this tool to last.

User questions & answers

Question:	can this saw be used to make curved cuts in dense hard wood
Answer:	Yes, as long as the wood is fairly thin and you go slow. See this youtube video for an example: https://youtu.be/__0tIsOaGSM?list=WL&t=510. The actual cutting starts at around the 8:30 mark; back up a bit if you want some context for what he's doing. I took a class from that video's author last week and we did some carving using the same saw he used in the video. (It's an older version of this one.) It worked great., even with a bimetal blade that's intended for cutting metal. The bimetal blade was arguably better for our purposes than a more wood blade with bigger teeth would have been, because it was less aggressive and gave better control. One caveat: you need a fairly beefy compressor to run the saw continuously. The classroom we were in had a small "hotdog" compressor that was only around 4-5 gallons and not many CFM. I think it was a 1HP model. It wasn't enough, and you couldn't saw for very long before stopping to let the compressor refill its tanks. I think a 2HP compressor could probably run it continuously. I hope so; that's what mine is and I'm just about to buy one of these.
Question:	Are there blades to use to cut wood with
Answer:	Extra Coarse blades (14/18 TPI) - part # P4EV-6 (6 pack of blades) Coarse blades (24 TPI) - part # P4CS-6 (6 pack of blades) Fine blades (32 TPI) - part # P4FS-6 (6 pack of blades)
Question:	Will this cut 16 gauge steel
Answer:	it will with a good blade.
Question:	I just got one of these for Christmas, but can't seem to figure out how to lock the blades into the chuck. Any advice with this
Answer:	If I can remember right, this is how to do it. There is a Phillips head screw that retains a plastic cover on the blade end of the tool. Remove the screw and then the plastic cover. That gives access to the end of the shaft and the allen head screws that hold the blade in. Right off hand I can't remember if the plastic cover comes off or is hinged and stays attached. Be careful to not over tighten the small attaching screw for the cover.

Product features

Ingersoll Rand Model 429 Reciprocating Saw

The 429 is a versatile air saw for cutting intricate shapes and light radius curves in all types of plastics, fiberglass, and composite materials, as well as aluminum and sheet metal. This reduced vibration tool is excellent for body shop repair, muffler and exhaust work, and sun roof installations.

About Ingersoll Rand

Ingersoll Rand has stood at the vanguard of industrial innovation for over 100 year. From air compressor systems to power tools and beyond, the company manufactures products that offer best-in-class quality, reliability, durability, and performance. Ingersoll Rand is also deeply committed to building a better future. At every level of business, the company promotes environmentally sound practices to achieve progress that is truly sustainable. With offices and plants across the globe, Ingersoll Rand strives to meet the world's growing need for clean and comfortable air, safe and fresh food, energy efficiency, and sustainability.

Ingersoll Rand 429G Edge Series Reciprocating Air Saw, Silver

Based on 55 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The 429G is a versatile air saw for cutting intricate shapes and light radius curves in all types of plastics, fiberglass, and composite materials, as well as aluminum and sheet metal. This reduced vibration tool is excellent for body shop repair, muffler and exhaust work, and sun roof installations. Part of Ingersoll Rand's Edge Series line of air tools: legendary performance at an affordable price.

Enhanced blade gauge design
Cuts flat and curved surfaces
Front exhaust
Ergonomic grip

User questions & answers

Question:	Will this saw accept carbide blades
Answer:	Mine did not have a case
Question:	Case included? Yes or No
Answer:	The model 429G has a rubber grip on the tool.
Question:	Does this come with a case? One part of this ad says yes, another part no. I want one with a case
Answer:	Hi 255 watts power supply
Question:	What is the difference between this saw and the regular 429? Is the "g" just for grip
Answer:	Unfortunately, you're limited on size and power for the graphics card. The full size (x16) PCIe slot only has space for a low profile, single slot graphics card. You could put a GT 1030 in there for 1080p gaming at low to medium settings for 2-3 year old games. I tried that and it works. I ended up taking the power supply unit out of the case to fit a GTX 1050 Ti double slot card. That required minor cutting/filing of the case and low profile bracket (I used a dremel and a small metal file), and now I'm left with the power supply sitting outside of the case. I also found a 315 W power supply to replace the existing one (which is only 255 W), a genuine Dell part in the same form factor, not sure if that was absolutely required. That confirguration let's me run games at 1080p and higher settings (high, usually not highest). Pretty sure I put in two sticks of 8 GB memory to get 16 GB total. I've been playing Gears 5 at mostly high setting with the HD texture pack installed. I don't care how the case looks with the power supply outside the case. The case fits in my entertainment center/TV stand like a gaming console and I have the power supply tucked behind the stand, mostly out of sight. I picked up PC power extension cables to make that work, one for the main 8-pin motherboard connector and another for the 4-pin CPU connector. I haven't tried this myself, can't say it works, power to the graphics card might be a problem, but if you're dead set on a Dell SFF case, you could pick up a 9020 SFF with an i7 and put a GTX 1650 low profile card in the shorter, open-ended x4 PCIe slot. You don't have to move the power supply. With the graphics card in the x4 slot, the card will block the x16 slot but should clear the power supply. I don't think the performance hit from putting the graphics card in the x4 slot instead of the x16 slot is too big, but I don't know the speeds of those two slots. You'll have a better CPU, best low-profile graphics card available, and you won't have parts outside of the case.

Astro Pneumatic Tool 930 Air Body Saber Saw with 5pc 24 Teeth per Inch Saw Blades

Astro Pneumatic Tool

Based on 283 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Astro 930 Air Body Saber Saw with 5pc 24 Teeth per Inch Saw Blades is ideal for body shop repair muffler and exhaust work. This tool easily allows you to cut intricate shapes and tight radius curves on flat and curved surfaces. The adjustable blade guide in this unit increases blade life and cuts all types of aluminum plastic fiberglass and sheet metal. Specifications: Cutting Capacity: 1.6mm steel thickness, Strokes per Minute: 9000BPM, Overall Length: 9-1/4” (235mm), Net Weight: 1.76lbs (0.8kg), Piston Stroke: 1/4”, Air Inlet Thread NPT: 1/4”, Air Hose I.D. Size: 3/8” (10mm), Average Air Consumption: 4cfm, Air Pressure: 90-120PSI

Ideal for body shop repair muffler and exhaust work
Adjustable blade guide increases blade life
Cuts all types of aluminum plastic fiberglass and sheet metal
Cuts intricate shapes and tight radius curves on flat and curved surfaces

User questions & answers

Question:	What is the CFM usage
Answer:	Average Air Consumption: 4cfm, Air Pressure: 90-120PSI
Question:	What psi is required to use this tool
Answer:	This tool, as stated above has a recommended air pressure from 90 - 120Psi. Recommended air pressure for every air tool I've purchased in the last 20 years has been 90 Psi.
Question:	Where is this made, as of August
Answer:	I suspect China but the saw worked very well on a rocker replacement that I did , hope this helps .
Question:	How do you turn it on
Answer:	If you don't know how to turn it on, don't buy it, you'll hurt yourself.

Ingersoll Rand P4EV-6 Air Reciprocating Saw Blades for all standard shank air reciprocating saws

Ingersoll Rand

Based on 187 reviews Check latest price

Product description

6-Pack of extra course variable Pitch air Recip saw blade - 14/18 TPI. Ingersoll Rand Bi-Metal saw blades enhance overall cutting performance. Bi-metal technology is a solid state diffusion process that applies high speed steel to both edges of the backing material, increasing the blade contact area by 170%. This, along with a new tooth profile that generates smaller, but more chips, reduces the Frictional heat that is generated during the cutting process, which will enhance the overall blade performance. Ingersoll Rand saw blades can be used with all standard 1/2" Shank air reciprocating saws.

Enhanced overall cutting performance
Bi-metal technology, High Speed steel, increasing blade contact by 170%
New tooth profile Generating smaller, but more chips and reduces frictional heat
Item Package Dimension: 4.5" L x 1.2" W x 0.4" H

User questions & answers

Question:	Be nice to know how many blades are included
Answer:	Not sure. I think that the carbide blades are slightly thicker this saw is a good one for the price.
Question:	Will these blades cut wood
Answer:	No it does not. Only manual and a few extra blades.

Jitterbug Micro Air Reciprocating Saw Pneumatic Mold Polisher Ultrasonic Profiler Turbo Lap Liner 0.7mm Stroke Lapping Grinding Tools

Check latest price

Product description

Stroke:0.7mm

Chicago Pneumatic CP7901 Reciprocating Air Saw, 10,000 SPM, 3/8-Inch Stroke

Chicago Pneumatic

Based on 48 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Reciprocating Saw, Power Source Air Powered, Series CP7901, Adjustable Shoe Yes, Stroke Length 3/8 in, Stroke Type Straight, Max. Strokes per Minute 10,000, Yes Variable Speed, Tool Weight 1.9 lb, Usage Level General Duty, Air Consumption 6 cfm, Air Inlet 1/4 in NPT, Air Pressure 90 psi, Min. Hose Size 3/8 in, Features Ergonomic Design, Low Vibration, Premium Tool for All Cutting Applications

From the Manufacturer

The CP7901 is a premium air reciprocating saw offering exceptional value while providing increased comfort, performance and durability. The adjustable guide makes cutting easier and also stabilizes the blade when cuts are started. A swivel is included and makes tool handling far easier. Rear exhaust directs air away from work piece. Applications: cutting aluminum, plastic, fiberglass, wood, and sheet metal up to 16 gauge. Strokes per minute: 10,000; air inlet thread: 1/4-inch NPTF; minimum hose size: 3/8-inch; sound dBA: 88; length: 9-inch; weight: 1.9 lb. Amazon.com Product Description The Chicago Pneumatic Super Duty Reciprocating Air Saw is ideal for body, exhaust and muffler work. At 10,000 strokes per minute, the saw allows you to quickly cut through up to 16-gauge material. It cuts aluminum, plastic, fiberglass, wood, and sheet metal. It features a lock off throttle for protection against accidental start ups and an adjustable guide offers flexibility in setting depth of cut. The rear exhaust directs air away from the work area, while an ergonomic design increases comfort and handling.

10,000 Strokes per minute allows you to quickly cut through material with ease
Lock off throttle for protection against accidental start ups
Adjustable guide offers flexibility in setting depth of cut
Ergonomic design for comfort and easy handling
Includes 360° swivel air inlet

Product features

Chicago Pneumatic CP7901 Super Duty Reciprocating Air Saw

Air reciprocating saw, Very low vibration, 3/8" (10 mm) stroke length. Great power and speed of 10,000 strokes per minute, 360° swivel air inlet. Premium tool for all cutting applications.

Ingersoll Rand P4FS-50 Air Reciprocating Saw Blades for all standard shank air reciprocating saws

Based on 8 reviews Check latest price

Product description

50-Pack of fine standard pitch air Recip saw blade - 32 TPI. Ingersoll Rand Bi-Metal saw blades enhance overall cutting performance. Bi-metal technology is a solid state diffusion process that applies high speed steel to both edges of the backing material, increasing the blade contact area by 170%. This, along with a new tooth profile that generates smaller, but more chips, reduces the Frictional heat that is generated during the cutting process, which will enhance the overall blade performance. Ingersoll Rand saw blades can be used with all standard 1/2" Shank air reciprocating saws.

Enhanced overall cutting performance
Bi-metal technology, High Speed steel, increasing blade contact by 170%
New tooth profile Generating smaller, but more chips and reduces frictional heat
Power Tools and Accessories

Tool Aid S&G (90020) Reciprocating Air Saw Blades, Pack of 5

Based on 60 reviews Check latest price

Product description

SGT90020 Features: -Use these high quality blades to cut through a variety of metals, fiberglass and plastic. -Great for body work and exhaust work. -These bi-metal blades contain cobalt for long lasting, shatterproof use. -Maximum speed is 10,000 strokes per minute. Product Type: -Recip. Dimensions: Overall Length - End to End: -2 Inches. Overall Height - Top to Bottom: -0.1 Inches. Overall Product Weight: -0.03 Pounds.

Package Dimensions: 15.24 L x 5.08 W 0.254 H (centimetres)
Country of Origin : China
Package Weight: 0.15 lbs
Product type : SAW BLADE

User questions & answers

Question:	Where are they made
Answer:	Yes.

Performance Tool M660 Reciprocating Air Body Saw

Based on 25 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Performance Tool M660 Reciprocating Air Body Saw with lightweight, slim design for confined areas and an adjustable blade guide. Cuts many types of aluminum, plastic, fiberglass and sheet metal.

Lightweight, slim design for confined areas
Adjustable blade guide
Cuts many types of aluminum, plastic, fiberglass and sheet metal
Replacment Blades: M555-24 & M555-32
Rugged die cast aluminum body with rubber grip

Ingersoll Rand P4FS-20 Air Reciprocating Saw Blades for all standard shank air reciprocating saws

Ingersoll Rand

Based on 52 reviews Check latest price

Product description

20-Pack of fine standard pitch air Recip saw blade - 32 TPI. Ingersoll Rand Bi-Metal saw blades enhance overall cutting performance. Bi-metal technology is a solid state diffusion process that applies high speed steel to both edges of the backing material, increasing the blade contact area by 170%. This, along with a new tooth profile that generates smaller, but more chips, reduces the Frictional heat that is generated during the cutting process, which will enhance the overall blade performance. Ingersoll Rand saw blades can be used with all standard 1/2" Shank air reciprocating saws.

Enhanced overall cutting performance
Bi-metal technology, High Speed steel, increasing blade contact by 170%
New tooth profile Generating smaller, but more chips and reduces frictional heat
Package dimensions:4.0"L x 2.0"W x 0.5"H

User questions & answers

Question:	Will these fit a Matco airsaw
Answer:	6 per container

Ingersoll Rand 529 Low Vibration Reciprocating Air Saw

Based on 95 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The 529 vibration reduced reciprocating saw is the perfect tool for cutting plastics, fiberglass, sheet metal, aluminum, and a host of other materials. Equipped with a 360-degree swivel inlet, this tool allows you to cut intricate patterns in both flat and curved surfaces.

Reliability: With a guide that increases blade life, you know your tool will perform well from the moment you buy it.
Access: Thanks to its ergonomic design, this tool can be used in even the tightest spaces.
Lock-Out Lever: The 529 saw contains a unique system that prevents accidental throttle operation by utilising a spring-loaded latch that resets each time the lever is released.
Includes 6 blades

User questions & answers

Question:	Hi, I am new to air saws. Are they mostly used for free hand cutting by the user(as I don't see adjustments on them for angles etc
Answer:	Thank you for your inquiry. Model 529 is manufactured in Taiwan.
Question:	How is this powered
Answer:	No - it does not come with case
Question:	Country of manufacture
Answer:	I have a snap on so I am not sure about the Matco
Question:	Does it come with a case
Answer:	My information states the SG Tool Aid 90020 blades are made in China.

SP Air Corporation SP-7610 Reciprocating Air Saw

Based on 15 reviews Check latest price

Product description

SP Air Corporation's Reciprocal Air Saw is the perfect tool to cut steel, FRP, rubber and resin objects such as bumpers, etc. The Recipro Air Saw is designed with a swivel air inlet, rear air exhaust, air regulator, blade guide and safety lever. Unit Specifications of the SP-7610: 0.47" stroke, 5,300 strokes per minute, 8.15" length, 1.3 lb, air consumption of 2.7 CFM, sound level of 86.5 dB.

Powerful enough to cut steel, FRP, rubber and resin objects such as bumpers
Swivel air inlet and rear air exhaust
Designed with a 0.47" stroke and operates at 5,300 strokes per minute
Equipped with safety lever, blade guide, and air regulator
Durable and high quality construction expertly made In Japan

User questions & answers

Question:	Will normal sawzaw blades fit in this tool
Answer:	Just checked, it's adjustable :) loosen Philips head screw on top, adjust, tighten..
Question:	Does this come with any blades
Answer:	It’s for sheet metal mostly but can cut up to 1/4” I would say.
Question:	Does the blade guide adjust or is it fixed in a single position
Answer:	Yes free hand, a very smooth operating saw. Very comfortable in hand while operating. I would definitely recommend.
Question:	How thick of metal can it cut through
Answer:	Pneumatic (air powered)