If you’re working on a project that involves metal, plastic, or wood and requires heavy-duty sawing, a reciprocating saw is the tool for the job. However, are you aware of how to change reciprocating saw blade?
The back-and-forth action of this type of saw enables you to cut pipes, boards, and more. However, if you’re routinely cutting metal or other difficult materials, you’ll need to change the reciprocating saw blade. In this blog, we also have an article about reciprocating saw that you might want to see.
How To Change Reciprocating Saw Blade
Safety
Unplug your reciprocating saw before you begin to avoid unpleasant surprises if you accidently power it on while attempting to change the blade. Before proceeding, double check to ensure it is not linked to a power source.
Self-Defense
Put on protective gloves and eyewear to protect yourself from cuts and other types of injuries.
Replace the Blade
Select the appropriate screwdriver; the reciprocating saw may require either a flathead or a Phillips screwdriver, depending on the manufacturer. Once you’ve determined which one is accurate, unscrew the screw and remove the old blade. Replace it with the new one. Adjust the screw until you have a strong and secure grip on the new blade.
Benefits of Reciprocating Saw Blade
Cuts Metal
Reciprocating saws work by oscillating between two modes: forward and reverse motion. This allows the blade to move in both directions at the same time; in effect, cutting through any material in front of it. As stated earlier, metal is an ideal medium for this kind of saw because it can be easily cut without leaving behind splinters. In addition, the saw’s teeth allow it to make precise cuts that minimize chipping. For these reasons, it is commonly used for cutting metals such as steel, copper, brass, aluminum, etc.
Cutting Wood
When used specifically for chopping down trees or logs, a reciprocating saw is perfect. Its teeth enable it to quickly cut through thick pieces of wood. If you want, you can even use it to split large logs into smaller pieces.
Precision Cutting
The teeth on a reciprocating saw are designed to prevent overcutting. This makes it easier to cut items precisely. It also ensures that the sides of the object will match up perfectly when finished. If there are no overcuts, it’s easy to line them up together so they look like a single piece of wood.
Cuts Plastic and Rubber
Like metal, plastics and rubbers are another common material for which a reciprocating saw excels. Unlike metal, however, these objects do not break off easily after being cut. With this in mind, the teeth are made out of carbide, making them extremely hard. Because of this, you should expect little wear and tear even if you regularly use the saw. The only downside is that the material is harder to cut than metals and cannot be used as often.
Cuts Fiberglass
Fiberglass is another popular material for which a reciprocating saw works well. Although it is lighter than metal, it has similar properties, including hardness. These qualities allow the saw to cut fiberglass more effectively compared to its metal counterparts.
Before Using Reciprocating Saw
Lubricate Your Blades
Most reciprocating saw blades need oiling or lubrication to function properly. You can buy special oils or apply some to the blades yourself. Oil helps keep the blades from getting clogged and reduces friction along their cutting surfaces. If your blades get too clogged, they could stop working entirely.
Use A Safety Shield
Because the reciprocating saw generates significant amounts of noise, it is important to protect yourself from hearing damage. Using a safety shield will help reduce the likelihood of injury while using the tool.