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How to Change the Blade on a Reciprocating Saw

How to Change the Blade on a Reciprocating Saw
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​If you work around the house or are an avid DIY person, then it is very common for you to wonder how to change the blade on a reciprocating saw. The back and forth motion of the saw makes it a perfect tool for many projects as the blade can get into a constricted position than a normal saw You need to change the blades depending on your project as you cut through wood, embedded pins, PVC or other materials.

I have been using the saw for a long time now, and found the perfect way to change the blades without much hassle. Just read on to learn how to accomplish the task. There are various ways you can go about doing it, and I will list a few to help you out.

Using Screwdrivers to change the blade of your Saw

Things that you will Need

You don’t need to run to the supplies store to fetch tools for changing the blades of your reciprocating saw. Simple household tools will suffice, and what you need will also depend on the model and make of your saw. Keep the following handy-

  • Gloves and safety goggles for your protection while you change the blades
  • The saw blades you want to replace with (buy blades that are compatible with your saw)
  • A screwdriver that fits the screws that hold the blade of your saw

Be Cautious!

Before you proceed to handle the saw, make sure it is unplugged from the power source. If it is a cordless one, ensure that the batteries are removed. Also put on your gloves and safety goggles.

Pro Tip

Always remember to hold the saw against your body and point it away from you. Keep the blade as far from your body as possible, and prevent grasping the saw near the power button.

Steps to do the Job

Step 1: Find the Screws on the Saw


The screw that holds the blade is generally located at the end of the blade. Find it and proceed to unscrew it.

You can see the holes which hold the screws in a Milwaukee reciprocating saw

Milwaukee M18 HackZall blade

Step 2: Unscrew the Screws

Begin loosening the screw but do not take it out completely. Move them counter clockwise and wiggle it back and forth while trying to pull it away from the socket of the saw until it comes out.

Pro Tip

You will find a small hole in the blade which keeps it in its place when the screws are tightened. So by wiggling it you are trying to detach it from the notch located in the clamp. Check out how it looks here in these saw blades.

You may check our list of top reciprocating saw blade for your need.

saw blades

Step 3: Insert the new Blade

Put the new saw blade with the teeth facing the same way the handle is directed. Slide it into the clamp area wiggling and pushing it till it locks into the notch. Tighten the screws till the blade stops moving.

Change the Blade of your Reciprocating Saw using Quick Release MethodMany models of reciprocating saw comes with a quick release button so you don’t need any tools to do the job.

What you will Need

Gloves and safety goggles to protect yourself

If you looking for the best reciprocating saw then check the bellow link -  http://toolvee.com/best-reciprocating-saws/

Steps to do the Job

Step 1: Locate the Quick Release Button or Lever

The quick release lever or button is generally placed on the saw where the blade meets the body. It can be a flat metal or plastic one depending on your make of the saw. 

Step 2: Take the existing Blade Out

The lever is equipped with a spring mechanism, so you need to keep holding it while you detach the blade. Now wiggle the old blade and pull it away from the socket till it comes out.

Step 3: Attach the new Blade

Now is the time to put the new blade into the clamp of the saw. Place the blade into position and release the lever or the quick release button. This should attach the blade to your saw. 

Pro Tip

Wiggle and move the blade to make sure it does not move and is securely attached.

Change the Blade of your Reciprocating Saw using Allen Wrench

What you will Need

  • A pair of gloves and safety goggles for yourself
  • A set of Allen Wrench

Steps to do the Job

Step 1: Locate the Blade Holder

Pick out the suitable size of Allen Wrench from the set and insert it in the hex-head screw socket. The socket is generally located at the end of the blade where it meets the body.

Step 2: Take out the Old Blade

Using the wrench, loosen the screws in a counter clockwise direction. Wiggle and pull the blade till it comes out of the socket. The same rule about the hole in the blade applies here too.

Step 3: Attach the New Blade

Keeping the teeth of the saw faced in the direction of the handle, slide in the new blade into the clamp. Push and move it until it locks itself in its place. Turn the wrench in a clockwise direction until the blade is tightened securely.

I hope this detailed guide has helped you learn how to change the blades of a reciprocating saw. It is simple and works all the time for me and I hope you also find the methods helpful. If you know of any other way, mention in the comments below. Also, do not hesitate to share the article if you know someone who can use the information.

2 thoughts on “How to Change the Blade on a Reciprocating Saw”

  1. Great article review posts. If you’re not holding it this method, you’re not permitting the tool work properly, and you won’t explain the world as quickly or as cleanly. In alternative words, by not holding it right you’re creating additional work for yourself. I love this blog!

  2. Wonderful blog! I found it while surfing around on Yahoo News. Do you have any tips on how to get listed in Yahoo News? I’ve been trying for a while but I never seem to get there! Cheers|

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