Power tool question

[JC]

I'm planning to buy a reciprocating saw. I was wondering the opinions of the group whether a trigger controlled or thumb wheel set variable speed was more convenient.

Thanks

[Trader]

I have a variable speed on my Porter Cable but use it on high 99.00% of the time. The thing I find the most convenient is the new no tools blade change. The older style saws required an Allen wrench to change out the blade. But to answer your question I think that a wheel would be better. This would be more precise then trying to hold your finger on the trigger with the same tension for the whole cut.

[DanG]

Either model of speed adjustment will work quite well as long as the name on the side of the case says Milwaukee.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Keep the whole world singing. . . . DanG

[Trader]

My dad used Milwaukee sawzalls for years and they are great. However, I decided to go with a Porter Cable Sawzlaa because of the no tools blade change option. I believe Wilwaukee offers this now tool. In any event I love my POrter cable and believe it be as good as my old WIlwaukee. Either one will work well for you.

[CBHvac]

Just as a clarification, my older Sawzall Plus, bought about 5 years ago, has the quick change blade, as does my new Hatchet, and the Milwaukee jab saw... Porter Cable makes a fair saw, but we tried one, and it was worn after about

2 years....the old Milwaukee...still like new in the performance department.

Think of it this way...if Milwaukee is not the leader, why is everyone attempting to copy them?

[DanG]

I think the big issue here is the difference between a DIY weekend warrior and an all day, every day user. My Milwakee Super is well over 5 years old. The non-super ones are moved to other trucks, but all still operate. The plumbers meanwhile tried both Bosch and Porter Cable. They have learned the hard way. Didn't get 2 years out of either one.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Keep the whole world singing. . . . DanG