Have you ever heard of a Sawzall?
It’s a type of reciprocating saw that’s commonly used in construction and demolition work.
But why is it called a Sawzall?
Is it just a catchy marketing term or is there more to it?
In this article, we’ll explore the origins of the Sawzall name and how it became a household term for this type of saw.
So grab your tool belt and let’s dive in!
Why Is It Called A Sawzall
The term Sawzall is actually a registered trademark of Milwaukee Tools, the company that first produced this type of saw in 1951. The name Sawzall was coined as a marketing term for their brand of reciprocating saws, evoking the collocation “saws everything”.
However, over time, the term Sawzall has become a common name for any brand of reciprocating saw. This is similar to how people often ask for a Kleenex instead of a tissue, even though Kleenex is just one brand of tissue.
The design of a reciprocating saw involves a push-and-pull motion of the blade, which allows for efficient cutting through various materials. The blade resembles that of a jigsaw and has a foot at the base to help counteract the tendency of the blade to push away from or pull towards the cut as it moves.
While the term Sawzall may have started as a marketing ploy, it has become a widely recognized name for this type of saw. In fact, on construction sites and among DIY enthusiasts, it’s often referred to as a Sawzall regardless of the brand.
The Birth Of The Reciprocating Saw
The reciprocating saw, also known as a hognose or recip saw, was first introduced by Milwaukee Tools in 1951. The original Sawzall was a powerful handheld power saw with a horizontal blade that moved back and forth to quickly cut through a variety of materials.
The design of the reciprocating saw allowed for efficient cutting in hard-to-reach places and made it perfect for construction and demolition work. The blade was easily interchangeable, with each blade designed for specific tasks such as cutting through nail-filled pallets or old cast-iron plumbing.
Over time, the reciprocating saw became a staple tool on job sites and in DIY projects. Its immense power and unique design allowed for efficient and precise cutting, making it an essential tool for professionals and hobbyists alike.
Today, there are many different brands of reciprocating saws available on the market, each with their own unique features and capabilities. However, the name Sawzall has become so synonymous with this type of saw that it is often used interchangeably with the term reciprocating saw.
The Origins Of The Sawzall Name
The origins of the Sawzall name can be traced back to the Milwaukee Electric Tool Company, who invented the reciprocating saw in 1951. The company wanted a name that would evoke the power and versatility of their new tool, and so they coined the term Sawzall.
The name Sawzall is a play on words, combining the words “saw” and “all” to create a phrase that suggests the tool is capable of cutting through anything. The marketing campaign for the Sawzall emphasized its ability to saw through a wide variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic.
While the name Sawzall was initially used only for Milwaukee Tool’s brand of reciprocating saws, it has since become a generic term for any brand of reciprocating saw. This is due to the popularity of the tool and the widespread use of the term among construction workers and DIY enthusiasts.
Today, the Sawzall name is synonymous with power and versatility in the world of power tools. Despite being a registered trademark of Milwaukee Tools, it has become a household name that is recognized by anyone who has ever used a reciprocating saw.
The Rise Of The Sawzall In The Construction Industry
Reciprocating saws, commonly known as Sawzalls, quickly became favored tools of contractors after their introduction in 1951. The design of the saw, with its push-and-pull motion and jigsaw-like blade, made it a versatile tool for construction and demolition work. The large blade and handle orientation also allowed for comfortable use on vertical surfaces.
As the construction industry grew and evolved, so did the uses for reciprocating saws. Today’s saws often have big 10-amp motors, variable speeds, no-wrench blade changing and 1-1/4 in. cutting strokes. They are considered a “gateway tool” for serious DIYers tackling repairs or major remodeling projects.
The power and versatility of the Sawzall made it a popular choice for contractors in a variety of industries. From breaking down nail-filled pallets to cutting out old cast-iron plumbing, a reciprocating saw can tackle a variety of tasks and has a blade specifically designed for each and every one. Its unique design and immense power make it perfect for cuts in hard-to-reach places that would be impossible with any other saw.
As the popularity of the Sawzall grew, so did its use in the construction industry. It quickly became a staple tool on construction sites, allowing workers to cut through materials quickly and efficiently. From demolition work to framing and plumbing, the Sawzall became an essential tool for any contractor.
Sawzall Vs. Reciprocating Saw: What’s The Difference?
Many people wonder if there is a difference between a Sawzall and a reciprocating saw. The answer is no, there is no difference. The term Sawzall was introduced by Milwaukee Tools as a marketing term for their brand of reciprocating saws. However, over time, the term has become a common name for any brand of reciprocating saw.
While the name may be the same, there are differences in the features and design of reciprocating saws. For example, the Sawzall is a more modern and upgraded version of the reciprocating saw. It has special features such as a forward-mount supported point and rubber grips that make it easy on the hands and less prone to fatigue.
Additionally, the Sawzall is smaller than common reciprocating saws but doesn’t compromise on power. This makes it a balanced and optimized model that can change blades depending on your use.
When it comes to choosing between a Sawzall and other reciprocating saws, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of your project. While Milwaukee’s reputation for high-quality power tools certainly includes their most famous product, the Sawzall, several other manufacturers offer reciprocating saws with similar features and quality, sometimes at a lower price.
Famous Brands That Produce Sawzalls
Milwaukee Tools may have trademarked the name Sawzall, but there are many other brands that produce high-quality reciprocating saws. Some of the most famous brands include DeWalt, Bosch, Makita, and Ryobi.
DeWalt is a well-known brand that produces a variety of power tools, including reciprocating saws. Their saws are known for their durability and power, making them a popular choice among professionals.
Bosch is another popular brand that produces high-quality reciprocating saws. Their saws are known for their precision and ease of use, making them a great choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
Makita is a Japanese brand that produces a wide range of power tools, including reciprocating saws. Their saws are known for their reliability and long-lasting performance, making them a popular choice among professionals.
Ryobi is a brand that produces affordable power tools for DIY enthusiasts. Their reciprocating saws are no exception, offering a great balance between price and performance.
No matter which brand you choose, it’s important to choose a reciprocating saw that fits your needs and budget. With so many great options on the market, you’re sure to find the perfect saw for your next project.
Tips For Using A Sawzall Safely And Efficiently
When using a Sawzall, there are a few key tips to keep in mind to ensure both safety and efficiency.
Firstly, always wear appropriate safety gear such as eye protection and gloves. The Sawzall’s blade moves back and forth at high speeds, so it’s important to protect your eyes from any debris that may fly off during cutting. Gloves can also help protect your hands from cuts and scrapes.
Secondly, make sure to use the correct blade for the material you’re cutting. As mentioned earlier, Sawzall blades come in a variety of designs for different materials. Using the wrong blade can result in a slower cut or even damage to the blade or saw.
Thirdly, hold the saw with both hands and maintain a firm grip. The Sawzall’s powerful motor can cause it to vibrate quite strongly during use, so holding it securely can help prevent accidents and ensure a straighter cut.
Fourthly, keep the blade perpendicular to the material being cut. This will help ensure a straight cut and prevent the blade from bending or breaking.
Finally, take breaks as needed. Using a Sawzall for extended periods of time can be tiring, so it’s important to take breaks to rest and prevent fatigue.
By following these tips, you can use a Sawzall safely and efficiently to tackle a wide range of cutting tasks.