the reciprocating saw is a hard-working tool it's fast and powerful enough for anything from trimming tree branches to cutting pipe and if you're remodeling it's your go-to demolition tool with a variety of blades you can use it to cut through metal wood and even nail embedded would make no mistake it's a tough tool so you want to know how to handle it when you're changing the blade make sure the tool is unplugged and the switch is in the off position you can install the blades with the teeth up or down depending on the angle you need usually you'll have a quick change mechanism that lets you slide the blade in place and lock it in tug on it to be sure it's set in place use the right blade for the material you're cutting as a general rule of thumb the fewer the teeth per inch the faster and rougher the cut and when cutting metal you'll usually have finer teeth if you're making deeper cuts use a longer blade it should always extend beyond the shoe and the thickness of whatever you're cutting start the saw and then bring it to the surface use the shoe to steady it and cut back on vibration hold it tightly with both hands it has some kick and you'll need to use some pressure to keep it in control if you're remodeling this is your tool you can use it in all sorts of situations it slices through nails so you can cut out railings siding door and window jams it's good for plunge cuts set the shoe against the surface with the tip of the blade at the start of the cut start the saw with the blade off the surface and tilt it down if you're cutting into a wall be sure you know where the plumbing and electrical are located so you can avoid them this will go right through them it can tear through tough materials quickly it tends to be easier to control from a ladder or above your head than a circular saw here are some more helpful tips always wear eye protection and a dust mask and hearing protection the blade protrudes on this tool without a guard so keep it clear and don't wear loose clothing or jewelry that can get caught in the tool set the tool down on its side when you're not using it you don't want to bend the blade or it could break off clamp or brace the item you're cutting when you can so you can use two hands to cut and take care not to let the saw fall towards your body as it cuts through the piece for the tips advice and tools you need visit your neighborhood ace and find us online at Ace Hardware comm ace is the pace with the helpful articles