A reciprocating saw is a power tool that can handle a variety of cutting tasks. One of its key features is the orbital action setting, which can improve the saw’s cutting performance, lead to faster cutting speeds, and reduce overall blade friction. Read how to properly and safely use this feature in our guide below, and watch the video above for tips from This Old House contributor Mark Clement.
Understanding Orbital Action
Orbital action is a reciprocating saw feature that allows the blade to move in an elliptical pattern rather than just back and forth. This motion can increase cutting speed and efficiency when the saw makes contact with certain materials. The elliptical motion is more aggressive than the standard straight reciprocation, and allows the blade to remove material more quickly.
Benefits of Orbital Action
Below are a few advantages of using the orbital action setting on your reciprocating saw:
- Faster cutting speed: The elliptical motion increases the contact area between the blade and the material.
- Less fatigue for the user: Faster cutting means the operator doesn’t have to expend as much effort.
- More efficient material removal: The aggressive cut clears out more material with each pass.
- Reduced blade friction: The motion helps to remove debris, which can add to resistance.
When to Use Orbital Action
Orbital action is most effective when you’re cutting softer materials or when speed is more important than precision. It’s especially useful for the following tasks:
- Cutting wood, especially for large demolition tasks
- Demolition work for which speed is a priority
- Pruning trees, as the saw can more easily move through the fibrous material
- Rough cutting of various materials that don’t require a clean finish
Adjusting Orbital Action Settings
Most reciprocating saws that feature orbital action have adjustable settings that allow you to fine-tune the aggressiveness of the cut you’re making. This makes it easy to use the saw on different materials and amid various cutting conditions.
Use a low orbital setting or turn the function off completely when you’re cutting metal, making precise cuts, working with thin materials, and plunge cutting. Use high orbital settings for faster wood cutting, aggressive demolition work, and cutting thick materials.
Practical Applications of Orbital Action
Tailor your tool’s settings to your specific task to extend the life of the blade and the saw, and to complete your project efficiently.
Cutting Wood
Orbital action can accelerate most wood-cutting tasks. It’s particularly effective for the following projects:
- Cutting lumber: Orbital action speeds up construction or renovation projects.
- Demolishing wooden structures: Orbital action is ideal for taking down old sheds, fences, or playhouses.
- Trimming tree branches: Orbital action makes yard maintenance much easier.
- Rough-cutting plywood or particleboard: Orbital action makes rough-cutting easy in spite of the materials’ densities.
Demolition Work
Speed is frequently more important than precision when it comes to demolition. High orbital action settings can help you to quickly cut through old framing, drywall, composite materials, and mixed materials such as nailed wood.
Metal Cutting
Use a low orbital setting or turn the feature off completely when you’re cutting metal. This can help you to maintain precision, and reduces the risk of damaging the blade or workpiece. Cut metal carefully and steadily to avoid overheating the saw or causing excessive wear.
Finishing Cuts a Circular Saw Can’t Complete
One of the most useful functions of a reciprocating saw with orbital action is finishing cuts that a circular saw can’t complete. Follow the step-by-step process below.
- Make the initial cut with a circular saw.
- Switch to the reciprocating saw and use an aggressive blade.
- Engage the orbital action for faster cutting.
- Follow the line that the circular saw left behind to complete the cut.
This technique is useful for cutting large posts, beams, or other thick materials through which a circular saw can’t completely cut.
Choosing the Right Blade for Orbital Action
You must choose the right blade for your project to get the most out of your reciprocating saw’s orbital action.
Blade Types
Different blade types are designed to handle different materials and cutting tasks. Below are a few options:
- Demolition blades: Designed for renovation, demolition, and cutting through mixed materials
- Metal-cutting blades: Have finer teeth that make smoother cuts in metal without causing damage
- Pruning blades: Ideal for cutting green wood and branches
- Wood-cutting blades: Feature larger, more aggressive teeth that more easily cut through wood
Blade Length
Select a blade length that’s most appropriate for your cutting task. Consider the variables below.
- Longer blades: For deeper cuts and reaching into tight spaces
- Shorter blades: Provide more control and precision in smaller areas
- Variable length blades: Offer versatility to approach different cutting depths
Reciprocating Saw Safety Considerations
Using orbital action can make cutting faster and easier, but you must still prioritize safety. Always wear the appropriate safety gear below.
- Dust mask
- Hearing protection
- Safety glasses or goggles
- Work gloves
To use your reciprocating saw safely, maintain a firm grip on the saw with both hands. Keep the shoe of the saw pressed against the workpiece, and allow the saw to do the work. Don’t force the blade. Be aware of potential kickback, especially when you’re using orbital action.