The Bosch CRS180B 18V Reciprocating Saw is a versatile power tool with variable speed options
What We Like
- Speed ranges from 0-2,400 SPM and 0-2,700 SPM
- 1 1/8″ stroke length per cut
- Orbital action control switch
- Great cutting speed
- Battery-powered with 18v batteries
- Lockjaw blade holder and easy blade change
- Affordable price
- Rafter hook
What We Don’t Like
- Heavier than advertised
- Vibrates a little too much
- Batteries not included in the package
Bottom Line
From the Bosch CRS180B, 18V Reciprocating Saw review, you can see that it has many useful features that will come in handy in the workplace.
Its compact size makes it easy to store but the saw is heavier than advertised. The brushless motor is low maintenance and it makes the machine run more efficiently.
While the batteries aren’t included in the package, you can get them online or in a local hardware store.
We like the variable speed function because it allows you to have more control over the machine and the cut. However, the tool vibrates too much for a cordless reciprocating saw of its size.
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Reciprocating saws are among the most versatile cutting tools in the woodworking industry. They can cut through wood, metal, and even plastic without stress.
These saws are usually small, lightweight, and easy to maneuver. They can reach places that chainsaws are too big to reach and table saws are flexible enough to reach.
There are different brands of reciprocating saws in the market and one of the most popular is the Bosch CRS180B 18V. It is efficient, convenient, versatile, powerful, and has an ergonomic design.
The review in this piece, it has an impressive stroke length and many other features that make it worth its weight in cash.
Related article: Bosch GSA18V-083B Reciprocating Saw
Features Of The Bosch CRS180B 18V Reciprocating Saw
Battery-powered With 18v Batteries
The Bosch CRS180B 18V Saw is battery-powered. Like many other modern battery-powered reciprocating saws, this product requires 8.0 Ah Core 18v batteries to work.
A 6 Amp hour battery will also be compatible with this reciprocating saw. The battery doesn’t come with the package. While this is discouraging cause you’ll end up spending more money purchasing the charger and battery, it is not unusual for a cordless reciprocating saw.
Most battery-powered reciprocating saws are sold as bare tools. The good thing is that the compatible battery for the Bosch CRS180B 18V Reciprocating Saw is easy to find.
As long as it is fully charged, you can use it for hours at a time without losing power. The battery powers the motor and the motor powers the blade.
Variable Speed Trigger Offers Variety
The speed trigger allows you to choose between 0-2,400 SPM and 0-2,700 SPM. SPM is an acronym for speed per minute and the speed of the saw usually contributes significantly to how fast you will finish your assignments.
All you have to do is squeeze tighter when you want to cut thicker wood. The speed on the Bosch CRS180B 18V Saw varies based on the material you’re cutting but the stroke length is constant at 1⅛ inches.
On average, cutting a piece of wood that is embedded with nails will take you 53.21 seconds with this saw. When the orbital action feature is on, you should get the job done in 10.13 seconds but we will talk more about the pros and cons of using this feature later.
The saw cuts metal faster than it cuts wood and it does an excellent job with plastic as well. You can control the SPM with the trigger.
Related reading: DeWalt 12-Amp Reciprocating Saw
Orbital Action Switch
One of the best features of the CRS180B 18V Saw is the orbital action. Orbital action is the feature that allows the saw to cut in a slightly circular motion rather than in a straight in and out motion.
Not every reciprocating saw comes with this feature and some that have it don’t have a switch that helps users control it. With a small switch attached to the saw, you can decide to use the orbital action feature when you want to make demolition-style cuts and use the straight cut option when you want to cut metal or make more precise cuts.
Orbital action makes work faster but it also makes the saw vibrate too much when it is on. Already, the CRS180B 18V Reciprocating Saw vibrates a little too much when you’re using the regular feature. You can reduce the vibration by wearing a thick pair of gloves and using the shoe.
Otherwise, the vibration might make you feel uncomfortable and possibly lose precision when you’re trying to make delicate cuts.
Lock-Jaw Blade Holder for Quick Blade Change
One of the primary reasons for buying a power tool is to save time and increase productivity. So, manufacturers make their tools as easy to use as possible.
The blade change feature might not seem like a big deal but it makes a lot of difference. The blade change system on the CRS180B 18V Reciprocating Saw is safe and quick. You can get things done within a few minutes and get back to work.
There is a lock-jaw holder that allows self-ejecting and locking. It is just one of the many features that make the saw safe to use. The comfortable rubber grip also increases the safety and comfort of the blade. The rubber keeps your palms comfortable all the way through.
Bosch CRS180B 18V Reciprocating Saw Review The Verdict
If there is anything you’ve learned from using the Bosch CRS180B Reciprocating Saw review, it’s that it doesn’t have great reviews on Amazon for anything.
Most of the reviewers were completely satisfied with the saw. As expected, however, the few who complained were upset about the same drawbacks we noticed when testing the saw as well.
For starters, many clients were unhappy about excessive vibration. Some others complained about the weight. It’s supposed to be a little above 6 pounds but it feels heavier than advertised.
Also, buying the battery and charger separately after spending over $100 for the reciprocating saw can make it a less affordable option.
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