Best Reciprocating Saw Blades for Metal UK

A reciprocating saw can be an extremely useful tool for cutting metal, but choosing the right blade is important.

A blade that’s excellent for cutting thin sheet metal isn’t necessarily the best choice for thick steel pipe. Likewise, a blade designed for ordinary mild steel may not be the best option for tough stainless steel.

For a DIY beginner, the good news is that you don’t need to understand every blade specification before buying.

The main things to consider are:

What type of metal you’re cutting
How thick the metal is
The blade’s TPI
Blade length
Bi-metal or carbide construction
How often you’ll use the blade
Whether you need speed or durability

In this guide, I’ll explain the different types of metal-cutting reciprocating saw blades and help you choose the right one for your DIY projects.

Table of Contents

Quick Answer: What Is the Best Reciprocating Saw Blade for Metal?

For general DIY metal cutting, I’d start with a good-quality bi-metal blade.

Bi-metal blades offer a useful combination of flexibility, durability and cutting performance and are available in a wide range of tooth configurations. For example, Bosch’s S918BF is a bi-metal blade designed for regular-strength steel and is specified for material thicknesses of 2–8mm.

For thinner metal, a finer-tooth blade can be more appropriate. Bosch’s S918AF, for example, has 24 TPI and is specified for material from 1–3mm thick.

For particularly tough steel or heavy-duty applications, carbide-tipped blades are available.

So rather than looking for one “best” blade, it’s better to choose the blade that matches the metal you’re cutting.

Our Recommended Metal-Cutting Blade Types

Rather than simply choosing blades based on brand, I’d divide them into categories according to the job.

Type	Best For	Beginner Friendly
Bi-metal general-purpose	Mild steel and general metal	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fine-tooth metal blade	Thin sheet metal	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Progressive-tooth blade	Different metal thicknesses	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Heavy-duty bi-metal	Tougher applications	⭐⭐⭐⭐
Carbide-tipped	Tough steel/stainless steel	⭐⭐⭐⭐
Long metal blade	Larger pipe and profiles	⭐⭐⭐⭐

1. Best All-Round Metal Blade: Bi-Metal

For most DIY users, bi-metal is the best place to start. A bi-metal blade combines different materials to produce a blade that’s both durable and reasonably flexible.

This makes it useful for general metal cutting.

Bosch’s S918BF is one example. It’s a 150mm bi-metal blade with a 14 TPI tooth pitch and is designed for regular-strength steel, metal pipes and profiles. Bosch specifies it for material between 2mm and 8mm thick.

Why choose bi-metal?

Advantages include:

Good durability
Good flexibility
Suitable for general DIY
Available in many TPI configurations
Suitable for a range of metals

For a beginner who doesn’t know exactly which metal blade to buy, a quality bi-metal blade suitable for the material you’re cutting is a sensible starting point.

2. Best for Thin Sheet Metal

Thin metal requires a different approach. A blade with a finer tooth pattern can be more suitable than a coarse metal blade.

For example, Bosch’s S918AF has 24 TPI and is specified for material between 1mm and 3mm thick.

This makes this type of blade useful for applications such as:

Thin sheet steel
Thin metal profiles
Light metal fabrication
Thin pipe

Don’t automatically assume that a higher TPI is better, though.

The blade needs to match the material thickness.

3. Best Progressive-Tooth Blade

Progressive-tooth blades are particularly useful when you may encounter different material thicknesses.

Instead of every tooth having exactly the same spacing, the tooth pitch changes along the blade.

Bosch’s S123XF Progressor for Metal, for example, uses a progressively increasing tooth pitch and is specified for steel materials from 1–8mm thick. Its stated tooth pitch is 8–18 TPI.

This can make a progressive blade a useful all-rounder if your DIY projects involve a mixture of metal thicknesses.

4. Best for Stainless Steel

Stainless steel can be more demanding than ordinary mild steel.

If you’re cutting stainless steel regularly, I’d look for a blade specifically designed for tough metals or stainless steel.

Carbide-tipped options are available for particularly demanding applications.

For example, Bosch’s Expert range includes blades designed specifically for tough steel and stainless-steel pipes.

A suitable carbide blade can cost more than a standard bi-metal blade, but it may make sense if you’re regularly cutting difficult materials.

5. Best for Tough Steel

If you’re cutting tough steel, don’t automatically reach for a basic metal blade.

This is where higher-performance blades can become worthwhile.

Bosch’s Expert S955HHC, for example, uses carbide technology and is designed for tough steel and stainless-steel pipes, with a stated recommended wall thickness of 3–8mm.

For extremely demanding applications, carbide technology can offer significantly greater blade life than standard blades.

6. Best for Thick Metal

Thicker metal can require a more robust blade. One example is Bosch’s Expert S1255CHC, which is designed for tough steel and cast iron.

It’s a 300mm blade with carbide teeth and is specified for cutting material up to 12mm thick.

This type of blade is aimed at more demanding work rather than occasional DIY.

For most beginners, there’s no need to buy a heavy-duty carbide blade unless your projects actually require it.

7. Best Long Metal Blade

Blade length becomes increasingly important when cutting large pipe, profiles or other deep material.

Longer blades are available in sizes such as:

225mm
230mm
250mm
300mm

A 300mm blade can give you significantly more reach than a 150mm blade.

However, longer isn’t automatically better.

A long blade can be less convenient in confined spaces and may flex more if you’re applying sideways pressure.

Choose the shortest blade that provides enough cutting depth for the job.

What TPI Is Best for Cutting Metal?

TPI means teeth per inch.

It’s one of the most important specifications to understand when buying a metal-cutting blade.

As a general rule:

Higher TPI = finer teeth = generally more suitable for thinner material

Lower TPI = larger teeth = generally more suitable for thicker material

But there is more to it than simply choosing the highest or lowest TPI.

For example:

Approx. TPI	Typical Application
8–10 TPI	Thicker metal / tougher applications
10–14 TPI	General metal cutting
14–18 TPI	General and medium metal
18–24 TPI	Thin metal
24+ TPI	Very thin sheet/specialist applications

These are general guidelines rather than strict rules.

Always check the manufacturer’s recommended material thickness.

Bosch’s examples demonstrate why. Its S918BF is 14 TPI and recommended for 2–8mm material, while its S918AF is 24 TPI and recommended for 1–3mm material.

Why Does TPI Matter When Cutting Metal?

Imagine trying to cut a very thin piece of sheet metal with a blade designed for thick steel.

The large teeth can catch aggressively and make the cut difficult to control.

A finer tooth pattern gives you more teeth engaged with the material.

On the other hand, using an extremely fine blade on thick steel can make the cutting process unnecessarily slow.

That’s why the material thickness should guide your blade choice.

Bi-Metal vs Carbide Reciprocating Saw Blades

This is another area where beginners can become confused.

Bi-metal blades

Bi-metal blades are an excellent general-purpose option.

They offer:

Good durability
Flexibility
Relatively good value
Wide range of applications

For occasional DIY metal cutting, they’re often all you need.

Carbide blades

Carbide-tipped blades are designed for more demanding applications.

They can be particularly useful for:

Tough steel
Stainless steel
Cast iron
Heavy-duty metal cutting

They generally cost more than basic bi-metal blades.

Which should you buy?

For occasional DIY:

Start with bi-metal.

For regular heavy-duty metal cutting:

Consider carbide.

Best Reciprocating Saw Blade for Steel

For ordinary mild steel, a good-quality bi-metal blade is a sensible choice.

Choose the TPI and blade specification according to the thickness.

For example, Bosch’s S918BF is designed for regular-strength steel and material between 2mm and 8mm thick.

If you’re cutting a mixture of steel thicknesses, a progressive-tooth blade can be useful.

Best Reciprocating Saw Blade for Stainless Steel

Stainless steel can be harder on blades.

If you’re only making an occasional cut, a suitable quality bi-metal blade may be sufficient.

If you’re cutting stainless steel regularly, consider a specialist blade.

Bosch’s Expert range includes carbide blades designed for stainless-steel pipes and tough steel.

The important thing is to check that the blade specifically lists stainless steel as a suitable material.

Best Reciprocating Saw Blade for Aluminium

Aluminium is a non-ferrous metal and can be cut with an appropriate metal-cutting blade.

However, don’t choose a blade simply because it says “metal”.

Check that the manufacturer lists aluminium or non-ferrous metals among the intended applications.

Blade selection should also take the thickness of the aluminium into account.

Best Reciprocating Saw Blade for Copper Pipe

Copper pipe is another common DIY application.

A suitable fine-to-medium metal-cutting blade can work well.

However, the blade is only part of the job.

Before cutting copper pipe, make absolutely sure:

You know what the pipe carries.
The relevant supply has been isolated.
The pipe isn’t pressurised.
There aren’t cables or other services nearby.

If you’re unsure, stop before cutting.

Best Blade for Metal Pipe

Metal pipe is one of the areas where a reciprocating saw can be extremely useful.

The narrow blade can reach around pipes and into areas where larger cutting tools may be awkward.

For example, Bosch’s S123XF is specified for steel pipes and profiles from 1–8mm thick.

For thicker or tougher pipes, a specialist carbide blade may be more appropriate.

Best Blade for Cutting Bolts

If you’re using a reciprocating saw to cut bolts, choose a suitable metal-cutting blade.

A fine-to-medium tooth blade is generally more appropriate than a coarse wood blade.

This can be particularly useful during:

Demolition
Renovation
Vehicle repairs
Removing seized fixings
Dismantling old structures

Remember that the cut end of a bolt can be extremely sharp.

Best Blade for Metal With Nails

If you’re cutting wood that contains nails, don’t automatically buy a pure metal-cutting blade.

Instead, look for a wood-and-metal or demolition blade.

These are designed to deal with the combination of timber and metal.

This is particularly useful for:

Pallets
Old timber
Roof timbers
Demolition
Construction timber

Are Expensive Metal Reciprocating Saw Blades Worth It?

Sometimes. If you’re only cutting a couple of pieces of mild steel, you may not need an expensive specialist blade.

But if you’re regularly cutting:

Thick steel
Stainless steel
Cast iron
Heavy pipe
Tough metal

then a more advanced blade may offer better value.

The important thing is to match the blade to the job.

Don’t buy a £30 specialist blade for a job that a £10–£15 bi-metal blade can comfortably handle.

On the other hand, don’t expect a cheap general-purpose blade to perform like a specialist carbide blade when cutting tough steel.

How Many Metal Blades Should a DIY Beginner Buy?

You don’t need a huge collection.

I’d start with:

One general-purpose bi-metal blade

For ordinary steel and general metal work.

One finer-tooth blade

For thin sheet metal and lighter material.

One wood-and-metal/demolition blade

If you’re likely to cut timber containing nails.

You can then add specialist blades when a particular project requires them.

Should You Buy a Reciprocating Saw Metal Blade Set?

A set can be good value if it contains blades with different TPI and applications.

However, don’t be fooled by a large number of blades.

A 20-piece set isn’t necessarily better than a five-piece set if most of the blades aren’t useful for your projects.

Look for a selection covering:

Fine metal
General metal
Thicker metal
Wood and nails

Do Reciprocating Saw Blades Fit All Brands?

Many standard reciprocating saw blades use a 1/2-inch universal shank or S-shank fitting.

Bosch states that its S918BF, for example, fits all S-shank reciprocating saws.

However, you should still check compatibility before purchasing.

Also consider whether the blade’s:

Length
Thickness
Application
Cutting capacity

are suitable for your particular saw.

How Long Do Metal Reciprocating Saw Blades Last?

There’s no fixed lifespan.

Blade life depends on:

Type of metal
Thickness
Blade quality
Cutting technique
Saw speed
Pressure
Heat
Number of cuts

A blade cutting thin mild steel may last considerably longer than one being used on thick stainless steel.

Signs that a blade may need replacing include:

Cutting becomes noticeably slower
More pressure is required
Excessive heat
Increased vibration
Teeth appear damaged
The cut becomes difficult to control

Why Does My Metal Blade Get Hot?

Metal cutting naturally creates heat.

However, excessive heat can indicate a problem.

Possible causes include:

Wrong blade
Blunt blade
Too much pressure
Incorrect TPI
Cutting material that’s too thick
Poor technique

If the blade becomes excessively hot, stop and allow it to cool.

Don’t simply keep forcing it through the material.

How to Get the Best Results When Cutting Metal

1. Use the correct blade

This is the most important step.

2. Secure the material

Metal should not be allowed to move unexpectedly during cutting.

3. Use the correct TPI

Match the blade to the material thickness.

4. Don’t force the saw

Let the blade do the cutting.

5. Keep the shoe against the workpiece

This helps improve stability and control.

6. Avoid twisting the blade

Sideways pressure can damage the blade.

7. Replace worn blades

A fresh blade can make a dramatic difference.

Safety When Cutting Metal

Metal cutting requires appropriate PPE and care.

Before starting:

Wear suitable eye protection.
Wear appropriate protective equipment.
Secure the workpiece.
Check the blade is properly installed.
Keep hands away from the blade.
Keep other people away from the cutting area.
Be aware of sharp edges.
Allow hot metal to cool before handling it.
Disconnect the battery or power supply before changing blades.

Always follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions for the saw and blade.

Be Particularly Careful With Pipes

This deserves its own warning.

Never cut a pipe unless you know what it contains.

A pipe could carry:

Water
Heating water
Gas
Waste
Other substances

You also need to consider pipes that may be pressurised.

If you aren’t certain what a pipe is or what it carries, don’t cut it.

Reciprocating Saw vs Angle Grinder for Metal

Both tools can cut metal, but they’re very different.

Reciprocating Saw	Angle Grinder
Uses a reciprocating blade	Uses a rotating disc
Good for awkward access	Excellent for many exposed cuts
Useful for pipes	Useful for sheet and sections
No abrasive disc required	Can generate sparks
Useful for demolition	Can also grind and clean metal
Generally less spark-heavy	Often produces significant sparks

For demolition and awkward pipework, a reciprocating saw can be extremely convenient.

For workshop metal fabrication, an angle grinder may be more versatile.

Reciprocating Saw vs Hacksaw

Don’t overlook the humble hacksaw.

For a single small cut, a hacksaw can be perfectly adequate.

Hacksaw advantages

Cheap
Simple
No battery
Good control
Quiet

Reciprocating saw advantages

Much faster for repeated cuts
Less physical effort
Useful in awkward locations
Excellent for demolition

If you’re only cutting one small bolt, a hacksaw might be all you need.

If you’re dismantling an old metal structure, the reciprocating saw starts to make much more sense.

Metal Reciprocating Saw Blade Comparison

Blade Type	Best For	Typical TPI Direction	Material
Fine metal blade	Thin sheet	High	Thin steel
General bi-metal	General DIY	Medium	Mild steel
Progressive tooth	Mixed thickness	Variable	Steel/profiles
Heavy-duty bi-metal	Tougher work	Medium	Steel
Carbide	Tough steel	Specialist	Tough steel/stainless
Long metal blade	Deep cuts	Varies	Pipe/profiles

Don’t use this table as a substitute for the manufacturer’s specifications.

The stated material thickness for the specific blade should always take priority.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best reciprocating saw blade for metal?

For general DIY, a good-quality bi-metal blade is a sensible starting point. Choose the TPI and blade specification according to the type and thickness of metal.

What TPI is best for cutting metal?

Higher TPI blades are generally used for thinner metal, while lower TPI blades can be appropriate for thicker material. The manufacturer’s recommended thickness is more important than a generic TPI rule.

Can I use a wood blade to cut metal?

No. Use a blade specifically designed for metal.

Can a reciprocating saw cut steel?

Yes. A suitable metal-cutting blade can cut steel.

Can a reciprocating saw cut stainless steel?

Yes, but stainless steel can be demanding. Use a blade specifically rated for stainless steel where appropriate.

Can a reciprocating saw cut aluminium?

Yes. Use a blade that the manufacturer recommends for aluminium or non-ferrous metals.

Can a reciprocating saw cut copper pipe?

Yes, with an appropriate metal-cutting blade. Make sure the pipe is safe and isolated before cutting.

Are carbide reciprocating saw blades worth it?

They can be, particularly when cutting tough steel, stainless steel or cast iron. For occasional mild-steel DIY, a quality bi-metal blade will often be sufficient.

Are bi-metal reciprocating saw blades good?

Yes. Bi-metal blades are a very useful general-purpose choice for many metal-cutting applications.

How thick metal can a reciprocating saw cut?

It depends entirely on the saw and blade. Individual blades can have very different specifications. For example, Bosch’s S918BF is recommended for 2–8mm material, while its S1255CHC is specified for up to 12mm tough steel and cast iron.

Final Verdict

For most DIY beginners, I wouldn’t recommend buying the most expensive metal-cutting reciprocating saw blade available.

Instead, start with a good-quality bi-metal blade that matches the material you’re most likely to cut.

If you’re mainly cutting thin sheet metal, choose a finer blade.

If you’re cutting a mixture of thicknesses, a progressive-tooth blade can be useful.

If you’re regularly cutting tough steel or stainless steel, consider stepping up to a carbide-tipped blade.

Most importantly, match the blade to the material and its thickness.

A £10 blade that’s correctly matched to the job can outperform a much more expensive blade that’s being used incorrectly.