How We Research
Every guide on Raw Metal Edge starts with one question: will this tool handle the cut you need to make? For saws and multi-tools, that means the material, the space you're working in and the battery or cord you already have.
Here is how we answer it.
1. We start with the job
Cutting a cast iron drain pipe, trimming a door casing and removing bathroom grout call for very different tools. A heavy demolition saw is the wrong pick for a flush cut, and a small multi-tool won't get through a 4x4.
So we sort tools by the work first. When a job limits your choice, we say what to look for.
2. We compare specs and features
For reciprocating saws, we look at corded or cordless, voltage, brushless motor, stroke length, strokes per minute, orbital action, weight and whether it's a one-handed design.
For oscillating tools, we check oscillation angle, speed range, the blade mount and the accessories in the box. For every cordless tool, we note whether a battery and charger come with it.
Milwaukee, DeWalt, Makita and other makers describe their tools in their own words, so we name the brand behind each claim. We also note the warranty the maker lists.
3. We look at owner feedback
We read what owners report after using a tool on real projects. We look for patterns, like heavy vibration, blades that slip, batteries that run down fast or switches that fail.
One bad review doesn't sink a tool. A repeated complaint does.
4. We score each tool
Our score weighs specs, features and owner feedback against what you're shopping for. A tool that's great for one job may score lower in a guide about another.
Scores spread out on purpose. A 10 is rare.
5. We keep pages current
Tools get updated, renamed and sold in many kits. We check each model number and what's in the box, and we only link new tools, never renewed ones.
We skip unknown sellers with no track record and any tool with a known recall. When we update a guide, the "Updated on" date at the top changes with it.
What our picks are not
Our picks are research, not lab tests. We don't claim to have used every tool we cover.
Saws and multi-tools can kick back, bind or throw debris. Wear eye and hearing protection, use a dust mask for grout, tile and drywall, and check for wires and pipes before you cut into a wall.
Always follow the maker's manual. We label maker claims as the maker's claims.