2018 - Volume #42, Issue #6, Page #14
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New Bosch Reciprocating Saw
The cordless Bosch 18-volt compact reciprocating saw (model GSA18V-083B) is just 17 in. long with the battery in place. The motor sits ahead of the pistol grip with its switch lock just above the trigger. The saw is nicely balanced for extended use. At just under 6 lbs., it is easily handled overhead or extended away from the body.
The motor-to-weight ratio is best in class. The high-density core, 18-volt 6.3 AH battery gives the brushless motor a real punch and extended run time. It has a much longer run time, more power and better heat transfer than previous Bosch batteries.
Once depleted, the BC1800 Fast Charger does its job in less than an hour with the 6 AH battery. Lower amp/hour batteries are faster.
Top end no-load speed on the motor is 3,050 strokes per min. with each stroke a bit over 3/4 in. The variable speed trigger lets you move into the cut smoothly or pick up again in the middle of a plunge cut.
FARM SHOW put the saw through its paces in demolition and it sawed through wood and nails with ease. It sliced through 1/8-in. wall steel pipe and notched a 1/4-in. channel iron easily. It cut everything else like a knife through butter, whether oak, pvc pipe or OSB boards. Even thin flashing cut easily when sandwiched between plywood.
The combination of light weight, short length and variable speed is great. Nice touches include the LED work light and the battery gauge.
Two features really stood out with the saw. One was the ease with which we did a plunge cut into a 1-in. pine board, no pilot hole needed. Just lay the saw parallel to the board, bring it to full speed and tip into the board. It sliced through in seconds.
The other was the ease of changing blades. Just turn the blade holder ring and slip the blade in or out. Release the spring-loaded ring, and it snugs up a new blade fast.
At $119 it’s a good buy, one that will do much of what is needed in quick repairs around the farm. The lithium ion battery is sold separately. Tylertool.com offers 2 batteries and a charger for $97.99. Bosch offers an expanding range of 18-volt tools.
Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Bosch Power Tools, 1800 W. Central Rd., Mt. Prospect, Ill. 60056 (ph 877 267-2499; www.boschtools.com).
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