Kobalt 24-Volt Max Variable Speed Cordless Reciprocating Saw Review 

Kobalt 24-Volt Max Variable Speed Cordless Reciprocating Saw Product Image

Editor Rating: 4.7/5

Excellent

Kobalt 24-Volt Max Variable Speed Cordless Reciprocating Saw Review

Reviewed by: Timothy Henderson

Published on: February 28, 2019

Last modified:

February 28, 2019 @ 5:09 pm

 

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

KRS 1824B-03 Review Summary:

In 2016, Kobalt has launched their new series of brushless powertools and combo kits. Their purpose was to provide both DIYersand contractors with tools they can rely on. Well, perhaps not all of their new tools are suitable for professional use, but the reciprocating saw sure is.

There aren’t that many brushless reciprocating saws out there, so it could be said that Kobalt has a significant advantage. A brushless motor is always great to see. Even though it adds to the overall price, it maximizes performance and increases the lifespan of a tool.

Somehow, Kobalt has managed to sell them at a budget-friendly price, and they seem to have been receiving good feedback. When you take all that into account, and add the 5-year warranty, you could say that this reciprocating saw is one of the forerunners on the market.

Drawbacks are next to none. The lack of a battery is a bit disappointing, but perhaps it wouldn’t be fair to complain considering it’s a brushless tool that comes at a reasonable price.

KRS 1824B-03 Specifications:

  • Weight -7.25 lbs
  • Dimensions -17.8″ x 7.3″ x 3.9″
  • Power source -Li-Ion Battery (not included)
  • Strokes/minute -3100 SPM (no load)
  • Voltage -24V

Kobalt 24-Volt Max Variable Speed Cordless Reciprocating Saw – The Basics


The reciprocating saw is capable of delivering 3100 SPM with a 1-1/8″ stroke. It comes with an adjustable shoe as well. But, what catches the attention of most is the quick-release lever that enables you to switch blades easily. However, there is no auto-eject.

Nevertheless, no extra tools are required to remove the blade, and that’s a significant advantage. It is apt for a variety of jobs as it can saw through PVC, metal, nails, softwood, and hardwood with ease. There’s little doubt this tool is great for both DIY and professional use.

The brushless motor ensures longer runtime, as well as overall durability of the tool. It also packs more power. The variable speed trigger is an excellent feature as it allows for better control and accuracy.

There are a couple of conveniences included in the package as well. The LED light is one of them -it truly comes in handy in dimly lit spaces. There are no anti-vibration features as there is no need for any -the brushless motor keeps vibrations to a minimum.

Batteries are not included in the package, unfortunately, but they are well worth the purchase as they are durable and powerful. All of Kobalt’s 24-volt Max batteries are suitable for this unit.

Kobalt KRS 1824B-03 Features


Power


The revamped Kobalt 24V reciprocating saw is powered by brushless technology. The brushless motor ensures longer time and increases performance. It does add to the price, but if you are looking to use the tool for a while, brushless is the way to go.

The unit operates at brisk 3100 SPM, which is a bit more faster than the majority of other cordless tools on the market as the SPMs typically go up to 3000. It comes with a stroke length of 1-1/8″ which ought to be enough for any task at hand.

Whether you are making vertical or horizontal cuts – you can be sure they’ll be smooth and quick. The saw tears through nails and studs with ease. Metal, PVC, softwood, hardwood -none are a problem for this unit.

The battery is not included, but is indeed worth the purchase as it can handle temperatures from -4 to 140-degrees Fahrenheit. They can hold a charge three and a half times more than their 18V predecessors and deliver 50% more power.

Design


There is also a useful lever that allows the user to operate the adjustable shoe. Blades switches are tool-free, which is a great thing on its own, but it also extends the life of your blades. At the front of the saw, you can find a built-in LED light that comes in handy in dimly lit spaces and helps you achieve the desired accuracy.

The tool is quite robust. Kobalt made sure the tool will be of service to the user for quite a while, and it won’t break open if dropped and hit hard. They conducted a lot of impact and weather testing under load.

Some vibration can be felt when the tool is in use, but not nearly as much as on its predecessors. There is no anti-vibration handle or anything of the sorts -the lack of vibration is due to the brushless motor.

Not to forget the variable speed trigger. It comes with a manual trigger lock as well. The feature helps the user achieve maximum control and accuracy.

Warranty


Each of the tools from the 24-volt Max series is thoroughly tried and tested by Kobalt. You are guaranteed to be getting a product that’ll serve you for years to come. Kobalt is so sure of that that they offer a 5-year limited warranty on each product from the series, and this reciprocating saw is no different.

Kobalt 24-Volt Max Variable Speed Cordless Reciprocating Saw close view

Pros:

N

Durable

N

3100 SPM

N

Brushless Motor

N

Low Vibration

N

LED Light

N

Robust

N

Easy Blade Switches

Cons:

N

LED Light Trigger – Activated

N

No Battery

R

Things we liked about it

The brushless motor leaves a great impression as it is a big part of what makes this tool so powerful and durable. It saws through anything like a knife goes through hot butter. You can be sure this tool will serve you for more than five years the warranty covers.

Q

Things we didn’t like

The LED light is only trigger activated, which is a bit inconvenient for a feature that’s supposed to be all about convenience. There is no battery in the package as well.

General User Impressions Of  The KRS 1824B-03


An impressive tool that will be a great addition to your collection, be you a hobbyist or a contractor. It’s packing a lot of power and is very user-friendly tool. Once you get it, you can rely on it for years to come.

Conclusion


The KRS 1824B-03 is a solid reciprocating saw that cuts fast and brings vibrations to a minimum, ensuring comfort even when used over a prolonged period. It comes at a fair price considering how well it is built. Not to forget the inclusion of a brushless motor -it makes all the difference.

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