Can a reciprocating saw cut through a concrete sleeper with rebar?

[markphillips100]

I've never used any circular saw or angle grinder, and I worry about the safety aspect of these tools.  I've used a reciprocating saw before so wondering if they can be used to cut a sleeper?

I know you can get metal cutting blades that will cut rebar, and cutting blades (carbide?) for concrete too, but can the latter also cut metal at the same time and be used to cut through a concrete sleeper with rebar?

Or is a demo saw something a DIYer can handle without formal instruction?

[Noyade]

Do you want a clean cut @markphillips100 ?

I have used a jack-hammer in the past with bolt cutters - but it is a poor amputation.

What size sleeper?

[JacobZ]

Hi @markphillips100,

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is fantastic to have you with us.

This Diablo 9" Diamond Grit Reciprocating Saw Blade is advertised as being able to cut through both cast iron and masonry, which to me says that it should be able to cut through a concrete sleeper, assuming you have a strong enough reciprocating saw. If you are comfortable with a reciprocating saw, I'd give this a try before looking at a demo saw. 

While you don't need formal instruction to learn, a demo saw is a pretty heavy-duty tool, so if you've never used a circular saw or angle grinder, I probably wouldn't start learning how to operate these kinds of tools with a demo saw.

With any cutting of concrete, there is an inherent risk of airborne concrete dust, so wetting down the blade and concrete while cutting to reduce airborne dust, as well as wearing an N95 or P2 mask or better. Additionally, wearing long protective clothing, enclosed shoes, gloves, hearing protection, and eye protection would be advisable.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

[markphillips100]

200mm x 75mm x 1600mm

[markphillips100]

Thanks. I'll take a look at that blade. I have a slab with rebar to break up so can give it a shot on that before making a mess of a sleeper

[markphillips100]

Can you point me at a "strong enough" recip saw?  I had an ozito 15 years ago before giving it away to a friend so was looking to get maybe this ozito .  Is this strong enough do you think?

[JacobZ]

Hi @markphillips100,

I would be taking an educated guess because I couldn't physically test it myself, but I'd say the fact that it is a corded reciprocating saw means it has a good chance of being powerful enough.

Otherwise, this Ryobi 1200W Reciprocating Saw RRS1200-S, which is 1200W, would be a bit more powerful and should be a good option for you.

Ultimately, if you wanted to be 100% confident, it would work; a demo saw would be the way to go, but considering you have something to practice on, the reciprocating saw is worth a try.

Jacob

[markphillips100]

@JacobZ thank you. I just spotted that ryobi and it peaked my interest.

[Noyade]

"200mm x 75mm"

I for one would like to see photos of the 'final cut' @markphillips100 .

I never thought a reciprocating blade would work - but that Diablo blade looks interesting.

I'd also be keen to learn the time it took to cut.

Keep us posted.

Cheers!

[markphillips100]

Be a few weeks away but will update post when I give it a shot