I owned one of these for 2 years, putting it through some rigors, before it was stolen. The clamp is the weakest part of the tool. The plastic hex-key clamp on the cord does work ..... so long as you use it.pI just bought another to replace it. I know what this tool can do.....anything I want it too. pI've read poor reviews on re-cip saws with orbiting heads. This has none. I usually put the blades in upside down so the cord stays out of the way.pThe blades that come with a new saw are worthless. Make sure you buy separate blades when purchased new.

I must start of by saying I have a reason to be partial to my 3000V. I got it brand new at at one of those wholesale clubs for $33. No kidding. It must have been some kind of pricing error, but that's the price I got it for. The trigger sticks for some reason when it's cold (it isn't a fluke - the other two purchased at the same time do the same thing), but aside from that, it is a good value and cuts qutie well. The cheesy high carbon (or whatever pot-metal they are) metal-cutting blades it came with both shattered, but if you use bi-metal blades, this saw does everything you need. Also, this saw is very easy to use for any length of time because of a good couterbalance to counteract vibration.

If you've ever used a "Sawzall" or similar product, you know that the biggest drawback of any of these guys is vibration. These puppys just want to jump all over the place. Makita is famous for making vibrationless tools, and this is no exception. As soon as you pull the trigger, you'll notice how quiet this saw is. The biggest problem is the allen screw chuck, which is typical of all makes. There is now a keyless chuck model. I reccomend it. Still, unless you are changing blades alot, it's not a big deal. For remodeling. this tool is a must. Why force and split a 2x4 out of a frame when you can simply cut the nails and slide it out undamaged. Need to install a roof jack in a 2x6 TG roof? This saw will cut circles around any thing else (litteraly). I don't use this tool every day, but when I need it, nothing else will do.

I've owned this saw for two years now and I'm overall pleased with it. I've cut pipe, angle iron, rebar and auto bodies with mine, and of course the easy stuff like wood and light pruning. The saw is well balanced, fairly strong and well built. If I were to buy a recip saw today, I'd go for one with more power, say around 10 amps or so. Orbital cutting action would be nice as would an easier to use speed controller. The one on this saw is that screw in the trigger type that is rather differcult to adjust under its protective rubber boot. But once set, the speed stays fairly constant and will help increase blade life cutting metals. Many folks pass up these saws in favor of jig or circular types. But, if you remodel for a living, or just for your self, this type of saw is indespensible.

I use this saw for everything: demolition, metal, even tree branches! It will cut anything you put to the blade. It's easy to handle and use whether you're ripping out door jambs, galvanized piping, or tackling some hefty tree branches (using 12" 6 TPI blade). Very powerful.