Yes, reciprocating saw blades are completely universal. Every modern cordless and corded reciprocating saw from Makita, DeWalt, Milwaukee, Bosch, Ryobi, and others uses the same 1/2″ universal shank. A blade made by any brand fits any saw. The only exception is very old pin-type saws from before 2010, which are now obsolete.
Universal Shank Explained
The shank is the metal part that mounts in the saw’s chuck. All modern reciprocating saws use a standardised 1/2″ universal shank that was adopted across the entire industry. This means:
- A Milwaukee blade fits a DeWalt saw
- A Makita blade fits a Bosch saw
- A budget blade fits a professional-grade saw
- A blade from 2015 fits a saw made in 2026
There’s no compatibility concern. You buy based on blade length, tooth count, and material â not brand loyalty.
Brand Compatibility Matrix
| Brand | Model Example | Shank Type | Universal? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Makita | DJR186Z, DJR187Z | 1/2″ universal | Yes |
| DeWalt | DCS380N, DCS367N | 1/2″ universal | Yes |
| Milwaukee | M18 FSZ (FUEL SAWZALL) | 1/2″ universal | Yes |
| Bosch | GSA 18V-LI | 1/2″ universal | Yes |
| Ryobi | RRS1801M | 1/2″ universal | Yes |
| Very old models | Corded saws pre-2010 | Pin-type (rare) | No â limited availability |
If your saw was made after 2010, it uses 1/2″ universal shank. If it’s older, check the manual â but pin-type saws are now obsolete and blade supply has dried up.
What About Older Pin-Type Saws?
Before 2010, some reciprocating saws used a pin-type shank where the blade had two small pins at the base that inserted into holes on the saw’s clamp. This is completely different from modern universal shanks and is no longer manufactured.
If you own a corded reciprocating saw from the 1990s or early 2000s and it’s pin-type, blade supply is very limited. Specialist suppliers might have stock, but most retailers have stopped making them. Upgrading to a modern cordless model is often more practical.
How to Check Your Saw’s Shank Type
Method 1: Look at the chuck
- Universal shank: Chuck has a flat slot for the blade’s flat shank
- Pin-type: Chuck has two holes for pins
Method 2: Try a blade
- Attempt to insert a universal shank blade
- If it slides in and locks, you have universal shank
- If it doesn’t fit, you have pin-type
Method 3: Check the manual
- The manual will specify shank type in the accessories section
Why Is Reciprocating Saw Compatibility So Simple?
Unlike circular saw blades (which vary by diameter and bore), reciprocating saw blades only need to fit in the chuck. The shank standardisation happened early and stuck. This makes reciprocating saws the easiest tool attachment to buy for across brands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a Makita blade in a DeWalt reciprocating saw?
Yes. If both use 1/2″ universal shank (which all modern saws do), they’re completely interchangeable.
Is there any compatibility issue between brands?
No. Buy whichever blade is available, sharp, and good value. Brand doesn’t matter for reciprocating saws.
What if I own a very old pin-type reciprocating saw?
You’re limited to specialist suppliers for blades â mainstream retailers have stopped stocking pin-type. If you use the saw frequently, upgrading to a modern cordless model is more practical.
How do I know if my saw uses universal shank?
If it was made after 2010, it’s almost certainly universal shank. Check the manual if it’s older.