Compact reciprocating saws are often viewed as specialty toolsโgreat for tight spaces or a handful of trade applications, but rarely expected to deliver serious cutting performance. Bosch is looking to challenge that assumption with the GSA18V-24N 18V Compact Reciprocating Saw, designed to bridge the gap between convenience and capability.
I spent some time putting this saw through a range of real-world cutting tasks to see whether it lives up to Boschโs reputation for thoughtful engineering and jobsite-ready performance. So how did it do? Letโs find out!
Bosch 18V Compact Reciprocating Saw Performance
- No-load Speed: 3,100 SPM
- Stroke Length: 0.94 in.
- Motor Type: Brushless
Making the Cut
The GSA18V-24N is powered by a brushless motor that generates up to 3,100 SPM with a stroke length of 0.94 inches. While these numbers donโt meet those of its full-sized counterpart (nor do we expect them to), the GSA18V-126, they are impressive in their own right as a compact reciprocating saw.
To get an idea of the true power of this saw, I set up a few tests designed to represent the best applications for this type of saw. This included making cuts in 2-inch schedule 40 PVC, 2ร4 pine studs, 1-inch EMT, and #5 rebar.
Surprisingly, this saw powered through each of these tests with impressive confidence and speed. For perspective, the only reason I use the word โsurprisinglyโ is because saws in this class are typically underwhelming when it comes to cutting speed compared to the full-size flagship models.
However, due to the GSA18V-24Nโs impressive stroke length and SPM, it powered through our tests with ease, so weโre obliged to tip our caps to the product team!
With that in mind, I wanted to kick things up a notch and borrowed a test from our recent reciprocating saw showdownโthe clean wood cut. I set up a standard yellow pine 2ร12 and made a series of three cuts, averaging the results to see how it compared to the full size model.
On average, the GSA18V-24N completed the cuts in 16 seconds, only 6.5 seconds slower than the GSA18V-126. That is impressive! Admittedly, cuts like that are beyond the scope of this toolโs typical applications, but it just goes to show that Bosch is putting some real thought into the design of this saw.
Bosch 18V Compact Reciprocating Saw Design Notes
- Model: Bosch GSA18V-24N
- Power Source: Bosch 18V battery
- Weight: 3.8 lbs (bare tool), 4.9 lbs (with recommended 4.0Ah battery)
- Tool Length: 13.3 in.
Ergonomics
The overall feel of this saw is very consistent with what weโve experienced with other Bosch 18V tools. The grip and motor housing are draped in a generous amount of rubber overmolding, and the grip size is slightly larger than average. Personally, I donโt mind it, but the grip may feel big if your hands are on the smaller side.
Although itโs designed for one-handed use, it also has enough meatย toย use two hands to control it comfortably with your guide hand above or below the housing. The controls are in the right place and easily reached by the thumb and index finger.
Pivoting Shoe
Looking towards the business end, Bosch equipped this saw with a pivoting shoe. This is a bit atypical for one-handed reciprocating saws, but itโs a welcome improvement over the previous model.
While it is a small detail, the pivoting shoe helps reduce vibration by allowing the saw to maintain contact with the material, especially on longer cuts or round stock.
Additional Features
- LED Work Light: Illuminates dark workspaces for more accurate cuts
- Tool Free Blade Changes: Quickly swap worn out blades with the twist of a dial
- Tether Ready: Easily attach this saw to your work belt when working at height
- Compatible with all Bosch 18V Batteries: Stay powered up no matter what the job throws at you
Quick Model Comparison
Hereโs a quick look at how the Bosch GSA18V-24N compares to the previous model and other Pro-grade models on the market.
| Bosch GSA18V-24N (New) | Bosch GSA18V-083B (Old) | Milwaukee 2719 | Metabo HPT CR18DAQ4 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| No-Load Speed | 3,100 SPM | 3,050 SPM | 3,000 SPM | 3,200 SPM |
| Stroke Length | 0.94 in. | 0.83 in. | 7/8 in. | 1/2 in. |
| Battery Voltage | 18V | 18V | 18V | 18V |
| Motor Type | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless |
| Working Weight | 4.9 lbs | 5.25 lbs | 5 lbs | 3.56 lbs |
| Bare Tool Price | $179 | $149 | $199 | $149 |
As you can see, the GSA18V-24N is right in the middle in terms of speed, but leads the pack for stroke length. This combination allowed this saw to power through our testing materials with ease, proving itself as a true workhorse.
Bosch 18V Compact Reciprocating Saw Price
The Bosch GSA18V-24N retails for $179 as a bare tool and comes with a 5-year limited warranty. At the time of writing, this saw is not available as a kit, which isnโt too surprising given that this type of saw typically serves as an add-on once youโre on the platform.
Regardless, Bosch recommends using a 4.0Ah battery for the best balance of weight and power, but you could opt for a smaller 2.0Ah pack if you want to shave off a little weight when you donโt have as much cutting to do.
The Bottom Line
After putting the Bosch GSA18V-24N through a wide range of materials and applications, itโs clear this compact reciprocating saw is more than just a space-saving option. The combination of a long stroke length, competitive SPM, and well-balanced ergonomics allows it to punch well above its weightโespecially for a one-handed design.
While it wonโt replace a full-size reciprocating saw for heavy demo work, the GSA18V-24N proves itself as a capable, versatile workhorse for plumbers, electricians, HVAC techs, and anyone who frequently works in confined spaces. If youโre on the hunt for a high-performance compact reciprocating saw thatโs genuinely built for the jobsite, this one deserves a serious look.
