An outer peripheral surface of a cam has an apex disposed of distance from a rotational axis, a first region adjacent the apex opposite to the direction of rotation that increases in distance from the rotational axis during rotation, and a second region adjacent the apex in the rotational direction that decreases in distance from the rotational axis of the cam with the rotation thereof. The apex is disposed where the phase .theta. thereof advances by 15 degrees and 55 degrees or less in the rotational direction from a position symmetrical to the rotational axis. The rate of change between the second region and the rotational axis is greater than the rate of change between the first region and the rotational axis. A retreat amount X when a saw blade reaches an uppermost point c from a foremost point is set to 0.8 mm.
A reciprocating saw includes a carrier operable to cooperate with a motor to translate rotational movement of the motor into reciprocal linear actuation of a saw blade. A carrier is slidably disposed within the housing and includes a first portion adapted to receive a saw blade and a second portion having a slot therethrough. A rotatable element is fixed for rotation about an output shaft of the motor. A follower operably interconnects the carrier and the rotatable element wherein rotation of the rotatable element provides reciprocal linear motion of the carrier whereby the follower follows a reciprocal linear path within the slot.
