If you’ve ever witnessed a professional drywaller install 10-foot long panels on a ceiling by himself, you may think the task is easy. But that guy was talented. Even the smaller panels are heavy and unwieldy. Making cuts to drywall can be a challenge, too. Fortunately there are many tools that make the job easy. Here are the 6 best tools for cutting drywall according to the Pros. And be sure to check out our 6 methods for cutting drywall article as well.
It Cuts Like A Knife
1. The Razor Knife
The most commonly used tool for cutting drywall is the razor or utility knife. You score the panel, apply some pressure, and snap! You’ve got a new, clean edge. Ok, maybe you’ll need to practice a little.
2. The Keyhole Saw
If you’re sticking with hand tools, you’ll also need a keyhole saw. The tool has several names – keyhole saw, drywall saw, jab saw. Regardless of the name, it’s a long-bladed saw used for cutting small holes. It’s needed to rough out outlet boxes, HVAC vents, windows, and doors in the panel. For those bigger cuts, however, we suggest a power tool.
Plug It In, Crank It Up
3. The Reciprocating Saw
For those of us with an affinity for power tools, the always helpful reciprocating saw can make the rough out cuts. Just make sure you have the right blade accessory, like the one above from Milwaukee.
4. Oscillating Multi-Tool
The best oscillating multi-tools give you a ton of versatility in cutting materials. It gets the job done when other tools simply can’t. All major manufacturers make them and we’re sure you can find at least 6 projects to do with it right now. It makes plunge cutting drywall panels a breeze.
5. Spiral Saw or Rotary Saw
You’ll be tempted to write your name in the drywall with a spiral saw. The bit makes easy cuts in the drywall and it might be the best tool for the rough out job. Several products exist from Dremel, DeWalt, RotoZip, and others.
The Last of the 6 Best Tools For Cutting Drywall
6. The Track Saw With Dust Collection
This is undoubtedly a specialty tool that won’t be appropriate for everyone or every job. It’s worth considering for its accuracy, speed, and cleanliness. You’d use this if, for example, you needed to make a series of identical length cuts through multiple sheets of drywall. With the right blade, it could save you a lot of time. A traditional circular saw is a poor choice for cutting drywall because of the gypsum dust cloud created, but the dust collection feature of a track saw keeps the dust to a minimum and allows straight, accurate cuts with the guide. These haven’t gained widespread acceptance for drywall jobs quite yet, but some Pros say this method can save them a lot of time.
We hope you’ve gained some knowledge from the 6 best tools for cutting drywall. If you’re a Pro and you have drywall cutting tips, be sure to add them in the comments below.
