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You’ve probably watched a drywaller cut panels of wallboard, and you thought cutting through drywall is an easy task. If you are into DIY projects, then you know that cutting drywall is not as easy as it looks.
A drywall is also known as a wallboard or gypsum board. It is made of calcined gypsum cast between two different layers of paper or thick sheets. The smooth and strong side of the paper is the face, the other side, which is rougher is the back.
Cutting through drywall requires some amount of skill and the right cutting tool. There are many ways to cut drywall, and each of these ways require their tool; these tools make the job easier and less stressful.
For your other woodwork projects, also see:
Best Cordless Reciprocating Saw
How To Cut A Drywall
If you don’t want to mess up your wall when cutting through it, you need to have basic knowledge on how to cut drywall. Some of the steps to follow to cut a drywall properly is listed below:
- Mark the area you want to make the cut and measure it with a measuring tape. It is advisable to use whole drywall sheets when remodelling
- Run your cutting tool along the marked area to cut through the paper and into the gypsum core
- Stand the drywall and apply pressure on it to break the core completely. If the core does not break completely, apply more pressure to the unbroken areas
- Use a drywall rasp to smoothen the uneven bumps. If the bumps are large, use a knife to cut out the large pieces before filing it down
- Repeat the steps to cut at the other side of the drywall
For making a hole in the drywall, follow the following steps:
- Measure and mark the size of the hole. You could use a pencil to draw out the hole
- Use the cutting tool to cut along the marked area
- Gently tap the hole with a hammer to remove the cut part. Tap at the middle of the hole
- Use a rasp to file the edges of the hole
Types Of Drywall Cutting Tool
- Utility Knife: A utility knife is a simple tool known by many. It is safe, easy to handle and cheap. It is the most reliable method of cutting drywall for both skilled drywallers and homeowners.
- Jab Saw: This is also a manual tool and a more preferred option. The jab saw is not accurate, so it requires a high level of skill. They are very accessible, affordable and be purchased at any local store.
- Reciprocating Saw: A reciprocating saw is a power tool that is effective and precise. Because this is a power tool, various safety hazards could happen, it is advisable to utilize the tool and follow safety precautions carefully.
- Oscillating Tool: The oscillating tool can be used for cutting as well as sanding. It is a very versatile power tool and has a powerful motor that makes precise cuts.
- Rotary Cutting Tool: The rotary tool looks just like the oscillating tool, but they work differently. It works in a rotational motion while the oscillating tool works with a back and forth motion.
- Drywall Wasp: This is a very important tool; it is used to smoothen out the edges of the cut part of the drywall. It straightens out the edges of the cut drywall and can reduce the size to make it fit properly.
Choosing the right cutting tool for your drywall amongst the numerous choices on the market can be a difficult decision. Fortunately, in this review, we have provided you with some of the qualities to look out for when purchasing a drywall cutting tool.
How To Choose The Best Drywall Cutting Tool
Below are some of the features to look out for when buying a cutting tool for your drywall
Precision
When it comes to cutting drywall, accurate cutting and high performance are very essential. It’s important to get a cutting tool that can make precise cuts at the marked areas of the drywall.
Comfortable Handle
If you are going to be working with the tool for long hours, it’s important to get a tool that is easy and convenient to hold. Look out for those that have cushions or rubber around the handles.
Lightweight
The weight of the tool is a very important feature. To prevent hand strains or fatigue, you should get a cutting tool that is light in weight. This improves your comfort when using the product.
Durability
A cutting tool should be strong enough to work under different conditions and for longer hours. Buy a cutting tool that is solid and can be used for other projects.
Drywall Cutting Safety Tips
Safety comes first, especially when working with cutting tools. Follow the safety tips below to protect you from mishaps or injury.
- Clean out your work area before you start
- Wear protective goggles or safety glasses to protect your eyes from dust
- Wear protective shoes and clothes
- Cover your nose and mouth with a nose mask or respiratory system to prevent dust from getting into your respiratory tract
- Use special handles to lift heavy drywall
- Don’t lift the drywall over your head
- Get someone to assist you when lifting heavy drywall
- Use vacuums to remove dust
With an understanding of how hard it can be to get high quality cutting tools; we have researched and have provided you with a list of the nine best tools for cutting up drywall. This review would improve your knowledge on the different drywall cutting tools on the market. It also includes answers to some frequently asked questions.
The 9 Best Tools For Cutting Drywall Are Reviewed Below
Below is a comprehensive review of the ten best tools for cutting drywall on the market, along with their key features and specification.
1
Dewalt Fixed Blade Utility Knife
Utility knives are the go-to tool when it comes to cutting up drywall. Our top pick is the Dewalt Fixed Blade Utility Knife. This handy knife is built with a soft grip and rubber thumb pad that makes it comfortable to hold. It features 13 replacement blades, 5 in the knife handle and 10 extra packs.
This utility knife offers you wide control when cutting your drywall. It is sharp enough to pierce through the drywall with little effort required from the user. Its ergonomic and soft handle makes it convenient to grip without leaving bruises in your palm. Its blade does not retract into its handle but remains intact to ensure optimum safety when cutting.
This Dewalt Fixed Blade Utility Knife is a very reliable cutting tool that cuts through the drywall with precision and maximum accuracy. Changing or replacing its blade is a very easy task because it features easy-change blade access. It also features a large thumb dial which makes it easy to open up the knife without using a screwdriver.
Key Features:
- 15 Replacement blades
- 10-Pack Carbide replacement blades
- Easy-Change blade access
- Large Thumb Dial
- Rubber thumb pad
Specification:
- Brand: Dewalt
- Model: Dewalt Fixed Blade Utility Knife
- Dimension: 9.21 x 4.61 x 1.1 inches
- Weight: 9.1 ounces
- Material: Aluminum
- Color: Silver
Pros
- It is very easy to handle
- It features an easy-change system that allows for easy blade replacement
- Its large thumb dial makes it easy to open up the knife
- Comes with 15 replacement blades
- It has rubber handles making it very comfortable to grip
- Its blades are very sharp
Cons
- It is expensive
- User’s manual may be difficult to understand
2
Fastback II Flip Utility Knife
The Fastback II Flip Utility Knife is the ideal utility knife for both professionals and non-professionals. It is made up of durable metal and features a tool-free blade change that makes it very easy to change its blade. It also comes with a wire stripper and about 10 gauge wires to improve its efficiency and ensure precise cuts.
This high-quality utility knife works with a press, and flip mode of operation that allows you to open the bade easily. Its handle is thick and designed for optimum comfort and convenience even when it is gripped hard. It features magnetic blade storage that safely holds one lade and conveniently folds into the body of the knife.
Its all-metal body improves its durability and ensures it lasts long. It also features a gut hook that allows the user to cut the drywall without damaging or opening up the blade. Changing its blade is quite easy with its tool-free changing mechanism. It is lightweight, easy to use and has strong blades for easy scoring.
Key Features:
- All-metal body
- Tool-free blade change
- Gut hook
- Wire stripper
- 10 gauge wires
- Wire form belt clip
- Press and flip
Specification:
- Brand: Milwaukee
- Model: Fastback II Flip Utility Knife
- Dimension: 11.54 x 4.92 x 1.18 inches
- Weight: 2.82 ounces
- Material: Metal
- Color: Red
Pros
- It is affordable
- It is lightweight
- It produces straight and precise cuts
- It can be used by professionals and unprofessional
- Its blade is easy to change
- Its ergonomic design makes it easy to handle
- It doesn’t produce noise or dust
Cons
- It comes with one replacement blade
- It doesn’t work well with delicate drywalls
3
Stanley 20-556 6-Inch FatMax Jab Saw
The Stanley 20-556 6-Inch FatMax Jab Saw is a very effective drywall cutting tool that features a sharp tooth technology. It cuts two times faster than other saws and saves time and energy. Its handle is thick, rounded and designed to fit perfectly into the user’s palms. This handle is ergonomically designed to allow maximum comfort when using the tool, and it stops it from spilling.
Its blade is 6 inches long and is sharp enough to produce smooth and precise cuts. The teeth of this FatMax Jab Saw is induction-hardened, allowing it to remain sharp and about five times longer than other saws. It scores drywall easily with its sharpened tip. It is durable and can be used over and over again.
This jab saw can be used by professionals and homeowners, and its lightweight makes it easy to handle for long hours. It can be used on both delicate and strong drywall material without causing damage to it. It cuts smoothly and fast with push and pull strokes.
Key Features:
- Sharp Tooth technology
- 6-inch blade
- Induction-hardened teeth
- Sharpened tip
- Ergonomic, grip-resistant handle
Specification:
- Brand: Stanley
- Model: Stanley 20-556 6-Inch FatMax Jab Saw
- Dimension: 3 x 3 x 1 inches
- Weight: 4.9 ounces
- Blade Length: 6 inches
- Color: Black
Pros
- It is durable
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- It has a comfortable slip-free handle
- It is ideal for DIYers
- It is pocket-friendly
- It doesn’t bend easily
- The blade is thicker than the standard blade
Cons
- It does not produce precise cutting
- An extra tool is needed to make a starting hole
4
DEWALT (DW660) Rotary Saw
The DEWALT DW660 Rotary Saw is a power tool that works with a powerful 5 amp motor. It has a motor that produces about 30000 rotations per minute which is enough to produce smooth and precise cuts. It is corded, which means it has to be plugged to a power outlet before it can function.
It is designed to be compact and lightweight; it is easy to handle with just one hand for long hours. It is built with durable material that makes it suitable to work under various conditions. It features a drywall cutting bit and two collets of sizes ¼ inch and 1/8 inch respectively. It features a turn on or bump-off switch that allows the user to switch the machine off and on with ease. It is ergonomically designed and easy to handle.
This rotary cutting tool is the ideal tool for making precise holes and cuts in the drywall. It has an adjustable depth control, and a dust-sealed switch to protect the machine from dust. It can be used for many different cutting projects.
Key Features:
- 1 drywall cutting bit
- ¼ and 1/8 collets
- Turn on or Bump off switch
- 5 amp motor
- 30000 rotations per minute
- Dust sealed switch
- 1-year warranty
Specification:
- Brand: DEWALT
- Model: DEWALT DW660 Rotary Saw
- Dimension: 11.5 x 5.62 x 3.5 inches
- Weight: 3.5 pounds
- Power Source: Corded-Electric
- Color: Yellow
- Voltage: 120 volts
Pros
- It is easy to use
- It has a powerful motor
- It features an adjustable depth guide
- It provides smooth and precise circular cutting
- Made of durable material
- It is compact and lightweight
- It is ergonomically designed
Cons
- Unprofessionlals may find it difficult to use
- Chuck mechanism breaks down easily
5
Makita 3706 Drywall Spiral Saw
The Makita 3706 Drywall Spiral Saw is a corded power tool that runs on a powerful 5 Amp motor that produces enough power to cut into drywall and other materials smoothly. Its cord is about 10 ft long, and it offers freedom of movement when in use. It has a lightweight and compact design; this design makes it easy to handle the machine for long hours without pain or hand fatigue.
This rotary cut out tool produces 32000 rotations per minute and can cut into your drywall material at high speed, ensuring you save time and effort when cutting. It also features a two-way slide and bump on/off switch that makes it easy to turn the machine on and off. It comes with two pieces of drywall cutting bit and two collets of sizes ¼ inch and 1/8 inch.
The Makita 3706 spiral saw is ergonomically designed and built to fit perfectly into the palm of the user for easy handling. Its depth can be adjusted with its tool-less depth adjustment dial giving the user control over the depth of the cut. Its switch is sealed to protect it from dust and to preserve its longevity.
Key Features:
- 5 Amp motor
- 32000 rotations per minute
- 2-way “slide and bump” on/off switch
- Tool-less depth adjustment
Specification:
- Brand: Makita
- Model: Makita 3706 Drywall Spiral Saw
- Dimension: 2 x 2 x 10 inches
- Weight: 1 pound
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Color: Teal
- Voltage: 127 volts
Pros
- It has a powerful motor
- It is lightweight and compact
- Its depth can be adjusted by the user
- It comes with a long cord
- Produces high RPM
- It operates fast
- Produces smooth cuts
- It is handy and easy to use
Cons
- It is expensive
- Can be noisy
6
Milwaukee 2627-20 M18 Cordless Cut Out Tool
The Milwaukee 2627-20 Cut Out Tool is a rotary cut out tool that works on a 4-pole 18-volt motor. It produces enough power to offer smooth and precise cuts. It produces 28000 rotations per minute, allowing it to operate at high speed. It is ideal for both heavy-duty and DIY projects and can be used for many other projects.
This cordless cutout tool has overload protection that protects the machine and ensures its longevity. It works with a Lithium-ion 3.0Ah battery that charges fast and can work for hours after a single charge. It is easy to use and handy. It is designed to provide maximum comfort and convenience when gripping it.
It is lightweight and can be used for hours without getting hand strains or fatigue. It features a depth adjustment dial that allows the user to control the depth of each cut. It also features a top vent that blows dust out of your workspace. It offers incredibly smooth and precise cuts.
Key Features:
- 4-pole motor
- Overload protection
- 18V Lithium-ion battery
- 3.0Ah battery
- 28000 rotations per minute
- 5 years warranty
Specification:
- Brand: Milwaukee
- Model: Milwaukee 2627-20 M18 Cordless Cut Out Tool
- Dimension: 3.8 x 10.8 x 4.5 inches
- Weight: 1.85 pounds
- Power Source: Cordless
- Color: Red
Pros
- Easy to use
- It works at a high speed
- It is lightweight and handy
- Battery charges fast and last long
- It comes with several accessories
- Ideal for both professional and unprofessional use
- It has a top vent that clears dust
- Its cutting depth can be adjusted
Cons
- Comes with only one battery
- Its depth is difficult to adjust
7
DEWALT DWE315K Oscillating Tool Kit
The DEWALT DWE315K is an oscillating drywall cutting tool that operates on a powerful 3 Amp motor which provides high performance. It serves a dual-purpose of cutting and sawing the drywall. It cuts smoothly and provides oscillations ranging from 0 – 22000 oscillations per minute.
This particular model comes with a 29-piece Dewalt accessory kit that consists of a storage bag, the cutting tool and attachments for cutting and sanding. It features a quick-change accessory system that allows the user to change its blade and other accessories fast and without wrenches or other tools. It works at a speed that can be adjusted with its dual-grip variable speed trigger.
This DEWALT oscillating drywall cutting tool also features LED lights that brighten dark work areas and enhance visibility. It gives you control over the cutting depth of the tool; it is also lightweight and compact. It cuts with maximum precision and then smoothens the edges of your drywall.
Key Features:
- Quick-change accessory system
- 3 Amp motor
- 0 – 22000 oscillations per minute
- Dual-grip variable speed trigger
Specification:
- Brand: DEWALT
- Model: DEWALT DWE315K Oscillating Tool Kit
- Dimension: 17.25 x 5 x 9.75 inches
- Weight: 12 ounces
- Power Source: Corded-electric
- Color: Yellow
Pros
- It is easy to use
- Comes with LED lights
- Its speed and height can be adjusted
- It offers precise cutting and sanding
- Has a powerful 3 Amp Motor
Cons
- Operates noisily
8
DEWALT (DWE305) Reciprocating Saw
The DEWALT reciprocating saw is powered by a 12-amp motor that produces a range of 0 – 2900 strokes per minute. It cuts at a stroke length ranging from 1 to 1/8 inches. It features a variable speed trigger that allows the user to adjust its speed to suit their needs.
It is made with durable materials and can be used for heavy-duty projects. It also features a 4-position blade clamp that allows for precise and flush cutting. This model has comfortable handles for ease and convenience.
This DEWALT DWE305 reciprocating saw is 17.5 inches long, and it cuts with maximum precision. It features a keyless lever-action blade clamp that allows for blade changes in four directions to improve its performance and versatility.
Key Features:
- 12 amp motor
- 0 – 2900 strokes
- 4-position blade clamp
- 17.5 inches blade length
- 1 – 1/8 inch stroke length
Specification:
- Brand: DEWALT
- Model: DEWALT (DWE305) Reciprocating Saw
- Dimension: 19.25 x 9.38 x 4 inches
- Weight: 8.1 pounds
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Color: Yellow
Pros
- It is ideal for heavy-duty projects
- Easy to use
- Works with a powerful motor
- It has a speed control dial
- It has a 4-position blade clamp
- It can cut through tough material
Cons
- It produces a lot of noise and vibrations
- Drywall blade has to be gotten separately
9
Makita 5007F Circular Saw
A circular saw is a power tool that cuts with a toothed blade or abrasive discs that spin around in a rotary motion. This Makita 5007F circular saw is powered by a 15 Amp motor and cuts at 5800 rotations per minute. It is a durable drywall cutting tool built with a heavy gauge aluminium wraparound base. It cuts at a length of 3/8 to 2 inches when cutting at 45 degrees and ¾ to 1 inch when cutting at 90 degrees.
This heavy-duty saw comes with a built-in dust blower that keeps your workspace dust-free. It cuts with maximum precision and has large, easy-to-read markings on depth and bevel scales. It comes with an AC/DC switch that allows the user to alternate is power sources. It is ergonomically designed with a comfortable handling and a flat motor housing to boost stability when changing blades.
It also features two built-in LED lights that brighten the work area and improves accuracy. Its motor is cooled by a built-in centrifugal fan and a baffle system. Its level ground design improves its performance when making bevel and narrow cut, ensuring the material is not destroyed.
Key Features:
- 15 Amp motor
- Heavy-gauge aluminium base
- Built-in L.E.D lights
- AC/DC switch
- Flat motor housing
- Built-in Dust blower
Specification:
- Brand: Makita
- Model: Makita 5007F Circular Saw
- Dimension: 16.54 x 10.63 x 12.99 inches
- Weight: 11.1 pounds
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Color: Teal
Pros
- It is a heavy-duty cutting tool
- Has a built-in cooling system
- It has a high cutting capacity
- It comes with extra blades
- Works with a powerful motor
- It features two LED lights
Cons
- Noisy and vibrates a lot
- It produces a lot of dust
Buying Guide Questions
What is the easiest way to cut drywall?
The best way to cut drywall is with a utility knife. It is easy to handle for both professional and non-professionals, and it produces no dust. It is durable, lightweight, affordable, handy and easy to use
What is the best tool for cutting drywall??
The best tool for cutting drywall is the utility knife. It is the most reliable method of cutting drywall and is safe to use.
From our review, the best utility knife is the Dewalt Fixed Blade Utility Knife. It is a handy knife built with a soft grip and rubber thumb pad that makes it comfortable to hold, and it comes with13 replacement blades, 5 in the knife handle and 10 extra packs. It is sharp enough to pierce through the drywall with little effort required from the user, and it cuts with maximum precision.
Can a Dremel cut drywall?
Yes, a Dremel can cut drywall.
A Dremel is a multi-purpose rotary tool that can be used as a cutting tool as well as a grinding and sanding tool. It works with high speed and can be battery-powered or corded.
Can you use a circular saw to cut drywall?
A circular saw can be used to cut drywall, but it is not the most efficient tool to use because it produces a large amount of dust and operates with noise and vibrations.
How do you cut drywall cleanly?
- Start by scoring the face side of the drywall with a chalk or pencil
- Cut through the paper and into the gypsum core using the pencil or chalk line as a guide
- Apply pressure on the face side of the drywall to completely break the core along the joint
- Use a drywall rasp to smoothen the cut edge
- Repeat the steps on the backside of the drywall
How do you cut drywall without dust?
To cut drywall without dust, opt for a cutting tool that produces little or no dust. This could be a utility knife, a jab saw or a rotary cutting tool.
What is the difference between drywall and Sheetrock?
Drywall and Sheetrock are basically the same thing. Drywall is a panel made from gypsum plaster compressed between two thick sheets of paper. Sheetrock is a brand of drywall that is a registered trademark of the Gypsum company.
There’s really no difference between the two; they are both construction materials and both made of flattened gypsum plates. Sheetrock is the trade name of construction material, while drywall refers to the method of construction.
What is the best way to cut drywall on the ceiling?
Start by marking a straight line on the drywall with a pencil or utility knife. If you use a utility knife, make sure the knife is kept in a vertical position and don’t apply too much pressure. Once your line is drawn, cut along that line until the gypsum core is completely broken.
It is, however, advisable to cut the drywall on the floor before installing it.
How do you cut drywall with an oscillating tool?
Follow the steps below
- Mark the area you want to cut with a pencil or chalk
- Prepare your oscillating tool by fixing its blade
- Power the oscillating tool and start making cuts along the previously marked area
- Use a slow rocking or pendulum motion when cutting to preserve the blade and produce smooth cuts
Does Home Depot cut drywall for you?
Yes, Home Depot would cut your drywall to your desired specification. It is usually free, but they charge extra for large cutting requirements.
Conclusion
Cutting drywall is no easy task. As stated in the review, there are many tools you can use to cut up your drywall, tools like a utility knife, jab saw, rotary cutting tool, oscillating cutting tool and reciprocating saw.
The most efficient tool to use is the utility knife. As small as this tool is, it cus with maximum precision, and the user has full control of the tool.
We hope this review on the nine best drywall cutting tool has provided you with enough information on the best cutting tools for drywall and how to use them.