If your reciprocating saw isn't functioning properly, the first thing you'll need to do in order to diagnose the issue is to open the saw up to inspect the parts inside. | eReplacementParts.com

Use a Reciprocating Saw to Cut Metal, Wood, PVC, etc for Beginners | See Jane Drill

Using a reciprocating blade to plunge cut into your material is easy if you approach it at the right angle. The amount of push and at what angle you push is something you learn after doing it a few times... I’ve done this a few times. Whenever we double stack a header on a sidewalk that has truss pockets, we must do this. Don’t worry, we add LVL header to the outside of our door as well for additional strength. It does help to use high quality recip blades such as this @diablo_tools. Best in the