Abstract: A clamping system for attaching a saw blade to a blade carrier of a reciprocating saw includes a clamp member having a tubular body and a hollow interior. The clamp member is mounted on the free end of a blade carrier which has a longitudinal slot for receiving the shank of a saw blade. The free end of the blade carrier has an aperture in its side wall. In a preferred embodiment a ball is received within the aperture and freely movable therein. The inner surface of the clamp member has an eccentric groove which defines a camming surface engaging the ball. Upon rotation of the clamp member to a locking position the ball engages an aperture in the shank of the blade to hold the blade in place. The clamp system is designed to accept saw blades having standard universal designs. In another preferred embodiment a pin is received within the aperture in the blade carrier. The pin has a first end which is adapted to be received within the aperture in the shank portion of the saw blade.