Abstract: A method for increasing the cutting performance of reciprocating slurry saws of the type in which cutting blades are held in a clamping frame is accomplished displacing the clamping frame at a frequency above two cycles per second in reciprocating motion and utilizing a shorter stroke than in the known machines. The frequency is high, e.g., between two and 50 or more cycles per second, the stroke is short, e.g., between one and 75 millimeters, and the cutting performance is increased exponentially over known saws. Various mechanical embodiments are disclosed for obtaining the high frequency drive.