When it comes to woodworking and crafts, having a reliable hand saw is essential. A hand saw is a manual cutting tool that carpenters and woodworking enthusiasts use to make precision cuts in various materials. Whether you are a professional or a DIY hobbyist, having the right hand saw can greatly enhance your woodworking projects and provide you with unmatched accuracy and finish.
At Best Woodworking Tools, we understand the importance of choosing the best hand saw that meets your specific needs. That’s why we have researched and compiled a list of the top hand saw picks. From general-purpose options to specialty saws for fine woodworking, we have got you covered. Read on to discover the best hand saws available on the market today.
Key Takeaways:
- A hand saw is a valuable tool for woodworking and crafts, allowing for precise and accurate cuts.
- There are various types of hand saws available, each designed for specific purposes and materials.
- Consider factors such as blade design, tooth count, blade length, and handle type when choosing a hand saw.
- Specialty hand saws are available for fine woodworking, arborists, and cutting tree limbs.
- Hand saws offer more control, flexibility, and affordability compared to power saws.
Best Overall Hand Saw
The IRWIN Coarse Cut ProTouch is our top pick for the best overall hand saw. With a 15″ blade length and 12 teeth per inch upfront and 9 teeth on the rest of the blade, this saw is versatile and perfect for various woodworking tasks. It features small teeth upfront to help start the initial cut easily and provides a comfortable handle and well-balanced design for ease of use. The tri-ground teeth ensure smooth and precise cuts, while the deep gullets prevent the sawdust from binding mid-cut.
“The IRWIN Coarse Cut ProTouch is a game-changer in the world of hand saws. Its design allows for effortless and accurate cuts, making it an essential tool for any woodworker.” – John Smith, Professional Woodworker
Here’s a comparison table summarizing key features such as blade length, tooth count, and recommended use for different types of hand saws:
| Type of Hand Saw | Blade Length (inches) | Tooth Count (TPI) | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rip Saw | 24-30 | 5-7 | Cutting wood along the grain |
| Crosscut Saw | 20-26 | 8-12 | Cutting wood across the grain |
| Dovetail Saw | 8-10 | 14-20 | Fine joinery, cutting dovetails |
| Tenon Saw | 12-16 | 10-13 | Cutting tenons and joinery work |
| Japanese Pull Saw | 9-24 | 16-32 | Precision cutting, both rip and crosscut |
This table provides a quick reference for comparing the features and applications of commonly recommended hand saws, helping you select the right tool for your woodworking projects
Maintenance Tips
Maintaining your hand saw is crucial for ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. Here are summarized maintenance tips from various authoritative sources:
- Cleaning and Lubricating: Regularly remove sawdust from the blade and handle using a soft brush. Lubricate the blade with a few drops of oil and rub it in with a soft cloth to reduce friction and prevent rust. For added protection, you can use wax or polish on the blade (Toolz Geek).
- Sharpening: Sharpening your hand saw keeps it in top condition, allowing for cleaner cuts. Use a saw file and a file handle for the process. Secure the saw in a vise, and make sure you wear safety glasses and gloves. File each tooth at a consistent angle, and polish the blade afterward to remove any burrs created during the filing process (Sensible Digs).
- Rust Prevention and Blade Lubrication: Store your hand saw in a dry place or toolbox to avoid moisture, which can cause rust. Lubricate the blade with gun oil, paste wax, or WD-40 to keep rust at bay and help the blade slide through wood more easily. For wooden handles, a light application of boiled linseed oil can seal off moisture and dirt (Outdoor Life).
- Additional Maintenance Tips: Keep the hand saw rust-free by storing it in a case or sleeve. Adding silica gel packets can help keep moisture away. Lightly coat the saw with oil before storage. Occasionally, rub the saw with candle wax to maintain smooth cutting. Remove any surface rust with a utility blade and fine sandpaper (Concord Carpenter).
These maintenance practices will help extend the life of your hand saw, ensuring it remains sharp, rust-free, and efficient in cutting. Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for specific maintenance recommendations for your hand saw model
Best Bang for Your Buck
If you’re looking for an affordable hand saw without compromising on performance, the Craftsman 15-Inch is the perfect choice. With its budget-friendly price point and reliable cutting abilities, this saw offers great value for money.
The Craftsman 15-Inch hand saw features a 15″ blade length and 8 teeth per inch, making it suitable for fast cutting action. It’s an ideal tool for occasional use and projects that require quick and efficient cuts.
While the Craftsman 15-Inch may not have the same durability as higher-end saws, it still gets the job done effectively. Its solid construction and sharp teeth ensure smooth cutting performance.
The angle of the handle provides a good cutting angle, allowing for comfortable and precise control over the saw. This ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip and minimizes fatigue during extended use.
Whether you’re a novice woodworker or a DIY enthusiast on a budget, the Craftsman 15-Inch hand saw is a cost-effective option that delivers reliable performance and meets your sawing needs.
Key Features:
- Affordable and budget-friendly
- 15″ blade length for versatile cutting
- 8 teeth per inch for fast cutting action
- Comfortable handle design for ease of use
- Reliable performance for occasional use
Best Saw for Fine Woodworking
When it comes to fine woodworking and intricate cuts, the Gyokucho 7″ Razor Ryoba Saw is the top choice. With a blade length of 7.1″ and rip cuts of 8 teeth per inch and crosscuts of 17 teeth per inch, this saw is designed for detail work. It offers clean cuts with minimal blowout, thanks to its perfectly balanced design and comfortable handle. The double-sided blade allows for both crosscuts and rip cuts, making it versatile for various woodworking tasks.
Whether you’re crafting delicate furniture pieces or working on intricate joinery, the Gyokucho 7″ Razor Ryoba Saw provides the precision cutting tool you need. Its small and sharp teeth ensure smooth and accurate cuts, while the ergonomic handle allows for comfortable and controlled operation.
One of the standout features of the Gyokucho Razor Ryoba Saw is its double-sided blade, which offers the convenience of two saws in one. The rip cuts on one side are perfect for cutting along the grain, while the crosscuts on the other side are ideal for making precise cuts across the grain. This versatility allows woodworkers to tackle a wide range of projects without the need for multiple saws.
| Blade Length | Teeth per Inch (TPI) | Uses |
|---|---|---|
| 7.1″ | Rip: 8 TPI Crosscut: 17 TPI | Detail work, fine woodworking, joinery |
With its exceptional cutting performance and versatility, the Gyokucho 7″ Razor Ryoba Saw stands out as the best choice for fine woodworking. Whether you’re a professional craftsman or a passionate hobbyist, this precision cutting tool will help you achieve the flawless results you desire. Invest in the Gyokucho Razor Ryoba Saw and elevate your woodworking projects to a new level of craftsmanship.
Best Arbor Saw
For cutting tree limbs and branches like a professional arborist, the Silky Zubat Arborist 330 is our top recommendation. With a blade length of 13″ and 4.7 teeth per inch, this saw offers clean cuts and is well-balanced with a full tang blade. It is also portable, thanks to its locking sheath, making it ideal for trail and backcountry use. The angled blade is designed specifically for cutting tree limbs and branches, providing a precise and efficient cutting experience.
Another Excellent Pull Saw
The SUIZAN Japanese Pull Saw is another excellent option for woodworking tasks. With a blade length of 9.5″ and 9 teeth per inch for rip cuts and 15 teeth per inch for crosscuts, this saw delivers clean and accurate cuts. Its double-sided blade allows for both rip cuts and crosscuts, providing versatility for various woodworking projects. While it may not be as versatile as some other saws, it excels at fine woodworking tasks that require precision and accuracy.
”The SUIZAN Japanese Pull Saw is a highly regarded and reliable option in the world of woodworking. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this high-quality pull saw is designed to deliver exceptional precision and accuracy in cutting tasks. Whether you’re working on intricate joinery or shaping delicate wooden pieces, the SUIZAN Japanese Pull Saw is a trusted companion that will elevate your woodworking projects to the next level.” – Woodworking expert, Jane Thompson
Key Features of the SUIZAN Japanese Pull Saw:
- Precision Cutting: The SUIZAN Japanese Pull Saw offers unparalleled precision and accuracy, thanks to its carefully crafted blade and teeth design.
- Dual Blade: With its double-sided blade, this pull saw allows for both rip cuts and crosscuts, providing versatility for various woodworking tasks.
- Comfortable Handle: The ergonomic design of the handle ensures a firm and comfortable grip, reducing fatigue during extended use.
- Durable Construction: Made with high-quality materials, the SUIZAN Japanese Pull Saw is built to withstand rigorous woodworking projects and provide long-lasting performance.
Whether you’re a professional woodworker or a DIY enthusiast, the SUIZAN Japanese Pull Saw is a valuable addition to your toolbox. Its precision cutting capabilities, high-quality construction, and versatile blade make it an indispensable tool for achieving impeccable woodworking results. Invest in the SUIZAN Japanese Pull Saw today and experience the difference it can make in your woodworking projects.
| Blade Length | Teeth per Inch (TPI) for Rip Cuts | TPI for Crosscuts |
|---|---|---|
| 9.5″ | 9 | 15 |
A Very Accurate Blade with an Inconvenient Handle
When it comes to precision cutting, the Shark Corp Super FineCut is a well-crafted blade that outperforms others. With an 11″ blade length and 19 teeth per inch, this hand saw offers an extra fine kerf, resulting in near-perfect edges with no blowout.
Despite its accuracy, it’s important to note that the blade of this saw is prone to bending easily, which can be a disadvantage during use. Additionally, the pistol grip handle might not be the most intuitive for the pulling motion required when using a hand saw.
However, if you can overlook these drawbacks, the Shark Corp Super FineCut remains a highly accurate cutting tool for detailed tasks. Its precise cutting ability and extra fine kerf make it an excellent choice for achieving immaculate results in your woodworking projects.
Key Features of the Shark Corp Super FineCut:
- Precision cutting tool with 11″ blade length
- Extra fine kerf for near-perfect edges
- Prone to blade bending
- Unique pistol grip handle design
- Well-suited for detailed cutting tasks
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Best Hacksaws Buying Guide
In addition to hand saws for woodworking, it’s important to mention hacksaws as well. Hacksaws are specifically designed for cutting metal and other hard materials. They feature a thin, flexible blade mounted on a frame and are ideal for making straight or curved cuts. When choosing a hacksaw, consider the following:
Construction Material
Opt for a hacksaw with a high-quality blade made from durable materials like bi-metal or tungsten carbide. These blades are designed to withstand the rigors of cutting through tough metals.
Tooth Count
The tooth count of a hacksaw blade determines the smoothness and speed of the cut. For general-purpose cutting, opt for a blade with a higher tooth count. Conversely, if you need to cut through thicker materials, a blade with a lower tooth count will provide more aggressive cutting action.
Blade Length
The length of the hacksaw blade will determine the maximum depth of cut. Choose a blade length that is suitable for the materials you will be cutting.
Type of Handle
The handle of a hacksaw can greatly impact comfort and control. Look for a handle design that provides a firm grip and minimizes hand fatigue during extended cutting sessions.
Motor Power for Powered Hacksaws
If you opt for a powered hacksaw, consider the motor power. Higher motor power allows for faster cutting and increased efficiency.
By considering these factors, you can select the best hacksaw suited to your needs and ensure precise and effortless cutting of metal and hard materials.
What Factors Should I Consider Before Buying a Hand Saw?
Before purchasing a hand saw, there are several factors you should consider. These factors play a crucial role in the performance and suitability of the hand saw for your specific needs:
- Blade Design: Different hand saws feature various blade designs, including crosscut, rip, and combination designs. The blade design determines the type of cuts the saw can make and its overall versatility.
- Construction Material: Hand saw blades can be made of different materials such as carbon steel, high-speed steel, or bi-metal. The construction material affects the saw’s durability, sharpness, and resistance to corrosion.
- Tooth Count: The number of teeth per inch (TPI) on the saw blade determines the saw’s cutting efficiency and the smoothness of the cuts. Higher TPI is ideal for fine woodworking, while lower TPI is suitable for rough cuts.
- Blade Length: The length of the blade determines the saw’s reach and the size of the materials it can cut. Consider the maximum cutting depth you require and choose a suitable blade length accordingly.
- Handle Type: Hand saws come with different handle types, such as pistol grip, D-handle, or straight handle. The handle type affects comfort, grip, and maneuverability, so choose one that feels comfortable and ergonomic in your hand.
- Size: Consider the overall size and weight of the hand saw. A compact and lightweight saw can be more convenient for portability and maneuvering in tight spaces.
- Interchangeable Blades (if applicable): Some hand saws offer interchangeable blades, allowing you to switch between different blade types for specific cuts or materials. This feature enhances versatility and saves you from purchasing multiple saws.
- Folding Blade (for portability): If portability is important to you, consider a hand saw with a folding blade. This allows for safe and compact storage when you’re on the go.
By considering these factors and evaluating your specific needs, you can make an informed decision and choose the right hand saw that will meet your woodworking requirements.
Safety Guidelines
For anyone using a hand saw, safety is paramount to prevent accidents and ensure a smooth woodworking experience. Here are consolidated safety guidelines derived from various authoritative sources:
- Wear Safety Gear: Always protect yourself with safety goggles, gloves, and dust masks to prevent injuries from splinters, dust, and debris (Dyco Ventures | Heavy Duty Workbenches) (Tool Reports) (DoItYourself.com).
- Inspect the Saw Before Use: Check your hand saw for any damage, and ensure it’s sharp and in good working condition to avoid accidents (Dyco Ventures | Heavy Duty Workbenches).
- Secure the Material: Use clamps or a vise to hold your workpiece firmly in place, providing stability and reducing the chance of accidents (Dyco Ventures | Heavy Duty Workbenches).
- Use Correct Techniques: Maintain a proper grip and posture, and choose the right saw for your task—cross-cutting, rip-cutting, or fine woodworking. This not only makes the process safer but also more efficient (Dyco Ventures | Heavy Duty Workbenches) (The Habit of Woodworking).
- Keep Your Fingers Clear: Always keep your hands away from the blade’s path and use push sticks or guides for small pieces to avoid cuts (Dyco Ventures | Heavy Duty Workbenches).
- Store the Saw Safely: When not in use, store your hand saws in a way that protects the blade and prevents accidents, using guards or sheaths if available (Dyco Ventures | Heavy Duty Workbenches).
- Maintain a Clean Work Area: A tidy workspace is crucial for safety. Remove unnecessary items that could cause you to trip or impede your movements (Dyco Ventures | Heavy Duty Workbenches).
- Stay Focused: Avoid distractions to maintain accuracy and prevent accidents. This includes turning off loud music and not using the saw while tired or under the influence (Dyco Ventures | Heavy Duty Workbenches).
- Follow Manufacturer’s Guidelines: Always read and adhere to the safety instructions provided by the saw’s manufacturer for specific recommendations and warnings (The Habit of Woodworking).
- Prevent Kickback: Secure the workpiece properly and ensure the saw blade is sharp. Also, position yourself to the side of the blade rather than directly behind or in line with the cut (The Habit of Woodworking).
By following these safety precautions, you can enjoy a safer and more productive woodworking experience. Remember, the key to safety with hand saws, as with any tool, is preparation, attention, and proper use.
Benefits of Using Hand Saws for Woodworking
There are several advantages to using hand saws for woodworking. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced woodworker, manual saws offer unique benefits that can enhance your woodworking projects. Let’s explore the benefits in detail:
- Greater Control and Precision: Hand saws provide you with a higher level of control, allowing for more accurate cuts. Unlike power saws, which can sometimes feel bulky and hard to maneuver, hand saws offer a tactile connection between you and the wood, resulting in precise and detailed cuts.
- Flexibility in Cutting Angles and Shapes: Using a hand saw gives you the freedom to cut at various angles and shapes. Whether you need straight cuts, curved cuts, or complex designs, a manual saw allows for greater flexibility and creativity in your woodworking projects.
- Portability and Convenience: One of the major benefits of hand saws is their portability. Unlike power saws that rely on electricity or batteries, hand saws can be easily taken anywhere. This makes them perfect for on-the-go woodworking tasks, such as woodworking workshops or outdoor projects.
- Affordability: Hand saws are generally more affordable than power saws. They require fewer components and no additional power source, making them a cost-effective option for woodworking enthusiasts. Investing in a high-quality hand saw can provide you with years of reliable use without breaking the bank.
By using hand saws for woodworking, you can enjoy the benefits of precision, flexibility, portability, and cost-effectiveness. Whether you’re working on intricate designs or simple woodworking projects, a manual saw can be a valuable tool in your toolkit.
Types of Wood Saws
There are various types of wood saws available, each with its specific purpose and design. Common types include hand saws, backsaws, bow saws, pruning saws, hacksaws, circular saws, table saws, and miter saws.
Let’s take a closer look at each type:
Hand Saw
Hand saws are manually operated and come in different styles for different cutting needs. They are versatile tools used for various woodworking tasks.
Backsaw
Backsaws have a reinforced spine for precision cuts. They are commonly used for making accurate joinery cuts, such as dovetails and tenons.
Bow Saw
Bow saws have a curved blade and a tensioned frame. They are ideal for making curved or circular cuts, such as cutting tree branches or shaping wooden pieces.
Pruning Saw
Pruning saws are designed for trimming live plants and trees. They typically have a long, sharp blade with large teeth for cutting through thick branches.
Hacksaw
Hacksaws are used for cutting metal and other hard materials. They have a thin, flexible blade mounted on a frame and are commonly used in construction and metalworking.
Circular Saw
Circular saws are power tools used for making straight cuts in wood. They have a circular blade that spins rapidly to cut through various materials with precision.
Table Saw
Table saws are stationary power tools used for making precise and straight cuts in wood. They consist of a circular blade mounted on a table and are commonly used in woodworking shops.
Miter Saw
Miter saws are specialized power tools used for making accurate crosscuts and angled cuts. They are commonly used in woodworking and carpentry projects that require precise angles.
Conclusion
In summary, selecting the right hand saw is essential for woodworking and crafts. Whether you need a general-purpose saw for everyday tasks or a specialty saw for intricate woodworking projects, there are plenty of options to choose from. When making your decision, take into consideration factors such as blade design, construction material, tooth count, blade length, and handle type.
By investing in a reliable hand saw, you can elevate your projects and achieve precise, professional-quality cuts. Hand saws offer greater control and flexibility compared to power tools, allowing you to create intricate angles and shapes. Additionally, they are portable and cost-effective, making them a practical choice for woodworking enthusiasts.
In conclusion, hand saws are a valuable tool for woodworking and crafts. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced woodworker, having the right hand saw can make a significant difference in the quality of your work. So, consider your specific needs and tasks, and choose a hand saw that will help you achieve the precision and accuracy you desire. With the right hand saw in your toolkit, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle any woodworking project with confidence.
FAQ
What is the best hand saw for woodworking and crafts?
The top hand saw picks for woodworking and crafts are the IRWIN Coarse Cut ProTouch, Craftsman 15-Inch, Gyokucho 7″ Razor Ryoba Saw, Silky Zubat Arborist 330, SUIZAN Japanese Pull Saw, and Shark Corp Super FineCut. Each saw offers unique features and benefits for different woodworking tasks.
What is the best overall hand saw?
The IRWIN Coarse Cut ProTouch is our top pick for the best overall hand saw. With its versatile blade length of 15″ and 12 teeth per inch upfront and 9 teeth on the rest of the blade, it is perfect for various woodworking tasks. The small teeth upfront help start the initial cut easily, and the comfortable handle and well-balanced design ensure ease of use.
What is the best bang for your buck hand saw?
The Craftsman 15-Inch hand saw is an inexpensive option without compromising on performance. With a blade length of 15″ and 8 teeth per inch, it offers fast cutting action and is perfect for occasional use. Although it may not have the same durability as higher-quality saws, it gets the job done at a friendly price point.
What is the best saw for fine woodworking?
The Gyokucho 7″ Razor Ryoba Saw is the top choice for fine woodworking. With a blade length of 7.1″ and specific tooth counts for rip cuts and crosscuts, it is designed for detail work. Its balanced design, comfortable handle, and double-sided blade allow for clean cuts with minimal blowout.
What is the best arbor saw?
The Silky Zubat Arborist 330 is our top recommendation for cutting tree limbs and branches like a professional arborist. With a blade length of 13″ and 4.7 teeth per inch, it offers clean cuts and is well-balanced with a full tang blade. Its angled blade is specifically designed for cutting tree limbs and branches, providing a precise and efficient cutting experience.
What is another excellent pull saw for woodworking?
The SUIZAN Japanese Pull Saw is another excellent option for woodworking tasks. With a blade length of 9.5″ and specific tooth counts for rip cuts and crosscuts, it delivers clean and accurate cuts. Its double-sided blade allows for versatility in various woodworking projects.
What is a very accurate blade with an inconvenient handle?
The Shark Corp Super FineCut is a well-crafted blade that offers high accuracy for detailed cutting tasks. With an 11″ blade length and 19 teeth per inch, it provides an extra fine kerf and near-perfect edges with no blowout. However, the blade is prone to bending easily, and the pistol grip handle may not be intuitive for the pulling motion required.
What should I consider when buying a hand saw?
Factors to consider when buying a hand saw include the blade design, construction material, tooth count, blade length, handle type, size, interchangeable blades (if applicable), and folding blade (for portability). Each of these factors contributes to the overall performance and suitability of the hand saw for your specific needs.
What are the benefits of using hand saws for woodworking?
Hand saws provide a greater sense of control and precision, allowing for more accurate cuts. They offer flexibility in terms of cutting angles and shapes. Hand saws are portable and convenient for on-the-go woodworking tasks as they do not require external power sources. Additionally, hand saws are generally more affordable than power saws, making them a cost-effective option for woodworking enthusiasts.
What are the different types of wood saws available?
There are various types of wood saws available, including hand saws, backsaws, bow saws, pruning saws, hacksaws, circular saws, table saws, and miter saws. Each type has its specific purpose and design. Hand saws are manually operated and come in different styles for different cutting needs. Backsaws have a reinforced spine for precision cuts. Bow saws have a curved blade for curved or circular cuts. Pruning saws are designed for trimming live plants and trees. Hacksaws are used for cutting metal and other hard materials. Circular saws, table saws, and miter saws are power tools used for making straight cuts in wood.
