Hand saws are essential tools for home and professional use that require careful consideration when purchasing. A good hand saw should be constructed with tough materials such as hardened steel for durability and have a comfortable handle to reduce friction during use.
The length and number of teeth on the blade affect the type of cut and the finish it will produce. Specialty hand saws such as Coping, Pruning, Wood, and Tenon saws are available for various applications.
This guide will provide an overview of the essential criteria for a high-quality hand saw, the different types of hand saws, and important maintenance tips. It will also offer advice on choosing the right hand saw for your task, as well as our recommendations for the top hand saw choices.
Choosing the right hand saw for a particular job is essential, as the quality and material of the blade, handle, and length of the saw all affect performance and the type of cut achieved. Consideration should be given to the application, frequency of use, and materials.
Construction should be made from tough materials like hardened steel for durability. Handles should be well-made and comfortable for reduced friction during use. Lengths of saws vary; shorter saws require shorter arm movements. Teeth count in saws are measured by TPI or PPI, higher TPI/PPI means more teeth, which give a neater finish.
Different saws are tailored for specific tasks; coping saws are versatile, bow saws are suitable for fast cutting, tenon saws for precise cuts, and pruning saws for rough cuts. Top brands such as Bahco and Irwin are known for quality and precision.
Carey Tools offers a wide selection of hand saws for different purposes.
When selecting a hand saw, it is important to understand the key specifications of the saw and how they will affect its performance.
The material of the blade is a key factor in the overall quality of the saw, and should be made of hardened steel or similar materials for durability.
The handle should be well-made and comfortable to reduce friction during use, and the teeth per inch (TPI) of the saw will affect the type of cut.
It is important to understand the specifications of the saw and how they will affect its performance.
Understanding key specifications for hand saws is essential in order to select the best saw for a particular job. The following are key specifications to consider:
Frequency of use: Consider how often the saw will be used.
Materials: Hand saws are made of different materials, such as hardened steel, hardpoint steel and plastic.
Length: Hand saws come in different lengths, with shorter saws requiring shorter arm movements.
Teeth count: The number of teeth in the saw will affect the type of cut, with more teeth giving a neater finish. Teeth count is measured by TPI or PPI, with higher TPI/PPI meaning more teeth.
The quality and material of the blade are fundamental factors in the performance of a hand saw, with hardpoint steel traditionally being the preferred option for its durability.
Hand saws come in a variety of materials, such as carbon steel, high-speed steel, and tungsten-carbide steel. Carbon steel is the most common and economical option, while high-speed steel is more expensive but offers better performance. Tungsten-carbide steel is the most expensive, but has the highest level of durability and is suitable for professional use.
When selecting a hand saw, it is important to consider the material of the blade and its intended use. Hardpoint steel is best for cutting through wood, plastic, and soft metals, while tungsten-carbide steel is best for heavier-duty tasks such as cutting through harder metals.
Taking into account the application and frequency of use when selecting a hand saw is essential in order to make the right choice.
Choosing a hand saw with a well-made handle is important for reducing friction during use. The handle should be ergonomic, comfortable, and well-balanced to reduce user fatigue. Quality handles are usually made from hardwood, plastic, or steel.
When comparing handles, here are a few factors to consider:
Steel: strong and durable
Weight: light and well-balanced for easier use
High-end saws tend to have handles that are not only well-made, but also comfortable and durable. When buying a hand saw, it is important to consider the handle design and materials to ensure that it is suitable for the job. It is also important to ensure that the handle is comfortable, balanced, and of a high-quality for optimal performance.
The number of teeth per inch (TPI) of a hand saw blade affects the type and quality of cut, with more teeth providing a neater finish. TPI is a measure of the number of teeth on a saw blade, and is usually expressed as either teeth per inch (TPI) or points per inch (PPI).
The higher the TPI/PPI, the more teeth the saw has, and the finer the cut. Generally, saws with more teeth are better suited for working with softer materials such as wood. Saws with fewer teeth are better for tougher materials such as metal.
Coping saws typically have high TPI for a neat finish, while bow saws have fewer teeth for fast and aggressive cutting. Tenon saws are also available with higher TPI for more precise and delicate cuts. Pruning saws, universal hand saws, and hacksaws usually have medium TPI for general-purpose sawing.
When interpreting hand saw specifications, it is important to consider the impact these specifications have on performance.
Length, weight, material, and tooth count can all affect how a saw cuts and how comfortable it is to use.
Longer saws are generally heavier and require more arm movements, so a shorter saw may be more suitable for one-handed use.
The material of the blade should be strong and durable, such as hardened steel, so the saw can withstand regular use.
The tooth count is measured either in TPI or PPI, with higher numbers indicating more teeth and a neater finish.
A lower TPI saw is good for fast, aggressive cutting, while a high TPI saw is suitable for precise, fine cuts.
It is important to consider the application and frequency of use before buying a hand saw, as this will help determine the most suitable saw for the job.
Hand saws are specialized tools with distinct purposes, from Coping Saws to Pruning Saws, Wood Saws to Tenon Saws, each designed to facilitate precision cutting and reduce effort.
Coping saws are versatile and can cut through wood, plastic, ceramic, and metal.
Bow saws are best for fast and aggressive tree branches and logs cutting.
Tenon saws are ideal for precise, smaller cuts in wood and have high TPI for a neater finish.
Pruning saws are designed for rough cuts in tree branches and shrubs.
Universal saws are great for general purpose sawing of wood.
Quality and construction of hand saws should always be considered when purchasing.
When buying a hand saw, it is important to consider the saw's dimensions and the number of teeth it has.
Blade length will determine the size of the cuts that can be made and the number of teeth, measured by TPI (teeth per inch) or PPI (points per inch), will determine the type of cut made and the saw's performance.
TPI is a key factor in the performance of a saw and should be considered when selecting one.
Saw dimensions, such as length and blade width, are important considerations when selecting the right hand saw for a project. Length of the saw can affect how it is used, with shorter saws requiring shorter arm movements and longer saws providing a longer reach.
Blade width is also a factor, with wider blades suited for thicker materials. Quality and material of the blade affect saw's performance, with hardpoint steel being durable and suitable for various materials.
Handle size is also important, with high-end saws having well-made handles for reduced friction during use. All these dimensions should be considered when buying a hand saw.
Blade length is an important factor in selecting the right hand saw for a project, with shorter saws requiring shorter arm movements and longer saws providing a longer reach for deeper cuts. Hand saws come in different sizes, from smaller coping saws to the larger bow and tenon saws.
Shorter Hand Saws:
Medium Length Hand Saws:
Longer Hand Saws:
The number of teeth in a hand saw is a key factor in determining the type of cut that can be achieved. Teeth count is measured using TPI (teeth per inch) or PPI (points per inch). A higher TPI/PPI means the blade has more teeth, which leads to a cleaner, neater finish.
For example, Coping saws usually have a higher TPI, up to 32, while Bow saws can have up to 18 TPI. Tenon saws generally have a higher TPI for a finer, more precise cut. Pruning saws have fewer teeth, usually ranging from 8 to 14 TPI, for rougher cutting. Universal hand saws have a medium TPI, usually between 8 and 18, for general-purpose sawing.
It is important to consider the TPI/PPI when purchasing a hand saw for your needs.
The TPI of a saw blade is an essential factor in determining a saw's performance and the cut's quality. TPI stands for teeth per inch and is a measure of the number of teeth on the saw blade. Generally, a saw with higher TPI will give a neater cut than one with lower TPI.
For finer cuts, saws with a higher TPI are preferred as they can create a smoother finish with less tearing of the material. For rougher cuts, saws with a lower TPI may be more suitable.
The TPI is also related to the saw blade material, as harder materials require a higher TPI to achieve a smoother cut. The type of material being cut should also be factored in when deciding on the TPI, as a higher TPI is typically better for softer materials.
Universal hand saws are the most commonly used type of hand saw for general-purpose wood sawing. They are versatile and designed to make a range of straight, curved, and angled cuts. These saws come in different lengths, and have a regular number of teeth for a medium finish. Features to consider when selecting a universal hand saw include:
Handle & Comfort: Look for one with a well-made handle for reduced friction.
Blade Quality: Hardpoint steel blades are durable and offer a better performance.
Length: Shorter saws require shorter arm movements and are better for precision.
Universal hand saws are great for DIY projects, carpentry, and other woodworking tasks.
Hand saws are one of the most common and versatile tools used in woodworking. Various hand saws are available, each designed for a specific purpose.
Rip saws are designed for cutting with the grain of the wood, and crosscut saws are designed for cutting across the grain.
Back saws are usually used for more precise and intricate cuts, as they have a stiffer blade and finer teeth for a neater finish.
Various types of hand saws exist to suit a range of purposes, each constructed with particular features to ensure effective and efficient cutting.
Coping saws are versatile and used to cut through wood, plastic, ceramic, and metal.
Bow saws are designed for fast and aggressive tree branches and logs cutting.
Tenon saws are used for precise smaller cuts in wood with high TPI for a neat finish.
Pruning saws are used for rough cuts in tree branches and shrubs.
Regular universal hand saws are great for general-purpose sawing of wood.
Construction should be made of tough materials like hardened steel and the handle should be well-made and comfortable.
The blade's quality and material affect performance; hardpoint steel is durable.
Teeth count is measured by TPI or PPI, with higher TPI/PPI meaning more teeth.
Lengths vary, shorter saws require shorter arm movements.
Rip saws are designed for cutting along the grain of wood. They are made from hardened steel for durability, and have comfortable handles for reduced friction.
Rip saws come in different lengths, with a higher number of teeth for a neater finish. They are measured by TPI (teeth per inch) or PPI (points per inch), with higher TPI/PPI giving more teeth. They generally have a lower TPI/PPI than other saws, making them ideal for cutting large pieces of wood quickly and easily.
They are used for rough cuts in wood, and provide a fast and efficient way of cutting large pieces of wood. They are great for cutting plywood, and can be used for framing and other construction projects.
The advantage of rip saws is that they are able to make straight cuts quickly and easily, without the need for a jigsaw.
Crosscut saws are designed for cutting across the grain of wood, making them suitable for precise, smaller cuts. Crosscut saws have a lower number of teeth per inch (TPI/PPI) than rip saws, usually around 10 to 15 TPI/PPI, giving them a rougher finish with a wider kerf.
They are usually more lightweight than rip saws and come in shorter lengths, making them ideal for one-handed use. Crosscut saws are best suited for cutting through lumber, plywood, and other sheet materials. They are also ideal for making crosscuts in woodworking projects, such as cabinetry and carpentry.
High-end models are made of hardened steel to ensure durability and have comfortable handles to reduce friction during use. For best results, look for a crosscut saw with a higher TPI/PPI to achieve a smoother finish.
Back saws are similar to crosscut saws, but are designed for more precise, cleaner cuts than crosscut saws. Back saws have a stiffer blade, with more teeth, and are typically used for cutting joinery and moldings. They have a reinforced “back” that keeps the blade stiff and prevents it from bending during use.
The following are some features to look for when buying a back saw:
When selecting the best hand saw for a particular task, it is important to consider the type, application, and frequency of use.
Coping saws are versatile and ideal for cutting through wood, plastic, ceramic, and metals.
Bow saws are designed for fast and aggressive tree branches and logs cutting.
Tenon saws are used for precise smaller cuts in wood with high tpi for a neat finish.
Pruning saws are used for rough cuts in tree branches and shrubs.
Universal hand saws are great for general-purpose sawing.
Knowing the materials to be cut and the desired cut will help determine the type of hand saw needed.
The quality and material of the blade affect the saw's performance, so hardpoint steel is recommended.
The handle of high-end saws should be well-made and comfortable for reduced friction during use.
The number of teeth in the blade will affect the type of cut, with more teeth giving a neater finish.
Finally, consider the size and length of the saw, with shorter saws requiring shorter arm movements.
When it comes to choosing the right hand saw, there are several criteria to consider. Considering the criteria for the top picks, the selection of hand saws from Carey Tools are designed to meet the needs of different users. Quality and material of the blade, handle, and construction are key factors in determining performance and durability. Hardpoint steel blades are reliable, and handles must be comfortable and well-made. The length should match the user's needs, with shorter saws requiring shorter arm movements. The number of teeth in the blade is measured by TPI or PPI, with higher TPI/PPI offering more teeth for a neater finish.
Jet Cut's Heavy-Duty Handsaw 550mm (22in) 7 TPI is a versatile saw designed for a variety of applications.
It has a 7 TPI (teeth per inch) blade, which is suitable for cutting through wood, plastic, and soft metal.
The saw has a comfortable grip handle and a good sawing support for precision and accuracy.
The blade is made from hardened steel for increased durability, and is specially coated for rust protection.
It is 22 inches (550mm) in size and has a medium cut.
The PC-24-TIM Timber ProfCut Handsaw 600mm (24in) 3.5 TPI is the ideal tool for precise sawing of wood and other materials. This saw has a hardened steel blade for durability and a comfortable handle to reduce friction during use. With a TPI of 3.5, it is best for making small, precise cuts in wood, plastic, and other materials.
The 24-inch size of the saw makes it suitable for longer arm movements. It has a medium cut and a comfortable grip for good sawing support.
The 66XR General Purpose Saw 375mm (14.3/4in) is perfect for quick and precise cutting of wood, plastic, and other materials. It has a medium cut and 7/8 teeth per inch (TPI) for a neat finish. This saw is designed for general-purpose sawing and comes with a comfortable handle for reduced friction during use.
Providing superior cutting quality, the 0-24-XT-HP Handsaw 600mm (24in) 7 TPI is a reliable tool for a variety of projects.
This saw has 7 teeth per inch (TPI), which provides a neat finish. It is suitable for use on wood, plastic and soft metal materials.
The blade is made from hardened steel for durability and the handle is well-made and comfortable. The size of the saw is 600mm (24in) and it has a long life compared to other saws.
It is essential to practice good care and maintenance for hand saws to ensure they remain in good condition and last longer.
Regular cleaning and sharpening of the blade are key elements of hand saw care, and proper storage is also important for keeping the saw in optimum shape.
Professional tips and tricks can also help to increase a hand saw's longevity.
Maintaining hand saws correctly is essential for optimum performance and durability. To ensure maximum life and safety, three essential care practices should be followed.
First, keep saws dry to prevent rusting and corrosion.
Second, avoid cutting into metal as this can quickly blunt the blade.
Lastly, always use a cardboard/plastic sheath to protect the blade when not in use.
Cleaning tools with a damp cloth and mild detergent can remove dirt and debris to ensure a smoother cutting performance.
Sharpening blades is possible with a metal file although it can be a time-consuming process. If blades become too blunt, it may be more cost-effective to simply replace them.
Replacing blades is possible for hacksaws, bow saws, and coping saws.
With the right care and maintenance, hand saws can provide dependable performance and a long service life.
Cleaning tools with a damp cloth and mild detergent can effectively remove dirt and debris, resulting in smoother cutting performance. Hand saws should be cleaned after every use to keep them in good condition. It is important to be careful when cleaning to avoid damaging the blade or handle.
It is best to use a cloth or brush with soft bristles to avoid scratching the surface. For tougher stains, use a mild detergent with warm water. After cleaning, make sure to dry the saw thoroughly to prevent rust. It is also important to store the saw in a dry place to protect it from moisture.
Regular cleaning and proper storage of the hand saw will ensure it lasts a long time.
Sharpening a hand saw can be a time-consuming process, but is essential for keeping the saw in peak condition. To properly sharpen a hand saw:
Use a metal file to file down the teeth of the saw, following the angled side of the blade.
Sharpen the other side in the same way.
Keep filing until the teeth are sharp and consistent.
Check the blade for burrs and file them off.
Use a rag to clean off filings.
Proper storage of hand saws is essential to ensure that they remain in good condition and ready for use. Hand saws should always be kept in a dry place away from moisture, as this can cause rusting. It is best to store the saw in the cardboard/plastic sheath provided to offer more protection.
When transporting saws, it is important to ensure that they are secured to avoid any potential damage. Additionally, it is important to avoid cutting into metal with a hand saw as this will blunt the blade. If a saw does become blunt, it is more cost-effective to replace the saw rather than sharpening it, as this is time-consuming.
Transitioning from storage to increasing longevity, it is important to understand the professional tips and tricks for hand saw longevity and upkeep.
Hand saws must be kept dry to prevent rusting and should never be used to cut metal to avoid blunting the blade.
It is also important to use the saw for its intended material to avoid damage.
For storage, a cardboard or plastic sheath is recommended to protect the blade.
If the blade becomes blunt, it is more cost-effective to replace the saw instead of sharpening.
Hacksaws, bow saws, and coping saws have replaceable blades that can be switched out as necessary.
A hacksaw is a type of saw used for cutting metal, while a hand saw is a type of saw used for cutting wood and other materials. Hacksaws typically have a thinner blade with more teeth per inch than a hand saw, allowing for more precise cuts in metal.
Yes, it is possible to sharpen a hand saw blade. A metal file can be used to sharpen the blade, however it is a time-consuming and labor-intensive process. Alternatively, replacing the blade may be more cost-effective. Some saws such as hacksaws, bow saws, and coping saws have replaceable blades.
TPI (Teeth Per Inch) and PPI (Points Per Inch) are measurements used to determine the number of teeth on a hand saw blade. TPI and PPI are inversely proportional, so a higher TPI/PPI means more teeth, resulting in a smoother, neater cut.
When using a hand saw, it is important to wear safety glasses to protect the eyes from sawdust and debris. Always ensure the saw is securely held and avoid cutting into metal as it will blunt the blade. Store the hand saw in a dry place when not in use and use the sheath to protect the blade.
The best way to store a hand saw is to keep it dry and in a cardboard or plastic sheath to protect the blade. Avoid exposing it to moisture or extreme temperatures. Do not use the saw for materials it is not intended for and sharpen the blade as needed.
When choosing a hand saw, one should consider the application, type of materials it will be used for, frequency of use, and the quality of the blade.
A saw with tough, hardened steel construction and a comfortable handle will provide the best performance and durability.
Hand saws come in a variety of lengths and tooth counts, with each type suited to different tasks. Coping saws are versatile, bow saws are great for fast and aggressive cutting, and tenon saws are designed for precise cuts. Pruning saws are designed for rough cuts in tree branches and shrubs.
To maximize the performance and durability of a hand saw, one should keep it dry and use the cardboard or plastic sheath to protect the blade when not in use.
