Hand Saw - A Workshop Guide

The hand saw, one of humanity's oldest and most reliable tools, has a fascinating history that spans thousands of years. From its humble beginnings as a primitive cutting instrument to the highly specialized versions we see today, the hand saw remains a vital tool in woodworking, construction, and DIY projects.

The history of the hand saw dates back to ancient times. The earliest saws were made of flint or obsidian and used for cutting soft materials like wood and animal hides. When copper and bronze was founded, Egyptians had developed bronze saws with serrated edges, which were more durable and effective. These early metal saws laid the groundwork for modern designs.

The Romans further refined the hand saw, introducing iron and steel blades. They also created a variety of saws for specific purposes, including bow saws and frame saws. By the Middle Ages, saws became essential tools for carpenters and craftsmen, with blacksmiths producing blades of higher quality through advanced metallurgy.

Over time, the hand saw evolved into numerous types, each designed for a specific task. In the 17th and 18th centuries, as woodworking became more sophisticated, so too did the tools. By the Industrial Revolution, mass production allowed for more precise and affordable saws. This period saw the development of many types still in use today.

Shop Hand Saws

Here is a brief overview of the most common types of hand saws and their uses. Some of these types of saws you will probably find in your workshop. Others may be totally new to you.

Crosscut Saw

Probably the most common hand saw you will find. The crosscut saw, with its sharp, beveled teeth, is designed to cut across the grain of wood. It provides clean, straight cuts and is ideal for tasks like cutting boards or logs. A cross cut is typically made when a board is cut to length and is the most frequent cut made by individuals in modern times because material is typically purchased in the dimensions needed and only needing it cut to the proper length for use.

Cross Cut saws are typically either one of two confirgurations; the Fine Tooth Cross Cut saw or the Course Tooth Cross Cut Saw. Larger models of this type of saw can even come in 2-person models.

Rip Saw

The rip saw features chisel-like teeth arranged in a straight line. Unlike the crosscut saw, it's designed to cut along the grain, making it perfect for splitting wood into planks. A Rip saw has unique tooth alignment that makes it far more efficient for cutting boards along the grain than a conventional crosscut saw.

Back Saw

Back saws have a reinforced spine that keeps the blade rigid, allowing for precise cuts. Commonly used in fine woodworking, they're often paired with a Miter Box to make accurate angle cuts. The Back Saw along with the miter box helps ensure that cuts are made perfectly straight and would be used most often on millwork, baseboard or other angles cuts.

Coping Saw

With its thin, narrow blade stretched across a U-shaped frame, the coping saw is ideal for intricate cuts and curves. It's commonly used in scrollwork and cutting moldings. Inside corners of baseboard can be joined with a coping joint in order to reduce the potential of for the joint opening up due to shrinkage. Next time you are doing molding or baseboard, try a Coping Saw to step up the quality of the final product. A Fret Saw, similar to the coping saw but with a deeper frame, the fret saw excels in making extremely detailed and intricate cuts, often used in marquetry or fretwork.

Bow Saw

A bow saw features a metal or wooden frame shaped like a bow, with a blade stretched across. It's versatile and used for rough cuts in woodworking or pruning in gardening. As a child, our family had a bow saw that we used every single year when we picked our Christmas tree. The thin blade allows the Bow Saw to move smoothly throught the material even when there is weight down on it. The clearance of the blade from the frame allows a good transfer of energy to the blade and clearance of the material.

Keyhole or Jab Saw

This small, pointed saw is perfect for cutting holes or curves in drywall, wood, or plastic. Its narrow blade allows for greater control in tight spaces. A Keyhole Saw typically has a handle design that is perpendicular to the blade which allows more control around curves. A Jab Saw has a handle parralellto the blade to allow getting into tight spaces. The most common use for the keyhole saw is to quickly cut holes in drywall to fit around electrical outlets, plumbing and other penetrations. The Keyhole Saw or Jab Saw is a must have for any DIYer.

Japanese Saw (Pull Saw)

This saw is my personal favourite! Unlike traditional Western saws that cut on the push stroke, as in the name, the Japanese saws cut on the pull stroke. The Japanese Pull Saw allows for thinner, more precise blades, making them a favourite among fine woodworkers.

The Hand Saw in Modern Times

While power tools like circular saws and jigsaws have become commonplace, hand saws remain indispensable. They're quieter, easier to control, and don't require electricity, making them ideal for precision work, remote locations, and environmentally conscious projects.

In modern woodworking, hand saws are often the preferred choice for detailed or delicate tasks. Craftsmen appreciate their tactile feedback and the control they offer, which power tools can't replicate. Additionally, hand saws are a go-to for hobbyists and DIYers who want to embrace traditional techniques.

The hand saw has stood the test of time, evolving from rudimentary stone tools to sophisticated designs tailored for specific tasks. Despite advances in technology, it remains a symbol of craftsmanship, precision, and tradition. Whether you're a professional carpenter or a weekend hobbyist, the hand saw continues to prove its value, connecting us to centuries of human ingenuity and resourcefulness.

As you pick up a hand saw today, remember: you are holding a tool that has been shaping our world for thousands of years, a timeless testament to the art of creation.

The Tool Pro

Shop Hand Saws