How to Buy the Right Handsaw for a Job

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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Use the right tool and make your life easier and safer.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

  • Backsaws
  • Compass Saws
  • Coping Saws
  • Crosscut Saws
  • Hacksaws
  • Keyhole Saw
  • Mitre Boxes
  • Razor Saw Sets
  • Ripsaws
Step1
Choose a hacksaw for cutting metals. The blade can be adjusted to cut in four directions.
Step2
Try a coping saw for intricate woodwork, making small curves or ornamental work. The small blade rotates in any direction. Keep in mind that the type with a pistol grip cuts on the push stroke; the straight-handled type cuts on the pull.
Step3
Don't confuse a crosscut saw and a ripsaw. They look alike, but the teeth are different. The crosscut saw's beveled teeth are made for cutting plywood, while the ripsaw's coarse teeth are ideal for long cuts and make crosscutting very difficult.
Step4
Select a keyhole saw ' or its larger cousin, the compass saw ' for cutting in the middle of the work. The tapered blade slips into a pilot hole and makes cutting circles or smooth curves a snap.
Step5
Look for a razorsaw, or as it's sometimes called, a Japanese ryoba. This rectangular-shape tool had crosscut teeth on one side and rip teeth on the other, making it a handy combination tool.
Step6
Use a backsaw for smooth, precise cuts. This is a good saw to use with a miter box and is designed for crosscutting or ripping.

Tips & Warnings

  • Make sure that your saw is comfortable in your hand and the teeth are sharp.

Comments

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Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 A jeweler's saw is similar to a coping saw, but generally has finer teeth (for cutting fine detail), and is suitable for cutting metal.

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eHow Article: How to Buy the Right Handsaw for a Job

eHow Home & Garden Editor

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Category: Home & Garden

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