Get the Best Backsaws for Precise Woodworking Projects

What Are Backsaws Used For?

A backsaw is a specialized handsaw with a rectangular blade and reinforced spine. A metallic or wooden piece runs along the top edge, securing the blade into place. As a result, the blade remains stable and stays straight during cutting.

Their blades are also typically shorter than most handsaws. So, the combination of a short blade and reinforced spine provides you with better control over the saw. The lack of shakiness enhances the precision and accuracy of cuts.

Although you can cut a variety of materials with a backsaw, it’s most popularly used in woodworking projects. And, it doesn’t matter whether your project is large or small scale, you can use these products to cut tenons, dovetails, joints, and miters.

Types of Backsaws

There are two important types of backsaws in terms of functionality; crosscut and rip saws. Both have teeth set, or bent, in the opposite direction of the blade. However, there are slight differences in design, making them suitable for different purposes. Let’s look at them in detail.

Cross-cut saws

The cross-cut saws have teeth angled towards the inside of the edge. This sharp-tilted edge enables the saw to cut through materials almost effortlessly. So, you can use these saws for cutting across wood grain easily.

Rip saws

Rip saws have straight pointed teeth, making them function like chisels. They scrape wood instead of slicing it, allowing you to cut with or towards the grain.

That being said, manufacturers have started creating more versatile backsaws. These backsaws have universal or hybrid teeth capable of cutting wood in any direction. Using these modern versions, you do not need to take care of the grain.

Choosing the Ideal Backsaw for Your Needs

We have already reviewed the top-rated backsaws available on the market. But, in case none of those seem suitable, don’t worry, there are still a ton of options. Feel free to shop for yourself, just remember to keep the following factors in mind!

Backsaw style

Dovetail, tenon, razor – a lot of these terms will come up in your search. These are not types of backsaws but rather styles influencing their efficiency. Here are the differences between them:

Gent’s saw

A small, multipurpose backsaw that’s 6 to 10 inches long, usually with a crosscut blade and a straight pistol-grip. This saw is perfect for model-making and detailed woodworking.

Dovetail saw

As the name suggests, dovetail saws are specialized tools for making dovetail joints. These 8 to 10-inch long saws feature sharp rip teeth with thin blades. So, you cannot use them for cutting wood more than ¾ inch square.

Tenon saw

Tenon backsaws are in the medium to the large saw range. Their rip blades can be anywhere from 12 to 16 inches long. And, you can use them for sawing tenons and slicing deeply into the wood grain.

Carcass saw

This is a crosscut backsaw coming with a typical 12 to 14-inch long blade. People often describe it as a hybrid between tenon and dovetail saws. And, they may be right because you can use this saw for a variety of small cross-cutting tasks, just like tenon saws.

Razor saw

Razor saws feature small crosscut teeth and disposable blades. The smallness of the teeth makes them impossible to resharpen, which is why you can only use these saws for a certain amount of time. Nonetheless, the sharp-toothed design is still ideal for cutting softwoods.

Measurements

Although a backsaw’s style has a great impact on its dimensions, you should go through product details, and analyze them separately. The length, width, and thickness of a blade determine the cut type. For example, you will require a thicker and wider blade to create deeper, wider cuts.

Similarly, fine woodworking demands thinner and smaller blades. So, consider the woodworking projects you plan to do, and select accordingly.

Teeth per inch (TPI)

The number of teeth on each inch of a backsaw’s blade determines two important factors, including relative smoothness and the speed of cutting. As a general rule, saws with larger and fewer teeth per inch tend to be faster than versions with more abundant smaller teeth.

However, speed can compromise smoothness. While saws with more and smaller teeth mean slower cutting, they promise optimal results. So, we highly recommend getting a backsaw between 12 to 20 TPI (a higher TPI will produce slower but better results).

Blade material

Most blades are made of stainless steel or brass, though they aren’t especially resistant to damage. If you want a long-lasting blade that can withstand a great deal of abuse, opt for high carbon steel. These backsaws may come at a higher price, but their longevity is more than worth it.

Handle ergonomics

The handle of a backsaw can be straight, curved, or a hybrid. You can choose any option depending on your comfort preferences. Usually, opting for a curved or hybrid handle is recommended.

These ensure you can maintain a firm and stable grip. Further, select a saw with a slightly rugged or textured surface. The roughness increases friction, reducing slipping while you work.

Vintage and Newer Backsaws

Vintage backsaws refer to traditional and antique versions. Typically, people pass them down across generations as heirlooms, but you can also purchase them. These backsaws are quite sturdy and fine.
However, they come at a premium, often ranging from $150-$300. In some cases, you may even have to resharpen and service a saw before using it. So, if your budget allows for it or you’re just passionate about antique collectibles, purchase a vintage backsaw.

Otherwise, it’s best to choose modern backsaws that are less expensive and just as reliable. And, new backsaws are also readily available. So, you won’t have to go to several stores trying to find a specific model.