The Best Hand Saws for All Your Wood DIY Projects and Camping Needs

Most people turn to power saws for cutting wood or branches. But using such a powerful tool can be a little too cumbersome for any simple job at hand. That’s why we have hand saws to make the task easier and more efficient. However, the hand saw variety can sometimes make it difficult for you to pick the best one.

That’s why we’re here to save the day and share with you all the information that will help you make up your mind. So before you finalize your choice from the list we shared above, read through this guide to make a more informed decision.

Things to Know Before Buying a Hand Saw

You look at a hand saw, and you like it – but is that really enough to buy the best hand saw?

There are some crucial aspects that must be taken into consideration before you buy a hand saw. Whether you’re investing in your first one or upgrading the one you already have, keep these points at the back of your head to pick the most suitable tool for all your DIY projects and craft needs.

• Don’t choose a hand saw because you like the color of the handle or the number of teeth. To do the job with efficiency, you need the right tool. A basic hand saw is perfect for ripping and crosscuts. You can use the one with finer teeth to get smoother cuts.
• Maintain a sharp blade to get the best results. Ensure proper maintenance of your hand saw to never experience a dull blade. That’s the last thing you want to deal with.
  Thick and durable hand saw blades are your friend. If the blades are too thin, they would flex a lot and wouldn’t result in smoother cuts.
• Always focus on the quality of material that the hand saw is made from. It will decide the longevity of your saw and your overall experience.
• If you’re buying from a physical store, always hold the hand saw in your hand and imitate a to and fro motion to make sure it feels comfortable in your hand.

The Types of Hand Saws – What You Need To Know

Did you know there are several different types of hand saws with variations? Well, if you didn’t, let us introduce you to the top four hand saws commonly used by DIY-ers.

Panel saw

The most basic variety is the panel saw used in various wood-cutting projects. These flexible blades have a wide shape tapered down at the tip with adequate length to cater to larger cutting tasks. However, if you’re looking for fine cutting, the large teeth on this one may not be ideal. But the sturdy handles and long blades make them highly productive for straight yet non-precise cuts.

Hack saw

Not just wood, this hand saw can easily take tougher materials like iron tubing and copper. At the same time, you can also efficiently use hack saws for softer materials. The c-shaped blades are similar to coping saws and are typically smaller. They are pretty versatile, making them useful for both beginners and professionals.

Pull saw

As the name suggests, this particular hand saw is designed to cut precisely with a ‘pull’ instead of a push. This keeps the blades straight and gives you more control to create detailed and precise cuts. If you prefer an absolutely smooth finish, this is the hand saw you need.

Coping saw

These thin blades are an excellent choice for cutting in detail with sharp angles on wood and plastic. These are also a popular choice for DIY projects as they can be used on varying surfaces and can rotate to a full 360 degrees.

Pro Tips for the Best Use of a Hand Saw

The pro tips for using a hand saw below will ensure the best results without compromising your safety.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Never apply too much pressure on the hand saw. Start light and slow and let the saw work itself.
• Place the saw in a perpendicular direction to the surface you’re cutting. This will keep the blade from twisting or flexing.
• Use the maximum length of the hand saw for a long stroke. This will increase the life of your blades and make your cuts more accurate and precise.
• Always keep your work properly secure and supported before you begin sawing.
• Remove staples and nails from the wood before starting your DIY project.
• Always focus on the direction of the saw instead of where it is placed. This will help with making straighter cuts.
• Keep your saw clean and blades dry, and sharpen them often for efficient use.