Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker shaping a fine piece of furniture or a weekend warrior tackling a backyard project, the right hand saw is an indispensable tool. It’s the extension of your intent, turning raw lumber into precise components. The sheer variety of saws available, however, can be daunting, from traditional backsaws to modern cordless power saws.
Choosing the best hand saw for woodworking isn’t about finding a single “best” tool, but the best tool for your specific task and skill level. This roundup cuts through the noise to bring you a selection of ten highly-rated saws, each excelling in different areas. We’ve considered factors like cutting action, blade technology, ergonomics, and specialization to help you make an informed decision for your workshop.
Our Top Picks for Woodworking Hand Saws
- Seesii Mini Chainsaw, 6-inch Cordless
- CRAFTSMAN Hand Saw, 15-Inch
- Tietoc Chainsaw 6 Inch Mini Electric
- TOOLAN: 8-In-1 Multi Blades Hand Saw
- RUITOOL Japanese Hand Saw 6 Inch
- REXBETI Folding Saw, Heavy Duty 11 Inch
- JORGENSEN 15” Hand Saw, Black Coated
- 14 in. Pro Hand Saw, 11 TPI Fine-Cut
- IRWIN Hand Saw, Coarse Cut, 15-Inch
- IRWIN Tools Universal Hand Saw, 15-Inch
Seesii Mini Chainsaw, 6-inch Cordless
For those who need power without the heft, the Seesii Mini Chainsaw offers a modern solution. Its primary advantage is its cordless, lightweight design, weighing just 2.62 pounds, which allows for comfortable one-handed operation. This makes it ideal for quick pruning, trimming, and cutting in tight spaces where a larger saw would be cumbersome.
The kit includes two battery packs and a fast charger, ensuring you have ample power for extended tasks. The chainsaw arrives fully assembled, requiring only a simple chain tension adjustment with the included wrench. Features like self-overload and temperature protection help maintain the battery’s health for a longer lifespan, making it a user-friendly option for beginners and experienced users alike.
CRAFTSMAN Hand Saw, 15-Inch
The CRAFTSMAN 15-Inch Hand Saw is a classic tool built for performance and durability. It utilizes an exclusive tooth geometry designed to provide fast and clean cuts through wood, making it a reliable choice for a variety of woodworking and yard tasks. The blade’s teeth are induction hardened, a process that ensures they stay sharper for longer compared to standard blades.
Comfort is a key focus of this saw, featuring an ergonomically designed bi-material handle. This provides a secure and comfortable grip, giving you better control and reducing hand fatigue during prolonged use. It’s a straightforward, no-fuss tool that delivers consistent results for framers, contractors, and DIY enthusiasts.
Tietoc Chainsaw 6 Inch Mini Electric
The Tietoc Mini Electric Chainsaw packs significant cutting power into a compact, cordless unit. Its 880-watt high-power motor, combined with a manganese steel chain, allows it to effortlessly cut through 6-inch branches. An automatic oiler system is included, which lubricates the chain to reduce wear and tear, ensuring smoother operation and a longer tool life.
Weighing only 3.3 pounds, this chainsaw is designed to be manageable for a wide range of users, including those who may find traditional gas chainsaws too heavy or intimidating. Its slim and lightweight profile helps prevent arm and hand fatigue, making garden maintenance and wood cutting less of a chore.
TOOLAN: 8-In-1 Multi Blades Hand Saw
Versatility is the defining feature of the TOOLAN 8-in-1 Multi Blades Hand Saw. This innovative tool functions as a drywall cutter, hacksaw, jab saw, and more, all in one compact unit. It comes with eight different high-speed steel (HSS) blades, each suited for cutting specific materials like drywall, wood, metal, and plastic.
The saw features a clever quick-change mechanism with a lockback design that securely holds the blades in place. The TPR non-slip handle is ergonomically designed to reduce hand fatigue during extended use. For anyone who works with multiple materials and wants to minimize the number of tools they carry, this is an excellent space-saving solution.
RUITOOL Japanese Hand Saw 6 Inch
The RUITOOL Japanese Pull Saw, or Ryoba, is designed for precision woodworking. Unlike Western saws that cut on the push stroke, this saw cuts on the pull stroke, which allows for a thinner blade and more controlled, accurate cuts. The 6-inch blade is an ideal size for detailed work, flush cuts, and fine joinery.
Its blade is crafted from SK5 high-carbon steel and hardened to HRC60-63, giving it exceptional sharpness and durability. The double-edged design features two tooth patterns: one side with 14 TPI for cross-cutting and the other with 17 TPI for rip-cutting. This makes it a highly versatile tool for any fine woodworking project.
REXBETI Folding Saw, Heavy Duty 11 Inch
The REXBETI Folding Saw is built for portability and power, making it an excellent companion for camping, landscaping, and general yard work. Its 11-inch extra-long blade is made from durable SK-5 steel, and its aggressive 7 TPI (teeth per inch) staggered teeth allow it to power through thick branches up to 6-7 inches in diameter efficiently.
The folding design is a key safety and convenience feature. When closed, the sharp teeth are completely covered by the robust handle, making it safe and easy to store in a toolbox or backpack. The handle itself is designed for a firm, comfortable grip, providing excellent control during use.
JORGENSEN 15” Hand Saw, Black Coated
The JORGENSEN 15” Hand Saw is engineered for fast and efficient wood cutting. It features an 8 TPI triple-ground tooth configuration that delivers aggressive, rapid cuts, reportedly up to 50% faster than some standard saws. The blade is constructed from SK5 high-carbon steel, which provides consistent performance and resists bending.
A standout feature is the black Teflon coating on the blade. This coating reduces friction during cutting, which helps prevent material from sticking to the blade and results in smoother strokes. The coating also offers an additional layer of protection against moisture and rust, contributing to the tool’s longevity.
14 in. Pro Hand Saw, 11 TPI Fine-Cut
This 14-inch Pro Hand Saw is designed for precise and clean cuts in a variety of materials. With an 11 TPI (teeth per inch) fine-cut blade made from heat-treated 65Mn steel, it is well-suited for cutting wood, plastic pipes, plywood, and drywall with a high degree of accuracy.
The blade’s thin profile (0.9mm) helps in reducing kerf waste and requires less effort to push through material. It is complemented by a soft, ergonomic TPR handle that provides a non-slip grip and enhances user comfort, making it a great tool for detailed work by contractors and woodworkers.
IRWIN Hand Saw, Coarse Cut, 15-Inch
The IRWIN 15-Inch Hand Saw with a coarse cut is built for speed and efficiency on the job site. It employs M2 tooth technology and Tri-Ground teeth that are designed to remove material quickly and effectively. This makes it ideal for rough cuts in framing lumber and other construction applications.
Additional design elements contribute to its performance. A Tapered-Pitch nose offers improved clearance and stability when starting cuts, while deep gullets help to quickly clear away sawdust and chips, preventing the blade from binding. It’s a professional-grade tool known for its rugged reliability.
IRWIN Tools Universal Hand Saw, 15-Inch
Another strong contender from a trusted brand, the IRWIN Tools Universal Hand Saw is designed as a general-purpose tool for a wide array of cutting tasks. Its 15-inch blade is configured to handle both crosscuts and rip cuts, providing versatility for the average user tackling common projects around the home or workshop.
It features an ergonomic ProTouch handle that is engineered for comfort and to reduce hand strain. The blade is designed for a fast and clean cut, making it suitable for pruning, trimming, and general woodworking. This saw is a solid, reliable choice for those who need a single, go-to hand saw for multiple applications.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Hand Saws for Woodworking
Stepping into the world of hand tools can be a bit overwhelming, especially when you’re staring at a wall of saws at the hardware store. I’ve been there. The key isn’t to buy the most expensive one; it’s to buy the right one for the jobs you actually do. Let’s break down what you should be looking for when you’re picking out your next, or first, hand saw for woodworking.
First, consider the saw type. This is the most important decision. Are you cutting across the grain or with it? A crosscut saw is designed for cutting across the wood grain, leaving a cleaner cut on the fibers it severs. A rip saw, on the other hand, is built for cutting along the grain, acting like a series of tiny chisels to pry the wood fibers apart. For most beginners, a quality crosscut saw is the most versatile starting point. Then you have backsaws, like a tenon or dovetail saw, which have a rigid spine for ultra-precise joinery cuts. A Japanese pull-saw is another fantastic option, with its thin, flexible blade that cuts on the pull stroke for incredible control and a very fine kerf.
Next, look at the teeth per inch (TPI). This is a huge factor in the finish of your cut. A saw with a low TPI (like 7-10) has larger, more aggressive teeth. It will remove material quickly but leave a rougher edge. This is great for rough dimensioning lumber. A high TPI (like 14-20+) means smaller, closer-set teeth. These saws cut slower but leave a much smoother, almost finished surface. They are perfect for fine joinery and trimming. Think of it this way: low TPI for speed, high TPI for smoothness.
Don’t ignore the handle. You’re going to be holding this thing for a while, so comfort is non-negotiable. Look for an ergonomic design that fits your hand well. Traditional saws often have a closed, pistol-grip handle made of wood or plastic. Some modern designs offer more innovative grips. The best advice I can give is to actually hold the saw if you can. It should feel like a natural extension of your arm, not something you have to fight with.
Finally, think about blade material and set. Most quality saw blades are made from hardened steel to hold a sharp edge. Some are impulse-hardened, which keeps them sharp for a long time but makes them difficult to sharpen yourself. Others are made from softer steel that can be sharpened with files. The “set” of the teeth refers to how they are bent alternately left and right. This creates a kerf that is wider than the blade, preventing it from getting stuck in the wood. More set is good for green or resinous wood, while less set is ideal for dry hardwood and finer work. Getting the right combination of these features will help you find one of the best hand saws for woodworking that fits your specific needs and budget.
FAQ
What is the most versatile type of hand saw for a beginner?
For someone just starting out, I’d recommend a general-purpose crosscut saw with a medium TPI (around 10-12). This type of saw is designed for cutting across the wood grain, which is a very common task. It won’t rip lumber as efficiently as a dedicated rip saw, but it will handle crosscuts, trimming, and even some rougher jobs admirably. It’s the perfect “one saw to do most things” while you’re learning. A 15-inch backsaw or a Japanese Ryoba (which has both rip and crosscut teeth on one blade) are also excellent and versatile choices for a beginner’s toolkit.
Can I sharpen my own hand saws?
Yes, you absolutely can, and it’s a valuable skill for any woodworker. Sharpening a hand saw requires a special file called a saw file and a tool called a saw vise to hold the blade steady. The process involves jointing (lightly filing the tips of the teeth to be even), shaping (filing each tooth to the correct profile), and setting (bending the teeth to the correct angle). It takes practice and patience. For many modern hard-point saws, however, the teeth are impulse-hardened and cannot be sharpened; you simply replace the saw once it becomes dull.
Why does my hand saw keep binding and getting stuck in the cut?
This is a common frustration, and it usually comes down to a few things. First, check that you’re not forcing the saw or putting downward pressure on it. Let the weight of the saw do the work. Second, the “set” of the teeth might be insufficient for the type of wood you’re cutting, causing the blade to rub in the kerf. Third, the wood itself might be pinching the blade, especially on longer cuts. You can place a small wedge or a screwdriver in the end of the cut to keep it open slightly. Finally, make sure your saw is sharp! A dull saw requires more force and is more likely to bind.
What’s the difference between a Western push saw and a Japanese pull saw?
The fundamental difference is in the cutting action. A Western saw is designed to cut on the push stroke. The blade is typically thicker and requires stiffness to prevent buckling. A Japanese pull saw, like a Kataba or Ryoba, cuts on the pull stroke. This allows the blade to be much thinner and more flexible, resulting in a narrower cut (kerf) that requires less effort. Many people find the pulling motion provides better control and a cleaner cut. It’s largely a matter of personal preference, but I think every woodworker should try a pull saw at least once.
How many hand saws do I really need to get started with woodworking?
You can accomplish a surprising amount with just two or three saws. I’d suggest starting with a good panel saw for general crosscutting and a quality backsaw for joinery work like cutting tenons or dovetails. A coping saw is also incredibly useful for cutting curves and removing waste from joints. This trio will cover about 95% of the tasks for a beginner. As your skills and projects grow, you can then invest in more specialized saws, like a dedicated rip saw or a gent’s saw for ultra-fine work. Building a collection of the best hand saws for woodworking is a journey, not a race.