Saws are one of the most fundamental tools used in construction, maintenance, and repair work. Nothing beats the versatility of a good saw to efficiently shape and cut pieces of wood or metal needed to build, furnish or fix objects.
From the standard hand saws to modern power saws such as circular saws or bandsaws – they come in all shapes, sizes, and types designed for specific jobs.
These tools have truly made our lives easier with their quick-acting efficiency that can make detailed and precise cuts where accuracy is more important than speed.
A task that could take hours by hand is now reduced to mere minutes with just a few swipes. No home DIYer or professional contractor should be without a trusty saw.
In this post, we are going to walk you through the different types of saws and discuss the benefits and uses of each type. So without further ado.
Let’s get started (:
To understand saws types more clearly, we’ll categorize each type based on specific criteria like hand or battery-powered, what they’re for, and so on.
lets Go!
Types Of Saws: Corded and Cordless
If we tried to categorize saws based on the power source then we’ll definitely end up with two types: cordless and corded saws. Let’s dive into each one of them to understand the difference between the two.
The Corded saws
Corded saws are essential tools for any construction or carpentry project. Their capabilities make them a popular choice among professionals and new woodworkers alike.
Unlike cordless saws, corded saws come with an unlimited supply of power, allowing you to work with virtually any material without interruption.
If bolted onto a workbench, these tools provide reliable precision cuts that won’t let you down while they’re working.
Besides their raw power, corded saws are also easier to maintain and cost far less than many of their battery-operated counterparts.
All in all, corded saws provide beginner and professional woodworkers with a safe, powerful, and low-maintenance method for cutting materials more efficiently.
Here are some of the great benefits of corded saws:
• Extremely Powerful
• Constant Power Supply
• Improved Speed and Accuracy
• Cost Savings
• Safety
The Cordless Saws
We are not surprised that cordless saws have gained attraction among do-it-yourselfers and professional tradespeople alike over the last few years.
With no cords to worry about, these saws grant you the freedom to cut pieces in hard-to-reach places to complete your projects with ease.
In addition to their portability, cordless saws offer improvements in speed and torque thanks to advancements in battery technology.
Some top manufacturers now create models with low vibration and reduced noise levels that enable you to enjoy a less noisy working environment.
With its limitless options for wood cutting and other home projects, there can be little doubt why cordless saws are so popular and loved by many people today.
Here are some of the great benefits of cordless saws:
• Increased Mobility
• Greater Safety
• Versatility
• Longer Runtime
• Lightweight
Types Of Saws: Power & Hand
Another way we can categorize saws is by dividing them based on whether they are manually powered or by electricity. By doing so, we’ll eventually end up with two main types: power and hand saws.
Let’s dive into each time a bit deeper.
Types Of The Hand Saws
According to our experience, probably of the main advantages of hand saws is they are lightweight and portable, making them perfect for transportation between work sites or projects around the home.
With the right technique, any carpenter is capable of producing clean, accurate cuts with a quality hand saw.
Here are the common types of Hand saws:
1. Hack Saw
A hack saw can be an incredibly useful tool in any household or job site.
The design of the saw is made in a way to minimalizes the effort and strength needed to effectively make straight cuts or adjust angles, which makes it suitable for a variety of projects from home renovation to carpentry.
It can easily be used on different kinds of materials from wood to metallic products thanks to the ability to pick between different types of blades.
Though much superior to manual sawing, using a hack saw does require some practice and training in order to make more precise cuts on your own.
With correct maintenance, this simple tool can last many years and provide great results time and time again.
2. Coping Saw
A coping saw is another essential tool if you’re working on woodworking projects, with its specialized and incredibly thin blade, allowing for intricate cuts and detailed shapes in a variety of materials.
With this invaluable saw, you’re capable of creating a wide range of designs, from delicate curves to fine patterns.
The scissors-like shape ensures clean, professional results on your project while the replaceable blades make it easy to switch uses or styles.
The ease of use and customizability make this tool a perfect addition to any serious crafter’s collection.
3. Crosscut Saw
The crosscut saw is an incredibly useful tool for anyone looking to cut through large pieces of wood. It is especially great for cutting long pieces that could not be done with a regular saw.
The two handles on either end of the saw make it easier to pull and push in a smooth side-to-side or back-and-forth motion, allowing you to easily and accurately cut difficult grains of wood.
The crosscut saw is made from high-grade steel and features heat-treated tips for maximum strength and durability.
If you give it the right amount of care and maintenance, this robust tool can last for years with continued reliable performance.
Whether you are working on a small project or large-scale lumbering activities, the crosscut saw is a great part of your toolkit.
4. Bow Cut Saw
The bow saws are an amazing tool for you as a woodworker. They have a wide, thin blade that is held in tension between two steel frames, allowing the blade to cut accurately with each stroke.
This makes them great for cutting thin pieces of wood or getting into tight corners and places that other tools simply can’t reach.
Bow saws can be used both wet and dry and their long blades help them make quick work of long cuts.
With well-made blades that last a lifetime, no woodshop should be without one.
5. Fret Saw
The fret saw is another powerful tool on our list that should be treated with respect. It has a thin metal blade stretched across a U-shaped frame and works primarily by tapping the end of the blade with a mallet.
This causes very rapid vibrations which can cut through nearly any material, usually within seconds. Suitable for small or intricate cuts, it is popular among carpenters, hobbyists, and artisans alike.
However, caution must be taken when operating the saw as even light pressure against the body of the saw can cause serious injury.
With care and attention to safety guidelines, this versatile easy-to-use tool can become an invaluable asset in your workshop.
6. Keyhole Saw
The keyhole saw is the perfect tool for any small DIY project. Its unique shape, and narrow blade, provide unparalleled accuracy in delicate projects.
This hand saw has been used for generations to cut perfectly on shapes, accurately trim a branch, or make exquisite dovetails.
You can use it for everything from kitchen cabinets to intricate jewelry pieces. Its versatility makes it an ideal choice for crafters that want to get that extra bit of precision in their work.
With such an incredible tool in your toolbox, no project will be too hard for you to tackle.
7. Japanese Saw
The Japanese saw is primarily an awesome carpentry tool, but it has been gaining popularity among woodworking hobbyists in recent years.
It’s easy to understand why; its thin blade and slim handle allow for precise yet intricate cuts, making it perfect for creating furniture, ornaments, and other handmade projects.
One of the benefits we noticed of using Japanese saw is that it requires less force than traditional Western-style saws because it cuts on the pull stroke – meaning you can make cuts more easily with less effort.
It’s also easy to control, with minimal kickback and bouncing, and its smaller size means you can comfortably store and transport it, which is why many DIYers swear by this fantastic tool.
8. Rip-Cut Saw
A rip-cut saw is an important forest and lumber industry tool, and it’s often seen in many home workshops as well.
It is a type of circular saw specifically designed to cut wood lengthwise or rip the wood parallel to the grain of the wood fibers. Its wide blade helps reduce vibration while cutting.
And because it has minimal teeth per inch rate, a rip-cut saw can make quick work of hardwood without splintering the cut edge.
A dedicated rip-cut saw is also great if you’re willing to cut small parts such as molding and trim because its thin kerf does not remove too much material from the board.
Last but not least, having specialized cutters allow you a greater degree of precision which is especially helpful if you need to get accurate angles when constructing furniture or other projects requiring specific angles.
All in all, a rip-cut saw can save you both time and energy on tedious projects – conjuring up useful cuts in no time.
9. Back Saw
A back saw is a type of hand saw used for making accurate and precise straight, angled, and curved cuts in wood.
It features a stiffening rib on its back as well as extra-fine teeth, making it ideal for your detailed joinery tasks such as cutting dovetails or preparing mortise and tenon joints.
This tried and tested cutting tool has been employed in many projects throughout history, from intricate nineteenth-century furniture to the construction of early twentieth-century boats.
While the cuts of most modern power tools may be faster and easier than that made with a back saw, artisans still believe that nothing beats the smooth finish and faultless detail of a perfectly executed back saw cut.
10. Pruning Saw
Pruning saws are a must-have for any gardener who wants to keep their trees, plants, and shrubs properly maintained.
Being able to effectively reach high branches and trim away areas of dead wood with an easy-to-use tool is invaluable.
These saws are typically made from hardened steel teeth that allow you to make precision cuts that help preserve the health and beauty of your plants.
Pruning saws can also be used on small limbs and branches with much less effort than trying to use clippers or shears. So if you are looking to up your garden game, you should definitely get a pruning saw.
11. Veneer Saw
A veneer saw is an amazing tool that should be on the list of any woodworking job involving thin materials such as veneers.
Its small and precise blades allow it cut intricate designs into delicate materials without chipping, splintering, or rough edges.
It can also work at very high speeds while maintaining accurate cuts allowing projects to be completed quickly and with professional results.
Its portability makes it a great choice for those who need to bring their saw with them to different locations, making it an ideal tool for home-based woodworkers and cabinet makers alike.
The veneer saw has proved itself time and time again as an essential part of any woodworking workshop, providing convenience, speed, accuracy, and durability in all types of woodworking jobs.
12. Wallboard Saw
A wallboard saw is another must-have tool for anyone looking to do repairs around the house. This innovative device can cut through gypsum board with ease, creating perfect holes for outlets and other fixtures.
It also offers extra stability when making cuts as its handle helps conduct vibrations away from your hands. The blade is curved so it follows the curvature of a sheetrock sheet, providing smooth, clean results every time.
Best of all, wallboard saws are light and compact so you can easily bring them along to jobs outside the home. With this indispensable tool in your arsenal, those dull repairs become a much simpler task!
13. Camping Saw
If you’re someone who likes camping and enjoying time outdoors, a camping saw definitely needs to be there.
When considering, you should primarily look for one that’s lightweight, as well as durable, and easy to store.
A folding camp saw is great for portability, as it can easily be tucked away into a bag or suitcase. Make sure to pick up extra blades if you think you will be doing a lot of cutting while camping.
It is important to be aware that the teeth of a camping saw are meant for woodcutting and may not bear up to tougher materials like metal.
So keep this in mind when choosing your next saw for camping. With the right blade, your folding camp saw will be ready to help with any cutting you encounter while out on the trails.
14. Bone Saw
From its name you might have guessed what this is for.
Yep! it’s for cutting bones.
The bone saw is designed with a long, thin reciprocating blade which is helpful in cutting through bones with precision and accuracy.
This type of saw is mostly used by butchers who cut meat with bones as well as hunters who need to make cuts through deer bones and other animals they hunt. But, Of course, it’s also suitable for the average person.
Types Of Power Saws
Power saws are simply a type of saws that are more advanced, they’re either powered by electricity, rechargeable batteries, or even by a gas engine.
They’re more powerful and efficient than hand saws when it comes to cutting jobs. But on the flip side of the coin, they can be expensive to some extent.
15. Circular Saw
The circular saw is a reliable and efficient tool for cutting wood and other materials. With its varied blade types, it can easily make fast, accurate modifications to various shapes, sizes, and materials.
The saw blades that come with this type of saw are produced with a thin steel core with diamond-tipped material for smoother operation in comparison to other bladed tools.
The circular saw is fantastic for making cuts of all sizes with cutting depths ranging from small nicks to deeper grooves.
Versatile and maneuverable, this multifunctional tool can be used as a rip-cut saw or miter cut giving users many ways to work around whatever project they may be undertaking.
So, whether you’re an experienced carpenter or just starting out, the circular saw is a perfect choice.
16. Miter Saw
The miter saw is an essential power tool for any woodworker or handyman as it provides precision and accuracy.
Not only can you make exact angle cuts, but you can also bevel the blade and do compound miter cuts. This makes an ideal especially if you’re constructing crown molding, door frames, and picture frames.
The saw’s motor is powerful enough to cut through most types of materials like wood, metal, plastic, and aluminum.
Overall a miter saw is an awesome tool that can help you get detailed cuts quickly and easily.
17. Compound Miter Saw
A compound miter saw is another type of powered saw that is essential to have in your workshop or around the house.
This type of saw combines the functions of a traditional miter saw with a compound feature that allows it to cut at two angles simultaneously while still keeping the same angle to create bevels and compound cuts.
The main difference between a basic miter saw we mentioned above and a compound miter saw is that the blade can swivel left and right as well as tilt forward for more advanced cutting capabilities such as crown molding for example.
It can also make clean, accurate, cross-cuts and bevel cuts at different angles. Thanks to its versatility and convenience, the compound miter saw has become incredibly popular among woodworkers and hobbyists alike.
18. Jigsaw
A jigsaw power saw is the go-to option for any serious DIY enthusiast as it’s capable of cutting through even the most stubborn materials.
This highly versatile tool can cut through wood, metal, composites, and many other materials with aplomb.
In addition to that, its flexibility of blade shapes means that you can customize your cuts to the desired curves or straight lines at the flick of a switch.
With its strong yet lightweight construction and its ease of use, the jigsaw power saw is truly a godsend for those needing to make precise and intricate cuts with the minimum of fuss.
19. Stationary Band Saws
Stationary band saws provide an excellent way to make quick, precise cuts in various types of materials that can eventually be used in a variety of applications.
They are particularly useful for cutting intricate shapes and tight curves due to their narrow band and flexible operating capabilities.
They can handle cutting wood, metals, plastics, and composites so much easier. With the right configuration and power, these saws can also be ideal for re-sawing lumber or making complex rip cuts.
They require less maintenance than other cutting tools out there while providing more precision.
So, whether you’re cutting heavy metals or detailed carvings from exotic woods, a stationary band saw is a perfect choice for your next project.
20. Portable Band Saws
Portable band saws are a great piece of equipment for those who work in construction and other areas requiring accurate, controlled cuts.
They are lightweight, easy to transport and come with a variety of blades suitable for different types of materials.
We can’t deny that this kind of portable band saw offers you more flexibility than other cutting tools, allowing you to make cuts quickly and safely in tight spaces.
When used properly, they can produce precision cuts with clean edges even when dealing with tough metals or dense materials.
Depending on the type of job you are tackling, portable band saws can save you time and money while ensuring you’re getting a higher-quality finished product.
If you’re a professional that needs accurate cutting ability in a convenient package, then the portable band saw has it all.
21. Table Saw
A table saw is an invaluable resource for any craftsperson or carpenter looking to make precise and professional-looking cuts with ease.
It simply works by spinning a circular saw blade on top of a flat surface, allowing you to easily and accurately cut various materials like wood, plastic, and metal.
From a safety perspective, the table saws are also incredibly safe – they come with modern safety functions such as blade guards that protect your hands from any careless slips.
Another super feature is that they offer increased versatility through the ability to cut into the workpiece at an angle.
Overall, a table saw is a must-have tool for any individual who wants to make accurate and clean cuts in a variety of materials quickly and safely.
22. Chainsaw
A chainsaw is a powerful tool that can quickly and effectively help you with a wide range of projects.
From cutting firewood, shaping lumber, or even pruning trees and shrubs, the high-powered motor and teeth of a chainsaw will make your project easier.
Although not for the faint of heart, this useful tool requires caution when handling it in order to ensure safety as well as efficiency.
By following proper safety guidelines and techniques when operating your chainsaw, you can accomplish any job you set out to do.
23. Chop Saw
A chop saw is a type of power saw that is becoming increasingly popular across the world. It is mainly used in industrial settings but has the versatility to be used for woodworking and general DIY projects as well.
Its strong motor and steel blade make very precise cuts much more quickly than a hand-held saw, without having to exert a large amount of physical effort.
As it gets the job done faster and more accurately, a chop saw can save time and money for experienced professionals as well as casual hobbyists.
24. Flooring Saw
Flooring power saws are a great tool for any do-it-yourselfer. Whether you want to install your own floors or update existing flooring, the power saw makes it easier to get it done quickly and accurately.
Flooring power saws cut through even the hardest materials with precision and permit you to make a professional finish without spending a lot of time.
No matter if you are cutting hardwood, laminate, or tile, these amazing saws are essential to have on hand.
With easy-to-set-up blades and safety measures, they’re perfect for tackling any kind of flooring project that might come your way – making them an indispensable tool for anyone needing professional-grade results on a budget.
25. Panel Saw
A panel saw is a powerful woodworking tool that provides precision and accuracy when cutting large sheets of wood.
With countless different designs and models available, there’s sure to be one suitable for the task you’re going after.
From basic starter models for the DIYer to heavy-duty designs for the seasoned professional, these machines provide a solid foundation for effortless cuts with minimal effort.
capable of depths up to 12 inches and slicing through multiple sheets with ease, panel saws make quick work of the most tedious of jobs.
Within minutes, what once took hours can now be completed in just over a minute or two. From home remodels to furniture building projects, this kind of saw is a vital piece of equipment for those who take pride in their craftsmanship.
26. Oscillating Saw
An oscillating saw is another handy powered tool with a powerful ability to take on tasks like cutting hardwood, plastics, and metal. It’s lightweight and easy to use, which makes it the perfect tool for a variety of DIY projects.
With its precise cutting capabilities, this saw offers up a level of control and accuracy that many other more generic saws simply can’t match.
Providing users with more confidence in their DIY efforts, this saw can help make just about any type of cut with ease.
So, whether it’s time to remodel your kitchen or build a new deck, an oscillating saw will be sure to make your life easier.
27. Radial Arm Saw
The radial arm saw is a versatile and powerful tool that can handle almost any cutting job. It uses a circular saw blade to make cuts in board material, including plywood or trim work.
The advantage of the radial arm saw over traditional hand-held circular saws is its broad range of adjustments that can be made with precision.
The side-mounted mechanism of the radial arm saw allows for very accurate and repeatable angles, depths and heights to be achieved quickly and precisely.
With an experienced operator, there is no limit to how accurate the cuts can be with this device!
With regular maintenance, the radial arm saw provides years of reliable performance, making it an essential tool in any professional shop or workshop.
28. Scroll Saw
Scroll saws are one of the amazing tools out there for woodworking and craft projects, giving you a high level of precision cuts on a wide range of materials.
They use a thin blade with sharp teeth to move up and down rapidly in a fast-paced reciprocating motion to cut different kinds of materials such as wood, metal, plastic, and more.
This powerful tool gives you the ability to easily make complex curves, intricate shapes, and tight circles without having to use jigsaws or other sophisticated tools.
Scroll saws can be used for a variety of tasks from creating puzzles or figurines to making beautiful furniture pieces or decorative wall art.
Whether you’re an experienced craftsman or just starting out your journey in the world of woodworking, having a quality scroll saw is a must!
29. Pole Saw
Pole saws are a great tool for trimming tall trees and thick branches. They leverage an extendable arm equipped with a sharp blade to conveniently shape personal outdoor spaces.
While they can be large investments, they are definitely providing the ultimate in convenience, and quick and precision cutting depending on the model you select.
For example, a gas-powered or electric version can make short work of pruning complicated tasks even if working around power lines or areas with limited access.
Pole saws also require some knowledge and experience to operate safely while still providing great results, making it worthwhile to seek out expert advice when selecting the right pole saw for your job.
30. Wet Tile Saw
Working with tiles is a precise job requiring the right tools. A wet tile saw is a must-have for any project that deals with ceramic, granite, or marble tiles.
It makes precise cuts and helps you ensure feathered edges – without breaking the tile in the process. Most of those saws also come with adjustable angles and depths for different types of cutting.
So if you’re dealing with wet or dry tiling, a wet tile saw is the perfect choice to make work easier, faster, and more precise.
31. Reciprocating Saw
The reciprocating type of saw is the tool to rely on confidently if you’re willing to demolish wood or metal materials quickly and easily.
Its portability makes it ideal for small-scale jobs and it has the capability of enduring most tasks with no issue.
The variable speed feature allows you to adjust their power output accordingly so that there is no danger of damaging whatever material you are using on your projects.
Not only that, its ergonomic design ensures maximal comfort during extended usage and its wide range of available blades makes sure you are always well-prepared for any challenge.
Truly, a reciprocating saw is a must-have for any home renovation or construction application.
32. Rotary Saw
Rotary saws are essential for any serious woodworking project. They make precise, intricate cuts that even the most experienced craftsman would find difficult to do otherwise.
These tools use motorized rotary blades to slice through wood pieces of virtually any size or shape.
Thanks to the power offered by modern rotary saws, intricate, detailed designs can be cut with minimal effort and time, making them an ideal choice for DIYers or professionals alike.
With added safety features and adjustable speed settings, these saws make it easy to get creative and bring your dream projects to life.
33. Track Saw
Track saws are another incredibly useful tool for carpenters and woodworkers alike. If you’re someone who needs precision cuts, then a track saw is among the perfect solutions.
it provides tight tolerances without requiring extra setup or tools. Not only that, but they make the entire process smooth and more consistent than traditional hand-cutting techniques.
When we were doing research online, we noticed that some users have reported improved time management, accuracy, and quality when they started using track saws in their projects.
With its numerous functions and capabilities, the track saw lives up to its reputation as one of the essential tools for any serious carpenter or woodworker.
Bottom Line
To sum up, saws are an essential part of everyday life. From building shelves or furniture to crafting frames, they are a necessary tool for countless tasks.
Given their prime spot in the toolbox, it’s important that they are kept sharp and safely maintained to avoid accidents.
Knowing the different types of saws is as crucial as the project itself.
That was it for this guide. Thanks for reading.
Cheers!
