Ever tried to build something and ended up with crooked cuts? It’s frustrating, right? That’s where a back saw comes in handy. These saws are essential tools for any woodworker, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro. They help you make straight, accurate cuts every time. Choosing the right one, however, can be a real headache. There are so many different types, sizes, and teeth configurations. How do you pick the best back saw for your specific needs?
This blog post is designed to help you navigate the world of back saws. We will break down the key features and considerations. We’ll explore the different types of back saws, their uses, and what to look for when buying one. You’ll learn how to avoid common mistakes and choose a back saw that fits your projects perfectly. By the end, you’ll be equipped to make clean, precise cuts and build like a pro!
So, get ready to say goodbye to wonky cuts and hello to woodworking success. Let’s dive in and explore the wonderful world of back saws!
Our Top 5 Back Saw Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Back Saw Detailed Reviews
1. Spear & Jackson 9550B Traditional Brass Back Tenon Saw
Rating: 9.4/10
The Spear & Jackson 9550B Traditional Brass Back Tenon Saw is a classic hand tool. It’s designed for precise cuts in wood. This saw is great for small projects and joint cutting. It features a sturdy brass back and a comfortable wooden handle. The high carbon steel blade makes clean cuts. This saw is built to last and help you with any woodworking project.
What We Like:
- Cuts both with and across the wood grain.
- The brass back gives the saw good stability.
- It is good for cutting joints.
- The wooden handle is comfortable to hold.
- The blade is made of strong, high carbon steel.
What Could Be Improved:
- The saw might need sharpening after a lot of use.
The Spear & Jackson 9550B Traditional Brass Back Tenon Saw is a reliable tool. It is a good choice for anyone who enjoys woodworking or needs a saw for smaller projects.
2. IVY Classic 11114 14″ Miter Back Saw
Rating: 8.5/10
The IVY Classic 11114 14″ Miter Back Saw is a handy tool for woodworkers. It has a hardwood handle and a sharp blade. This saw helps you make straight and accurate cuts in wood. It is made to work with a miter box for precise angles.
What We Like:
- The steel back keeps the blade straight. This makes for accurate cuts.
- The blade cuts fast. It has precision ground teeth that cut on both the push and pull.
- The blade is made of alloy steel. It is hardened and tempered for lasting use.
- It is great for cutting both soft and hard woods.
- The blade comes with a reusable plastic guard. This keeps you safe.
What Could Be Improved:
- The specifications are good. However, some users may want different blade lengths or cutting depths.
- While the plastic guard is reusable, it could be more durable.
This IVY Classic saw is a good choice for cutting wood. It offers a fast and accurate cutting experience.
3. Spear & Jackson B9812 12 inch (305mm) X 15pts Predator Tenon Saw
Rating: 8.6/10
The Spear & Jackson B9812 12 inch (305mm) X 15pts Predator Tenon Saw is a handy tool. It helps with many woodworking tasks. You can use it to cut tenons, pelmets, and more. This saw cuts fast and clean. It has a strong steel back and a comfy handle. This saw is a good choice for both beginners and experienced woodworkers.
What We Like:
- This saw cuts quickly.
- It gives a smooth and clean cut.
- The solid steel back makes it strong.
- The handle is comfy and easy to hold.
- It has a 45/90° angle guide.
- The grip is soft and won’t slip.
- You can use it on all types of wood grain.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the saw a bit heavy.
- The blade could be sharper for some hardwoods.
In conclusion, the Spear & Jackson Predator Tenon Saw is a solid tool. It is great for many cutting jobs.
4. RUITOOL Japanese Hand Saw 6 Inch Double Edge Sided Pull Saw Ryoba SK5 Flexible Blade 14/17 TPI Flush Cut Beech Handle Wood Saw for Woodworking Tools
Rating: 9.2/10
The RUITOOL Japanese Hand Saw is a great tool for woodworking. It has a 6-inch double-edged blade. This pull saw is perfect for both beginners and experienced woodworkers. The saw is made for precise cuts. It’s an ideal gift for woodworkers, carpenters, and craftspeople.
What We Like:
- The 6-inch blade size is perfect for many cuts.
- The SK5 high-carbon steel blade is durable and flexible.
- It has two edges: 17 TPI for hardwood and 14 TPI for softwood.
- The three-sided grinding teeth make cutting faster and smoother.
- The beech handle is comfortable to hold.
- The company offers good customer service.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might need to get used to the pull-saw action.
- The blade might need occasional sharpening with use.
This RUITOOL Japanese Hand Saw is a valuable tool for any woodworker. It is a good quality saw at a reasonable price.
5. WADFOW 12 Inch Pro Hand Saw: 11 TPI Fine-Cut Soft-Grip Hardpoint Handsaw with Ergonomic Non-Slip Handle – Perfect for Sawing
Rating: 9.3/10
The WADFOW 12 Inch Pro Hand Saw is a handy tool for many tasks. It’s made for sawing, trimming, and more. This hand saw is great for both beginners and experienced users. This saw helps you get the job done right.
What We Like:
- The saw blade is made of strong, high carbon steel. It is 0.8mm thick and built to last.
- The handle is made for comfort. It has a non-slip grip that helps you work without getting tired.
- The saw cuts quickly because of its triple-ground teeth. It has 11 teeth per inch.
- It’s easy to use and store. This saw is perfect for many jobs around the house.
- The handle has angles (45° and 90°) to help you cut straight.
- The teeth are protected with plastic. This helps keep the saw safe.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users may want more information on the types of wood the saw cuts.
This WADFOW hand saw is a good choice for many cutting jobs. It is a reliable tool for any toolbox.
Back Saw Buying Guide: Get Ready to Cut!
A back saw is a hand saw. It is good for making straight, accurate cuts. It has a stiff back. This helps guide the blade. If you want to make precise cuts, a back saw is a great tool. Let’s learn how to pick the best one for you!
Key Features to Look For
When you buy a back saw, look for these features:
- Blade Length: Longer blades can cut deeper. Shorter blades are easier to control. Choose the length that fits your projects. A good starting point is a 10-14 inch blade.
- Teeth Per Inch (TPI): TPI tells you how many teeth are on the blade per inch. More teeth mean smoother cuts. Fewer teeth mean faster cuts. For general use, a 13-15 TPI is good. For fine work, use 16-20 TPI.
- Handle: The handle should be comfortable. You will hold it for a while. Look for a handle that feels good in your hand. Wood handles are classic. Plastic handles can be durable.
- Back: The back is usually made of metal. It gives the blade stiffness. It helps you saw straight. The back should be strong and well-attached.
- Blade Material: The blade is usually made of steel. High-carbon steel blades are strong and hold their edge well. Some blades are coated to reduce friction.
Important Materials
Back saws use different materials. Knowing these materials helps you pick a good saw:
- Blade Steel: The blade is made of steel. High-carbon steel is a popular choice. It is strong and can be sharpened.
- Back Material: The back is often made of brass or steel. Brass is heavy and looks nice. Steel is strong and lasts a long time.
- Handle Material: Wood or plastic make up the handle. Wood handles feel good. Plastic handles are tough and can last.
- Teeth: The teeth are part of the blade. They are hardened for cutting. The shape of the teeth matters. It affects how well the saw cuts.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things affect how good a back saw is:
- Blade Quality: A good blade is sharp and made of good steel. It cuts smoothly. Cheap blades dull quickly.
- Handle Quality: A well-made handle is comfortable. It is attached securely to the blade. A loose handle is annoying.
- Back Quality: The back must be strong. It keeps the blade straight. A weak back makes it hard to saw straight.
- Teeth Quality: The teeth need to be sharp and set correctly. This makes the saw cut efficiently. Dull or poorly set teeth will make the saw hard to use.
- Overall Construction: A well-made saw will last a long time. It will work better. Look for saws with good reviews.
User Experience and Use Cases
Back saws are used for many projects:
- Joinery: This is the most common use. Back saws cut wood for making joints. This includes dovetails, tenons, and miters.
- Fine Woodworking: Back saws help make precise cuts. These cuts are needed for cabinets, boxes, and other projects.
- Model Making: They can cut small pieces of wood. You can make models or other small projects.
- Cutting Trim: Back saws cut trim for doors and windows. They make clean, straight cuts.
- DIY Projects: You can use a back saw for many home projects.
Back saws are easy to use. They need a bit of practice. Start by practicing on scrap wood. Keep the blade straight. Use slow, steady strokes.
Back Saw FAQ
Q: What is a back saw used for?
A: Back saws are used for making straight and precise cuts in wood. They are great for joinery and fine woodworking.
Q: How do I choose the right blade length?
A: Choose a blade length that fits the size of your projects. A 10-14 inch blade is good for most tasks.
Q: What does “TPI” mean?
A: TPI means “Teeth Per Inch.” It tells you how many teeth are on the blade per inch. More teeth mean smoother cuts.
Q: What is the back for?
A: The back is a stiff piece of metal. It runs along the top of the blade. The back helps the blade stay straight.
Q: What kind of handle should I get?
A: Get a handle that feels comfortable in your hand. Wood and plastic are both good choices.
Q: How do I sharpen a back saw?
A: You can sharpen a back saw with a file made for saw teeth. Watch videos or ask an expert for help.
Q: What is the best material for a back saw blade?
A: High-carbon steel is a good choice for the blade. It is strong and holds its edge well.
Q: How do I keep my back saw in good condition?
A: Keep the blade clean and dry. Oil the blade to prevent rust. Store it in a safe place.
Q: Can I use a back saw for cutting metal?
A: No, back saws are designed for cutting wood. Using it on metal will damage the teeth.
Q: Where can I buy a back saw?
A: You can buy back saws at hardware stores and online. Look at woodworking supply stores too.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!