Ever tried sawing a piece of wood and ended up with a crooked, splintered mess? It’s frustrating, right? Many woodworkers face this struggle. Choosing the right saw can make all the difference. One tool stands out: the Ryoba saw. This unique Japanese saw is a favorite for its precision and versatility.
Choosing a Ryoba saw can feel overwhelming. There are many brands, sizes, and tooth configurations. It’s tough to know which one is best for your projects. Understanding the different features and how they affect your cuts can be confusing. This guide solves those problems. We’ll break down everything you need to know to pick the perfect Ryoba saw for your needs.
By reading on, you’ll learn about the Ryoba saw’s key features. You’ll discover how to choose the right one for your projects. You’ll also get tips on using and caring for your saw. Get ready to improve your woodworking skills and achieve clean, accurate cuts! Let’s dive into the world of the Ryoba saw and unlock its secrets!
Our Top 5 Ryoba Saw Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Ryoba Saw Detailed Reviews
1. SUIZAN Ryoba Double Edge Saw 9.5″ Assembly ver – Professional Japanese Pullsaw Handsaw Woodworking Tools
Rating: 8.6/10
The SUIZAN Ryoba Double Edge Saw is a professional-grade Japanese pull saw designed for woodworking. This hand saw uses a pulling motion instead of pushing like most European saws. It’s lighter and creates cleaner cuts. Made in Japan by skilled craftsmen, this saw features high-quality Japanese steel. It’s perfect for both beginners and experts looking to expand their woodworking skills. This is the assembly version, so you’ll put it together yourself.
What We Like:
- Japanese pull saw design is lighter and more efficient.
- Sharp cuts because of the high-quality Japanese steel.
- Made by master craftsmen in Japan.
- Suitable for both rip and cross cuts.
- Can diversify your woodworking projects.
What Could Be Improved:
- Assembly is required.
- The handle’s appearance may vary.
- Cracks in the handle might happen during manufacturing, but it’s not a defect.
Overall, the SUIZAN Ryoba Double Edge Saw is a great tool for any woodworker. It offers precision and efficiency with its Japanese design and quality materials.
2. KERYE Japanese Pull Saw 9.5 Inch
Rating: 9.3/10
The KERYE Japanese Pull Saw KY01 is a hand saw. It is designed for woodworking. This saw has a 9.5-inch blade and is 24 inches long overall. It has two different sides for cutting. One side cuts quickly. The other side cuts with more detail. The blade is made of strong SK5 steel. The handle is made of beech and rattan. This saw is a good tool for both beginners and experienced woodworkers.
What We Like:
- The 9.5-inch blade gives you more space to work.
- The SK5 steel blade is strong and lasts a long time.
- The beech and rattan handle is light and feels good in your hand.
- The saw has two sides. This helps you with different cuts.
- The teeth are ground on three sides. This makes the saw sharp.
- The company offers a 24-month warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description could provide more details about the specific uses of each cutting edge.
The KERYE Japanese Pull Saw KY01 is a great tool for woodworking. It is a good choice for anyone who needs a reliable hand saw.
3. Gyokucho Razorsaw 9-1/2″ Double Edge (Ryoba) for Hardwoods
Rating: 9.1/10
The Gyokucho Razorsaw 9-1/2″ Double Edge (Ryoba) is a special saw. It is made for cutting hard woods. It has two cutting edges. One edge is for cutting across the wood grain. The other edge is for cutting with the grain. This saw is a great tool for woodworking projects.
What We Like:
- The saw blade is 9-1/2 inches long.
- The whole saw is 23 inches long.
- It has two cutting edges. One cuts across the wood grain. The other cuts with the grain.
- The blade is very thin, only .018 inches!
- It cuts very smooth and accurately.
- It is great for hard or tough woods.
What Could Be Improved:
- The saw is not for softwoods.
This Gyokucho Razorsaw is a fantastic tool for any woodworker. It is perfect for working with hardwoods. This saw will help you get the job done well.
4. SUIZAN Ryoba Double Edge Saw 7″ – Professional Japanese Pullsaw Handsaw Woodworking Tools
Rating: 9.3/10
The SUIZAN Ryoba Double Edge Saw is a professional-grade Japanese pull saw. It’s perfect for woodworkers of all skill levels. This saw uses a unique “pull saw” design, unlike the push saws many are familiar with. It’s lighter and needs less effort to use. You’ll get cleaner cuts with this saw. The saw features high-quality Japanese steel and is made by skilled craftsmen in Japan. It’s designed for both ripping and cross-cutting. The blade is 7 inches long and very thin, making precise cuts easier.
What We Like:
- This is a Japanese pull saw.
- It is made with high-quality Japanese steel.
- The saw is made by expert craftsmen in Japan.
- It is good for both rip and cross cuts.
- It is lighter and easier to use than push saws.
- It gives you cleaner cuts.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some woodworkers may need time to get used to the pull saw style.
- The saw may require more care than some other types of saws.
This SUIZAN Ryoba saw is a great tool for any woodworker. It provides a unique and efficient way to cut wood with precision and ease.
5. Japanese Pull Saw – 9.5 Ryoba Hand Saw with Rip-cut and Crosscut – Wood Saw for Dovetails
Rating: 9.4/10
The Temple Tool Co. Japanese Pull Saw is a versatile hand saw. It’s a 9.5-inch Ryoba saw. This means it has two cutting edges. One side has rip teeth for cutting with the wood grain. The other side has crosscut teeth for cutting across the grain. This saw is great for all sorts of woodworking tasks. You can use it for dovetails, tenons, joinery, and cutting boards.
What We Like:
- It’s a double-edge saw, so you can cut in different directions.
- The handle is made of beautiful, strong wood and brass.
- The saw cuts very smoothly and easily.
- It is made in Japan by skilled craftspeople.
- The blade is made of high-quality Japanese steel.
- The company, Temple Tool Co., was founded by a skilled woodworker.
What Could Be Improved:
- (No cons provided in the features)
This Japanese Pull Saw is a great tool for woodworkers of all levels. It’s a high-quality saw that will help you make precise and beautiful cuts.
Ryoba Saw: Your Guide to the Perfect Japanese Saw
This guide helps you understand and choose a Ryoba saw. It breaks down what you need to know. You will learn about key features, materials, and how to pick a good one.
Key Features to Look For
When buying a Ryoba saw, look for these things:
- Dual-Edged Blade: This is what makes a Ryoba special. One side cuts across the wood grain (for fine cuts). The other side cuts with the grain (for ripping). This is very useful.
- Blade Length: Blades come in different lengths. Longer blades let you cut thicker pieces of wood. Shorter blades are easier to control for smaller jobs.
- Tooth Pitch (TPI): This refers to the number of teeth per inch. A higher TPI means finer cuts. A lower TPI means faster, rougher cuts. Look at the TPI for both sides of the saw.
- Handle Comfort: The handle needs to feel good in your hand. Look for a handle made of wood or a comfortable material.
- Blade Thickness: A thicker blade is more stable. It is less likely to bend. A thinner blade cuts with less effort.
- Blade Material: High-quality blades are made of good steel. This makes them sharp and durable.
Important Materials
The materials used in a Ryoba saw matter. They affect the saw’s performance and lifespan.
- Blade Steel: Japanese saws use high-carbon steel. This steel holds a sharp edge. It can cut through wood very well.
- Handle Material: Handles are usually made of wood like oak or rosewood. Some have rubber or plastic grips. Wood handles often feel better in your hand. They also look nice.
- Blade Coating: Some blades have a coating. This coating helps protect against rust. It also makes the blade slide through the wood easier.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things affect the quality of a Ryoba saw. Knowing these things can help you choose a good one.
- Blade Hardness: Harder blades stay sharp longer. The blade is heat treated to harden it.
- Tooth Sharpening: The teeth should be very sharp. They should be precisely set. This determines how well the saw cuts.
- Handle Construction: A well-made handle is strong. It should be securely attached to the blade.
- Blade Thickness and Straightness: A straight blade is important. It makes accurate cuts. The blade should be thick enough to avoid bending.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for quality. Research brands before you buy.
User Experience and Use Cases
A Ryoba saw is a versatile tool. You can use it for many woodworking tasks.
- Crosscutting: The crosscut side is good for cutting across the wood grain. It makes clean, precise cuts.
- Ripping: The rip cut side is for cutting with the wood grain. This is useful for making boards narrower.
- Joinery: Ryoba saws are great for making joints. They can cut tenons, dovetails, and other joints.
- General Woodworking: Use the Ryoba saw for many woodworking projects. They are good for furniture making, carpentry, and more.
- User Skill Level: Ryoba saws can be a little tricky to use at first. They cut on the pull stroke. This is different from Western saws. Practice helps you get the hang of it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Ryoba saws.
Q: What is the difference between a Ryoba saw and a Western saw?
A: A Ryoba saw cuts on the pull stroke. Western saws cut on the push stroke. Ryobas have two cutting edges. Western saws usually have one.
Q: How do I sharpen a Ryoba saw?
A: Sharpening Ryoba saws can be difficult. You need special files. It is often best to have a professional sharpen it.
Q: What kind of wood can I cut with a Ryoba saw?
A: You can cut most types of wood. This includes softwoods and hardwoods.
Q: How do I store my Ryoba saw?
A: Keep the blade dry. Store it in a safe place. This protects the blade from damage.
Q: What is the best blade length for a beginner?
A: A blade around 9-10 inches is a good starting point. It is a good balance of control and cutting capacity.
Q: How do I choose the right tooth pitch?
A: Use a higher TPI for fine cuts. Use a lower TPI for faster cuts.
Q: What does “pull stroke” mean?
A: It means you cut the wood by pulling the saw towards you.
Q: Are Ryoba saws good for beginners?
A: Yes, but they have a learning curve. Practice makes perfect.
Q: How often should I oil the saw?
A: You can oil the blade to prevent rust. Do this every few months or if you live in a humid climate.
Q: Where can I buy a Ryoba saw?
A: You can find them at woodworking stores, online retailers, or specialty tool shops.
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!