Whether you’re a professional woodworker, a DIY enthusiast, or someone working with metal, a saw is an essential tool in your arsenal. However, using the wrong saw for the job can lead to damaged materials—or worse, serious injuries. With over 50 different types of saws available, knowing which one to use for a specific project can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll explore the 10 most commonly used saws, breaking down their functions, ideal applications, and what makes them unique. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly which saw to use for your next project. So, let’s cut straight into it!
10 Most Commonly Used Saws and Their Uses
1. Handsaw – The Classic Woodworker’s Essential
The handsaw is one of the most fundamental saws used in carpentry. This manually powered tool is ideal for making straight cuts in wood and comes in different variations:
- Rip cut – Cuts along the grain of the wood
- Crosscut – Cuts against the grain
- Japanese crosscut – Provides cleaner, more precise cuts
With a sturdy handle and long body, the handsaw remains a go-to tool for both professionals and DIYers.
2. Hacksaw – The Metal Cutter
If you’re working with metal, the hacksaw is your best bet. It features a thin, replaceable blade held in a steel frame and is capable of cutting through metal pipes, rods, and even PVC.
- Regular teeth blades – Best for soft metals
- Wavy teeth blades – Provide a cleaner cut for tougher materials
Lightweight and compact, this saw is a staple in any metalworking toolkit.
3. Coping Saw – The Precision Cutter
When intricate, curved cuts are needed, the coping saw is the ideal tool. Its thin blade allows for flexibility and maneuverability, making it perfect for cutting patterns in wood or removing sections from the middle of a board.
- Blade length: 6 ¾ inches
- Tooth count: 10 to 32 teeth per inch
This saw is commonly used for detailed woodworking, crafting, and furniture making.
4. Wire Saw – The Ultimate Survival Tool
Unlike traditional saws, the wire saw consists of a twisted metal wire that can cut through a variety of materials, including wood, plastic, and even bone.
- Lightweight and portable
- Used by rescue workers and hikers
- Essential for survival situations
Though it lacks teeth, the twisted wire design allows it to slice through tough materials with ease.
5. Crosscut Saw – The Timber Specialist
Designed for cutting tree trunks and logs, the crosscut saw is known for its dual-handle design, allowing two people to use it simultaneously.
- Thick blade for durability
- Large teeth for cutting tough wood grains
- Still widely used in forestry and logging
Though electric saws have become more common, the crosscut saw remains a valuable tool for traditional woodcutting jobs.
6. Chainsaw – The Powerhouse of Lumber Cutting
A chainsaw is powered by either electricity or fuel and is primarily used for cutting large logs or felling trees.
- Bar lengths range from 12 to 36 inches
- Adjustable speed settings
- Requires safety gear (gloves, helmet, protective clothing)
Chainsaws are powerful tools but can be dangerous if not handled properly, making safety precautions crucial.
7. Circular Saw – The Fast and Efficient Cutter
The circular saw is the motorized version of a handsaw, designed for making quick, straight cuts through wood, plastic, and even some metals.
- Equipped with a rotating round blade
- Ideal for carpentry and furniture-making
- Requires blade guards and safety gear
This saw is highly portable and is frequently used in construction work.
8. Jigsaw – The Master of Curved Cuts
If you need to cut complex shapes and curves, the jigsaw is the perfect tool. Unlike a circular saw, this tool moves its thin blade up and down at high speed rather than rotating.
- Used for DIY projects and furniture making
- Can cut wood, metal, and plastic
- Allows intricate and decorative designs
The jigsaw’s versatility makes it one of the most commonly used saws in crafting and woodworking.
9. Reciprocating Saw – The Heavy-Duty Power Cutter
Also known as a Sawzall, the reciprocating saw features a blade that moves back and forth in a sawing motion.
- Great for demolition work
- Cuts through wood, metal, and PVC
- Allows horizontal and vertical cutting
This saw is commonly used for rough cuts where precision is less important but power and efficiency are necessary.
10. Table Saw – The Professional’s Workshop Staple
A table saw consists of a circular blade mounted on a stationary table, allowing users to push wood through the blade to make precise cuts.
- Essential for large-scale woodworking projects
- Features adjustable blade speeds
- Variants include contractor saws, hybrid saws, and sliding saws
Though incredibly useful, table saws require proper training due to the risk of severe injuries if not used correctly.
Conclusion
Choosing the right saw for the job is crucial for efficiency, safety, and achieving high-quality results. Whether you’re working with wood, metal, or plastic, understanding the functions of these 10 most commonly used saws will help you tackle any project with confidence.
