Hand Saw Dimensions

The hand saw is a tool used for cutting and slicing wood in various shapes. They are fitted with sharp teeth connected to a handle. To use, one holds the handle first then pushes and pulls it back and forth. Hand saw sizes will depend on the type. The following are some of the types available.

Crosscut Saws

These hand saws are 20-30 inches (50-75 cm) long. They are used to cut against the wood grain. Crosscut saw teeth are configured in alternating bevel allowing it to go through wood fivers. These are used for rough cutting.

Panel Saws

These saws are usually 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) long. These are among the smallest hand saws available. These are used for sawing thin wood pieces.

Back Saws

The size ranges from 8-30 inches (20-80 cm) long. These are utilized for woodcutting, molding and trim. They are noted for their stiff body and come with a durable top steel edge. Compared with other saws, the teeth are much smaller.

Rip Cut Saws

These are 24-28 inches (60-70 cm) long. They cut with the wood grain. The cut is at the push stroke. The rip cut saw teeth are sharpened at right angles. This means the blade top performs the cuts.

Compass Saws

These hand saw sizes differ, but there are usually 12 teeth per every inch of the blade. Its blade is noted for being pointed and thin. The handle is usually made from plastic, metal or wood. These saws are utilized for creating holes in small wood curves.

Hack Saws

These saws are employed mainly for cutting meals. The teeth are fine, thin and expendable. The blade is kept in position by a frame below the tension. Blade tension can be reduced or augmented using a screw.

Other Types of Hand Saws

These include the bow saw, wallboard saw and pruning saw. The pruning saw is for trimming green wood and comes with an angled blade. The wallboard saw has a thick, pointy blade for wall board puncturing. The bow saw looks like a bow and must be used operated by two individuals. The bow saw is able to cut in the pull and push strokes. It is used in many operations.

As the facts show, the different hand saw sizes are due to the varied types. Using the wrong hand saw can damage the material being cut as well as the saw, so evaluate each tool before buying it.