Compass Saws

About Compass Saws

Compass saws are specialised hand tools designed for cutting curves and intricate shapes in wood, plastic, and soft materials. Characterised by their narrow, tapered blades and distinctive pointed tips, these versatile saws excel at making interior cutouts and curved profiles where other cutting tools cannot reach. Unlike frame-bound alternatives such as coping saws, compass saws offer unrestricted cutting freedom, making them ideal for kitchen fitters creating worktop apertures, carpenters cutting decorative mouldings, and electricians making cable access holes. The sharpened point enables plunge cutting directly into materials without requiring pilot holes—particularly useful when working with plasterboard, laminates, and wooden panels.

MyToolShed.co.uk stocks professional-grade compass saws from trusted manufacturers including Bahco and Stanley, with models ranging from traditional single-purpose designs to versatile 3-in-1 systems with interchangeable blades. Available with blade lengths between 250-350mm and tooth configurations from 6-12 TPI (teeth per inch), our range provides reliable solutions for both trade professionals and DIY enthusiasts requiring precision curved cutting without power tools.

Applications

Compass saws are essential tools across numerous trades and applications:

• Carpenters and Joiners: Creating curved profiles, decorative mouldings, and interior cutouts in wooden components
• Kitchen Fitters: Cutting sink and hob apertures in worktops, particularly for on-site adjustments
• Electricians: Making cable access holes through wooden joists, panels, and boxing
• Plumbers: Creating pipe access openings in floors and wall panels
• Shopfitters: Installing display fixtures and cutting custom profiles in panelling
• Set Designers: Creating intricate set pieces and decorative profiles for theatrical construction
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home improvement projects requiring curved cuts or interior openings
• Restoration Specialists: Period property work where traditional hand tool methods are preferred

Choosing The Right Compass Saws

Blade Length and Flexibility: Standard blades range from 250-350mm. Longer blades suit deeper materials and faster cutting, whilst shorter blades provide greater control for detailed work. Rigid blades offer controlled cutting for gentle curves, whilst flexible blades navigate tighter radii.

Teeth Per Inch (TPI): Match TPI to your requirements. Choose 6-8 TPI for rough carpentry and rapid cutting, or 10-12 TPI for cleaner finishes in furniture-grade timber and plastic laminates. Professional tradespeople often keep both options available.

Handle Design: Comfort matters during extended use. Bahco's ergonomic handles reduce hand fatigue, whilst Stanley designs feature rubberised grips for secure handling. The Stanley 3-in-1 offers exceptional versatility with interchangeable blades for different applications.

Brand Quality: Professional brands like Bahco and Stanley available at MyToolShed.co.uk offer superior blade steel that maintains sharpness longer. Hardpoint teeth on premium models stay sharp throughout their working life, whilst the Stanley FatMax range provides enhanced durability for demanding site work.

Safety Information

Always wear safety glasses to protect against sawdust and debris. Secure workpieces with clamps before cutting—hand-held materials can slip, causing blade binding or injury. Be mindful of the pointed tip when storing and withdrawing the saw from cuts; always use blade guards when not in use. Use steady, controlled strokes rather than forcing the blade, and keep your free hand clear of the cutting line. Inspect blades before use for damage or excessive wear, replacing damaged blades immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a compass saw and a jab saw?

Whilst both feature pointed tips for plunge cutting, compass saws have longer, finer blades designed for cleaner, controlled cuts in wood and plastic. Jab saws typically have shorter, more aggressive teeth optimised for plasterboard, producing coarser cuts. Compass saws offer greater versatility for curved work and detailed carpentry.

Which TPI should I choose for kitchen worktop cutouts?

For laminate or solid wood worktops, choose 10-12 TPI for cleaner edges requiring less finishing work. The finer teeth reduce chipping on laminate surfaces. For areas concealed by sinks or hobs where speed matters more, 8 TPI offers a good balance between cutting speed and acceptable finish.

How do I start a plunge cut with a compass saw?

Position the pointed tip at your starting point, holding the saw at approximately 30-45 degrees to the material surface. Apply firm, controlled pressure with short, gentle strokes to work the point through. Once the blade penetrates sufficiently, gradually lower the saw to horizontal and continue with normal cutting strokes.