Hand Saws

About Hand Saws

Hand saws are fundamental cutting tools for professional tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts, offering precision control and portability without the need for power sources. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks an extensive range from leading manufacturers including Bahco, Draper, Jack, and CK Tools, featuring innovations in tooth geometry, blade coatings, and ergonomic design. The collection encompasses everything from compact toolbox saws around 300mm in length to full-sized 22-24 inch professional models, with specialised variants for cutting timber, laminated materials, insulation boards, and cellular concrete blocks.

Modern hand saws feature hardpoint teeth that stay sharper significantly longer than traditional designs, with premium models incorporating PTFE coatings to reduce friction and prevent binding. Popular ranges available at MyToolShed.co.uk include the Bahco PrizeCut, ProfCut, Barracuda, Superior, and XT series, each engineered for specific applications from fast structural cutting to fine finish work. Whether for carpentry, construction, or home improvement projects, there's a hand saw designed specifically for the task.

Applications

Hand saws are indispensable across numerous trades and applications:

• Carpenters and Joiners: Cutting timber, sheet materials, and precision trim work for first and second fix applications
• General Builders: Site cutting, sizing structural timber, and work where power tools are impractical
• Roofers: Cutting roof timbers, sarking boards, and fascia materials at height
• Shop Fitters: Precision cutting of display materials, laminates, and specialised composites
• Kitchen and Bathroom Fitters: Trimming architrave, cutting service penetrations in confined spaces
• Groundworkers: Cutting formwork, shuttering timber, and cellular concrete blocks
• Maintenance Teams: General repairs and modifications across commercial and residential properties
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home improvement, furniture building, garden construction, and household repairs

Choosing The Right Hand Saws

Blade Length: Longer blades (550-600mm) are more efficient for general site work, removing more material per stroke. Compact toolbox saws (300-350mm) excel in confined spaces and for precise work.

Tooth Configuration (TPI): Lower TPI (6-8) cuts faster for structural timber and demolition. Medium TPI (8-10) offers balanced performance for general carpentry. Higher TPI (10-14+) produces smoother, finer cuts for cross-cutting and finish work.

Material Compatibility: Standard hand saws handle softwoods and hardwoods excellently, but specialised models like the Bahco PC 22 INS are designed for insulation materials, whilst the Bahco 256 ProfCut suits cellular concrete blocks.

Handle Design: Ergonomic, soft-grip handles reduce fatigue during extended use. Professional ranges from Bahco and Draper feature scientifically designed handles that improve control and comfort.

Blade Quality: Premium saws feature hardpoint teeth for extended sharpness, PTFE coatings for reduced friction, and precise tooth setting for efficient cutting.

Safety Information

Always wear safety glasses when sawing to protect against flying debris, particularly when cutting treated timber or composite materials. Never hold material in your hand whilst sawing—use a workbench, sawhorse, or clamps to secure workpieces firmly. Position yourself so the saw cuts away from your body, keeping your free hand clear of the cutting line. Sharp saws are safer than dull ones; replace hardpoint saws when teeth become worn. Always use blade guards when storing or transporting hand saws, and work in well-ventilated areas when cutting treated timber or engineered wood products.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sharpen hardpoint hand saws?

No, hardpoint teeth are induction-hardened and cannot be resharpened with traditional files. However, they remain sharp significantly longer than traditional teeth—often lasting several years of professional use—making replacement economically viable when they eventually become dull.

What TPI should I choose for general carpentry work?

For all-round carpentry and joinery, 8-10 TPI offers the best balance between cutting speed and finish quality. Many professionals keep both a coarse saw (6-7 TPI) for fast rough cutting and a finer saw (11-14 TPI) for finish work.

Why does my hand saw keep binding in the cut?

Binding typically occurs when the kerf closes behind the blade due to internal stresses in timber or inadequate support. Ensure workpieces are properly supported on both sides of the cut line so material being cut off can fall away freely. Choosing a saw with PTFE coating or waxing the blade can also reduce binding.