tree like construction material, has numerous advantages, not the least of which is ease of processing. Issued various tools for working with wood, but the simplest and most common is the usual hand saw-hacksaw. What are the parameters for choosing a wood saw, which one is better and what to look for when choosing a new tool?
Criteria for choosing a hacksaw for wood
The choice of the most convenient option, as a rule, is determined by a set of the following characteristics:
- canvas length;
- material used in the manufacture of the saw;
- handle configuration;
- shape, pitch, size of the tooth.
Even if one of the listed characteristics is changed operational properties hacksaws also change noticeably. It is clear that the shape of the handle affects the comfort of working with the tool. Therefore, if the saw will be used mainly by one master, you need to select the handle in such a way that, as they say, it “lies” in the hand. If the hacksaw is used rarely, and also not too intensively, then the comfort of holding becomes not the most important parameter.
Most often, hacksaws are produced with a blade length of 350 to 600 mm. The choice of blade length depends on the intended thickness. wooden products that will have to be cut. The main thing here is not to go to extremes, because a blade that is too short will have to work longer to achieve the same result, and a blade that is too long, especially when sawing hard wood, can spring and, again, create difficulties.
Blade material, tooth pitch and types
The material for the production of hacksaw blades is, as a rule, tool or alloy steel. In order for the tool to serve for a long time, you should choose a saw with a blade made of high types of steel, preferably stainless steel. The price will be higher, but it will certainly pay off. In addition, the teeth may or may not be hardened. Both options have their merits. Unhardened teeth can always be sharpened, with a certain skill. Hardened teeth are more reliable, last longer, but sharpening them after they wear out is unlikely to succeed.
The question of which wood saw is best suited for certain conditions can most often be answered based on the size, type, and tooth pitch. Efficient sawing of wood materials is characterized by the speed and accuracy of the cut. These properties depend on each other - the accuracy of the cut guarantees a fine tooth, while reducing the speed of work. Larger teeth make sawing faster, but cut surface quality and accuracy are reduced.
For the correct choice, the TPI parameter is important, which means the number of teeth per inch of the working length of the blade. This coefficient, as a rule, is indicated in the marking on the side surface of the web. For accurate work, where accuracy and surface quality are of great importance, TPI should be equal to 7-11, but if speed is preferable, then TPI is selected with a value of 3-5.
By the type of teeth, there are several types of hacksaws:
- For ripping. This tool has teeth in the form of an oblique triangle, used for sawing wood along the grain.
- The crosscut saw is equipped with isosceles triangular teeth, mainly used for dry wood.
- For mixed sawing. Triangular teeth alternate with semicircular ones. Not recommended for intensive, frequent use.
- Trapezoidal tooth. Each tooth of this hacksaw has three cutting edges. The use of this hacksaw has undeniable advantages - the tool cuts quickly, effortlessly.
- The upgraded saw has grouped teeth separated by special gaps that make it easier to remove chips from the cut zone.
Hacksaws, in addition to the shape and location of the teeth, are divided according to the shape and length of the blade, they are folding, with various forms handles. The price can also indirectly testify to the durability, as well as the quality of the performance of the tool. A good hacksaw is unlikely to be the cheapest.
Popular Models
Information from sellers about which wood saws sell best makes it possible to judge the most popular models. Let's consider some of them.
Stanley Jet Cut SP2-15-288
This hacksaw is equipped with a D-handle, 50cm blade with 7mm tooth pitch. A tooth with three cutting edges provides ease and speed of sawing. The fine Swedish steel used in the production of the blade ensures the high quality of the tool. The teeth are practically not subject to wear, which makes it possible for many years of successful use. The price is within 1200–1300 rubles.
Zubr Expert
The tool is popular, it wins due to an acceptable cost (from 700 rubles), as well as versatility. Triangular hardened teeth allow for longitudinal and transverse cuts at a fairly high speed. The special tooth setting technology eliminates the occurrence of clamping forces, improves productivity, and improves work efficiency. Hardened, specially set teeth, 5 mm pitch, comfortable plastic handle. The length of the canvas is from 40 cm.
Stanley General Purpose 1-20-089
Designed for accurate and accurate sawing of workpieces, this hacksaw has fine teeth (TPI=11) made using Jet Cut technology, an ergonomic handle, and a polished steel blade. A feature can be considered the accuracy provided by a small tooth. At the same time, the speed of work is also quite high, due to the teeth with three cutting edges (sawing occurs both on the forward and reverse strokes). The comfortable handle provides a firm grip, excellent control and ease of use, and is attached to the blade with three screws. Length 380 mm, price - 650–700 rubles.
BAHCO Laplander 396-LAP
An excellent tool designed for sawing dry and wet wood, designed and manufactured specifically for hunters, fishermen and tourists, although it also finds use in gardeners and even builders. Excellent Swedish quality, TPI=7, Sandvik XT shaped teeth for sawing both along and across the grain. The canvas has a special coating applied not only to protect against corrosion, but also to reduce friction. Folded length -23 cm, weight 200 g. The blade is securely fixed both in the folded and in the open position. The only drawback is the price - from 1.6 to 2 thousand rubles.
Every real master (even a home master) always has a convenient and multifunctional circular saw. But sometimes there are such types of work when you need to saw off only one part, or just do small amounts of work, but you don’t want to get an electrical device. In this case, a hacksaw blade will help you out. But how to choose a good hacksaw for wood, which will be easy to use and will easily “gnaw through” any type of wood, we will consider further.
By right, it is the saw that can be called the mother of all hand tools. Since the moment people understood the importance of iron and created the first saw, the tool has changed many times and already has a dozen "sisters" that can do any kind of work.
Let's take a closer look at what each of these parameters should be.
Hacksaw blade - what it should be
The main part of the tool is the canvas. The first thing you should pay attention to when choosing a hacksaw for wood is the length of the blade. Much will depend on this, at least even the possibilities of application.
At the same time, the larger the canvas, the more it will spring, which will complicate the process, especially when working with maple, ash and oak.
If you are planning to cut bars or narrow laths, a tool with a length of 25 to 30 cm is enough for you. When planning to use a tool for serious work in construction, give preference to tools with a blade length of 50 cm.
When choosing the length, one should be guided by the rule that the length should exceed the diameter of the element being processed exactly 2 times.
If you do not follow this recommendation, you will complicate your work. The teeth of a short hacksaw will only stick in the wood, and it will be very difficult to move such a saw to free it from sawdust.
Working in an uncomfortable environment will cause fatigue sooner than if you followed all the instructions.
Usually width hacksaw blade is equal to from 10 to 20 cm. Models with a smaller width have many disadvantages, since they are impractical and will immediately fail. But keep in mind that tools that are too wide will not give you comfort.
For the manufacture of hacksaws, alloy steel is used, which differs from the usual high content of carbon and silicon of the following grades:
- 65G, 60 S2A.
- 8 XF, 9 XF, 9 XS.
- Y7, Y7A, Y8, Y8A, Y8G, Y8GA, Y9A, Y10.
Metal is hardened with a special effect magnetic field, due to which a high-frequency electric current appears.
When spreading on the surface, it warms up upper layer metal, after which they are hardened cold water. According to the standard, the hardness of the metal should be 45 HRC, but it is better to give preference to products whose web hardness will be from 55 to 60.
A high-density hacksaw will have good flexibility, but the teeth will be stable. Externally, upon inspection, you will determine the quality of the tool by the dark shade of sharpened teeth.
What should be the teeth
Another an important factor The performance of the tool and its work when sawing is the size of the teeth. Such an indicator as sawing accuracy is designated TPI, which means the number of teeth per inch (2.54 cm).
In between technical parameter following link:
- A blade with larger teeth gives you high speed when working, but in this case, expect a sloppy and rough saw cut.
- For hacksaws with fine teeth, the cut will be clean and accurate, but the speed of work will be several times lower.
When you decide on the size of the teeth, be guided by the type of material being processed.
When working with material such as chipboard. Where a high precision cut is needed, a tool with a value of 7 to 9 should be taken, and for logs in the garden where the cleanliness of the cut does not play an important role, a value of 3 to 6 is suitable.
If we compare a normal and a hardened tooth, the difference will be that the usual one does not get dull for a long time in domestic use. But a hacksaw with hardened teeth cannot be re-sharpened, so when the quality of the cut decreases, you will have no choice but to simply throw it away.
The advantage of a regular tooth is that it can be sharpened. This work is periodically carried out using a file marked with an accident ( for sharpening saws). For sharpening, you need to run a file over each tooth several times.
There are three types of hand saw depending on the type of teeth:
Some types of instruments have teeth that resemble a trapezoid in shape. This decision has made a new generation of hacksaw blades that are wear-resistant and an order of magnitude stronger.
But it is worth considering that sharpening such a blade is a difficult task, since it is difficult to shape the complex figure of small teeth. This greatly reduces the life of the tool, at the end of which you will have to change the blade or choose another good hacksaw for wood.
Now the market is increasingly seeing new models of hacksaws that are designed for cutting not yet dried. Small chips easily pass between the teeth of the cut, and do not impede the work.
narrow
This is a small saw, which is a flat straight blade and a handle. With its help, you can perform a number of small jobs: cut out curved parts, make a through cut, and so on.
It is made from a blade with double-sided teeth in the form of a triangle, sometimes with parallel sharpening. The disadvantage of the tool is that when pressed during operation, the canvas may deviate from the specified direction.
Standard
A hand saw with standard parameters can have any type of teeth and is most often equipped with several blades for changing, which have different designs and types of teeth. Despite the versatility declared by the parameters, such saws are not suitable for making furniture.
with a butt
Both narrow and standard saws are prone to bending when the stiffness threshold is increased. To avoid this, it will be effective to use a tool with a butt, which will act as a stiffener. The presence of such a "clamp" will not make it possible to make a cut larger than the width of the web, as it will prevent the web from passing into the tree to a greater depth.
Luchkova
A saw of this type is a more bulky device, which is a manual version of a jigsaw. Due to the fact that the design is solid and its threaded connection handles, such saws can easily overcome knots, making cuts according to patterns and radii.
Depending on the intended type of work and the design of the saw, there may be:
- transverse– for sawing across the grain of the tree.
- Swinging- for cutting along.
- Fillet- for creating holes, roundings and sawing figured type.
- spiked- for cutting connecting spikes and cutting out simple geometric shapes on the workpiece.
Only a bow-type hacksaw can perform all these functions without additional tools.
The procedure for choosing is quite simple:
Now about the handles. They are usually made from plastic. Prefabricated handles are made from two plastic halves, which are not very rigid. It is much more convenient to work with tools that have a one-piece handle equipped with a rubber backing for the fingers. With a rubber insert, it will be much more convenient for you to make a grip, thereby protecting yourself from the formation of corns.
Even on sale you can often find a tool with a flip and a standard handle. The first option is convenient in that it is possible to replace the canvas with a new one in case of expiration of the service life.
Keep in mind that not all saw models go on sale sharpened, and how soon you can start working depends on this seemingly insignificant detail.
According to customer reviews, the trust was won by:
The saw belongs to ancient instruments used by man. Today's variety strikes the imagination of the buyer.
However, when buying an instrument, you want to get one, and if possible, a universal copy. In an ordinary store, you can at least hold the tool in your hands, feel the cutting part (the vast majority of tools, fortunately, are sold ready-to-use - that is, the teeth are sharpened and set apart).
Taking a hacksaw in your hands, you can appreciate the convenience of the handle. However, it is unlikely that you will be offered a "test drive" - that is, you will not be able to try out the tool in practice.
When buying a product in an online store, you can only navigate by photos, descriptions and reviews. This makes it even more difficult to choose a hacksaw for wood. In the article we will talk about the features of the tool, and help you make the right choice.
Existing types of hacksaws
To understand what kind of wood saw better fit just for you, consider its device and types
With the design, everything is simple - the tool consists of a cutting blade and a handle. Moreover, these two elements can be connected rigidly or articulated, change the angle of connection or even form a folding mechanism.
Hacksaws with interchangeable blades are widespread. This allows you to get a whole set for various purposes, saving at least on the handles.
This refers to the characteristics of comfort and profitability. The main types of hacksaws differ in the following parameters:
Canvas type
Comparing two hacksaws by the quality of the cut, you can determine which one is better.
One of the differences between wood and many other building materials is the ease of processing. And, nevertheless, manufacturers produce a tool for sawing it in various modifications. What is the difference between this tool, how important it is, how to choose the right hacksaw for wood - this article will help you find answers to all questions on this topic.
Hacksaws for wood are categorized according to the specifics of use for carpentry and joinery. The tools of the last group are designed for cutting dried wood. They provide a cleaner cut, and exactly on the markup. In other words, hacksaws of the carpentry category are chosen for fine work. Carpentry, respectively, for rough.
Such a tool is used when sawing logs, timber, pruning trees, and the like, that is, in situations where it is not necessary to maintain certain linear parameters, significant errors in work are allowed, or it is enough to cut not according to a template, but “by eye”.
Blade length (mm)
This is the first selection criterion. Without deciding on the length, it makes no sense to evaluate all other parameters of the hacksaw.
There is a generally accepted norm of choice for this indicator, which it is desirable to adhere to. The length of the blade should exceed the size of the most dimensional lumber with which it is supposed to work, approximately 2 times, at least.
Why? Firstly, the teeth of a hacksaw in the process of sawing a tree are clogged with sawdust. The double excess of the length ensures that the blade in the extreme positions will completely come out of the wood. As a result, its self-cleaning due to the fall of debris.
Secondly, the greater the amplitude of movement of the hands when working with the tool, the less they get tired. And this directly affects performance. If a hacksaw is chosen for intensive use, sawing large volumes of wood is more than important.
- If a hacksaw for wood is purchased as a household hand tool, in all cases, enough canvas for 300.
- Overhaul, especially construction, is, among other things, sawing up of dimensional samples (log, board,). For such purposes, you should choose a hacksaw with a blade in the range of 475 ± 25.
Steel type
There are many grades of metals. For hacksaws for wood, as a rule, this is 45 HRC. The teeth are more difficult. They can be hardened (have a shade darker than that of the canvas) or without prior heat treatment.
Hardened teeth will not be sharpened. In fact, this hacksaw, although more durable, is in a sense disposable. If, due to negligence, non-compliance with the operating rules, the cutting edges of the tool are blunted, then it will not work to bring them into working condition. But for episodic work, small household chores related to sawing wood - the best option. Having chosen a hacksaw from a well-known manufacturer, there is no doubt that it will last for a long time.
Teeth that have not been hardened can be sharpened and straightened on their own. On the one hand, it is convenient and practical. But this requires experience in this matter. How many can boast of it? As a tool for everyday use, it is hardly worth buying such a hacksaw. But if we are talking about large-scale work with wood (the same construction), then this right choice. Involuntarily, you will have to master the basics of sharpening and editing, especially since it is not so difficult.
How to check the quality of steel and sharpening
- You can check the quality of steel without a certificate. The hacksaw blade has a bend limit. Initially, it is perfectly flat. You need to gently bend it (the permissible extreme position, when it is ready to break, the hand will “understand” itself), and then release it and check the geometry. Deviation of the section subjected to deformation from the center line by more than 2 mm is an indicator of low quality steel. It is better to overpay, but choose another hacksaw for wood.
- The type of teeth can be determined visually. If they are of a traditional, triangular configuration, then the hacksaw is subject to editing and sharpening. Trapezoidal cutting edges are hardened. They have already been mentioned above.
Tooth size
This characteristic of the hacksaw is displayed on the canvas with TPI symbols. The dimension of the value is the number of teeth / inch.
As a rule, masters are interested in 2 indicators of the efficiency of sawing wood - the speed and accuracy of the cut. The fact is that these parameters are inversely related. The cleanliness of the cut is ensured by fine teeth, but at the same time, the speed of cutting the material is reduced. And vice versa - a hacksaw with large cutting edges produces a cut at a higher speed, but its accuracy deteriorates.
- 3 - 6. This hacksaw is suitable for rough woodworking. For example, pruning large branches on the site, sawing small logs, boards, and so on. That is, in cases where the presence of a fringe on the edges is not critical, and cutting accuracy is not a defining requirement when working with wood.
- 7 - 9 or more. This type of hacksaw is advisable to choose when you plan to work with sheet materials- Chipboard, MDF, OSV, FC and so on. Such a tool will provide a "delicate" cutting, after which there is no fringe and torn edges.
Hacksaw handle type
- Check if it is comfortable in your hand. The main difference between the hands of people is in size. The solution is simple - take a hacksaw in the palm of your hand, squeeze your fingers and make a few forward movements. A man will immediately understand whether “his” is a tool or it is better to choose something else.
- The handles of hacksaws for wood are classic (cast) and flip. The first allows you to replace the canvas.
And here it is more interesting. If you choose a hacksaw with a flip handle, then it makes sense to purchase a product with a “disposable” blade with hardened teeth. Even in the case of careless handling of the tool, it will be possible to “repair” it. It should only be clarified whether there are replacement canvases on sale (it is at this outlet or another in this locality) and whether they are in short supply. When buying a hacksaw for small chores, it is enough to take 1 spare. Given the increased wear resistance of the teeth and their strength, such a “set” will last for many years.
There is a relationship between the size of the teeth and their location. The "pitch" of three adjacent cutting edges must be less than the section of the cut wooden blank. It is easy to calculate if a hacksaw is chosen for sawing boards or small bars, that is, for everyday work, which is most often encountered in everyday life.
The method of cutting depends on the type of sharpening of the teeth. Longitudinal blades have a length of up to half a meter, a greater slope of the cutting edges to the side and their one-sided sharpening. Sawing with such a hacksaw is carried out only in the direction “away from you”. This tool is quite specific and as a household one, you should not choose it for everyday use.
Hacksaws for wood with a transverse blade are considered universal. Sawing is carried out during its course both forward and backward. Such a tool is easy to determine by the two-sided sharpening of the cutting edges.
A brief overview of the most purchased hacksaws for wood
This TOP-list is based on the results of the analysis of reviews, opinions posted on thematic forums. To say that they are the only true ones would not be entirely correct. But it is hardly worth ignoring them completely. If people in practice used one or another hacksaw for wood, then it makes sense to listen to their assessments. And then finally decide which one to choose.
All prices are in Russian rubles, for the Moscow region.
"Zubr Expert"
Such a hacksaw for wood, given its reasonable price and versatility, is in high demand. Teeth of triangular shape with hardening, plastic handle, cut both longitudinal and transverse. The range is impressive. A large selection of hacksaws of this brand in terms of TPI and blade length allows you to purchase the best option.
Price - from 738 (canvas 40 cm).
"Stanley General Purpose"
A hacksaw from a French manufacturer is characterized by a length of 0.5 m, hardened teeth with a TPI = 8. Wood is cut in any direction. For a private house or cottage - an excellent choice.
Price - 849.
"Gross Piranha"
This hacksaw is available in the market in different versions. Differences in the number of cutting edges and blade length (400 - 550). The quality of the steel (52 HRc) is further enhanced by a Teflon coating that facilitates the cutting process. In addition, the cleanliness of the edges is close to ideal.
Price - from 913.
"Irwin Xpert"
The main characteristics are identical to the hacksaw of the previous brand, although the cost is slightly higher. Users note the high quality and ease of cutting, regardless of the density of the wood. Even when sawing hard rocks, no significant effort is required. Those who have to regularly work with lumber at home should pay attention.
Price - from 705.
Bahco
Previously, such wood saws went on sale under the Sandvik logo, so they are known to many. Production has been established at several sites, and in the Russian Federation these samples are more often imported under the brand name "Tescha". The cost is lower while the quality remains high. Bahco hacksaws belong to the group of professional tools, which is hardly advisable to choose for fine work with wood. But cheaper products "Tescha" - just right for those who want to save money wisely.
Price - from 389 (360 mm).
About what criteria should be used to evaluate a hacksaw for sawing wood, it is described in detail, the main recommendations are given. And what exactly to choose, it's up to you, dear reader.
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