Before You Buy a Crosscut Saw

A crosscut saw is a common type of handsaw with angled, beveled teeth that allow the saw to slice through wood as it moves back and forth. The saw can be used for a wide variety of cutting projects, but it is best suited for light-duty jobs that don’t require fine cuts, such as trimming two-by-fours.

Crosscut Saw

Properties

A crosscut saw’s blade is usually 1½ to 2 feet long with eight to 12 teeth per inch. The number of teeth per inch determines how easily the blade can cut through the work piece. Saws with a high tooth count that make finer cuts are best for dry lumber such as two-by-fours. Saws with a lower tooth count that make rougher cuts are better suited for unseasoned lumber.

Variations

European and American crosscut saws have thicker blades and are designed to cut on the push stroke, making them well-suited for cutting hardy, solid wood. Japanese crosscut saws have thinner blades and are designed to cut on the pull stroke, offering a finer cut.

Some manufacturers sell general-purpose saws that can cut on the push and pull strokes. Although specialized crosscut saws generally deliver better results, these multipurpose saws can make more types of cuts than simple crosscuts and are therefore useful additions to your tool box.

Construction

Crosscut saws invariably feature a steel blade attached to an ergonomic wood or plastic handle. Technological advances have allowed manufacturers to make more durable saws from lighter materials.

Tips and Advice

Many newer models do not require as much maintenance as older saws, but you should still take steps to keep them rust-free. Hang your saw on a wall in a dry place. If the blade does rust, sand it off with fine-grain sandpaper. Also consider oiling the blade and teeth once or twice per year. Cover the blades with a length of garden hose that has been cut down the center to protect the teeth from damage.

Antique Saws

Antique crosscut saws can perform just as well as new ones — sometimes even better. If you go this route, check the blade for excessive rust. If rust is eating away at the steel, don’t buy it. Be sure to look at the teeth as well. A chipped tooth is no big deal, but a missing tooth is a reason not to buy a particular saw.