Woodworking has always been a unique industry because of the involvement of tools and machines. It does not matter if we talk about the lathes or different types of woods; everything would seem unique and different if you dive deep into their details. The same scenario goes for the saws as there are literally many types of saws available that can be used while woodworking.
If you really think that only a single saw can get all the things done, then you might be wrong. There are certain types of saws available in the woodworking industry that are designed for specific purposes. If you don’t know what those saws are and what they are used for, then let me give you an extensive and brief overview of each critical saw you would need in your woodworking career.
Categorizing Two Different Types Of Saws!
Are there only two different types of saws? Definitely not! But we will have to categorize the two different handling or working styles of saws to make them easier to understand. Let’s have a look at what those two different handling or working styles are:
- Handsaws: Just like the name suggests, handsaws are the saws that require effort from one's hands. They do not operate from any other source but the hands of the woodworkers. And do not forget that you might have to use extensive force in order to use the handsaws effectively and cut through the wood efficiently.
- Power Saws: Power Saws are saws that have built-in machinery and motor in them. That specific motor helps the power saws to run their blade and cut through the wood. Power saws are usually very efficient and do not require any type of external force to get things done with ease.
These are the only two categories of saws you can find on the internet. Now we will break down the different types of saws in each category so that it would be easier for you to understand.
Types Of Handsaws For Woodworking
I have made sure to include all the crucial handsaws in this list, so take a look and understand the working of each one!
1. Standard Handsaws
- FAST & CLEAN CUTS: The hand saw has an exclusive tooth geometry for a fast clean cut
- DURABILITY: The handsaw features induction hardened teeth for a long lasting sharpness
- COMFORT: Ergonomically designed bi-material handle for comfort and control
- SQUARE & MITER: Handle offers a square & miter feature with 45-degree and 90-degree angles
This is one of the most common types of handsaws, and you might have actually used it for real because of its standard use in the woodworking industry. This type of handsaw is also called a universal saw because of its multi-purpose. But if we take a look at its actual and recommended use, you should only use it to cut raw wood pieces.
Most of the standard hand saws come with gapped teeth, which make it easier for the users to cut through the wood effectively. But as it is a handsaw, you might have to go all out with your strength if you are working on a very big project.
2. Bow Saws
- 30 inches long
- Designed to cut through Green wood
- Designed for demanding applications and tough environments of construction sites
- Innovative tensioning mechanism for high blade tension and straight cutting
- Made of lightweight, high quality steel tubing for durability and easy handling
If you have ever seen a bow, you would definitely understand how a bow saw would look like. Just like the bows, the bow saws come with a slim and sleek handle at the back. One thing to actually note down here is that the handles of the bow saws are usually very light and can break into two pieces if you force them too much.
So the best way to use the bow saws is to cut small pieces of wood through them. The small pieces can be bushes, rails of woods, and other similar things if you want to work without any problems. The best thing about bow saws is that they are really stable because of the connectivity from both ends. That particular connectivity offers the bow saws the best sturdiness while working.
3. Crosscut Saws
- COMFORTABLE GRIP: Because you can get so much work done with this hand saw, it needs to have a comfortable grip, so your hand...
- DURABLE MATERIALS: You never have to worry about this cross cut saw breaking while you are on the job; The blade of this 26-inch...
- 12 TPI: Our tree hand saw has 12 teeth per inch; This specification makes this carpenter saw blade ideal for rougher and more...
- VERSATILE: You will be able to complete many jobs with this hand saw for wood; This portable tree saw is ideal for cutting a...
- STAYS SHARP: No matter how many projects you do, keep your work going with our woodworking hand tools; Our cross cut saws can last...
Crosscut saws are unique and different saws from the usual ones because of their designs. Instead of just one handle, crosscut saws come with two handles. One handle is attached to one end, and the other one is attached to the top of the blade to make it even sturdier and stable. If we talk about the use of crosscut sows, they are usually used on any wood that requires crosscutting.
To use the crosscut saws properly; the woodworker has to use both hands along with full power to make it work. People still use the crosscut saws with one hand, but then there would be no difference between a crosscut saw and a standard handsaw.
4. Fine Saws
- Fine Kerf Saw
- With Aluminum Thin Slot Miter Box
- Item Package Dimension: 13.0" L x 4.0" W x 1.5" H
- Item Package Weight: 1.0 lb
- 6-1/2in. aluminum miter box has thin slots for 60, 45, 90 degree angle accurate cuts with fine kerf saw.
Fine saws usually look like a butcher’s saw because of their rectangular shape. Fine saws are generally not used to cut down the big pieces of wood, but they are usually used to refine the edges. If you have come up with a design with your woodworking skills and want to shape the edges, then you would definitely want to get your hands on a fine saw to get the things done. Fine saws do not only produce precise results, but they are actually more reliable and better to be used on small projects and cutting edges.
5. Coping Saws
- This is a sturdy, professional saw that allows standard pin end coping saw blades to be tensioned at both ends
- Blades can be turned 360 to saw in any direction- push or pull stroke
- Hard wood handle
- Power source type: Hand Powered
You can call coping saw the relative of bow saw as both of them come with a very narrow blade. Narrow blade means that these saws cannot be used with big chunks of wood as it will become impossible to cut through them with such a narrow blade.
For that reason, coping saws are usually used for the finishing of the projects. There can be cases when you would have to cut through a small piece when you have ended the project. In that case, you would not require a big saw; instead, you can simply opt for a coping saw that would help you cut through small pieces or edges without any troubles.
6. Back Saws
- 14 IN MITRE BACK SAW
Back saws again come with a rectangular shape and look quite similar to the fine saws. But do remember that both of them have their own uses, and you cannot actually use any of them for one another’s. These specific types of saws can be hard to use at first, but as soon as one gets a grip of them, it becomes easier.
So make sure not to put too much pressure at the start when you are using the back saw; once you have cut through the upper part, you can use your strength to cut the wood.
7. Hacksaws
- Adjustable hand saw blade tension up to 30,000 PSI for fast, precise cuts
- Hacksaw includes 12-Inch (305 mm) x 24 TPI bi-metal hack saw blade and 6-Inch (152 mm) x 24 TPI bi-metal reciprocating saw blade
- Alternative 45-degree mounting for flush cutting
- Front mount for reciprocating saw blades
- Convenient blade storage in handle
You cannot really expect every saw to be a big saw that could cut through every wood without any effort. There are certain saws that are made for light work and finishing. Hacksaws are one of the types that are made for cutting through shallow metals or simple pipes. The hacksaws are really lightweight and do not require extensive strength to use them. But this does not actually mean that their blades are not sharp. The blade of a hacksaw is sharpened precisely so that it could go through any type of metal or plastic pipe.
8. Japanese Saws
- Cuts dowels, pegs, through tenons, and excess trim
- Does not mar surrounding surface
- Flexibility permits access to tight spots
- kerf 0.4mm pitch 1.2mm total length 11.8inch
If you are actually familiar with the Japanese culture, then you would definitely understand why this saw is so tiny and looks like a shaving blade. Japanese saws are specifically designed to process the woods. If you want to remove a particular layer from your wood piece, you can simply use a Japanese saw and remove it without even applying many efforts.
Japanese saws can be used on different types of woods, and you will probably not have to face problems while using them with different types. But the thing is, you should know how to handle it correctly, or you would mess the whole thing up.
9. Jab Saws
- Length: 11.81in
- The fine teeth make it easier to start off and control for detailed work
- Improved bi-material handle to maximize user comfort
Jab saws are usually the same in size as the Japanese saws, but when it comes to the structure and design of a jab saw, they are pretty different. Jab saws look like sharp knives, but they are skinny and slim. The common use of the jab saws is to insert them in the holes in the walls or the woods to make the whole even bigger or simply cut it.
In some scenarios, big saws cannot be used to cut, and that is where the jab saws arrive to save the day. So you can surely keep this saw in mind whenever you get stuck with a small hole.
10. Pruning Saws
- Ideal for making quick, clean cuts through large branches
- Triple-ground Power Tooth blade cuts on the pull and push stroke to plane away wood with maximum speed
- Makes quick, easy undercuts without sacrificing control
- Blade length: 15 inch
- Lifetime warranty
The pruning saw might seem different to you than all of the other types of saws, and the only reason behind it is that the pruning saws are curved rather than straight. Yes, you read that right! Pruning saws come with a curved shape so that the woodworkers can use them in a particular direction without worrying about cutting at the wrong angles. This is the most common use of a pruning saw, and you can also use it whenever you want precise and accurate cuttings in your projects.
11. Two-Man Saws
Until or unless you have extraordinary big hands, you can use the two-man saws singlehandedly. The Two man saws are designed to be used by two woodworkers just like their name suggests. So do not try to use it single handedly, or else you can create consequences for yourself.
These types of saws are specifically used to cut vast and thick chunks of wood. There are two handles given at each end of the saw so that both of the woodworkers can handle it conveniently. Other than that, Two man saws are rarely used inside because of their enormous size and requirements.
12. Veneer Saws
- Easy-to-use veneer cutter
- Cuts a perfect edge for joining veneer
- Designed for use on the pull stroke
- Curved blade allows you to start in the middle of the material
- Cut a single sheet for fine work or cut several sheets at a time for a rough cut
If you have ever seen a plaster tool from which the plaster is done, you will understand how Veneer saw works. It comes with a simple plate along with the blades on it so that it could cut through the wood ease. Do note that veneer saws are very occasionally used, and you might also have to get a ruler to use them properly. Aside from that, you should also know how to measure with the combination of a ruler, and a veneer saw so that you can cut precisely what you want and nothing else.
13. Drywall Saws
- Thick-body blade is exceptionally rigid for better cut control.
- Tri-Ground Teeth are aggressive for fastest, smoothest cutting.
- Ergonomic handle with ProTouch rubberized grip provides comfort and control.
- For roughing in drywall, cutting out HVAC, plumbing, and electrical openings or cutting ceiling tile openings.
Drywall saws look exactly like the jab saws, and that is why most people confuse these saws with jabs saws. If we talk about the working of the drywall saws, their working is quite similar to jab saws too. Woodworkers usually use it to make shallow holes in the drywall. Other than that, there is no significant use of drywall saws.
14. Fret Saws
- An excellent saw for detailed marquetry and scroll work where great depth is required
- Uses 5" fret, scroll, jewelers and spiral saw blades with plain ends only.
- Handle can be folded between frame ends for storage
- This Flat Wire Fret Saw has a13-3/4″ cutting depth.
If you are looking for something through which you can work really neatly, then you should definitely check out fretsaws. Fretsaws are used for very intense work where great attention to detail is required so that everything could go smoothly. Fretsaws come with a very short blade and a big frame so that consistency could be created while working.
Types Of Power Saws
We have now discussed almost every type of crucial hand saw that you would require while woodworking, and now it is time to have a look at some efficient and time-saving saws!
15. Chainsaws
- [14 INCH BAR + CHAIN]
- [POWERFUL]: 9-amp motor cuts branches up to 13.5 in. thick
- [IDEAL]: For trimming and pruning limbs and branches
- [AUTOMATIC]: Chain lubrication system
- [MAINTENANCE FREE]
There is a common conception between the people that chainsaws are only used for cutting the trees. While it is partially true, it is partly wrong too. Chainsaws are used to cut literally anything larger and bigger that could not be cut with hands. That is why Chainsaws are powered by an extraordinary motor in them for easy cutting. Not only that, these types of saws use the chain mechanism. As soon as the motor starts rotating, the blades integrated within the chains start moving too to produce powerful cuts. There are different types of chainsaws available in the market; the only difference arrives in their mechanism, size, and working style.
You can also find some of the chainsaws powered by complete engines, but you will have to spend some extra (or more) bucks to get your hands on that type of chainsaw. But if you want even more efficiency, it will be worth it.
16. Circular Saws
- DEWALT 7 1/4 circular saw is one of the lightest saws in its class at 8.8 lbs
- Corded circular saw has 15 amp motor, powerful enough for even the toughest applications
- The compact circular saw has the bevel capacity of 53-degree with stops at 45 degree and 22.5 degree
- 2 9/16 " Depth of cut capacity provides additional versatility of applications
- Anti-snag Ball bearing lower guard provides smooth guard operation and long life in harsh environments
Circular saws are the saws that are used to cut through thin boards to make them apart. Circular saws simply use a round-shaped blade that is powered by a motor. Aside from cutting the boards and delicate woods, circular saws are also used for making precise and accurate lining cuts. As circular saws also come with support attached to them, it becomes easier for the woodworkers to use this saw precisely. Circular saws can easily make rip cuts, crosscuts, and miter cuts. Not only that, but the support attached to the saw also protects the woodworkers from severe accidents. So make sure to check this aspect whenever you are opting for a circular saw.
Other than that, there are different types of circular saws available that would allow you to make the cutting process efficient and accurate, depending on the situation. So make sure to get your hands on the one that could fulfill your needs.
17. Miter Saws
- GREATER SUPPORT: Adjustable left and right fence, and extension tables.
- SMOOTH SLIDE OPERATION: Enclosed linear bearings.
- MAXIMUM CONTROL: Ergonomic, D-shaped, ambidextrous, rubber grip handle.
- QUICKLY CHANGE MITER ANGLES: Single-motion thumb lever.
- POWER THROUGH WOOD: Heavy-duty 15-amp motor.
Miter saws also come with circular blades, but their mechanism is a little bit different than the circular saws. Instead of offering casual support, miter saws offer a whole cut plate underneath the blade so that the angular cuts can be made. In fact, miter saws are used for making angular cuts because of their flexibility and moving abilities. The angles can be of variety and as per the preferences of the woodworker. You will have to decide by yourself which angle will work out best. Woodworkers can move the blade of the miter saw while working, and it will operate in any direction they want. But do know that there is a specific limit given to moving the saw, and that is why you will have to keep it in mind while working.
18. Jigsaws
- VERSATILE APPLICATION – 3/4 in. stroke length for cutting wood, metal, and more materials.
- VARIABLE-SPEED MOTOR – 4.5 Amp motor generates up to 3,000 spm of cutting power.
- COMPACT AND LIGHTWEIGHT – Electric jig saw is designed for easy maneuverability and reduced vibration.
- BEVELED CUTS – Base plate tilts to make beveled cuts up to 45 degrees.
- WIRE GUARD – Supplies a clear line of sight for enhanced cutting precision.
Jigsaws are usually called all-in-one saws because of their work and abilities. Jigsaws come with a pencil blade instead of a big one or round one. That pencil blade does the whole work and does whatever you want to do with the wood. If we take a look at the uses of the jigsaws, then you can easily use them to cut different types of woods. But if you want to use it efficiently, you should use it for the curves, edges, and lines. You can use these saws for straight and curved cuts without getting into problems. Jigsaws are really easy to use, and they are also not that heavy like the other power saws; you can easily hold one for a long time without any hassles.
19. Hole Saws
- 2X more durable with 50% longer life than previous LENOX hole saws
- Increased wall thickness improves durability and minimizes tooth loss
- Optimized tooth design penetrates metal with ease
- Larger, sharper teeth for faster cutting
- SPEED SLOT staircase design for easy plug ejection
If you want to make a perfect hole in a wood piece, what will you do? You will definitely have to use something that could make a perfect hole for you without damaging your project. It is simply not possible with casual saws, and that is why hole saws are used. These types of saw come with a round-shaped saw along with a drill in the middle. As the drill pass through the wood, the saw makes its way through it and cuts the precise hole just as you want.
20. Plunge Saws
- [IDEAL FOR CUTTING SHEET GOODS] A modern saw for modern woodworking and construction. Just grab the Worxsaw and get ripping and...
- [SLIM DESIGN] Lightweight and easy to operate—there’s no cord to get tangled up in or double-back on
- [DO IT ALL WITH THE SAME BATTERY] Worx Power Share is compatible with all Worx 20v and 40v tools, outdoor power and lifestyle...
- [QUICK DEPTH ADJUSTMENTS] The lever on the outside of the housing lets you go down to 1-1/16”, perfect for 1” lumber
- [FULL METAL GUARD] Even though it’s small, this circ saw is built to last with quality components and expert engineering
Plunge Saws are very rarely used in the woodworking industry because of their limited use. The only benefit of using plunge saws is that you can start cutting through the middle with the plunge saws, which can be challenging to do so with the other saws. These are used for very long and accurate cuts without facing the troubles with direction and precision.
21. Reciprocating Saws
- Cordless reciprocating saw features tool-free blade change
- Pivoting shoe for increased control
- Part of BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* System
Just like its name, reciprocating saws are bigger than the usual power saws. Reciprocating saws have a robust mechanism inside them, but on the outside, they only offer a thin blade. But that blade is enough to make accurate cuts in big wood pieces. Reciprocating saws are only used for creating cuts in the woods, so if you require to make cuts on a regular basis, this saw will serve you well because of its easiness and accuracy.
22. Alligator Saws
- [THE SAFEST SAW AROUND] The Jawsaw is the one and only chain saw with a fully protective guard. When not in use the blade retracts...
- [CUTS THICK BRANCHES] Saw through material up to 4 inches in diameter. And with its innovative single action cutting mechanism,...
- [SAME BATTERY, EXPANDABLE POWER] The same battery powers over 75+ 20V, 40V, and 80V lifestyle, garden, and power tools in the...
- [THE CHAIN STAYS TIGHT] Auto-tension feature guarantees optimum tension at all times. This patented system ensures you’ll always...
- [THE CHAIN STAYS OILED] Features an automatic chain oiler with oil level indicator, which extends the life of the saw, the blade,...
If we compare the alligator saws with the chainsaws, we will not find much difference between the two. The only seeming difference between the two is that the alligator saw comes with a blade looking just like an alligator. Alligator saws are not usually as efficient as chain saws, but if you prefer the peace of mind over anything else, then you can buy an alligator saw. Aside from that, alligator saws tend to offer less vibration while working because of less efficiency.
23. Table Saws
- Portability: Compact size for ease of transportation and storage
- Easy adjustments: Rack and pinion telescoping fence rails make fence adjustments fast, smooth and accurate
- Variety of cuts: 24.5 inches of rip capacity for ripping 4x8 plywood or OSB sheets
- Power: 15 Amp, 5800 rpm motor
- Onboard storage: Onboard storage provides easy access to the site pro guarding components and push stick when not in use
A carpenter cannot actually be a carpenter if there is no table saw available for him to work. Table saws can literally be used for any carpentry work because of the vast space available. Table saws come with a big and sharp blade in the middle of the table, and there is wide space available on both sides of the table. Woodworkers can simply put the plank or any other type of wood on the table and cut it just as they want.
To use the table saws in the proper manner, users have to first adjust the saw on the table. Only then can they cut the wood with ease. There are several types of table saws that you can get and use in different ways. So do not forget to check which type you want and only then make your mind to buy it. But do note that table saws are considerably more extensive, and you would require a good amount of space for them to work properly.
24. Pole Saws
- 2-IN-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Logs on the ground? Simply detach the saw from the pole to convert the unit from a pole saw into a chainsaw...
- LONG REACH: Designed with a shaft extendable up to 10-feet for high branches With operator height considered, the pole saw can cut...
- ELECTRIC POWERED: An 8-amp electric motor instantly starts to drive the chain over the low-kickback 10-inch bar and chain Get to...
- ADJUSTABLE: A telescoping design paired with flip and lock clamps allows the operator to quickly adjust the length of the pole saw...
- PRUNE IN COMFORT: Chainsaw has non-slip grip to enhance comfort and an Anti-rotation pole for stability during use Maintain...
Pole saws can be considered as one of the best inventions in the saws industry. Pole Saws work just like the chain saws, but the thing is, they can transform themselves into a long pole-type body. For instance, what would you actually do if you don’t have a ladder or you simply don’t want to risk your precious life by climbing on a tree? A pole saw will help you out as you can simply stand on the ground and cut or trim whatever you want.
25. Band Saws
- 10 amp motor of the metal band saw is designed with power to withstand any jobsite application
- The portable band saw has 5-inch deep cut capacity for rectangular stock (5 X 4-3/4-inch for round)
- Serviceable steel shroud and rubber bumpers of DEWALT band saw allow guards to withstand jobsite abuse without damage
- LED sight light allows the user to see cut line in dark jobsite environment
- Integrated hang hook allows user to hang the saw without damaging front handle or castings
If you don’t have any problem integrating your saw permanently in your workshop, then you can surely get your hands on a band saw. The band saw is one of the most potent saws you can find in the woodworking industry. That is why this type of saw cannot only be used for wood but many other different materials too. The band saw comes with a long blade and works just like a table saw. Instead of having a round-shaped blade, the band saw offers precise cuts through a long, slim, and powerful blade. You can use it to make straight and curve cuts in any type of material you want. This saw will definitely not disappoint you with its power, accuracy, and efficiency.
26. Radial Arm Saws
- Blade diameter of 14 inches, 1-inch arbor diameter, maximum depth of cut at 90 degrees is 4 5/8 inches, 3-1/8 inches at 45 degrees
- Maximum distance, blade to table, of 2 3/4 inches, 3450 rpms
- Maximum crosscut thickness and width of 4 5/8 inches by 25 inches
- Head tilt angle range of 0 to 90 degrees (to left), maximum ripping capacity of 31 inches
- Maximum miter cut at 45 degrees is 17.5 inches, miter capacity of 60 degrees to left, 45 degrees to right
Radial arm saws are not only used to cut wood pieces but are also used to cut other different materials too. Radial arm saws generally come with their own support, and they are used to make straight cuts and crosscuts. The guide is attached within these saws so that the workers can have precise and accurate cuts throughout their experience. Do note that the radial arm saws are extremely powerful and expensive, too, so until or unless you have high requirements and a massive budget, you might want to switch to any other type of saw.
27. Rotary Saws
- This refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality...
The rotary saws look very similar to the drill machines. Rotary saws are usually very lightweight and easy to use because of their company size. If we talk about their use, then they are used to make accurate cuts within a very small space. Different types of bids can be attached to the rotary saws so that they can be used for different types of holes in the material.
28. Scroll Saws
- Unique side panel flips open for easy-access blade changes
- Variable speed goes from 550 to 1600 strokes per minute
- Spacious 16-by-10-inch table bevels up to 45 degrees for angled cuts
- Cuts wood up to 2 inches thick with a 16-inch throat depth
- Features a thumb screw blade adapter for tool-free blade changes, a cast iron base, an air pump, a dust port, a foot lock clamp,...
If you are a woodworker who loves to make different unique designs as per your own preferences, then a scroll saw might help you out. Scroll saws are specifically benchtop saw that come with a very thin blade. That blade moves upward and downward to make precise cuts. Woodworkers can move the wood piece just as they want through the blade provided to make the designs just as they want. Not only that, but scroll saws are also used for inside cuts as the thin blade provided is really efficient to do so without offering any type of inaccuracy.
29. Oscillating Saws
- POWERFUL MOTOR – 2.5 Amp motor for high-performance use through a variety of applications, including sanding, cutting, scraping,...
- VARIABLE-SPEED DIAL – Choose from 6 speed settings to generate 10,000 to 20,000 opm of power.
- TOOL-FREE RELEASE – For fast and easy accessory changes.
- QUICK-RELEASE LEVER – Eliminates the need for a hex key.
- COMFORT GRIPS – Provide a firm hold and increased control while minimizing muscle fatigue.
If you are looking to have a saw that could offer you all-in-one purpose, then oscillating saws might help you out. Oscillating saws are the saws that oscillate, either in the back and forth or upward and downward. The best thing about these saws is that they can support different types of attachments. You can use discs, woodworking blades, and different types of attachments as per your preferences. As they are handheld saws, they can be precise too. Woodworkers can easily make plunge and linear cuts with oscillating saws along with some other types, depending on the attachment they are using.
30. Flooring Saws
- Cuts solid, engineered and laminate flooring with ease
- Makes cross, miter and rip cuts
- Lightweight design for transport and use at any project location
- Miter detents at 0, 22.5 and 45 degrees
- Die-cast aluminum miter and rip fence
Flooring saws have a very specific use in the industry as they are only used for flooring. Flooring saws are used to cut flooring; it does not matter the material as they can work almost on all. Flooring saws help the users to make very accurate cuttings from different points. As they are used only for flooring, woodworkers can make straight cuts with them with accuracy as they also tend to reduce the chipping.
Final Verdict
These are the actual and most common types of saws, including the power saws and the handsaws. Now the only thing that is left for you to do is to check your preferences and see which saw you really need. It solely depends on your preferences and working style that you will have to go with a power saw, or your needs will be fulfilled by a handsaw.
