Saws

The category of saws in the world of power tools may offer the most variations on a basic concept of any classification. A power saw is designed to cut materials, but the project, the products being cut, and your working conditions can determine which type of saw might be your best choice.

One common element of all power saws is a blade of some sort, but beyond that similarities often end. Circular saws, table saws, mitre boxes, and radial arm saws all have round spinning blades that do their cutting, but others such as jigsaws and reciprocating saws have narrow thin blades designed to slice through materials. Chainsaws actually have a rotating chain that does the cutting and if you’ve watched one make short work of a fallen tree, you know they can get the job done.

Cutting action can also vary among the various types of saws – with most small saws you move the tool and its blade through the material, but with larger stationary models such as table and band saws, the materials are pushed through the rotating blades.

Types of Saws

It would be almost impossible to discuss all of the numerous types of saws available for your workshop, but a few of the most commonly used for home improvement projects:

  • Circular saws – these are available in a few different styles and sizes, but in general they’re a handheld power saw that can be used to cut framing lumber, plywood, interior and exterior trim, plastic, and numerous other types of products. Changing the blade to suit your materials can usually be done in a few minutes.
  • Jigsaws – these handy power tools are light handheld saws with a small narrow blade that can be used for a straight cut or to follow a radius. Blades are available for various materials such as metal, plastic, wood trim, and framing lumber.
  • Mitre saws – if you need to cut angles for interior or exterior trim such as window casing or fascia, these saws can be a real timesaver and prevent a lot of re-cutting. It’s easy to set a precise angle every time with the adjustable saw arm and fixed base.
  • Reciprocating saws – this is a power tool that once you’ve used it, you may wonder how you ever did without this handy saw that can get into so many hard to reach places. The saw has a long narrow protruding blade that’s very similar to a hand powered keyhole saw.
  • Workshop saws – this is more a style of saw than it is an actual type as varieties such as table saws, radial arm saws, and band saws all fall into this category. These are large saws designed for woodworking projects and are normally stationary in a set location such as a workshop, garage, or basement. However, some manufacturers offer smaller portable versions of these models that can be taken out to jobsites.
  • Chainsaws – if you have a lot of trees on your property or cut firewood for your fireplace, you may get very familiar with this type of saw. They are available in various sizes and can be powered by gas, electricity, or batteries.

Saw Safety

Saws can be one of the most helpful power tools in your workshop, but they can also be one of the most dangerous and should always be treated with respect. Eye and ear protection should be worn when operating a power saw, but it’s even more important that you always know exactly what is going to happen prior to hitting the trigger or on button of the saw. The material being cut should be supported properly, make sure you’re prepared for the possibility of the material or saw kicking back at you or a helper while cutting, and always know where everyone’s fingers and hands are before starting the saw.