How to Use a Japanese Saw
Learn about sawing techniques to help step up your woodworking game.
We'll break it down step by step so that it's easy to understand and put into practice.
1: Features of Japanese Saws
There are two main types of blades in saws.
Each blade is used for different purposes, ""rip"" or ""cross"" cutting.
Cuts along the wood grain are called ""rip cuts."", and cuts across the wood grain are called ""cross cuts.""
Dual-edge saws, which we will use in the article, have both "rip" and "cross" cutting edges.
Most Japanese saws apply force when pulling to make a cut.
Release the force when pushing and apply force when pulling.
2: Sawing Preparation
First, mark the material where you want to cut.
Use tools like a carpenter's square to draw a straight line."
Be sure to also mark the sides. They will serve as guides when cutting.
Next, secure the material firmly to a table with a clamp.
If you hold the material with your hand, it may move, preventing a straight cut.
By securing the material, you can use both hands, ensuring a stable operation.
3: Sawing Technique
Hold the saw with your dominant hand at the handle's end and the other hand lightly holding the head.
Align your line of sight so it matches the saw blade and the marking.
Start the cut by slowly pushing the saw along the line to create a groove.
Once the groove is established, move the saw back and forth, keeping the blade aligned with the line.
Always keep your eyes on the blade and the marked line."
Maintain the blade's angle at about 35 degrees.
Most Japanese saws apply force when pulling to make a cut.
Release the force when pushing and apply force when pulling.
Use the entire length of the blade to pull the saw slowly.
To finish the cut cleanly, hold the part you're cutting off, position the blade upright, and cut slowly.
Check out our other articles for more great tips on how to care for and maintain your Japanese saws!
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How to Choose a Japanese Saw by Type: The Kakuri Difference – Kakuri Sangyo
- Mastering the Japanese Saw:Saw Types & Their Uses