Hacksaws make cutting metal easy due to their fine-toothed design. Most hacksaws are similar to a hand saw with one difference – a C-shaped frame. The handle of these hacksaws are very similar to a pistol-grip design with pins on it to attach the blade. The blade itself is fully adjustable, and there is a tiny screw that keeps the blade secure under tension.
Let’s find out more about Hacksaws and 5 DIY projects we can do with them.
Related Review: Best Hand Saws
Table of Contents
Types of Hacksaws
There are 2 main types of hacksaws: auto cut-off saws and saw machines.
Automatic cut-off saws can cut different sized pieces. You can save several cutting programs in such a saw, and you can cut according to the dimension required.
Saw machines are designed for a quicker cutting job, and you can change the size of the cuts according to your requirements.
There are a lot of great hack saws out there. We really like the Lenox Hack Saw High-Tension if you want the best of the best!
Why We Like It:
We loved this hack saw because you can use it as a jab saw as well; the blade tension is good to adjust too.
Types of Blades
A hacksaw can come with three different types of blades.
Regular blade
The regular blade has close-set teeth, and these blades are best for cutting soft materials. They are good for cutting through most things, excluding iron.
Raker blade
Raker blades have three sets of teeth on them. These blades are useful for cutting thicker materials. In most cases, this blade is most suited for cutting wood.
Wavy blade
These blades have teeth positioned from left to right in a wave pattern. They can manage fine cuts and are best used to cut metals and other hard surfaces.
Frame Type
The frame of hacksaws might come in a fixed design or an adjustable one. A fixed frame will only accommodate one type of blade. It can be a 10-inch blade or a 12-inch one. Other hacksaws can support different types of blades. The blades can range in size from 8-inches to 16-inches. Frame type hacksaws come with a hole on each end.
5 DIY Projects for a Hacksaw
A hacksaw is a lightweight tool, making it very useful in a range of DIY projects. You don’t need any skills or expertise to use this tool. However, you have to be cautious while using it to safeguard yourself against any injuries. It is one of the best cutting tools for a small garage shop or a homeowner. A hacksaw is handy enough to cut steel and other metals, including tubes, pipes, bars, and rods into the required length.
1. Cutting pipes and tubes in plumbing
One of the best uses of a hacksaw in your DIY projects is to cut plastics. A hacksaw can conveniently cut through plastic, and you won’t have to deal with any messes. If you are looking to cut PVC pipes or tubes using your hacksaw, then there is no other tool that will work better for you. They can cut through pipes and conduits with ease.
A hacksaw will allow you to make necessary changes to the current network of pipes, or you can use it to cut and make an entirely new network. It is better to place the pipe or tube within a vise and secure it properly. This will make the inset cutting process easier and safer.
2. Making furniture
Another use of a hacksaw is to create different types of furniture. You can either use it for cutting wood or metal, but it works best with wood. If you have designs and layouts in mind, a hacksaw can help you create different kinds of furniture both for indoor and outdoor use.
You can create almost any type of furniture with the right materials and your hacksaw. You will have to add a finish to the completed projects to give them a contemporary or classic look, but a hacksaw is an indispensable part of the process to achieve your final design.
Just as an added tip, for more a precise cut when using your hacksaw, you need to make pull strokes. In order to do that the teeth of your saw’s blade need to point towards its handle.
3. Create arts and crafts
Creating projects with different types of woods, plastics, and metals allows you to unleash your creative side. Hacksaws are great for arts and crafts projects as well.
If you have a hacksaw that can accommodate multiple blades, choosing the right one to cut the right kind of material will ensure the quality of your cuts and the end product.
A small-sized hacksaw is recommended for intricate designs and smaller details. Practice makes perfect with these hand tools and with time, you can hone your skills to create amazing designs.
4. Pruning
A hacksaw will also come in handy for those quick-growing hedges. You may need additional tools for more complex trims, but a significant portion of the job can be done using a hacksaw.
Having two different sized hacksaws, one specifically for cutting larger branches and the other for smaller twigs will allow you to do a more thorough job.
5. Cutting wires and cables
Another purpose for a hacksaw is to cut wires and cables. As most of the wires and cables feature copper and similar high conductivity metals, you can cut through them with ease. Due to this, a hacksaw is a very handy tool for electricians and you will find a junior version in their bag for various cutting applications.
How to use a hacksaw for best results?
For the best results when using a hacksaw, you must mount its blade to keep it touted within the frame. Make sure that you use slow but steady strokes when cutting.
In the US, hacksaw users are more used to cutting with a push stroke. However, most Japanese saws work by pull strokes. No matter what blade orientation you choose, make sure that you cut slowly. The best speed to work a hacksaw is making just one stroke per second.
The friction caused by the strokes can be immense, and it can significantly damage your blade. To reduce this friction, you can add a drop of oil on the blade. This will help to significantly reduce the temperature. Adding lubricant here is critical because overheated blades can become dull over time.
Hacksaw Best Practices
The following are the best practices to use a hacksaw safely:
- Make sure to choose the correct blade for the correct material.
- You must secure the saw’s blade with its teeth pointing away from the handle for push strokes.
- The teeth need to point towards the handle if you are looking to make pull strokes.
- Keep the blade and the frame properly aligned with each other and in a firm position.
- For efficient cutting, the blade needs to be taut within the frame.
- Always make a strong, steady, and slow pull or push strokes for better results and safety.
- Bring the entire blade from one end to the other when cutting.
- To reduce the friction, you can use machine oil to prevent it and also reduce overheating.
- You must cut the harder materials slowly as compared to softer materials.
- Clamp those pieces that need edge cutting.
- When cutting a pipe, make sure to secure it within a vise before you start cutting.
Final Word
A hacksaw is an incredibly useful tool, especially if you are a DIYer. It allows you to cut through different materials including, wood, metal, and plastic. You can use it for a range of different purposes. Its versatility is one of its top features, and that is it’s a staple for every plumber and electrician.
Make sure that you make your strokes slowly. About one stroke per second is the rule of thumb. Don’t forget to use a drop of machine oil on the blade to reduce the friction. This way, you can get the most out of your hacksaw.
Hack Saw vs Bow Saw Face Off
Two saw types that are often considered interchangeable or easily confused are the hacksaw and the bow saw. In this guide, we will walk you through the main uses and differences between the hacksaw and the bow saw.
Amazon Recommends:
- BLADE SECURITY: Solid metal frame of the hand saw is designed for tension up to 225 lbs.
- DEEP CUTS: The handsaw has 12-inch fixed blade length and 4.375-inch cutting depth
- FLUSH CUTS: 90-degree and 180-degree adjustable blade angles allow for flush cuts
- COMFORT: Large, comfortable tension knob with a full-grip handle
- EXCELLENT DESIGN: Lightweight but very solid aluminum alloy frame hacksaw for easy use, ergonomic double injection anti-slip grip for comfortable operation and very durable. Loosen and fix screw to change and replace blades.
- ESSENTIAL HACK SAW: This close quarter hacksaw is perfect for cutting in tight, small and hard to reach spaces, making this mini hacksaw a necessary tool for the craftsman's arsenal.
- WIDELY APPLICATIONS: This mini cutter come with 1pc 10” x1/2"x24T Bi-metal HSS blade and Extra 2PCS for exchange, Ideal for wood,PVC,plasterboard,metal sheet and foam cutting.
- IDEAL MINI HAND SAW: This portable hacksaw features an ergonomic rubber grip handle and Dual-action blade lock for safe using; Hacksaw blade holder accepts 10 inch and 12 inch hacksaw blades.
- FULL SPECIFICATIONS: 10 Inch Aluminum Frame Compact Hand Operate Mini Hack Saw; Includes total 3pcs 10” x1/2"x24T Bi-metal HSS blades; Ergonomic Rubber Grip Handle; Dual-action Blade Lock; Adjustable Frame Accepts 10 Inch and 12 Inch Blades; 2.5 Inch Cut Depth; 11.5 Inch Length.
- LIGHTWEIGHT&DURABLE---Vanquish hand saw is made of aluminium alloy frame which is sturdy, lightweight and very easy to use.
- HIGHLY ADAPTABLE---Blade length of our hacksaw is adjustable to cope with different jobs. Cutting accuracy is ensured even in tight spaces.
- ERGONOMIC COMFORT HANDLES---Rubber handle can provide a comfortable and non-slip hold, reduce hand fatigue. Exclusive and proprietary patterning.
- SET INCLUDES---High-performance 10” bi-material blade is included.
- WIDE APPLICATIONS - This small hacksaw is ideal for cutting wood, PVC, plasterboard, sheet metal and Styrofoam, a must-have tool for craftsman.