The Benefits of Using Hand Saws in Your Woodworking Projects

When it comes to woodworking, there are various tools one can use to get the job done. From power saws to sanders, there’s no shortage of available options. Today, we’ll talk about one tool in particular. A tool that often gets overlooked in favor of its high-tech, modern counterparts. Of course, we’re talking about the hand saw. Now, you must be thinking: aren’t those the old-fashioned things your grandpa used to use in his woodworking projects? The answer is: that’s right. Even though hand saws aren’t as flashy or high-tech as other tools, they have many advantages that make them a valuable addition to any woodworker’s toolkit. Without further ado, here are the benefits of using hand saws in your DIY woodworking projects!

#1 Hand saws are very accurate

First, we’ll mention the accuracy hand saws come equipped with and are famous for. One might assume that power saws are quicker and more efficient, and one wouldn’t be so far away from the truth. However, things might get awry if a power saw isn’t in careful hands. In other words, you can mess up a lot if you’re not handling a power saw correctly. On the other hand, hand saws enable you to make precise, fine cuts (as you’d make by using a jigsaw) without much effort. All you’ll need is a little practice, and you’ll be ready to make curves (or straight lines) identically accurate as the ones you’d make with a power saw.

#2 They’re pretty portable, too

Here’s the thing: hand saws are very portable. You won’t have much trouble with their transportation. Power saws are infamous among DIY woodworkers since they can be heavy, cumbersome, and downright hard to move and carry around. On the other hand, hand saws are usually lightweight and easy to move. That makes them an ideal option for woodworking “on the go.” Also, they don’t require any electricity to run. If you’ve just moved to your new place and want to kickstart the woodwork ASAP, you can handle this right away by doing some renovating, as it is one of the steps to take once you’ve moved to a new home. 

#3 Peace and quiet (and no dust)

Another advantage to using hand saws concerns their quietness. That’s right. They’re much quieter and subtler than your regular power saws. Your household members will surely appreciate this, especially if you’re used to spending a lot of time inside your workshop or if your workshop isn’t outside your home. Also, besides being noisy, power saws are infamous for creating a lot of sawdust (which you can use to your advantage). If you’re not careful, this can be a health risk. You’ll want to know that hand saws create very little dust. That makes them both cleaner and safer than their power counterparts.

#4 Enjoy total control

Okay, this might be one of the most significant benefits of using hand saws: the control you’ll gain over your work. Here’s why that’s so: if you’re using a power saw, the blade is spinning at high speed. That makes it challenging to control the cut fully. However, if you’ve chosen to use a hand saw, you’ll have total control over the blade; you’ll be able to modify your cutting speed and angle to your liking. Also, you can stop and start the cut whenever necessary. If you’re working with expensive or delicate materials, this level of control is even more critical. You’ll enjoy making supreme cuts without risking damage to the wood.

#5 Hand saws are the cheaper option

Hand saws are cheaper than power saws. Some models mightn’t prove this rule, as certain hand saws can be expensive. That’s especially true if you’re looking to buy a top-quality saw made from high-end materials. However, most hand saws are more than affordable. That is excellent if you’re just starting your DIY woodworker career. You won’t have to invest much money in your new hobby.

#6 What about craftsmanship?

Hand saws can help you develop and boost your woodworking skills and craftsmanship. Once you’re cutting the wood by hand, you must pay close attention to the grain and texture of the material. Also, you’ll have to think about your body position and technique, which you probably won’t have to do with a power saw. This level of dedication to detail can help you become a skillful woodworker and can help you gain a deeper appreciation for the craft.

#7 Hand saws will provide you with a sense of accomplishment

Besides, using a hand saw will give you more remarkable accomplishment and overall satisfaction. Things you wouldn’t get that quickly from using power saws. Using your hands to cut the material, you’ll shape the wood simply relying on your body. There’s something very satisfying in seeing a home woodworking project come together once you know you’ve done it all using your two hands.

#8 It’s an exercise

Practicing the usage of hand saws is an exercise that will improve both your physical and mental health. As noted above, cutting the word by hand requires you to use your whole body. That might be a solid workout and help boost your fitness level. Also, hand saws are safer for users with certain health conditions or physical limitations. They don’t require you to use much force or pressure as power saws. Oh, and regarding mental health, woodworking is a meditative and calming activity that will help reduce stress and anxiety levels.

#9 Hand saws are the eco-friendly solution

Finally, let’s take some time to talk about the environmental impact of using both hand and power saws. Naturally, hand saws are way more eco-friendly than their power counterparts. The latter requires electricity from non-renewable sources (coal, natural gas, etc.). Using a hand saw to cut wood will significantly reduce your carbon footprint and benefit our planet.

Final words on the benefits of using hand saws

As you can see, there are many benefits of using hand saws in your woodworking projects and their benefits. Hopefully, now you have a better understanding of the unique nature of this fantastic item. Until next time, check out some more saw-related info!