Japanese pull saws have become increasingly popular among woodworkers and do-it-yourself enthusiasts for their precision and versatility. Unlike traditional Western saws that cut on the push stroke, Japanese pull saws cut on the pull stroke. Ask This Old House carpenter Nathan Gilbert demonstrates the proper technique and application of a Japanese pull saw in the video above.
Japanese Pull Saws
Japanese pull saws, also known as Japanese hand saws or nokogiri, have a rich history dating back centuries in Japanese woodworking. These saws have distinct characteristics that set them apart from their Western counterparts.
Design and Construction
Japanese pull saws feature a thin, flexible blade with teeth that point toward the handle. This design allows for a cutting action when the user pulls the saw towards themselves rather than pushing it away. The blade’s thinness and flexibility enable precise cuts and reduce the material removed during sawing.
Here are the different components of a Japanese pull saw:
- Blade: Thin and flexible, designed to cut on the pull stroke
- Handle: Usually made from wood or composite materials for a comfortable grip
- Teeth: Point towards the handle, optimized for clean cuts
Types of Japanese Pull Saws
There are several types of Japanese pull saws, each designed for specific tasks:
- Dozuki: A fine-toothed saw with a rigid back, ideal for precise joinery
- Flush-cut saw: Designed to trim protruding dowels or tenons flush with a surface
- Kataba: A single-edged, general-purpose saw
- Ryoba: A double-edged saw with crosscut teeth on one side and rip teeth on the other
Advantages of Japanese Pull Saws
Japanese pull saws offer several benefits that make them a valuable addition to any woodworker’s toolkit:
- Precision and control: The pulling motion used with these saws allows for greater control and precision than Western push saws. This increased control is great for making delicate cuts or working in tight spaces. In fine woodworking projects, controlling the saw with minimal effort creates clean and accurate cuts.
- Thin kerf: The thin blade of a Japanese pull saw creates a narrow kerf (the width of the cut), resulting in less wasted material and smoother cuts. This feature is especially beneficial when working with expensive hardwoods or making fine furniture. Less material removal means minimal effort is required, and less strain is placed on the wood.
- Versatility: Many Japanese pull saws, such as the ryoba, feature different tooth configurations on each side of the blade. This design allows for crosscutting and rip-cutting with a single tool, increasing versatility and reducing the need for multiple saws. The flexibility to handle a range of materials—from softwoods to hardwoods—makes these saws indispensable in any woodworking shop.
How To Use a Japanese Pull Saw
Using a Japanese pull saw effectively requires proper technique and practice. Follow these steps to achieve the best results:
- Choose the appropriate saw for your task.
- Mark your cutting line clearly on the workpiece.
- Position yourself with a stable stance, allowing for a smooth pulling motion.
- Hold the saw with both hands, one on the handle and the other near the blade tip for stability.
- Begin the cut by pulling the saw towards you with light pressure.
- Gradually increase the pressure and speed as the cut progresses.
- Maintain a consistent angle throughout the cut for accuracy.
- Finish the cut with lighter strokes to prevent splintering.
We recommend practicing on scrap wood to get a feel for the saw’s behavior. Also, secure and clamp your workpiece to avoid movement. Remember to let the saw do the work and avoid applying excessive downward pressure, which can cause the blade to bind or deviate from the cutting line.
Applications for Japanese Pull Saws
Japanese pull saws excel in various woodworking applications, making them versatile tools for professionals and hobbyists.
Flush Cutting
As Gilbert demonstrates, Japanese pull saws are excellent for flush cutting. Their thin, flexible blades allow users to make precise cuts close to surfaces without damaging the surrounding area. This makes them ideal for trimming dowels, tenons, or other protruding elements flush with a surface.
Fine Joinery
Japanese pull saws’ precision and thin kerf make them perfect for fine joinery, such as dovetails, tenons, and lap joints. The dozuki saw, with its rigid back and fine teeth, is particularly well-suited for these tasks. Crafting tight-fitting joints contributes to the strength and durability of the finished piece.
Crosscutting and Rip Cutting
Many Japanese pull saws, like the ryoba, feature teeth for crosscutting and rip-cutting on the same blade. This versatility allows woodworkers to make various cuts with a single tool, streamlining their workflow and reducing the need for multiple saws. Whether you’re cutting across the grain or along it, the ryoba has you covered.
Additional Applications
Beyond traditional woodworking, Japanese pull saws are a good choice for the following tasks:
- Furniture repair: Making clean, controlled cuts helps maintain the integrity of antique or delicate furniture.
- Installing trim and molding: The fine teeth and thin blade enable precise cuts necessary for detailed finish work.
- Model making: The saw’s precise control is perfect for cutting small, delicate pieces used in scale models.
Maintaining Your Japanese Pull Saw
Proper maintenance helps keep your Japanese pull saw in optimal condition.
Cleaning
After each use, clean the blade with a dry cloth to remove sawdust and debris. Use a light oil or specialized saw cleaner for stubborn residue. Keeping the blade clean prevents buildup that can affect cutting performance.
Storage
Store your Japanese pull saw in a dry place to prevent rust. Many saws come with protective blade covers, which you should use to store the saw when it isn’t in use to protect both the blade and the user. Proper storage extends the life of the saw and maintains its cutting efficiency.
Sharpening
Unlike Western saws, most Japanese pull saws have impulse-hardened teeth that can’t be re-sharpened. When the teeth become dull, replacing the blade is typically more cost-effective than attempting to sharpen it. Replacement blades are readily available and easy to install.
Choosing the Right Japanese Pull Saw
When selecting a Japanese pull saw, consider the following factors:
- Intended use: Determine whether you need a general-purpose saw, one for fine joinery, or a flush-cutting saw.
- Blade length and tooth configuration: Choose based on the types of cuts you’ll be making most frequently.
- Handle comfort and grip: Ergonomics are important. Make sure the handle feels comfortable in your hand.
- Quality of construction and materials: Higher quality materials and construction will generally offer better durability and performance.
Basic Japanese pull saws with teeth on both sides are relatively inexpensive and can be found at most home centers. Higher-end models with interchangeable blades cost more but offer greater versatility and longevity. Investing in a good-quality saw can pay off in the long run with better performance and durability.
Resources
A standard Japanese pull saw can be found at almost any home center. The one that Gilbert demonstrated with the interchangeable blades is the Japan Pull Set, which is manufactured by Tajima.
Expert assistance with this segment was provided by Nathan Gilbert Carpentry.