käsisahat

Käsisahat, or hand saws, are handheld cutting tools used to cut wood without power. A blade with cutting teeth is attached to a handle; the blade is typically thin and flexible, enabling straight cuts along or across grain. Most hand saws are designed for a specific task: rip saws cut along the grain, while crosscut saws cut across it. Back saws, which have a stiffening strip along the spine, enable precise joinery cuts, whereas general panel or carpenter saws are used for rough or layout cuts.

Common blades range in length from about 15 to 26 inches. Tooth counts vary by purpose: ripping blades use fewer, coarser teeth (roughly 6–10 TPI), while crosscut blades use more, finer teeth (roughly 10–20 TPI). Blades are typically made of high-carbon steel; handles may be wood, plastic, or metal. Specialized forms include the backsaw for fine joinery and the frame or sash saw for larger timbers.

Usage and technique: the saw is guided along a line with a steady rhythm, keeping the blade perpendicular to the work surface. The workpiece should be clamped and supported to reduce binding and ensure accuracy. Maintenance involves keeping the blade clean and dry, oiling to prevent rust, and periodically sharpening with a file or having teeth reset or replaced as needed.

History and scope: hand saws have ancient origins and were refined in Europe and North America, leading to a variety of specialized forms for carpentry, joinery, and timber framing. They remain a fundamental tool when power equipment is unavailable or when delicate, controlled cuts are required.

Safety: use eye protection, secure the work, maintain a proper stance, and store blades safely.