zaag

Zaag is the Dutch term for a saw, a cutting tool that uses a toothed blade to divide materials such as wood, metal, or plastic. The blade is attached to a handle for manual use or mounted on a powered mechanism for mechanical cutting. Saws are among the oldest and most versatile hand tools, used in carpentry, construction, metalworking, and craft projects.

A typical zaag consists of a blade with teeth, a spine or ferrule in some types, and a handle. The teeth and their arrangement (the tooth geometry and pitch) determine how the cut behaves: rip teeth are shaped to cut with the grain, while crosscut teeth are designed to sever across the grain. Some blades are flexible for more delicate curves, while others are stiffened for straight, precise cuts. Power saws use electric or pneumatic motors and include circular saws, reciprocating saws, jigsaws, and band saws, each suited to different materials and applications.

Common types include hand saws for general wood cutting, backsaws and tenon or dovetail saws for fine joinery, hacksaws for metal, and specialized forms such as circular, jigsaw, and bandsaws for larger or more intricate tasks. Blades are chosen to match the material and cut required, and many saws allow blade changes to suit different jobs. Maintenance involves keeping teeth sharp, cleaning debris, and storing blades to prevent rust.

Safety is important when using a zaag. Secure the workpiece, use clamps, wear eye protection, and keep hands away from the cutting edge. Incorrect technique or a dull blade can cause binding or kickback, so choosing the right blade and maintaining it properly are essential for a clean, safe cut.