The Best Japanese Saws You Can Buy

A Japanese saw is a unique tool to have in your toolbox for woodworking or small projects. These pull saws are well known for their ability to cut on the pull stroke, rather than the push stroke. With teeth that point towards the edges, Japanese saws leave a narrower cut width, called kerf.

Unlike Western saws, Japanese saws cut with tension, not compression. Popular in woodworking, Japanese saws come in different sizes and styles, for different functions.

What to Look for in a Japanese Saw

When choosing a Japanese saw for your projects, consider the types of saws and cuts you want to achieve. Depending on the project, choose from different inch blade options. Some saws have flexibility in different cutting positions. Each saw has teeth on it, for the cut or kerf, and the smaller the teeth are, the easier it is to begin the cut.

Best Overall: SUIZAN Japanese Hand Saw 9.5-inch Dozuki Dovetail Pull Saw for Woodworking

The Suizan Japanese hand saw is made with high-quality Japanese steel and is made in Japan. Perfect for woodworking projects, this saw is meant for both beginners and masters to create diverse projects. Made with a sharp and thin blade, there are many teeth per inch comparable to saws of similar size. It is lightweight and cuts with clean edges and a narrow kerf.

Best for Budget: SUIZAN Japanese Ryoba Pull Saw 7-inch Double Edge Hand Saw

This lightweight and flexible Japanese hand saw provides a smooth and accurate cut, thanks to its great number of teeth on both sides. The double edge provides a flawless and clean-cut, unlike conventional saws. The 7-inch blade is ideal for all kinds of projects.

Best Value: Life Saw S-145 Flush Cutting Japanese Handsaw

Perfect for tight spots, this flexible Japanese saw is a good choice for woodworkers. It is lightweight and easily cuts excess trim, dowels, and pegs while not marring the surrounding surface.

Also Consider: Steelhead 6.8-inch Ryoba Double Edge Japanese Pull Saw

Meant for both hard and softwood applications, this Japanese pull saw has a synthetic handle with “duragrip” for easy and ergonomic cuts. It is made with high-carbon steel, with a corrosive resistant finish. There is a push-button that allows for easy blade changes. This saw is ideal for small projects and quick jobs. The sharp blade will cut with ease.

For woodworking or small projects, choosing a Japanese saw is a great option to cut with ease. Cutting on the pull stroke requires minimal effort and the sharp teeth allow for fast, clean, and precise cuts.