How to choose a Manual Saw or Bow Saw?

There are basically three types of Manual Saws or Bow Saws, the first classification that we will see is according to the material that composes them.

Manual Saws or Carbon Steel Hacksaws

Are saws of a very low level of hardness, therefore they are better for simple cuts and we cannot expect great durability from them. If our choice is based on the economy for a sporadic (non-industrial) cut, this is our best alternative.

Manual Saws or High Speed ​​Steel Saws

As their name indicates, they are made up of 100% Fast steel. This allows great durability and resistance. They are highly recommended for skilled cutters as their main weakness is lack of flexibility. Before any type of torsion they will explode like glass. It is essential in the use of these tools have basic safety measures such as glasses and gloves.

Manual Saws or Saw Blades of Bimetallic Steel

They have the best combination of Price and Performance. They must surely be the choice of those who want to have a sturdy saw that allows them to cut different materials. They are resistant to torsion and depending on the brand they can show a performance up to 50% higher than those of Fast steel.

A second ranking for Manual Saws or Bow Saws It is according to the number of teeth per inch (DPP) this determines the thickness of the material to be cut. As a general rule, the greater the amount of DPP, it will be possible to cut a material of lesser thickness and, on the contrary, it is advisable to use a lower amount of DPP for cutting solid materials.

Below is a video that explains the manufacture of the Bimetal Steel

Once the type of manual saw or hacksaw has been selected, it will be time to choose the toothing. For this, there are several alternatives according to the brand, although we could focus on the following:

• 14 Teeth per Inch.
• 18 Teeth per Inch.
• 24 Teeth per Inch.
• 32 Teeth per Inch.

The greater the number of teeth, the less thickness that saw or hacksaw will allow to cut. There is a general rule that does not fail, it is convenient to choose a hacksaw or saw that, when resting on the minimum thickness to be cut, makes contact with at least three of its teeth. That will guarantee excellent performance.