Handsaw vs Hacksaw – Which Saw Should You Choose?

When it comes to manual cutting tools, hacksaws and handsaws are two of the most commonly used across workshops, building sites, and homes in the UK. While they may look similar at first glance, they are designed for very different purposes. Choosing the right one can save time, effort, and deliver cleaner, more accurate results.

This guide compares hacksaws vs handsaws, highlighting their differences, advantages, and the situations where each tool is best suited.

What is a Handsaw?

A handsaw is a traditional woodworking tool used primarily for cutting timber, plywood, and other wood-based materials. With a long, wide blade and sharp teeth, handsaws are perfect for making straight or angled cuts in carpentry and joinery projects.

Common Uses of Handsaws

• Cutting wood planks and boards.
• General DIY projects around the home.
• Precise work in joinery and furniture making.

Popular Types of Handsaws

• Panel saws – general-purpose saws for large cuts.
• Tenon saws – designed for fine, accurate cuts.
• Universal saws – versatile saws suitable for both rough and detailed work.

What is a Hacksaw?

A hacksaw is a versatile cutting tool built for tougher materials like metal and plastic. It features a U-shaped steel frame that holds a thin, replaceable blade under tension. This design makes hacksaws ideal for applications where precision and durability are required.

Common Uses of Hacksaws

• Cutting metal pipes, rods, and bolts.
• Trimming plastic pipes in plumbing projects.
• DIY tasks involving tough or dense materials.

Popular Types of Hacksaws

• Standard hacksaws – full-size tools for heavy-duty cutting.
• Mini or junior hacksaws – compact options for cutting in tight spaces.

Key Differences Between Hacksaws and Handsaws

Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison of hacksaws vs handsaws:

Feature	Handsaw	Hacksaw
Primary Use	Cutting wood	Cutting metal and plastic
Blade Type	Fixed blade with teeth	Replaceable thin blades
Cutting Precision	Ideal for long straight or angled cuts in wood	Accurate cuts in hard materials
Durability	Blade sharpness reduces over time	Frame reusable with replaceable blades
Best For	Carpentry, DIY woodworking	Plumbing, metalwork, engineering

Advantages of Using a Handsaw

• Simple to use with no need for blade replacements.
• Effective for woodworking, offering smooth, clean cuts.
• Available in various blade lengths and tooth configurations.

Advantages of Using a Hacksaw

• Versatile – can cut through metal, plastic, and wood (with the right blade).
• Replaceable blades extend tool life and reduce costs.
• Compact versions are ideal for cutting in confined spaces.

Which One Should You Choose?

The right choice depends on your project:

• For woodworking and carpentry, a handsaw is the better option.
• For cutting metal or plastic, a hacksaw is essential.
• For professionals and keen DIYers, having both tools in the toolbox ensures you’re ready for any task.

Conclusion

Both hacksaws and handsaws are indispensable tools in the UK, but their applications are different. A handsaw is best for woodworking, while a hacksaw is essential for cutting metal and plastic. Choosing the right tool will ensure cleaner results and make your projects far easier to complete.

👉 Looking to upgrade your toolkit? Browse a wide range of hacksaws and handsaws in the UK and find the perfect saw for your next project.