Our daily life is full of tools. Even though we are not aware of it, we use different types of saws in our everyday life. Saws are tools that are designed to cut any kind of materials like wood, plastic, and metal. There are different types of saws available in the market with their own unique features and benefits.
When it comes in mind to cut logs ,tree branches, and lumber, the first thing that comes to our mind is a hand saw. And when we think about cutting pipes, metal rods, and thick boards, then we think about a hacksaw. So here in this article, we are going to discuss the difference between a hand saw vs hacksaw.
What is Hand Saw and What about Its Functions?
A hand saw is a tiny, portable tool that can be used to cut a wide range of materials, including wood, plastic, and metal. It consists of a blade with sharp teeth that are set in a frame. The hand saw is operated by holding the frame in one hand and using the other hand to push and pull the blade to make the cut.
There are different types of hand saws available in the market, each designed for a specific purpose. For example, there are hand saws that are specifically designed for cutting wood, while others are designed for cutting metal or plastic. The most common type of hand saw is the crosscut saw, which is used for making cuts across the grain of the wood.
Functions of Hand Saw:
The hand saw is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, including:
- Cutting wood
- Cutting plastic
- Cutting metal
- Making curves and shapes in wood
What is Hacksaw and What are Its Functions?
The hacksaw is specifically designed for cutting metal, although it can also be used to cut wood and plastic. Its not only designed for cutting hard and tough materials but also for making very precise cuts. Though, it can only make straight cuts. It consists of a blade with sharp teeth that is mounted in a frame. The frame can be held in the hand or placed on a surface, depending on the type of hacksaw.
Functions of Hand Saw:
The hacksaw is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, including:
- Cutting metal
- Cutting wood
- Cutting plastic
- Making straight cuts
Differences between Hand Saw and Hacksaw:
There are several key differences between hand saws and hacksaws, which are summarized in the following points:
- Hand saws come in a variety of sizes and shapes, while hacksaws are only designed for making straight cuts.
- Hand saws can be used to make both straight and curved cuts, while hacksaws can only make straight cuts.
- Hand saw can be used with one hand, while hacksaw require two hands to operate.
What Are TPI ?
The number of teeth per inch (TPI) is a measure of the coarseness or fineness of the saw blade. The higher the TPI, the finer the blade and the smoother the cut. For example, a Blade with 14 TPI will leave a smoother finish than one with only 10 TPI.
Fundamental Features and Task force of Hand Saw
Use For Cut Wood
When you're going to cut the wood for immediate purposes, in that time hand saw is the best tool for you. You can use it according to your needs like cutting in any shapes, curves or making different designs in wood. Furthermore, you can cut the logs at the living plant and for pruning purposes.
Removable blades
Hand saw has the features of removable blades, which means you can change the blade according to your needs and the type of wood you are going to cut. It's very easy to change the blade in hand saw as compared to hacksaw.
Lightweight
Hand saw is a lightweight tool as compared to hacksaw because it consists of simple parts like a handle and a blade. whereas hacksaw is a little bit heavier because it has a frame in which blade is mounted.
Cost-effective
Hand saw is a cost-effective tool as compared to hacksaw. You can easily buy a hand saw at a low price as compared to hacksaw.
Handle and its shape
The handle of hand saw is designed in such a way that it can be easily held in the hand. And its shape is also designed according to the needs of human hand for easy grip and holding.
Less dense blade teeth orientation
Hand saw has less dense blade teeth orientation as compared to hacksaw because it is used for cutting wood. Dense blade teeth are required for cutting hard and tough materials like metal. However the crosscut hand saw has most useful dense teeth that is good for wood working.
Fundamental Features and Task force of Hand Saw
Bow-shaped
The hacksaw is designed in such a way that it can be easily held in the hand and its blade can be removed and replaced. It consists of a frame in which blade is mounted. The handle of hacksaw is also designed for easy grip and holding.
Use For Cut Metal
Hacksaw is specially designed for cutting metal, but it can also be used to cut wood and plastic. It is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of tasks.
Replaceable blades
Hacksaw has the feature of replaceable blades, which means you can change the blade according to your needs. It's very easy to change the blade in hacksaw as compared to hand saw.
Dense blade teeth orientation
Hacksaw has dense blade teeth orientation as compared to hand saw because it is used for cutting metal. Dense blade teeth are required for cutting hard and tough materials like metal. Generally 12-30 TPI (teeth per inch) are used for cutting metals.
Adjustable frame
Hacksaw has an adjustable frame, which means you can adjust the blade according to your needs. It is very easy to adjust the blade in hacksaw as compared to hand saw.
Sum up: What Saw Will be You Pick Choice?
The answer is clear, depends on what your project is. If you want to cut wood, then hand saw is the best tool for you. If you want to cut metal, then hacksaw is the best tool for you. However, in case of pruning, training or any kinds of garden related task then hand saw is the pick options for you.
But at the end of the day, its depends on the user that which tool he/she is comfortable to work with.

I am a graduate of Bangladesh Agricultural University, where I delved into various agricultural disciplines, equipping me with a profound understanding of agriculture. Beyond academics, I have hands-on experience in gardening and crop cultivation. My passion is to embrace sustainable farming and horticulture. With a BSc in Agriculture, I am dedicated to promoting environmentally conscious and efficient agrarian practices.
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Agriculture (Hons.)
Master of Science. (Sustainable Agriculture & Food Security ) (MS)
Bangladesh Agricultural University