The Japanese Pull saw is one of those tools you should have in your tool arsenal, especially if you love traditional tools. When I had the first experience with these saws, I could only describe the action of the Japanese pull saw with two words – Unique and precision.
You don’t have to be obsessed with Japanese woodworking tools or even traditional woodworking tools to make use of these pull saws. The qualities of these saws can readily be appreciated by all and sundry. The purpose of this article is to help you choose one of the best Japanese pull saw around you.
Japanese saws are a fantastic choice of tools for woodworkers, no matter the level of skill. The hardened steel blades last a long time, but the users can’t sharpen them. Once dull or damaged, it’s easy (and inexpensive) to remove and replace the blade. This also makes them easy to store in any toolbox or tool cabinet.
A Ryoba saw ( Japanese name for Pull Saw) is a unique kind of saw of Japanese origin. The Japanese word Ryoba means double blade. The reason for this naming is not far-fetched. This saw has two cutting edges, a cross-cutting blade on one side and a ripping blade on the opposite side. These different sets of teeth make the blades easy to identify.
The pull saws have been made in such a way that the blades cut faster than Western-style handsaws while requiring less energy for carving at the same time. Ryoba saws are good choices for woodworkers who are just starting to handsaw on the pull-stroke. Ryoba Saws have been made to be suitable for a wide range of woodworking activities.
Ryobas are often described by blade length (in millimeters) because this usually indicates the saw’s main uses. In general, shorter saws have more pleasing teeth, enabling you to do more exacting work. A 210mm (8 1⁄4″) Ryoba is for furniture.
A 240mm (9 1⁄2″) ryoba can be used for general carpentry. A 270mm (10 3⁄4″) ryoba is for more extensive work, like timber-frame joinery. If you look closely at the ripping side of a ryoba saw, you’ll notice that the teeth are smaller at the heel of the blade, making it easier to get a cut started.
If you’ve never picked up a Japanese saw, be prepared for a shock. Its floppy blade stuck on a rattan-wrapped stick may seem at first glance to be more toy than tool. But get down to cutting wood, and you’ll ask yourself why you put up with traditional Western-style handsaws for so long.
Understanding Japanese Pull Saws seems to be a bit of mystery, but it isn’t. The first thing to keep in mind is that wood is always wood. You rip wood along the grain, or you cross-cut it across the grain, and with that basic knowledge, that is how all woodworking saws work, including Japanese Pull Saws.
There is something about using these Japanese saws a lot of people don’t understand. That is the pure enjoyment of using a “non-power tool” to create something beautiful or complex or both.
Having a bunch of power woodworking tools gets the job(s) done fast, but you would also find using the old-school tools and ways for your projects to be immensely satisfying. These Japanese saws are sharp, rugged, and precise.
Buy one, read up on the history and how it is used, then try it out. See if your blood pressure and heart rate don’t decrease, and a smile begins to invade your face.
Our Favorite Choice Of Japanese Pull Saw Summary:
KAKURI | # 1st Choice |
GYOKUCHO | # 2nd Choice |
SUIZAN | # 3rd Choice |
SUIZAN | # 4th Choice |
HACHIEMON | # 5th Choice |
Top 5 Best Japanese Pull Saw Review In Details:
KAKURI – Japanese Pull Saw 9-1/2″ Ryoba Saw for Woodworking
The Kakuri Japanese pull saw tool is a genuine Japanese tool that has been made using only Japanese high-grade steel. This steel ensures that the teeth of the saw are rugged and heavy-duty. These pull saws are made by native craftsmen who make sure that only the pull saws of standard quality are released to the market.
Japanese impulse blade edge quenching (impact quenching) processing achieves excellent sharpness of the blade and maintains the sharpness for a long time. A special fine-tooth of the handsaw has realized the smooth cut surface of the wood and comfortable edge.
If you need an all-around pull saw, the Kakuri Pull Saw is a perfect choice. Part of this saw’s design is a bit traditional. The material, on the other hand, has gone through modernization. It has a more durable handle than most Japanese saws out in the market.
This pull saw has two blades: one for cross-cuts and one for ripping. The blade measures 10 inches long and has triple-beveled teeth. For comfortability, the handle measures 12 inches.
Along with the replaceable blade, the handle will make you forget holding it because of its lightweight. This experience is just pure enjoyment based on purchased users.
As woodworkers can use this in a variety of works, thus, is a good investment. You can use it on hardwood, plywood, engineered wood, moldings, and even PVC.
Some assembly may be required when setting it up. Only by using a bolt and nut, the blade can be attached to the handle.
All parts will be included in the package when you purchase one, so there is no need to worry about assembling it. This is a valuable piece of wood cutting tool whether you have mastered woodworking or if you are a newbie.
Features:
- Item Weight 8.1 ounces.
- Product Dimensions 20.7 x 3.1 x 0.8 inches.
- Item model number 40785.
- Material Japanese high carbon steel.
- Pattern Japanese Ryoba Hand Saw 240mm.
- Blade Length 9.4 Inches.
Pros:
- Fine sharp blade teeth.
- Smooth and accurate cutting.
- Requires less power.
- Sharp blade.
- Women and the elderly-friendly.
Cons:
- It is relatively heavier than other pull saws.
GYOKUCHO No. 291 – Japanese Hand Saw 180mm Ryoba Saw
This hand saw is a modern variation of the traditional Japanese saw. It features accurate cuts that you can use for a variety of joints. Its blade is 180mm and is designed with a stiff back, giving you better control when cutting.
This item is just like having two saws in one tool, which means this saw has two different blades on each side, with one suitable for more delicate cuts or cross-cutting work, and the other side is made for rip cuts.
The unique thing about this saw is the handle. It allows you to tilt concerning the blade, which means you can easily access areas that would typically be difficult to reach. Many woodworkers considered this a great feature and found it extremely useful; this is not often to be seen on other saws.
According to purchased users, the replacement blade is found a little more flexible than expected, which might hinder projects that require really straight and deep cuts. Gyokucho gave their blades a special surface treatment called electroless nickel plating.
The plating produces a very smooth surface that allows it to resist corrosion and the adhesion of tree resins, providing a reflective surface that woodworkers can use to align the cut accurately.
Use it to cut thin and straight kerfs. The great thing is that it is designed with a comfortable and contoured grip, so you don’t quickly get tired even after a while of handling the saw. This saw is more suitable for cross-cutting and is not very efficient for rip cuts.
Features:
- Blade length 7.”
- Overall length 15.”
- The cross-cut side has 19tpi.
- Rip side has 9tpi.
- The teeth are impulse hardened for extended wear.
- The handles are wrapped with rattan for a secure grip.
- The various blades can be interchanged.
- The tilted handle allows access to awkward places.
- The blade is removable and replaceable.
- Compact enough to fit in a tool bag.
Pros:
- Cuts at a breakneck speed.
- This pull saw is very affordable.
- The blade is easily replaceable.
- Front teeth are great for starting plunge cuts.
- The blade is razor sharp.
- The tilted handle made it easy to access awkward places.
Cons:
- The blade requires frequent replacement.
- This pull saw is not particularly suitable for creating deeper cuts.
SUIZAN – Japanese Pull Saw 9.5 Inch Ryoba Saw Double Edge for Woodworking
This saw is excellent for both softwood and hardwood. You can use it for cutting tiger maple, teak, and even driftwoods. It’s made of superior quality Swedish steel, which combines durability, accuracy, and efficiency.
While the blade may appear thin, measuring 0.02 inches only, it is super sharp and works precisely. It has teeth on three sides and is replaceable. With nine teeth per inch for rip cuts and 15 teeth per inch for cross cuts, the blade is versatile.
It is also noticeable that the smaller teeth look blackened. This is because of the steel hardening that the blade went through for durability, and so it stays sharper for a more extended period. The process was not done for the side with more prominent teeth, as it is not needed.
The great thing about this Japanese saw having a steel blade is that it does not rust. That makes it an excellent value for the money since you don’t have to replace it due to rusting.
When you notice that you need to sharpen the blade, you can easily replace it with affordable replacement blades. The great thing about this pull saw is that the manufacturer uses steel, which is not getting rust over time.
Being known as one of the best budget Japanese pull saw, this pull saw does come with a few shortcomings; the easiest thing to be noticed is the blade does not come with its blade protector, but a zip bag is included.
But still, if you are looking for an affordable set from one of the most reliable manufacturers, this is one of the best choices you will ever have.
Features:
- Made suitable for both softwood and hardwood like tiger maple, red oak, teak, MDF, and even driftwoods.
- Teeth Per Inch: 9 and 15 TPI.
- Blade Thickness: 0.02 inch.
- Kerf Width: 0.03 inch.
- Blade Length: 9-1/2 inch.
- Overall length: 24 inch.
- The saw blade is easily removable and interchangeable.
- Consists of top quality Japanese steel.
- Best handling size for highly precise work.
Pros:
- Cuts through hardwood like oak easily.
- The spine is rigid and strong, which makes it extra durable.
- Perfect for general use.
- The blade is easily replaceable, and replacement is cheap.
- Sharp blade.
- Produces smooth cuts and small kerfs.
Cons:
- Does not come with a blade protector, but a zip bag is included.
SUIZAN – Japanese Hand Saw 7 Inch Double Edge Ryoba Saw for Woodworking
This double-edged Japanese hand saw works well for cutting both soft and hardwoods. It features two blades. One for rip cutting and the other for cross-cutting.
The saw has a minimalistic design, so it’s a lot lighter and simpler to use. Because of the double-edged design, you will not only save on costs, but you will also save time and storage space.
This saw has been designed to do almost anything you need. If you are just getting started, you should have a go at this particular saw and use it until you would like to explore the other types of Japanese saws.
The blade comes with a plastic vinyl cover with a freezer bag-type plastic zipper on it. This could be used as a cover to protect its teeth when not in use. You can also keep the bag hanging on your wall tool organizer.
This little saw makes quick, clean work out of general construction and trims projects where getting out a power saw would be overkill or inconvenient. It will cross-cut a 2×4 in seconds without blowing sawdust all over the place and is a pleasure to use.
Features:
- Two sets of teeth, one for cross-cuts and one for rip cuts.
- The long cane-covered handle is also comfortable for one- or two-handed use.
- Replacement of blades is quite easy.
- Item Weight: 5.6 ounces.
- Product Dimensions: 10.63 x 1.97 x 0.39 inches.
Pros:
- Fast and convenient to use.
- Easy to make straight cuts.
- Lighter in weight.
- Requires less power.
- The resulting edge is cleaner.
- Very narrow kerf.
- A sharp and thin blade.
Cons:
- The handle could be too smooth and may slip occasionally.
HACHIEMON – Japanese Pull Saw Double Edge Ryoba 180mm (7 Inch) for Woodworking
If your woodworking involves working in narrow or tight places, this is the proper pull saw choice for you. This ryoba is manufactured by a Japanese company, Hachiemon, famous for crafting high-quality and efficient hand tools.
Saws finished with the “MOROTEGAKE” technique have lined the texture of silk crepe on the surface of the blade. These vertical lines reduce the drag of each stroke and smoothly remove shavings.
Its blade is 7 inches long, and the handle is 8 inches. The thickness is lower than average, thus making it more accurate.
Because of the teeth on both edges of the blade, it is versatile to use. For fine cutting, use the side with smaller teeth. On the other side, the teeth are longer, which is perfect for intricate cuts on hardwoods.
Moreover, since this is a light saw, weighing only 3.85 ounces, it is easier to use, and it rips and cuts through materials nicely. It is capable of sliding easily, even when used on laminated wood.
Also, it cuts straight lines without any trouble. This is useful when applying finishing touches for smaller joints or interior works.
The vertical lines on the blade’s surface are made with the “morotegake” technique to reduce the drag of each pull and smoothly remove wood shavings.
Features:
- Blade length: 7.1 inches.
- Total length: 17.7 inches.
- Weight: 3.85 ounces.
- The double-bladed saw has a ripping blade and a cross-cutting blade.
- The vertical lines on the surface of blades made with the “MOROTEGAKE” technique reduce the drag of each stroke and smoothly remove shavings.
Pros:
- Reduced drag when used.
- Easy to use.
- Light to carry.
- Cleaner and smoother cut.
Cons:
- The blade can get prematurely loose.
Our Favorite Choice Of Japanese Pull Saw Summary:
| KAKURI | # 1st Choice |
| GYOKUCHO | # 2nd Choice |
| SUIZAN | # 3rd Choice |
| SUIZAN | # 4th Choice |
| HACHIEMON | # 5th Choice |
Conclusion
It is imperative that you choose for yourself a proper hand tool. The tool you use is as essential as your woodworking processes or even the level of your skills. The task of choosing the best gets more challenging as many brands claim they are the best manufacturer in the market.
As a consumer like you, I know how stressful it can be to make the best choice; this is why I have chosen to review the best Japanese pull saw in the market. I hope this review article would help you make the best choice for you.
DIY Ideas & Projects For You:
- How To Build A Wood Router CNC Machine: DIY Smart Saw Review.
- How To Recondition Batteries: The EZ Battery Reconditioning Review.