Pull Saw vs. Push Saw
Tom CasparDescription
If you’ve looked closely at handsaws you’ve probalby noticed a difference in teeth. Some point toward the handle, some point away. This means that some cut on the pull stroke, some on the push stroke. We’re talking about Japanese saws versus Western saws. They both cut wood, but they each do it very differently. One requires a little more muscle than the other, and there are dramatic differences between the two when it comes to sharpening. Which one is best for your woodworking projects? Before making your buying decision, get some cutting edge advice from Tom.
Share tips, start a discussion or ask one of our experts or other students a question.
Already a member? Sign in
5 Responses to “Pull Saw vs. Push Saw”
Premium Membership
Unlock exclusive member content from our industry experts.
- 24/7 Access to Premium Woodworking Videos, Projects, and Tips
- Step-by-Step Instructional Demos, Plans, and Tutorials
- 50% Off Video Downloads Purchased in the Woodworkers Guild of America Shop
- 2 Printable Woodworking Plans
Unlock exclusive member content from our industry experts.
- 24/7 Access to Premium Woodworking Videos, Projects, and Tips
- Step-by-Step Instructional Demos, Plans, and Tutorials
- 50% Off Video Downloads Purchased in the Woodworkers Guild of America Shop
- 2 Full-Length Video Downloads to Watch Offline
- 2 Printable Woodworking Plans
Gold Membership
$370 Value
Get everything included in Premium plus exclusive Gold Membership benefits.
- 24/7 Access to Premium Woodworking Videos, Projects, and Tips
- Step-by-Step Instructional Demos, Plans, and Tutorials
- 8 Full-Length Video Downloads to Watch Offline
- 3 Full-Length Woodworking Classes to Keep for Life
- 7 Printable Woodworking Plans
- Discounts on Purchase-to-Own Content in the Woodworkers Guild of America Shop
- Access to Ask the Expert Program
- Exclusive GOLD LIVE Streaming Events
I prefer the pullstroke because I feel I have better control for very precise cuts. I also like the flexibility of the Japanese saws to cut off dowels and anywhere else I need a flush cut.
I think its personal preference. I am a bit above a diy'r and have a couple of pull saws and I like them for specific tasks, then western style ones for other tasks. Thank for the video.
With my limited use of pull saws I have found that I have better control, especially when trying to hit a line exactly. I just feel more under control pulling towards me.
Perhaps so some time ago, but no longer; Lie-Nielsen, Lee Valley and especially Rob Cosman "western" saws are now like fine tuned Swiss watches and an absolute pleasure to use.
Have to disagree, western saw generally cuts faster with a cleaner cut (your tear out in the video is hidden on the pull stroke saw) and is not a "throw away." The fact that it can be sharpened means that the 4 minutes it takes with a good set of files equals a more ready to use saw since the Japanese saw will ultimately dull. The western style is also more comfortable to hold and use, which translates to control. I generally begin my kerf with an initial "pull stroke" which makes for less effort on the initial cutting stroke. A good quality western saw is a great pleasure to use. Also, incidentally I think a micrometer would show little blade thickness difference between that Lee Valley Veritas saw you were using and the Japanese saw.