Bow Saws

Bow saws have tensioned blades for cutting curves and rough logs.  They excel at green wood and outdoor tasks like pruning.

What are bow saws used for?
Bow saws are versatile, hand-powered cutting tools used for cross-cutting logs, pruning trees, and rough-cutting wood, especially outdoors. Their coarse-toothed blades and tensioned metal frames make them ideal for fast cutting through green or dry wood, making them popular for landscaping, firewood prep, and camping.

What makes bow saws different from other hand saws?
Bow saws have a lightweight, open metal frame shaped like a bow that keeps the blade taut under tension. Unlike panel or back saws, bow saws use replaceable blades and are optimized for aggressive cutting through thick or wet material. The narrow blade allows for fast, efficient cuts, even on irregular shapes like branches or logs.

How do I use and maintain a bow saw properly?

• Use long, steady strokes and let the saw’s teeth do the work—no need for excessive force

• Choose the correct blade type: green wood blades have large, widely spaced teeth; dry wood blades have finer teeth

• Keep the blade tight and rust-free, and replace it when it dulls or binds

• Store indoors or cover the blade to prevent corrosion
  Proper care and blade selection ensure clean cuts, user safety, and maximum saw performance.