Japanese Saws

Japanese saws include dozuki, ryoba and kataba patterns.  They cut on the pull stroke with thin blades and fine teeth for minimal kerf and clean results.

What makes Japanese saws cut differently from Western saws?
Japanese saws cut on the pull stroke rather than the push stroke, which allows for a thinner blade, less effort, and cleaner, more precise cuts. This design also reduces the chance of the blade binding in the wood.

Which Japanese saw should I choose for my project?
It depends on the cut you need: Ryoba saws have teeth on both edges for ripping and crosscutting, Dozuki saws have a rigid spine for ultra-fine joinery, and Kataba saws are versatile single-edge saws ideal for deeper cuts.

How can I prevent my Japanese saw from bending or breaking?
Avoid forcing the blade—let the pull stroke do the work. Store it flat or in a protective sleeve, and never twist the blade while cutting. For long-term performance, keep the teeth clean and free from pitch build-up.