Saw blades are usually rated by TPI (teeth per inch). The more teeth the saw has, the smoother the cut. However, a high TPI blade may cause sawdust to get caught in the gullets or the gaps between teeth, which can slow down the cutting process and can overheat the blade (shortening its life span). Bow saw blades are quite coarse—as few as 3 TPI and rarely more than 14—allowing them to make fast, aggressive cuts. Low TPI blades are great for greenwood; higher TPI models are better when cutting lumber. Bow saw designs exist for traditional lumber works and pruning and also for the general-purpose maintenance toolbox. Compact and foldable designs are popular with hikers and campers. Brands such as Bahco, Truper, and Irwin are well known for the quality of their cutting blade tools. It is more expensive than most bow saws, but for some, the functionality and undeniable convenience will be worth it. FAQs About Your New Bow Saw A bow saw, with its sharp, aggressive teeth, is the ideal thing for sawing through large chunks of wood such as firewood. It can also be used for woodworking purposes, making straight or curved cuts.

Prices for replacement bow saw blades vary, so it’s worth shopping around for replacements. A higher price often means a better quality saw blade. Cheap bow saw blades often cut poorly and seldom represent good value. Tension AdjustersThe Bahco and Truper brand bow saws are designed as gardening and lumber worker tools. The traditional design and range of blade lengths make these brands ideal for all jobs, big and small.

The Sven Saw and The Agawa Boreal Bow Saw are foldable, compact, lightweight, yet strong and sharp enough to serve as excellent tools for campers and hikers.

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If all the teeth are facing straight up, bend each alternate one to either side so the cut of the saw is wider than the blade. This means it shouldn’t catch on the material you are cutting.

Depending on the size of the tree, you can cut one down with a bow saw. You need to determine the size of it first – if it is a Redwood size then you won’t stand a chance with a bow saw, you would need specialist equipment. If it is a small sapling then you can cut it down with a bow saw. The Agawa Boreal features an automatic blade tensioning system, not requiring you to touch the blade when opening or closing it. What To Consider When Buying A Bow Saw Initially, cut a V-shaped wedge near the base, one-third through the tree on the side you want it to fall. After removing that wedge, go to the other side of the tree and saw through toward the “V” at a slightly downward angle. Be realistic—maximum tree diameter should be no more than half the length of the saw blade. Tree felling can be dangerous, so if possible, learn from someone with experience. Q: How long does a bow saw last? Using a three sided file, give each tooth three to four strokes until all the teeth are equal shapes and the base of the teeth is straight. Protective sheath – Bow saws have really sharp blades; a sheath covers the blade to avoid minor cuts and injuries to you or your equipment.The heat-treated steel teeth of the bow saw blade can retain their sharp edge for many years of the blade is correctly cared for after use. The blade should be carefully wiped off after cutting green lumber as the plant juices can cause the steel to rust. A light application of thin oil (WD40) will prevent rust and keep the blade lasting longer.