13 of the Best Types of Wood Cutting Tools

U.S. households are increasingly embracing remote work, and as a result, woodworking has transitioned from a weekend pastime to a viable career option. In this article, we will explore 13 top-notch wood cutting tools that can enhance your craft-making capabilities or assist you in your next DIY wood project.

With advances in wood cutting technology, understanding available woodcutters and their capabilities is crucial. Different saws excel at specific tasks, allowing you to efficiently complete your DIY wood projects. In a hurry? Skip to your favorite woodworking tool below:

– Wood Cutter Definition: A wood cutter refers to both a tool and a person who cuts wood, such as a lumberjack. Wood cutting tools have been used throughout history, with options suited for various wood cutting jobs. Whether manual or battery-operated, there is likely a tool designed for any wood cutting task.

– Difference Between Wood Cutting Blades and Metal Cutting Blades:

Wood cutting blades have a TPI number of six to 20. For metal projects, the TPI number is a minimum of 14 and can go up to 36.

Essential Wood Cutting Tools for DIY Home Improvement

Here are the preferred wood cutting tools for homeowners and woodcraft hobbyists:

1. Chainsaw

What better place to start than with the chainsaw? Chainsaws are notorious wood cutting tools for a reason. They are portable electric saws that use rotating teeth on a chain. Chainsaws cut or trim trees and are also used for cutting firewood.

Some chainsaws are even designed for cutting ice or concrete. The 16-inch chainsaw is the easiest and most versatile option.

Chainsaws are popular due to their easy-to-use design and versatility. Many homeowners keep a chainsaw on hand for various do-it-yourself and creative projects.

Instead of purchasing a chainsaw, you can simply rent one. Unless you live near a forest, owning a chainsaw is unlikely to be necessary.

The chainsaw was invented by…

In 1918, James Shand, a Canadian millwright, invented the first portable chainsaw. In the 1930s, chainsaws were first manufactured in Germany.

How to Sharpen a Chainsaw Blade?

When using a chainsaw to cut wood, if you see black or burn marks on the wood, it means the blade is dull. If the longest part of the cutting tooth is less than 4 mm, it’s time to replace the chainsaw chain. On average, a chain will need to be replaced after ten sharpenings.

There are three methods to sharpen a chainsaw blade. Regardless of the method you choose, ensure you wear protective eyewear.

File sharpener – using a hand file to sharpen a chainsaw blade is labor-intensive but also the cheapest method. Sharpen the chainsaw teeth in one direction, then rotate the file to match the angle of the unsharpened cutters. Power Dremel – offers a fast way to sharpen the teeth. The tool spins the chainsaw teeth and sharpens each one within seconds.

Bench-top sharpener – is the fastest and easiest way to sharpen a chainsaw. The tool resembles a miter saw. After setup, adjust the chainsaw and pull the trigger on the power tool.

Lower the grinder until it touches the chain tooth. When sharpening, hit every fourth tooth for each chain rotation.

How To Measure Chainsaw Bar?

A reminder: chainsaws are sold in even numbers, so round up when measuring odd numbers.

2. Hand Saw

A hand saw is a rip cut saw that is commonly used in woodworking. It is versatile and can be used for various DIY home repair projects. It is portable and can be easily taken to different locations.

The hand saw is operated manually and requires a specific technique, which can be learned. It is also a cost-effective option for cutting wood.

To sharpen a hand saw, you will need a saw vise, a saw set, and a triangular file that matches the size of your saw blade.

When sharpening a saw, start at the heel and file across the teeth’s cutting edge.

Can you cut Corian with a hand saw? No, Corian is a hard material made with acrylic and aluminum ore, so a hand saw is not suitable for cutting it. For cutting Corian countertops, you will need a power saw or circular saw.

Remember to wear protective eyewear and a face mask to protect against dust.

Japanese saw.

The Japanese saw, nokogiri in its native country, has more to offer than appearances. With sharp edges and an easy-to-use handle, the saw cuts wood when pulled, unlike Western saws that use a back and forth motion. For woodworkers cutting door jambs for new flooring, a Japanese saw is ideal.

When using a pull saw to cut wood, it’s easier to keep the blade straight. A thick saw blade bends when pushed. A Japanese saw blade is 75 percent thinner than those in Europe and North America, allowing for precision wood cutting.

A Japanese saw blade produces a thin kerf, the measurement of a cut’s thickness. Japanese saws remove less wood, resulting in less sawdust. Additionally, they require less physical strength compared to Western saws.

The teeth of a Japanese saw cannot be sharpened with a steel file and there are no small sharpening stones available for the saw’s teeth. To maintain sharpness, the best approach is to prevent it from getting dull. For sharpening, you will need a vice, rotary tool, and polishing compound.

First, secure the saw in a vise grip with the saw teeth facing upward. Then, apply some polishing compound to the rotary wheel and use it to clean the saw’s teeth by moving it back and forth.

To use a Japanese saw, which is a pull saw, guide the saw with your thumb while cutting wood. Hold the blade at an angle towards the stock. Avoid holding the saw with the front of the handle and instead grip it further back on the saw.

Chisel.

A chisel is a popular tool for woodworkers, offering various practical uses. It allows for precise cuts due to its sharp edge, and can even cut through heavier materials such as stone or metal.

Chisel handles are typically made of metal or wood, with some featuring rubber grips for improved handling. By forcing the chisel into a targeted area, you can accomplish your cutting or carving tasks. Bevel edge, paring, and carving chisels are among the different types available.

Now, let’s explore how to chisel a door latch. This DIY home project is straightforward. First, identify the latch’s location on the door jamb and find the string plate.

Next, use a chisel to follow your marked outline. Attach a handle to the door by drilling holes.

Finally, let’s discuss how to chisel a channel in wood.

Cutting a channel is a task for experienced woodworkers as it can be challenging. In woodworking, a channel is a groove cut into the edge of your wood project. A channel guides trim or moldings to line up with your project.

Using a chisel to cut a channel requires precision and skill. Using a chisel provides better accuracy because you can use the tool’s gauge to mark where you want to cut.

5. Router

A router is commonly used for woodwork and can be powered by hand or electricity. Electric routers, which are the most common, offer versatility and precision for making accurate cuts. Routers can be portable or fixed to a workbench or table.

Mounting the router upside down allows for a more convenient workflow, as the wood can be passed over it instead of the router being moved over the wood.

To strengthen joints in wooden structures, notching is a useful technique. By creating additional support and stability, notching enhances the overall strength of the structure. For example, if you have a bookshelf that requires reinforcement, you can notch the wood to achieve this.

Beveling wood with a router involves rounding or softening the edges of a wood structure. This can be achieved by running the router over the desired surface of the secured wood piece. It is an inexpensive and simple method to bevel wood.

A band saw is a power saw that uses a sharp blade to cut material. It has a unique blade positioning that moves continuously between two or more wheels.

A band saw is particularly useful for cutting curves and shapes. Its design allows it to easily cut through thick lumber with precision due to the high tension it produces.

Modern band saws are all electric, and the hand-powered versions are considered antiques.

Using a portable band saw is simple. Just hold down the trigger and cut slowly. Forcing the speed can warp the saw and damage the material.

A horizontal band saw is commonly used for what purpose?

Ax is a tool used for chopping and splitting wood. It’s important to choose the right ax for your needs. Understanding the different types of axes is crucial. The right ax can make the task much easier and more efficient. In addition to the type of ax, you should consider the weight and length.

The weight of the ax should be appropriate for your strength and the task at hand. Too heavy, and you’ll find it difficult to swing the ax properly. Too light, and you may not generate enough force to effectively split the wood.

When someone is shopping for an ax, they should also consider the length of the handle. The length should be comfortable and allow for proper leverage. If you’re a beginner, it’s important to start with a shorter handle to get used to the motion and technique.

By following these tips and choosing the right ax for your needs, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle any wood chopping or splitting task.

Cultural depictions aside, an ax is not just for lumberjacks. Though basic, there’s a reason it’s an icon of woodworking – it’s incredibly useful.

Axes are used to split logs for wood bundles. They also cut wood for various purposes beyond harvesting timber.

While an ax may not offer as much versatility as other tools on this list, they still come in handy. Plus, they’re affordable, making them a great addition to any tool shed.

Which ax is best for splitting wood?

It depends on the size of the wood. The weight of the axe head determines the chopping momentum. Heavier heads provide more swing power.

Most wood chopping axes weigh between three and six pounds.

What is a tree splitting axe?

A tree splitter axe, or splitting maul, is used to split logs by breaking the tree’s fibers along the grain. In contrast, a felling axe cuts logs against the grain.

8. Circular Saw

In the world of wood crafts, the circular saw is the go-to tool for woodworking professionals, hobbyists, and DIY homeowners. It is portable, easy to carry, and can handle high volumes. The saw is also versatile, as it can cut through brick and metal.

Since their inception in the 19th century, circular saws have been invaluable in renovation and construction projects. To use a circular saw without a table, follow these steps:

How To Replace A Circular Saw Blade?

To replace a circular saw blade, first, unplug or disconnect the power source. Press the arbor-lock button to unlock the blade and rotate it until the mechanism engages.

Then, unscrew the nut in the same direction as the blade. Remove the upper blade guard and the old blade. Slide the new blade in, ensuring that the saw teeth are pointed in the same direction as the rotation.

Tighten the arbor nut appropriately, but not excessively, and you’re ready to go.

9. Tree Loppers

Tree loppers, also known as loppers, are low-tech but functional wood cutting tools. They are like giant scissors that can cut tree branches and twigs.

Tree loppers require manual operation and have long handles for reaching tall tree branches. They come in different sizes and are easy to use, making them a cheap addition to your woodworking tool collection.

How Much Do Tree Loppers Earn?

With the right tools, you can become a licensed arborist and start a tree cleaning business. Tree loppers are arborists responsible for maintaining trees for public safety.

In the US, tree loppers earn annual salaries starting at $54,000 at the federal level and $42,000 at the state level.

How To Sharpen Tree Loppers?

To sharpen tree lopper blades, use a flat-file. Stroke the cutting edge of the blade from the heel to the tip with long, single strokes.

A bow saw has a thin blade held in a metal frame and looks similar to a bow. It is used for simple, curved, or straight cuts. The tool originated in China.

Compact and portable, a bow saw is perfect for DIY tasks such as cutting tree branches. However, unlike the high-tech alternatives on this list, a bow saw does not provide a precise cut. The saw is suitable for rough tasks.

11. Pruning Saw

Speaking of tree branches, if most of your jobs around the house involve foliage, it may be worth investing in a pruning saw. A pruning saw is used for trimming tree branches that have gone awry.

Pruning saws work by using manual labor, although they are not particularly difficult to use. They are an ideal choice for anyone new to power tools, as they can be less intimidating than a chainsaw.

If you want something easy to carry and move, a folding pruning saw is the best choice. They come in various sizes and can handle any DIY tree pruning job.

To clean a pruning saw, simply take the necessary steps to maintain and preserve its functionality.

Jigsaw puzzles have been a popular pastime for decades. The allure of fitting together small, odd-shaped pieces to create a complete picture is both satisfying and addictive. And if you enjoy puzzles, then you’ll love jigsaw puzzles.

One of the benefits of jigsaw puzzles is their ability to challenge the mind. They require concentration, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills. In a world filled with constant distractions, jigsaw puzzles offer a welcome escape.

They provide a sense of focus and accomplishment that is hard to find elsewhere.

Moreover, jigsaw puzzles are a great way to unwind and relax. They offer a quiet, calming activity that can be done alone or with others. The repetitive motion of picking up a piece, studying its shape and color, and fitting it into the puzzle provides a sense of rhythm and flow.

It can be meditative and soothing, allowing the mind to wander and the stress to melt away.

Additionally, jigsaw puzzles can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities. From young children just learning their shapes and colors to older adults looking for a mental challenge, there is a puzzle for everyone. They can be a solo activity or a social one, bringing people together to work towards a common goal.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a relaxing, engaging activity that exercises the mind and provides a sense of accomplishment, jigsaw puzzles are the perfect choice. So why not give them a try and see for yourself the joy and satisfaction they can bring?

A jigsaw is an advanced tool that cuts straight or curved lines, making it ideal for precision woodwork. It’s the best saw for serious woodcrafters and DIY enthusiasts tackling intricate projects with laminate or metal. By changing the jigsaw blade, you can achieve different cuts and saw through various materials.

If you’re new to woodworking, consider making customized wooden keychains or plant holders for a profitable venture.

A jigsaw is similar in appearance to a reciprocating saw, but they have distinct differences. Unlike a reciprocating saw, a jigsaw has a vertical blade instead of a horizontal one. Jigsaws are generally less powerful than reciprocating saws and are better suited for cutting thin materials such as wood, plastic, and metal.

They are also lighter in weight and specifically designed for precise woodworking projects.

A plane is a tool that shapes wood for your project. It is a non-electrical tool that requires upper-body strength to operate.

Planes can smoothen or flatten wood by removing rough surfaces or making wood pieces smaller. To polish a wood surface, use a plane. Wood planes are operated with both hands, pointing away from the user across the top of the wood.

If you don’t have a wood planer and need to smooth wood, you can use a router. Make a jig to guide the wood past the router in the right place. A jig is a wooden frame that holds the wood you’re working on.

Secure the wood and push the jig past the router to cut the surface of the board. Work in the direction of the grain.

Looking for a place to get wood planed nearby?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What Is The Average Hourly Pay For A Self-Employed Woodworker?

The average hourly pay for a woodworker in the US is $32. For DIY wood artisans, it depends on the skill set. Since the pandemic, some wood hobbyists earn seven figures a year by selling their homemade crafts online.

The best thing about developing a craft skill is how you control your success.

How To Use a Drill Machine As a Wood Cutter?

A drill machine is versatile. The tool has conversion capabilities that allow it to perform various tasks. For small DIY wood-cutting projects, you can use your drill.

When you increase cutting speed of a woodcutter, wear and tear value will decrease. However, feed rate has the biggest impact on tool shelf life. Behind that, in importance, are spindle speed and cut depth.

No, and don’t try this at home. The reason why you can’t cut wood with a plasma cutter is because wood is not a conduit for electricity.

Of the wood cutting tools mentioned here, a jigsaw is the best saw to use when cutting wood in tight spaces.

Chatoyance is when a tree grows under stress and the grain curls back on itself. It gives the appearance of 3D waves in the wood. The wood’s appearance also changes when you look at it from different angles.

With these tools, there is no wood cutting project that will be outside of your scope. The DIY woodworking spirit is gaining momentum in the US as more people work from home. Learning how to work with wood and creating wood crafts is no longer just a hobby, but a viable career.