Any professional handyman will tell you that hacksaws are one of the best tools out there. It’s a definite must-have tool for DIYers and professionals alike! A hacksaw typically features a solid frame that’s usually made of metal. Also, it comes with a fine-toothed blade for cutting different materials. Originally, the purpose of a hacksaw is to cut metal. But you can also use it to cut wood and plastic.
There are different kinds of hacksaws out there. Most commonly though, they have full frames, and they come with a blade that’s 10 or 12-inches in length. There are also compact hacksaws which have smaller frames. These are typically used for cutting metal pipes and plastic tubing. The best hacksaw is an essential tool in any toolbox especially if you want to perform precision cutting applications.
- Features to consider in Good Hacksaws
- Top 10 Best Hacksaws 2023
- 1. Stanley STHT20138 Solid Frame High Tension Hacksaw
- 2. DEWALT DWHT20547L 5-in-1 Hacksaw
- 3. Klein Tools Hacksaw Frame with 24 TPI Hacksaw and Reciprocating Blades
- 4. Milwaukee 48-22-0012 Compact Hack Saw
- 5. LENOX Tools High-Tension Hacksaw
- 6. Pasco 4290 Tiny Tim Hacksaw
- 7. ARES 70098 | 3-D Right Angle Hacksaw
- 8. Park Tool 140347 Hacksaw
- 9. Bahco 325 Professional Hacksaw
- 10. TEKTON 6823 2-in-1 High-Tension Hacksaw
- Guide to Buying the Best Hacksaws
- Conclusion
Features to consider in Good Hacksaws
The right tension
The tension of the hacksaw is very important. Most hacksaws available on the market will allow you to adjust the tool’s tension to meet your needs. Also, after you’ve acquired the right blade for the job you need to do, having the appropriate tension will allow you to leverage your hacksaw’s power. The wrong amount of tension, on the other hand, will require more energy from you as the user while cutting.
Quality of construction
The quality of the hacksaw’s construction is another vital feature to look out for. This is especially true if you plan to cut a lot of highly-abrasive materials such as steel and brass. You need a high-quality tool that’s durable and well-designed as well.
Quality of the blade
Of course, you can’t overlook the blade’s quality. You need the blade for your cutting applications, so it also has to be a high-quality one. If you can, go for hacksaws with durable and versatile blades.
Ease of use
Ease of use is an important factor as you don’t want to purchase a tool that’s complicated especially if you’re planning to use it for different jobs. Fortunately, manufacturers these days give their tools special features to make them a lot easier to use and to handle.
Teeth per inch
The blade’s teeth per inch or TPI is a unit of measurement of the blade which will tell you how many teeth it has in every inch of the tool’s length. You can use the TPI to help you determine the minimum thickness of the material you can use the blade for.
Top 10 Best Hacksaws 2023
1. Stanley STHT20138 Solid Frame High Tension Hacksaw
Editor’s Rating:
Construction
This high-quality hacksaw has a fixed blade that’s 12-inches in length along with a robust frame that’s made of metal. With this hacksaw, you can adjust the blade to 90 and 180-degree angles so you can also perform flush cuts. Your knuckles are also well-protected because of the full-grip handle of the comfortable and large tension knob.
Practicality
A lot of customers appreciate this saw because it’s highly efficient and very affordable too. It has a favorable price, but it’s still able to cut well. In fact, it even performs a lot better than other hacksaws which have a higher price. This makes it very durable which means that you can keep on using it for years to come.
Functionality
Aside from allowing straight and flush cuts, this hacksaw also accommodates any 12-inch blades. The durable hacksaw has a rugged design, and you can use it for heavy-duty cutting tasks. The blade tension that’s fully adjustable will allow you to make faster, more precise cuts while ensuring a longer life of the blade.
Pros
- Metal frame made of a strong material which allows for superior durability.
- The full-grip handle and tension knob provide comfort.
- Allows for a cutting depth of 4 inches and above.
- You can perform flush cuts with the hacksaw because of the adjustable angle of the blade.
Cons
- It tends to come apart when dropped, so you have to be careful with it.
2. DEWALT DWHT20547L 5-in-1 Hacksaw
Editor’s Rating:
Construction
The high tension and the adjustable blade angles are excellent features. But it has more. The front frame of the hacksaw allows for a blade attachment. This, in turn, allows for a longer reach. Also, you can use the front handle as a jab saw. This hacksaw is one of the best out there because it’s versatile and it comes with a few extras.
Grip
This hacksaw from DeWalt has a main grip that’s covered in rubber. You can grip the saw comfortably whether you have large hands or you’re wearing gloves. On the other end, the grip is smaller, rubberized, and it’s easy to grasp as well. When it comes to a great grip, this hacksaw is a cut above the rest.
Design
This hacksaw is quite stout and slightly heavier than other hacksaws which have the same quality. Still, the design will allow you to make straight and flushed cuts depending on the blade’s angle. The hacksaw has a sleek design as well as a bright yellow color so you can spot it easily even from far away. It’s also durable enough to handle different cutting tasks.
Pros
- Suitable for standard as well as flush cuts.
- High-tension tool which holds the blade securely.
- Has a low profile so you can use it for cutting even in tight spaces.
- Long reach since the blade fastens to the front frame.
Cons
- It doesn't come with instructions for use.
3. Klein Tools Hacksaw Frame with 24 TPI Hacksaw and Reciprocating Blades
Editor’s Rating:
Construction
Aside from having a durable frame, the hacksaw also comes with 2 different blades. The first one is a bi-metal blade for the hacksaw that’s 12-inches in length. The second one is also a bi-metal blade, this time for a reciprocating saw and is 6-inches in length. With these blades, you can perform different cutting applications. While using one blade, you can conveniently store the other by inserting it in the compartment located on the hacksaw’s handle.
Quality
This hacksaw may look simple, but it’s of very high-quality. It’s made with much skill and durable, premium materials. Despite this, it’s still quite affordable. This is what makes the hacksaw very popular with users. The construction, quality, and reasonable price definitely make this tool one of the best.
Features
Some people view this tool as “just a hacksaw,” but in fact, it has some great features. First, it has a grip that’s rubberized and comfortable to hold. It also has great blades which you can interchange as needed. Of course, the adjustable tension is a great feature as it will allow you to make faster cuts without sacrificing the accuracy.
Pros
- You can adjust the blade's tension for faster, more accurate cuts.
- Has grips which are soft to the touch.
- Comes with an alternative mounting of 45-degrees so you can perform flush cutting.
- Also, has a convenient storage for the blade in the handle.
Cons
- It's not resistant to rust.
4. Milwaukee 48-22-0012 Compact Hack Saw
Editor’s Rating:
Versatile blade
Any dedicated handyman needs a hacksaw. It’s especially beneficial to own a versatile tool which you can use for different cutting applications, even when cutting in tight spaces. This hacksaw comes with a 10-inch blade that’s attached to a handle that’s 5-inches in length. You can adjust the handle in and out allowing for better portability. The blade of this hacksaw is truly versatile as it’s able to cut through different materials.
Comfortable handle
Whether you’re just patching up after a job’s completion or you’re performing a demolition job, this hacksaw with a compact design will definitely serve you well. The hacksaw has a rubberized handle to provide you with expert control no matter what condition you’re working in. With the comfortable handle, you can manage the hacksaw with ease.
Convenience
It’s very easy to change the blades of this hacksaw, and it doesn’t take much time. This is the standout feature of the hacksaw in terms of convenience. Also, you can easily flex or shorten the blade to allow for your cutting needs.
Pros
- A durable hacksaw that's also easy to use.
- You can change the blades faster without the need for other tools.
- Has a compact design making it ideal for cutting even in tight spaces.
- It's easy to adjust the blade length to allow for flush cutting.
Cons
- The 40c darts are easily bent, but they are cheap and readily available in the market
5. LENOX Tools High-Tension Hacksaw
Editor’s Rating:
Construction
The special I-beam construction of this hacksaw gives it an edge over other hacksaws on the market. The hacksaw has a very high blade tension, and with it, you can confidently make fast and precise cuts. The ends of this tool also have rubberized handles making it comfortable to the grip. These handles will also allow you to use the hacksaw in various conditions.
Design
This hacksaw is an excellent choice if you want to perform cutting applications quickly and with superior accuracy. You can adjust the blade tension as needed so you can make straight cuts with professional-quality precision. It’s a dependable hacksaw which comes with its own blade. The I-beam construction will also allow you to store up to 5 different blades.
Versatility
This hacksaw is quite versatile as it accepts reciprocating blades from the same brand. With these blades, you can convert the hacksaw into a jab saw for other applications. Since you can store blades in the I-beam construction, you’ll always have a replacement ready for when you need one in the middle of performing a task.
Pros
- Has a high blade tension because of its I-Beam Construction.
- The rubberized handles allow for security and comfort.
- You can use the hacksaw with any reciprocating saw blade from the same brand.
- The I-Beam can store up to 5 blades which are 12-inches in length.
Cons
- The tensioning device tends to shear easily.
6. Pasco 4290 Tiny Tim Hacksaw
Editor’s Rating:
Convenience
There’s a lot to love with this hacksaw because it’s a very convenient tool. The hacksaw’s blade is strong enough to saw through tough and abrasive materials. This means that you can use the tool for home applications as well as for heavy-duty tasks. The blade is remarkably durable making it easy to perform cutting jobs. It also has a lightweight and slim profile, therefore, it’s easy to handle in different spaces.
Construction
This hacksaw has a superior construction as it will allow you to work even in tight and confined spaces. It’s very light, and it has a compact design, but it still performs very well. This compact but powerful construction of the saw makes it an excellent choice for plumbers and other people who need such features. Of course, since it’s smaller than other hacksaws on our list, it’s not really ideal for bigger projects.
Superior cutting
Although the hacksaw has a small blade, it does offer superior sawing and cutting capabilities. Because of its design, you can just insert the saw in the tight space and start cutting. It’s as simple as that! Also, because of its size, it’s extremely portable. You can bring it with you wherever you go without having to worry about a heavy load. This is a solid hacksaw that’s practical, easy to use, and efficient too.
Pros
- Long to drive darts further away
- Comes with the muzzle and mouth guard
- Supplied with 4-inch target darts
- It has a foamy handgrip
Cons
- Some customers don't appreciate the hacksaw's small size.
7. ARES 70098 | 3-D Right Angle Hacksaw
Editor’s Rating:
Convenience
With this hacksaw, you can easily change the position of the blade to suit your cutting needs. The unique shape of the frame makes it easier to perform cutting applications at different angles. Also, you won’t have to worry about the blade coming use while you work with the saw because of the lock-nut. It’s definitely a convenient and versatile tool.
Design
When you see this hacksaw, you know that it has a unique design. Unlike other hacksaws available on the market, the frame of this hacksaw is arc-shaped. This allows you to turn the saw in different directions as needed while you work. It also has a notch on the blade which you can use to flip it in the 3 different positions.
Reliable
If you’re looking for a reliable hacksaw, then look no further than this one. Aside from being dependable, this hacksaw is also very efficient. The saw comes with a Performance Assurance straight from the manufacturer. This means that if you run into any problems with the tool, you can simply contact their customer service.
Pros
- You can adjust the blade with 3 different positions.
- The frame has an arc shape to allow for different angles.
- Has a lock-nut which keeps the blade in position safely.
- Handle has an ergonomic design, and the blade is 12-inches in length.
Cons
- Not too effective for cutting steel materials.
8. Park Tool 140347 Hacksaw
Editor’s Rating:
Style and durability
This hacksaw has a traditional and simple look. Don’t get deceived by its appearance though as it’s a very convenient hacksaw to have whether at home or in a workshop. It’s very durable since the frame is of all-aluminum die-cast construction. It also has a bi-metal blade that’s 12-inches in length with a TPI of 32.
Convenience
The hacksaw is very easy to use which makes it very convenient. It has an adjuster for the blade tension so you can change the tension according to the material you’re cutting or the kind of cut you need to do. It also has a rubber handle that’s comfortable to grip. All these features make this hacksaw one of the best products out there.
Ergonomic design
The hacksaw has an ergonomic design that a lot of people appreciate. The knob for tension adjustment is strategically-located and easy to use too. The tool performs effectively each time you use it. In fact, some users claim that it’s like cutting a slice of cake using a hot knife. It even has a slim and lightweight profile along with its sturdy construction. Finally, the sharp blade of the hacksaw makes it feel effortless to use.
Pros
- Frame is of die-cast aluminum for superior durability.
- Easy to change the blades.
- The rubberized handle allows for a safe and comfortable grip.
- Lightweight, compact design makes handling the tool a lot easier.
Cons
- It's quite expensive, and it doesn't have a storage compartment.
9. Bahco 325 Professional Hacksaw
Editor’s Rating:
Construction
This hacksaw is perfect for DIYers as well as for professional craftsmen. It combines practicality, ease of use, and superior performance in one convenient too. The hacksaw is well-constructed, and it comes with excellent features in a compact and lightweight frame. In fact, the manufacturers of this product made sure that its performance rivals that of the other hacksaws made by more famous brands.
Easy to use
You’ll find that this hacksaw is very easy to use. It has a knob which will allow you to effortlessly made adjustments to the tension of the blade depending on what you need. Even with tough materials, you can use this saw to make straight and precise cuts. It has a thoughtful design which allows you to work with it using both hands. It even has two ergonomically-designed handles for your convenience.
Blade features
The hacksaw has some excellent blade features you can look forward to. These include the center blade, the special mechanism for loading the blade, and the alternative mechanism for mounting the blade. The center blade allows for proper balancing of the tool. The special mechanism for loading the blade makes it easier to make blade changes. Finally, the mechanism for mounting the blade allows you to adjust the tool for making flush cuts.
Pros
- Durable because of the all-cast aluminum material.
- The handle allows for the safe and comfortable use of the tool.
- Cuts through various materials quickly and smoothly.
- Affordable and ergonomically-designed.
Cons
- Doesn't have a built-in storage for the blades.
10. TEKTON 6823 2-in-1 High-Tension Hacksaw
Editor’s Rating:
Construction
This is a 2-in-1 hacksaw with a high-tension that you can use to make straight and flush cuts. It’s suitable for different purposes from construction to plumbing applications. It has a rugged frame made of aluminum allow which ensures durability and longevity. The hacksaw a handle that’s non-slip so you can hold it comfortable even for a long time.
Functionality
The hacksaw has a rigid, square-shaped primary beam combined with the aluminum frame. These prevent the blade from twisting while reducing the chatter as you pass the blade through the material you’re cutting. You can adjust the hacksaw’s tension up to a whopping 400 pounds which means that you can make faster cuts.
Design
The hacksaw comes with a 12-inch blade which has a TPI of 18. It also has a built-in storage compartment on the tool’s main beam which can hold up to 6 different blades. The main beam is of tabular steel while the frame is of cast aluminum. These maintain the blade’s rigidity while you cut. The hacksaw has a cool, modern design and it performs well too!
Pros
- Suitable for making straight cuts and flush cuts.
- The blade's tension allows for up to 400 lbs.
- Has a main beam made of steel and which can store up to 6 blades.
- The handle has non-slip grips made of rubber.
Cons
- The front support lacks structural integrity.
Guide to Buying the Best Hacksaws
Basically, a hacksaw is a type of saw which has a metal casing. You can use it for cutting metal and other kinds of materials. The frame clamps the blade between its nozzles, and it has a handle on one side. If you want to find the best hacksaw out there, you have to consider a few important factors.
What important factors should you consider when buying a hacksaw?
Type of blade
Hacksaws aren’t all built the same way. They may have different blades which you can use to cut different types of materials. Regular blades are the most common ones available. Usually, hacksaws come with this type of blade. You can use them to cut materials of low-strength such as tin or aluminum.
A raker blade’s teeth typically come in groups of three. It’s not as common as regular hacksaw blades, but it’s great for cutting hard materials such as iron pipes. Although very effective at cutting, you do need a bit more effort when using a raker blade. Finally, there are also wavy hacksaw blades. You would use such a blade to cut thin but tough metals. The teeth have a wavy design from the left all the way to the right.
Frame
The next thing to consider is the hacksaw’s frame. There are two main types namely the fixed frame and the adjustable frame. For a fixed frame, you can only use a blade with a specific length. But for the adjustable frame, you can use it with blades of varying lengths.
Handle
Finally, there’s the handle. Hacksaws either have a handle on one end or 2 handles on both ends. The most important factor to consider when choosing a handle is the level of comfort it will provide. Because of this, rubberized handles are very popular. Aside from the comfort factor, you can use such handles even in cold and wet weather.
How do you get the most out of your hacksaw?
Once you’ve chosen the best hacksaw, you also have to know how to take care of it properly. Do this so you can keep on using it for years and years. First of all, safety is important. So, you need to have the right gear while using your hacksaw. Wear a pair of comfortable gloves while working with a hacksaw along with a pair of defensive glasses.
Handle the hacksaw correctly
When you use the hacksaw, make sure your wrist and your hand are both in a natural and comfortable position. Holding the hacksaw incorrectly can result in injuries or accidents. Before you start cutting a material, make sure that it doesn’t have any kind of obstructions like screws or nails.
Also, make sure that the material you’re planning to cut is securely held in place. In doing this, you won’t have to worry about it. Then you can focus only on the task of handling the saw and using it to cut. Keep in mind that a lot of accidents happen just because the materials have shifted while cutting.
Use and store it safely
After using your hacksaw, keep in it the right place. Proper storage is very important – be it winters or be it summers. Also, make sure to clean your hacksaw daily or at least after each use. This will prevent the tool from rusting and compromising its effectiveness.
Conclusion
As you can see, there’s a lot to consider when it comes to purchasing hacksaws. They may seem like simple tools but choosing the best hacksaw can be quite tedious. Fortunately, we’ve shared a lot of information with you which, hopefully, can help guide you. Just keep in mind that, just like other tools, hacksaws can be potentially dangerous.
Therefore, you should also know how to use them safely. Also, if you want to ensure the longevity of your tool, it’s important to care for your hacksaw properly as well. Now that you have more than enough information about hacksaws, you can make a choice from the best hacksaws we’ve reviewed!