Types of Saws used in D&T

A long, thin round file is used instead of a normal blade. This allows the saw to cut wood, metal and plastic in any direction. Best for cutting curves.

The blade is made in a band which is turned by pulley wheels. This machine saw can cut wood and plastic. Safety glasses or goggles must be worn.

Used to cut curves in wood and plastic, such as acrylic. The blade is narrow and the teeth point towards the user.

Used to cut wood to length across the grain. Can also be used to cut larger wood joints. The teeth face away from the user i.e. cuts on the forward stroke.

Used to cut dovetail joints, or any other wood joint that requires precision and a good finish.

This saw is used to cut intricate, more delicate curves in larger sheets of wood and plastic. The blade is short and very fine. This saw has a deeper frame allowing cuts to be made further away from the edge of materials.

Used to cut straight lines or larger curves in metal or plastic. The teeth face away from the user and are small, which gives a fairly good finish.

The blade has very small teeth and is used for cutting small sections of metal and plastic.

To cut small curves in thin metal sheet such as aluminium, copper and brass. This saw is used for decorative metalwork e.g. making jewellery.

This saw can cut detailed curves in thin sheet wood and plastic. Special blades are available for metal. The blade cut downwards and the speed can be adjusted.

The teeth cut materials when pushed forward. They are much larger than other saws and can cut quickly. This type of saw is used to cut natural wood and manufactured boards lengthways, along the grain.

Used to cut wood to the correct length. Also used to make wood joints e.g. mortise and tenon, corner bridle joints. The stiff back keeps the saw straight. The saw teeth cut material when you push it forward.