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A hacksaw is an excellent tool for slicing through pipes.Hacksaws are essential cutting instruments, making them valuable tools in a homeowner's toolbox or a compact garage workshop.
What is a Hacksaw
A hacksaw is a saw with a metal frame designed primarily for cutting pipes made of plastic or metal, along with other small household materials. The frame, which is shaped like a U, holds a narrow, wide blade between its spigots (clips) and is equipped with a plastic or wooden handle at one end. Some versions feature an adjustable frame to fit 8-, 10-, or 12-inch blades. Depending on the cut you need, metal blades can come with 14, 18, 24, or 32 teeth per inch, with higher tooth density being ideal for cutting finer objects.
How to Safely Use a Hacksaw
To attach a blade, turn the adjuster on the frame or handle until there is slack, allowing you to insert the blade’s holes into the spigots. Ensure that the teeth face away from the handle, then tighten the adjuster.
For safe hacksaw use, secure the material you're cutting in a vice if possible. Align the saw’s central teeth with the cutting line, and make a short initial stroke to start the cut. Continue cutting while supporting the free end of the material to prevent cracking. Always keep your hands and any other objects away from the sharp teeth for safety.
How to Maintain a Hacksaw
Replacement blades for hacksaws are commonly found at most hardware stores. Be sure to choose the correct blade based on its teeth per inch count. Avoid using a thinner coping saw blade in a hacksaw frame.
Tools Related to the Hacksaw
Other essential handsaws include the crosscut saw, ripsaw, backsaw, keyhole saw, and coping saw. With the right blade, small electric saws can also handle certain metal-cutting tasks.
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- Home Repair Tools: Whether you rely on the Yellow Pages for fixing things around the house or are a regular DIYer, there are a few tools that should be in every toolbox. Learn all about them here.
- Hand Tools: Discover some of the most common hand tools to have around your home in this practical guide.
- Handsaws: A handsaw is exactly what it sounds like -- a tool for manually cutting through materials. Popular handsaws include ripsaws, coping saws, and hacksaws. Find out more about handsaws here.
- Coping Saw: A coping saw is another handy tool for your home. It's especially useful for making curved cuts on thin materials. Learn more about coping saws here.
