44 Types of Wood Cutting Tools: What You Need to Know (Pros and Cons)

Last Updated on January 13, 2024 by Kimberly Crawford

There are many different types of wood cutting tools available on the market, from simple hand saws to sophisticated power tools. But before you start looking for the best power saw online, choosing the right tool for the job will depend on a number of factors, including the type of wood you’re working with and the desired finish.

In this blog post, we will discuss the most common types of wood cutting tools and what each one is used for. We will also provide tips on how to choose the right tool for your needs. So, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, read on for information about the different types of wood cutting tools available!

Related: 50+ Different Types Of Saws and Their Uses: Pros & Cons (With Pictures)

What is a wood cutter?

A wood cutter is a machine that is used to cut wood. It can be either a hand-held tool or a power tool. The most common type of wood cutter is the chainsaw. However, there are also other types of wood cutters such as circular saws and reciprocating saws.

Types of wood cutting tools.

There are many different types of wood cutting tools available on the market, from simple hand saws to sophisticated power tools. Choosing the right tool for the job will depend on a number of factors, including the type of wood you’re working with and the desired finish.

Here are some of the most popular types of wood cutting tools as well as recommended woodworking tools, both essential and optional, that every woodworker should have in their shop:

Power Saws.

A power saw is a tool that uses a toothed blade to cut through materials. The toothed blade is driven by an electric motor.

There are different types of power saws available on the market, each designed for a specific type of cutting job. The most common power saws are circular saws, jigsaws, and reciprocating saws.

1. Miter saw.

A miter saw is a type of saw that is used to make precise cuts in wood. It is also known as a chop saw or mitre saw. A miter saw has a blade that is mounted on an arm that pivots around a central point.

The arm can be moved up and down, and the blade can be rotated to different angles. This allows the saw to make cuts at a variety of angles, which is why it is so useful for woodworking projects.

2. Circular saw.

What is a circular saw?

A circular saw is a power tool that can be used to cut through various materials such as wood, metal, or plastic. It consists of a blade that is mounted on an arbor and is driven by an electric motor. The blade is usually made of carbide-tipped steel or tungsten carbide.

There are two types of circular saws: portable and benchtop. Portable circular saws are small and lightweight, making them easy to carry and maneuver. Benchtop models are larger and more powerful, but they must be mounted on a table or steel workbench in order to use them.

3. Scroll saw.

What is a scroll saw?

A scroll saw is a type of power tool that is used for making intricate cuts in wood. Scroll saws can be used to create detailed shapes and patterns in wood, and are often used by woodworkers and hobbyists.

Scroll saws typically have a small, thin blade that is mounted on a hinge. The blade is attached to a handle, and the saw is operated by moving the handle up and down. The blade can be moved in a variety of directions, allowing the user to create different shapes and patterns.

Scroll saws are relatively easy to use, and they are often used to create detailed woodworking projects. However, scroll saws can also be dangerous if not used properly.

4. Chop saw.

What is a chop saw?

A chop saw is a tool that is used to make quick, clean cuts in wood. It is a handheld power tool that has a circular blade that spins at high speeds.

How do you use a chop saw?

To use a chop saw, you first need to make sure that the blade is sharp and in good condition. You also need to make sure that the saw is properly secured to a work surface. Once you have done these things, you can then start making cuts in the wood.

What are some of the benefits of using a chop saw?

The main benefit of using a chop saw is that it makes quick, clean cuts in wood. This can be helpful when you are trying to create a precise and professional-looking finish. Additionally, using a chop saw can help you avoid kickback, which is when the blade of the saw kicks back at you while you are cutting.

5. Table saw.

What is a table saw?

A table saw is a power tool that consists of a circular blade mounted on an arbor that protrudes from the base of the machine. The blade is usually encased in a metal or plastic housing. The operator uses the table saw by pushing it against a workpiece, typically wood, and moving it back and forth along the length of the workpiece.

The table saw is one of the most versatile and commonly used power tools in woodworking and carpentry. It can be used to rip lumber, cut miters, dadoes, and tenons, as well as create rabbets, lap joints, and dovetails. With the right blade installed, a table saw can also be used to cut metal, tile, and concrete.

6. Wet tile saw.

What is a wet tile saw?

A wet tile saw is a type of power tool that is used to cut tiles. The saw uses water to cool the blade and prevent the tile from overheating.

Wet tile saws are available in both handheld and table top models. Handheld models are typically smaller and more portable, while table top models are larger and more powerful.

What are some of the benefits of using a wet tile saw?

Some of the benefits of using a wet tile saw include:

-The ability to cut tiles without generating dust

-The ability to make precise cuts

-The ability to cut through hard materials like porcelain and granite

7. Jigsaw.

What is a jigsaw?

A jigsaw is a tool that can be used to cut curves and other complex shapes out of wood. Jigsaws are very versatile and can be used to create everything from simple decorative cuts to more complex joinery.

Jigsaw blades come in a variety of sizes and shapes, so it’s important to choose the right blade for the job at hand. In general, smaller blades are better for making tighter curves and finer cuts, while larger blades are better for cutting straighter lines and thicker materials.

What are the benefits of using a jigsaw?

One of the main benefits of using a jigsaw is that it’s much easier to control than a power saw. This makes them ideal for cutting delicate or intricate shapes. They’re also relatively quiet and don’t produce a lot of dust, which makes them perfect for use in tight spaces.

8. Rotary saw.

What is a rotary saw?

A rotary saw is a power tool that uses a rotating blade to cut materials. The rotating blade is usually located at the end of a long, cylindrical shaft.

The most common type of rotary saw is the hand-held variety, which is typically used for cutting wood. These saws are also sometimes called circular saws.

What are the benefits of using a rotary saw?

There are many benefits to using a rotary saw, including the following:

-They are very versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks.

-They are relatively easy to use.

-They are relatively safe to use, as long as you follow safety precautions.

What are some of the disadvantages of using a rotary saw?

There are also some disadvantages to using a rotary saw, including the following:

-They can be dangerous if not used properly.

-They can be difficult to control.

-They can create a lot of dust and debris.

9. Flooring saw.

What is a flooring saw?

A flooring saw is a power tool used to cut laminate and hardwood flooring. It can also be used to cut other types of material, such as plywood, particle board, and even metal.

What are the benefits of using a flooring saw?

A flooring saw is a great tool for anyone who wants to install hardwood or laminate flooring. It can make quick, clean cuts that would be difficult to achieve with a traditional saw.

How do I use a flooring saw?

Most flooring saws are designed to be used with one hand, so you can easily maneuver it around the material you’re cutting. To make a cut, simply line up the blade with the mark you want to cut, and then push or pull the saw through the material.

10. Band saw.

What is a band saw?

A band saw is a power tool that uses a blade consisting of a continuous band of metal with teeth along one edge to cut various materials.

Band saws are used for woodworking, metalworking, and lumbering tasks. They can be used to cut through very thick materials, such as granite or metal pipes. Band saws can also be used to create intricate cuts and shapes.

What are the benefits of using a band saw?

A band saw can make very precise cuts and is ideal for cutting intricate shapes. It can also cut through thick materials that would be difficult to cut with a hand saw.

What are some of the drawbacks of using a band saw?

Band saws can be more expensive than other types of saws. They also require more maintenance, such as sharpening the blades regularly.

Hand saws.

Hand saw is the most basic tool for cutting wood. It is a simple blade with teeth that is used to cut through wood. There are many different types of hand saws, each designed for a specific type of cuts. The most common hand saws are the crosscut saw and the rip saw.

11. Crosscut saw.

What is a crosscut saw?

A crosscut saw is a type of cutting tool that is used to make cross cuts, or cuts perpendicular to the grain of the wood.

Cross cut saws come in a variety of sizes and shapes, but they all have one thing in common: they have teeth that are arranged in a way that allows them to cut across the grain of the wood.

Cross cut saws are an essential tool for anyone who works with wood. Whether you’re a carpenter, a woodworker, or just someone who likes to do DIY projects around the house, a cross cut saw is a tool that you’re going to need.

12. Keyhole saw.

What is a keyhole saw?

A keyhole saw, also called a pad saw or a jeweler’s saw, is a type of hand saw used for making small, delicate cuts. It consists of a thin blade with teeth on only one edge, attached to a handle.

The blade is held in place by tension and can be removed from the handle for sharpening or replacement.

What are the benefits of using a keyhole saw?

A keyhole saw is a versatile tool that can be used for making a variety of cuts, including curves and circles. It is also useful for cutting through thin materials such as paper or plastic. The small size of the blade makes it ideal for working in tight spaces.

13. Japanese saw.

What is a Japanese saw?

A Japanese saw is a traditional hand saw used for cutting wood. It has a thin, flexible blade with sharp teeth that allows it to cut on the pull stroke, making it ideal for precision work.

What are the benefits of using a Japanese saw?

The benefits of using a Japanese saw are its accuracy and ability to make clean, straight cuts. It is also lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it ideal for use in tight spaces.

14. Back saw.

What is a backsaw?

A back saw is a hand saw that has a stiffening rib on the back of the blade. This rib allows for better control and more precise cuts than other types of hand saws.

There are two main types of back saws: dovetail and tenon. Dovetail back saws have teeth that are tapered towards the back of the blade, making them ideal for cutting dovetail joints. Tenon back saws have teeth that are tapered towards the front of the blade, making them ideal for cutting tenons.

What are the benefits of using a back saw?

Back saws are more precise and easier to control than other types of hand saws. They are also less likely to bind in the workpiece, making them ideal for cutting hardwoods.

15. Hack saw.

What is a hack saw?

A hack saw is a hand saw with a sharp, toothed blade attached to a handle. It is used for cutting through wood, metal, or plastic.

How do you use a hack saw?

To use a hack saw, first align the blade with the cut line. Then, hold the handle in one hand and the blade in the other hand. Apply pressure to the blade as you saw back and forth along the cut line. Repeat this motion until the blade has cut through the material.

Be sure to use a sawing motion rather than a chopping motion, as this will help prevent the blade from getting stuck in the material.

What are the benefits of using a hack saw?

A hack saw is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of tasks. It is also relatively inexpensive, making it a good choice for those on a budget.

16. Bow cut saw.

What is a bow cut saw?

A bow cut saw is a type of wood cutting tool. It is used to make cuts in wood.

The bow cut saw has a blade that is curved. The blade is attached to a handle. The handle is held in the hand. The blade is pushed through the wood. The blade cuts the wood as it is pushed through.

17. Pruning saw.

What is a pruning saw?

A pruning saw is a hand-held, cutting tool used to trim and cut branches from trees and shrubs. It typically has a long, curved blade with sharp teeth that can cut through wood quickly and easily.

What are the benefits of using a pruning saw?

Pruning saws offer a number of benefits over other types of cutting tools, such as pruning shears or axes. They are much lighter and easier to maneuver, which makes them ideal for cutting small branches and twigs. Additionally, the teeth on a pruning saw can be very sharp, making them great for quickly and cleanly cutting through wood.

18. Veneer saw.

What is a veneer saw?

A veneer saw is a type of wood cutting tool that is used to cut thin slices of wood veneer. Veneer saws come in a variety of sizes and shapes, but they all have one thing in common: they have very sharp blades that are designed to cut through wood without damaging it.

19. Coping saw.

What is a coping saw?

A coping saw is a type of wood cutting tool that consists of a thin, sharp blade attached to a handle. The blade is held in place by a metal frame, and the handle is typically made of wood or plastic.

The cope saw is used to cut intricate shapes in wood, such as those found in moldings and trim work. It can also be used to cut through metal, plastic, and other materials.

The thin blade of the coping saw makes it ideal for cutting tight curves and corners. The blade can be removed from the frame and turned around, making it easy to cut in both directions.

20. Fret saw.

What is a fret saw?

A fret saw is a type of wood cutting tool that is used to create intricate designs in wood. The saw consists of a thin blade that is mounted on a frame. The blade is tensioned and held in place by a handle.

The saw can be used to cut curves, straight lines, or both. It can also be used to create delicate, intricate designs.

The saw is used by holding the frame in one hand and the handle in the other. The blade is then drawn across the wood, following the desired pattern.

21. Rip-cut saw.

What is a rip-cut saw?

A rip-cut saw is a tool designed for cutting along the grain of wood. The blade on a rip-cut saw is usually straight or slightly curved, and the teeth are angled so that they cut on the push stroke.

Rip-cut saws come in different sizes and can be used by hand or powered by an electric motor.

22. Bone saw.

What is a bone saw?

A bone saw is a type of saw that is used to cut through bones. It is a very sharp saw and can be dangerous if not used properly.

Bone saws are most commonly used by butcher shops and restaurants to cut through chicken, pork, and beef bones. They can also be used by hunters to dress game animals. Bone saws can be either manual or electric.

23. Wallboard saw.

What is a wallboard saw?

A wallboard saw is a tool used to cut holes in drywall or plasterboard. It consists of a handle with a blade at one end and a pointed tip at the other. The blade is usually made of carbon steel or stainless steel and is sharpened on both sides.

The saw is held in one hand and guided with the other hand. The blade is inserted into the wall and pulled towards the user to make a cut. The saw can also be used to score the surface of the wall before making a cut.

Chisels.

What are chisels?

Chisels are cutting tools that have a blade with a beveled edge and a handle. The blade is inserted into the workpiece at an angle and then struck with a mallet or hammer to cut a groove, notch, or other shape.

24. Mortise chisels.

What is a mortise chisel? A mortise chisel is a type of wood cutting tool that is used to create a mortise, or hole, in wood.

25. Curved chisels.

What is a curved chisel? A curved chisel is a cutting tool that has a blade with a concave or convex curve. It is used for shaping wood, metal, or stone.

There are many different types of curved chisels, each designed for a specific purpose. For example, some curved chisels are designed for carving intricate designs into wood, while others are designed for cutting through tough materials like metal or stone.

26. Stone chisels.

What is a stone chisel?

A stone chisel is a tool that has been used since ancient times to carve stone. It is made of a sharpened piece of metal or rock that is attached to a handle.

Stone chisels are used to carve shapes into stone, create grooves and lines, and remove small pieces of stone. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes to suit different carving needs.

27. Slick chisel.

What is a slick chisel? A slick chisel is a tool that is used to cut wood. It has a sharp blade that is attached to a handle. The blade is usually made of steel or iron and the handle is usually made of wood.

The slick chisel is used to make straight cuts in wood. It can also be used to create decorative cuts, such as grooves and beads.

28. Sash mortise.

What is a sash mortise?

A sash mortise is a type of wood cutting tool used to create rectangular or square holes in a piece of wood. The tool consists of a blade with a handle attached to it. The blade is inserted into the hole and then turned to cut the wood.

29. Skew chisel.

What is a skew chisel?

A skew chisel is a tool used to shape wood. It is similar to a gouge, but has a bevel on both sides of the blade.

Skew chisels are used to create smooth, curved surfaces in woodworking projects. The blade of a skew chisel is angled, which allows it to cut into the wood at a variety of angles.

30. Lathe chisel.

What is a lathe chisel? A lathe chisel is a cutting tool that is used to shape wood. It is typically used on a lathe, but can also be used by hand.

31. Masonry chisel.

What is a masonry chisel?

A masonry chisel is a tool that is used to cut or carve stone, brick, or concrete. It can also be used to remove mortar from between bricks. Masonry chisels come in a variety of sizes and shapes, depending on the specific job they are meant to do. The most common type of masonry chisel has a blade that is curved and slightly blunt at the end.

32. Beveled edge.

What is a beveled edge?

A beveled edge is an angled cut on the face of a board. Bevels can range from 45 degrees to 90 degrees, with 45 being the most common. Bevels are cut using a power miter saw or hand held circular saw.

33. Cape chisel.

What is a cape chisel?

A cape chisel is a type of wood cutting tool that is used to create intricate designs in wood. Cape chisels are often used by carpenters and other woodworkers to create beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces of furniture or art.

34. Dovetail chisel.

What is a dovetail chisel?

A dovetail chisel is a tool that is used to create dovetails, which are a type of woodworking joint. The dovetail chisel has a blade that is tapered to a point and is used to create the groove that the dovetail will fit into.

The dovetail chisel is one of the most important tools in woodworking and is used by both amateur and professional woodworkers alike.

35. Paring chisel.

What is a paring chisel?

A paring chisel is a small, handheld woodworking tool used to pare (or shave) small pieces of wood. Paring chisels are typically between two and eight inches long, with a blade that tapers to a sharp point.

36. Gouge chisel.

What is a gouge chisel?

A gouge chisel is a woodworking tool used to create hollows, grooves and other concave shapes in wood.

How do you use a gouge chisel? Gouge chisels are pushed or pulled across the grain of the wood to create the desired shape.

37. Framing chisel.

What is a framing chisel?

A framing chisel is a tool that is used for cutting wood. It is a type of hand tool that consists of a blade with a handle. The blade is usually made of metal and the handle is usually made of wood.

38. Router.

What is a router?

A router is a hand tool or power tool that a worker uses to rout (hollow out) an area in relatively hard material like wood or plastic.

How is a router used? A router is usually handheld and moved over the surface of the material to be removed, though some routers are mounted on a table. The bit spins very quickly, so the operator must be very careful.

Routers are used mostly in woodworking, especially cabinetry. They are also used to make moldings, to shape edge profiles, and during the construction of three-dimensional objects made from laminated sheets.

39. Planes.

What is a plane?

A plane is a tool used to shape wood. It consists of a blade, set at an angle, with a handle attached to the blade. The blade is set in a body that sits on the wood being cut.

There are different types of planes for different jobs. The most common type is the hand plane, which is used for smoothing the surface of wood.

40. Lathe.

What is a lathe?

A lathe is a machine tool that rotates a workpiece about an axis of rotation to perform various operations such as cutting, sanding, knurling, drilling, or deformation with tools that are applied to the workpiece to create an object with symmetry about that axis.

Lathes can be used to create incredibly detailed and precise objects, or can be used to create large objects such as bowls or vases.

41. Ax.

What is an ax?

An ax is a tool that has been used for centuries to shape wood and fell trees. It is also an effective weapon, as it can be used to deliver powerful blows to an opponent.

An ax consists of a head and a handle. The head is usually made of metal, and it is attached to the handle with a piece of leather or rope. The head is sharpened on both sides, and it has a point at the end.

The handle is usually made of wood, but it can also be made of metal or plastic. It is attached to the head with a piece of leather or rope, and it is used to hold the ax in place while you swing it.

There are many different types of ax heads, and each one is designed for a specific purpose. For example, there are felling axes, which are used to fell trees; splitting axes, which are used to split logs; and hatchets, which are smaller versions of felling axes that can be used for chopping wood.

42. Tree Lopper.

What is a tree lopper?

A tree lopper is a type of cutting tool that is used to trim branches and twigs from trees. Tree loppers come in a variety of sizes and styles, but all have one thing in common: they make it easier to cut through thick branches and twigs.

What are the benefits of using a tree lopper?

There are several benefits of using a tree lopper, including:

-They make it easier to cut through thick branches and twigs.

-Tree loppers can help you reach high branches that would be difficult to reach with a traditional saw.

-Tree loppers can also help you cut branches that are close to the ground.

-Tree loppers are a safe and easy way to trim branches from trees.

43. Knives.

The best way to cut wood is with a knife. A lot of people use saws, but if you have a good knife, you can do it with that.

There are different types of knives for cutting wood. You can use a standard kitchen knife, or you can get a speciality knife made for cutting wood. There are also different types of blades, such as a straight blade or a serrated blade.

The type of knife you use will depend on the type of wood you are cutting. If you are cutting softwood, then a standard kitchen knife will be fine. If you are cutting hardwood, then you will need a speciality knife.

44. Laser wood cutters.

Laser wood cutters are a type of cutting tool that uses a laser to cut through wood. Laser wood cutters can be used to cut through both hardwoods and softwoods.

Laser wood cutters can be used to create intricate designs and patterns in wood. They can also be used to cut through thick pieces of wood.

Laser wood cutters are a versatile cutting tool that can be used for a variety of woodworking projects.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many different types of wood cutting tools available on the market. Each type has its own unique benefits and drawbacks. When choosing the right tool for your project, it is important to consider the specific needs of your project. With a little bit of research, you should be able to find the perfect tool for the job.