Like a bow saw, a hacksaw has a metal frame and a straight, thin blade. It’s a very practical tool and allows you to make a more accurate cut than when using a tool like an angle grinder.
Application
Because of its thin blade, a hacksaw is better suited to cutting through thinner materials.
Cutting through very thick materials could prove difficult, and the blade could become damaged or broken.
Material
A hacksaw is designed for use on metal and plastic.
Why is it called a hacksaw?
It’s not clear exactly how a hacksaw got its name. The word ‘hack’ refers to a rough cut or blow, however a hacksaw is capable of cutting very neatly.
It could be taken from the Middle English phrase: ‘hagge-saue’, which means to cut or chop.
Characteristics
Blade
A hacksaw blade can be removed from the frame and replaced when the teeth become blunt.
Hacksaw blades have two small holes, one at each end of the blade, which allow it to be held in the frame.
Blades come in two lengths:
250 and 300mm (9.8 and 11.8″ approx.)
The most commonly used blade is the 300mm, and so most hacksaws will be built to accept these. However, there are hacksaws with adjustable frames which can accept both 250 and 300mm blades.
Cutting stroke
Hacksaws cut on the push stroke, which means the blade should always be placed in the frame with the teeth pointing away from the handle.