Dovetail joints are the hallmark of fine woodworking, creating strong, beautiful connections between pieces of wood without the need for nails or screws. To craft these impressive joints, you need the right tool – a quality dovetail saw. For beginners entering the world of hand tool woodworking,
Selecting the best dovetail saw can be overwhelming given the numerous options available. This comprehensive best dovetail saws for beginners will walk you through everything you need to know about dovetail saws, from understanding their purpose to reviewing the top models for newcomers.
Whether you’re interested in traditional Western saws or precision Japanese pull saws, we’ll help you make an informed decision that will set you up for woodworking success.
Best Dovetail Saws Reviews/Comparisons
What is the Dovetail Saw? Why Do You Need One?
A dovetail saw is a small, specialized handsaw designed for making fine, precise cuts in wood, particularly when creating dovetail joints. Characterized by its thin blade with fine teeth and a reinforced spine, the dovetail saw allows woodworkers to cut accurate joinery with minimal material removal. Unlike larger saws designed for rough cutting, dovetail saws excel at detail work where precision is paramount.
For woodworkers, especially beginners, a quality dovetail saw is essential because it enables you to create one of woodworking’s most admired joints – the dovetail. This interlocking joint is not only visually appealing but also incredibly strong, making it ideal for drawer construction, box making, and fine furniture building. Learning to cut dovetails by hand is a rite of passage for many woodworkers and a skill that significantly elevates the quality of your work.
Dovetail saws come in two main styles: Western-style saws that cut on the push stroke, and Japanese-style saws that cut on the pull stroke. Each has its advantages, but many beginners find Japanese saws more forgiving due to their thinner blades that create narrower kerfs (the width of the cut), resulting in less material waste and more precise cuts.
Key Factors to Choose the Best Dovetail Saws for Beginners
When selecting the best dovetail saws for beginners, several factors should influence your decision:
Teeth Per Inch (TPI)
The number of teeth per inch determines the smoothness of your cut. For dovetail work, look for saws with 14-20 TPI. Higher TPI creates smoother cuts but removes material more slowly, while lower TPI cuts faster but leaves a rougher surface.
Blade Length
Most dovetail saws have blades between 8-10 inches long. Shorter blades offer more control for beginners, while longer blades allow for longer strokes in wider workpieces.
Blade Material
High-carbon steel holds a sharp edge well but may rust if not maintained properly. Stainless steel resists corrosion but may not hold an edge as long.
Handle Design
A comfortable, ergonomic handle is crucial for control and precision. Look for handles that feel balanced in your hand and allow for a relaxed grip.
Western vs. Japanese Style
Western saws cut on the push stroke and typically have a stiffer blade with a reinforced spine. Japanese saws cut on the pull stroke, allowing for thinner blades that remove less material and often provide more precise cuts.
Price Point
While quality tools are worth investing in, beginners don’t need to break the bank. There are excellent options available at various price points.
Replaceable Blades
Some saws have replaceable blades, which can be cost-effective in the long run as you won’t need to replace the entire saw when the blade dulls.
SUIZAN Japanese Saw Dozuki Dovetail
The SUIZAN Japanese Dozuki Saw is a traditional pull saw designed specifically for precision joinery work like dovetails. With its thin blade and fine teeth, this saw allows beginners to make accurate, clean cuts with minimal effort. The Japanese-style cutting action reduces the risk of binding and provides excellent control for detailed woodworking tasks.
Key Features:
- 20 TPI (teeth per inch) for ultra-fine cuts
- 9.5-inch blade length with a rigid back for stability
- Traditional Japanese pull-stroke action
- High-quality Japanese steel blade
- Comfortable wooden handle wrapped in rattan for grip
Pros:
- Exceptional precision for tight dovetail joints.
- Thin blade creates narrow kerfs, minimizing material waste.
- Easy to control for beginners.
- Cuts smoothly without requiring excessive force.
- Durable construction with proper care.
Cons:
- More fragile than Western-style saws.
- Requires a different cutting technique than push saws.
- May need more frequent sharpening than harder blades.
- Not ideal for cross-cutting thicker stock.
Japanese Pull Saw for Crosscut Dovetails
This versatile Japanese pull saw combines crosscut and rip teeth, making it suitable for various woodworking tasks, including dovetail joints. The double-edged design allows beginners to tackle different cutting angles without switching tools, providing excellent value for those starting their woodworking journey.
Key Features:
- Dual-edge blade with crosscut and rip teeth configurations
- 9.5-inch blade length with 17 TPI on one side and 9 TPI on the other
- Impulse-hardened teeth for extended durability
- Lightweight yet sturdy construction
- Comfortable non-slip handle
Pros:
- Versatile with two cutting options in one tool
- Excellent value for money
- Suitable for various woodworking tasks beyond dovetails
- Easy to maneuver for precise cuts
- Teeth stay sharp longer than non-hardened alternatives
Cons:
- Less specialized than single-purpose dovetail saws
- It may take time to get used to switching between edges
- Handle may feel less premium than higher-priced options
- Blade replacement might be more challenging
HAUTMEC Reversible Dovetail Flush Saw
The HAUTMEC Reversible Dovetail Flush Saw offers innovative design with its reversible blade feature, allowing woodworkers to switch between standard dovetail cutting and flush cutting. This adaptability makes it an excellent choice for beginners who want a versatile tool that can grow with their skills. The saw combines Western and Japanese design elements for optimal performance.
Key Features:
- Reversible blade mechanism for multiple cutting applications
- 15 TPI for fine dovetail work
- 8-inch blade length with reinforced spine
- Ergonomic handle with comfortable grip
- High-carbon steel blade for durability
Pros:
- Innovative reversible design increases versatility
- Good balance between cutting speed and precision
- Comfortable handle reduces hand fatigue
- Suitable for both dovetail and flush cutting tasks
- Affordable price point for beginners
Cons:
- A reversible mechanism may add complexity
- Not as specialized as dedicated dovetail saws
- The blade-changing process takes practice
- May not achieve the finest cuts of premium Japanese saws
Temple Tool Double Edge Pull Saw
The Temple Tool Double Edge Pull Saw is a traditional Japanese saw featuring two cutting edges – one for crosscutting and one for ripping. This dual-purpose design makes it incredibly versatile for beginners who need a single saw for multiple woodworking tasks. The pull-stroke action provides excellent control and precision for creating clean dovetail joints.
Key Features:
- Double-edged blade with rip teeth on one side and crosscut teeth on the other
- 9.5-inch blade length with different TPI on each edge
- Impulse-hardened teeth for longevity
- Lightweight yet durable construction
- Traditional Japanese wooden handle
Pros:
- Extremely versatile with two cutting options
- Excellent precision for detailed work
- Thin blade removes minimal material
- Cuts smoothly with less effort than push saws
- High-quality Japanese craftsmanship
Cons:
- Learning curve for those used to Western saws
- More fragile than Western-style saws
- Requires proper technique to avoid blade damage
- Higher price point than some beginner options
SUIZAN Folding Dozuki Dovetail Saw Double Edge
The SUIZAN Folding Dozuki Dovetail Saw Double Edge is a hybrid design that combines Japanese pull handsaw kit efficiency with Western durability. This saw features two cutting edges with different tooth configurations, making it suitable for various woodworking tasks, including dovetail joints. Its robust construction makes it particularly forgiving for beginners still developing their technique.
Key Features:
- Double-edged blade with 17 TPI crosscut and 9 TPI rip teeth
- 9.5-inch blade length for extended reach
- Replaceable blade system for long-term value
- Ergonomic pistol-grip handle for comfort and control
- Hardened, impulse-treated teeth for durability
Pros:
- Durable construction withstands beginner mistakes
- Replaceable blades extend tool life
- Comfortable handle reduces fatigue during extended use
- Versatile for various woodworking tasks
- Good balance between precision and cutting speed
Cons:
- Heavier than traditional Japanese saws
- May not achieve the finest cuts of specialized dovetail saws
- Replacement blades can be costly
- Less traditional aesthetic for purists
How to Maintain and Store This Hand Saw Kit
If you are a new user, then you must know that proper maintenance and storage of your dovetail saw will ensure it performs well and lasts for years. Follow these essential care tips:
- Cleaning After Use: Always wipe the blade with a clean, dry cloth after each use to remove sawdust and moisture. For stubborn residue, use a soft brush or cloth lightly dampened with mineral spirits, followed by thorough drying.
- Rust Prevention: Apply a thin coat of camellia oil, paste wax, or specialized tool oil to the blade after cleaning to prevent rust. This is especially important for high-carbon steel blades, which are more susceptible to corrosion.
- Proper Storage: Store your saw in a dry place away from humidity. If possible, hang the saw or keep it in a protective case to prevent the teeth from contacting other tools or surfaces that could damage them.
- Blade Protection: Consider using a blade guard or sheath, particularly for Japanese saws with their fragile teeth. Some woodworkers make custom wooden guards or use commercially available options.
- Sharpening: When your saw begins to cut less effectively, it may need sharpening. While many beginners prefer to have their saws professionally sharpened, learning to sharpen your saw is a valuable skill. Use a specialized saw file or sharpening stone designed for the specific TPI of your blade.
- Handle Care: For wooden handles, occasionally apply a coat of paste wax or boiled linseed oil to prevent drying and cracking. Avoid exposing the handle to excessive moisture.
- Regular Inspection: Periodically check for loose handles, damaged teeth, or signs of rust. Addressing small issues early can prevent more significant problems later.
FAQ of The Best Dovetail Saw for Beginners
Which Japanese saw for dovetails?
For dovetail work, the Dozuki-type Japanese saw is ideal. It features a stiff back (spine) that provides rigidity for precise cuts and typically has 15-20 TPI for fine work. The SUIZAN Japanese Dozuki Saw mentioned in our reviews is an excellent example of a saw specifically designed for dovetail joints.
What is the best length for a dovetail saw?
For beginners, a dovetail saw with a blade length between 8-10 inches is ideal. This length provides good control while allowing for sufficient stroke length. Shorter blades offer more precision for detailed work, while longer blades provide more versatility for larger projects.
Where are Veritas saws made?
Veritas saws are manufactured by Lee Valley Tools in Canada. They are known for their high-quality craftsmanship and innovative designs, combining traditional woodworking techniques with modern engineering.
What are the disadvantages of a dovetail saw?
The main disadvantages of a dovetail saw include its specialized nature (it’s designed primarily for fine joinery work), the learning curve associated with using it effectively, and the fact that it requires more maintenance than power tools. Additionally, quality dovetail saws can be expensive, and they require proper technique to achieve optimal results.
Why are Japanese saws better?
Japanese saws are often considered better for certain applications because they cut on the pull stroke, allowing for thinner blades that remove less material and create narrower kerfs. This results in more precise cuts with less waste. The pull action also requires less effort and provides better control, making them particularly suitable for fine joinery work like dovetails.
Is dovetail the highest quality?
Dovetail joints are considered among the highest quality woodworking joints due to their mechanical strength and resistance to being pulled apart. They’re also aesthetically pleasing and have been used in fine furniture for centuries. However, “highest quality” depends on the application – other joints like mortise and tenon or box joints may be more appropriate for certain situations.
Conclusion
Choosing the best dovetail saws for beginners is an important step in your woodworking journey. The right hand saw kit will make learning to cut dovetails more enjoyable and help you achieve better results from the start. While each of the saws reviewed has its strengths, beginners should consider their specific needs, budget, and woodworking goals when making a selection.
For those prioritizing precision and traditional techniques, the SUIZAN Japanese Dozuki Saw offers exceptional performance. If versatility is more important, the Gyokucho Ryoba Double Edge Pull Saw provides multiple cutting options in one tool. Remember that mastering the dovetail saw takes practice, so be patient with yourself as you develop this valuable skill.
With proper care and maintenance, a quality dovetail saw will serve you well for years to come, helping you create beautiful, strong joints that will elevate your woodworking projects to the next level.
