When it comes to fine woodworking, few tools are as iconic and essential as a quality dovetail saw. Among the numerous options available to woodworkers today, the Lie Nielsen Dovetail Saw consistently emerges as a top contender, revered by hobbyists and professionals alike. This comprehensive Lie Nielsen Dovetail Saw Review delves into every aspect of this precision instrument, helping you understand why it might be the perfect addition to your tool collection.
Lie Nielsen Tool works, based in Warren, Maine, has built an exceptional reputation since 1981 for producing high-quality hand tools that honor traditional craftsmanship while incorporating modern precision. Their dovetail saw exemplifies this philosophy, offering woodworkers a tool that performs exceptionally well right out of the box and continues to impress with years of use.
The dovetail saw is a specialized backsaw designed for cutting joinery, particularly dovetails and tenons. What sets Lie Nielsen‘s offering apart is its meticulous attention to detail, premium materials, and the perfect balance it strikes between traditional design and modern manufacturing precision.
First Impressions and Build Quality
Upon unboxing the Lie Nielsen Dovetail Saw, the first thing you’ll notice is its substantial feel and impeccable finish. Unlike many mass-produced tools, this saw exudes quality from every angle. The polished brass back gleams with perfection, while the finely finished handle invites your hand to test its grip.
Specifications at a Glance:
- Blade Length: 9 inches (cutting length approximately 8 inches).
- Blade Thickness: 0.020 inch.
- Toothing Options: 15 points per inch (ppi) or 20 ppi.
- Plate Material: Swedish spring steel.
- Back Material: Solid brass.
- Handle Material: Eastern Maple or Chacate (depending on model).
- Weight: Approximately 0.75 pounds.
The attention to detail is immediately apparent in the fit and finish. The brass back is perfectly fitted to the blade, providing just the right amount of tension without any gaps or misalignment. The handle is shaped with ergonomic precision, featuring smooth contours that feel natural in the hand.
Design and Engineering Excellence
What truly sets the Lie Nielsen Dovetail Saw apart is its thoughtful design and engineering. Every aspect has been carefully considered to enhance performance and user experience.
Blade and Teeth Configuration
The Swedish spring steel blade is remarkably thin yet rigid, allowing for precise cuts with minimal kerf. This thinness, combined with the perfectly set teeth, enables the saw to start easily and track accurately throughout the cut.
The saw comes in two tooth configurations:
- 15 ppi: Ideal for general dovetail work, offering a good balance between cutting speed and finish quality.
- 20 ppi: Perfect for finer work in thinner stock, providing an exceptionally smooth finish.
Both options feature rip-filed teeth, which are specifically designed for cutting with the grain – exactly what you need when executing dovetail joints. The teeth are uniformly shaped and sharpened, requiring no initial tuning before use.
Brass Back
The solid brass back serves multiple purposes:
- It provides the necessary rigidity to the thin blade
- Its weight helps stabilize the saw during use
- It acts as a depth stop, preventing the saw from cutting deeper than intended
- The brass material won’t rust, ensuring longevity
Handle Design
The handle is where the Lie Nielsen Dovetail Saw truly shines in terms of user experience. Available in either Eastern Maple or the more premium Chacate, the handle is shaped to fit the hand comfortably, even during extended use.
The handle’s design allows for multiple grip positions, accommodating different cutting styles and user preferences. Whether you prefer a traditional three-finger grip or a more wrapped-around hold, the handle accommodates comfortably. The finish is smooth but not slippery, providing just the right amount of tactile feedback.
Performance in the Workshop
Theory and specifications are one thing, but how does the Lie Nielsen Dovetail Saw perform in real woodworking scenarios?
Cutting Precision
This is where the saw truly excels. The combination of the rigid blade, perfectly set teeth, and balanced weight allows for exceptional precision. Starting a cut is effortless – no initial scoring needed. The saw tracks exactly where you want it to go, following lines with remarkable accuracy.
When cutting dovetails, the saw’s thin kerf and precise teeth allow for tight-fitting joints right from the first attempt. The cut surface is remarkably smooth, often requiring minimal cleanup with a chisel.
Speed and Efficiency
Despite its precision, the Lie Nielsen Dovetail Saw is no slouch in terms of cutting speed. The aggressive rip-filed teeth remove material efficiently, allowing you to complete joints quickly without sacrificing accuracy.
Compared to other premium dovetail saws on the market, the Lie Nielsen strikes an excellent balance between cutting speed and finish quality. It’s fast enough for production work yet precise enough for the most demanding fine woodworking projects.
Versatility
While primarily designed for dovetail joints, this saw proves versatile enough for other fine joinery tasks. It performs admirably when cutting tenon cheeks, small cross-cuts, and even some precision ripping operations. The 15 ppi version offers more versatility for general joinery work, while the 20 ppi model excels in fine, detailed work.
Comparison with Other Dovetail Saws
To truly understand the value proposition of the Lie Nielsen Dovetail Saw, it’s worth comparing it with other options on the market:
vs. Japanese Dozuki Saws
Japanese dozuki saws have gained popularity for their thin blades and aggressive cutting. However, they typically cut on the pull stroke, which can be an adjustment for Western woodworkers. The Lie Nielsen, with its push-stroke design, feels more natural to those accustomed to Western sawing techniques. Additionally, Lie Nielsen’s brass back provides more durability and rigidity than most dozuki saws.
vs. Veritas Dovetail Saws
Veritas, another respected tool manufacturer, offers excellent dovetail saws at a slightly lower price point. While Veritas saws perform well, many users report that the Lie Nielsen offers superior balance and a more refined cutting experience. The Lie Nielsen also typically holds its edge longer, requiring less frequent sharpening.
vs. Vintage Saws
Vintage dovetail saws from makers like Disston or Tyzack can be excellent tools when properly restored. However, finding one in good condition and restoring it to optimal performance requires time and expertise. The Lie Nielsen offers vintage-like performance right out of the box, with the added benefit of modern precision manufacturing.
Maintenance and Longevity
One of the standout features of the Lie Nielsen Dovetail Saw is its low maintenance requirements and exceptional longevity. The Swedish spring steel blade holds its edge remarkably well, even with regular use. When sharpening does become necessary, the uniform tooth pattern makes the process relatively straightforward.
The brass back requires minimal maintenance – simply wiping it down after use to remove fingerprints and moisture is sufficient to prevent tarnishing. The wooden handle benefits from an occasional application of wax or oil to maintain its finish and feel.
With proper care, a Lie Nielsen Dovetail Saw can easily last a lifetime and even be passed down to the next generation of woodworkers.
Value for Money
At approximately $175-$225 (depending on the model and handle material), the Lie Nielsen Dovetail Saw represents a significant investment compared to basic options. However, when viewed in the context of its performance, longevity, and the precision it brings to your work, many woodworkers consider it excellent value for money.
When you factor in that this saw will likely never need replacement and will consistently deliver professional results, the cost per use becomes quite reasonable over time. For serious woodworkers, the precision and efficiency gains can easily justify the investment.
Who Is This Saw For?
The Lie Nielsen Dovetail Saw is ideally suited for:
- Intermediate to Advanced Woodworkers: Those who have developed basic hand tool skills and are ready to invest in premium tools that will enhance their craft.
- Professional Furniture Makers: The saw’s precision and durability make it an excellent choice for those who rely on their tools for their livelihood.
- Traditional Woodworking Enthusiasts: If you appreciate fine tools and traditional craftsmanship, this saw will bring joy to your workshop.
- Woodworkers Seeking to Improve Their Dovetail Game: The saw’s precision can help elevate the quality of your joinery immediately.
It might be overkill for absolute beginners or those who only occasionally cut dovetails. Additionally, woodworkers on a tight budget might find more affordable options adequate for their needs.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Lie Nielsen Dovetail Saw
To maximize your investment, consider these usage and maintenance tips:
- Let the Saw Do the Work: Apply minimal downward pressure – let the weight of the saw and the sharpness of the teeth do the cutting.
- Maintain a Consistent Angle: Keep the saw at the same angle throughout the cut for the straightest results.
- Use a Saw Guide: For perfectly straight cuts, consider using a saw guide, especially when learning.
- Keep It Clean: Wipe the blade after each use and occasionally apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust.
- Store Properly: Hang the saw or store it in a way that protects the teeth from damage.
- Learn to Sharpen: While the saw holds its edge well, learning to sharpen it will extend its life and ensure optimal performance.
Final Verdict
After the detailed Lie Nielsen Dovetail Saw Review delves into every aspect of this precision instrument, helping you understand, it’s clear that the Lie Nielsen Dovetail Saw earns its reputation as one of the finest dovetail saws available today. It combines exceptional craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and outstanding performance in a package that’s both beautiful to look at and a joy to use.
While the price point may give some pause, the saw’s performance, durability, and the precision it brings to your work make it a worthwhile investment for serious woodworkers. Whether you’re a professional furniture maker or a dedicated hobbyist seeking to elevate your craft, the Lie Nielsen Dovetail Saw delivers on its promise of precision and excellence.
In the world of hand tools, where the difference between good and great often comes down to subtle details, the Lie Nielsen Dovetail Saw stands as a testament to what’s possible when traditional craftsmanship meets modern precision. It’s not just a tool; it’s an investment in your craft that will pay dividends with every precise cut you make.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Lie Nielsen Dovetail Saw suitable for beginners?
While beginners can certainly use this saw, it might be overkill for those just starting. The investment might be better justified once you’ve developed basic hand tool skills and are committed to fine woodworking.
How often does the Lie Nielsen Dovetail Saw need sharpening?
With proper use and care, many users report going a year or more between sharpenings, even with regular use. The exact interval depends on usage frequency and the materials you’re cutting.
Can I use this saw for purposes other than dovetails?
Absolutely. While designed primarily for dovetails, it excels at other fine joinery tasks like tenon cheeks, small cross-cuts, and precision ripping.
Is the 15 ppi or 20 ppi model better?
It depends on your needs. The 15 ppi model is more versatile for general joinery work, while the 20 ppi model excels in fine, detailed work in thinner stock. Many woodworkers eventually end up owning both.
How does the Lie Nielsen Dovetail Saw compare to power alternatives?
While power tools can cut dovetails faster, they lack the precision, quiet operation, and satisfaction of hand-cut joinery. The Lie Nielsen offers a level of precision that’s difficult to match with most power jigs, especially for complex or custom joinery.
