I've been using Japanese saws like Gyokucho's Ryoba, Dozuki, and Kataba for a while now, and while I really love them, I find myself constantly needing to buy new blades when they go dull. I'm contemplating whether to invest in higher-end Japanese saws which can be pretty pricey, starting at around $200. Before I do that, I'm looking into Western hand saws—specifically Lie-Nielsen and Veritas. Does anyone here have experience with either brand? I'm curious about the taper on LN saws and whether it actually enhances joinery precision. Also, what are the differences in sharpening these saws, and what about the tooth set? Any advice would be really appreciated!
7 Answers
In my experience with Veritas, they do have their quirks. The lighter backs and the odd hang angles took some getting used to, but they cut nicely. I'd suggest starting with a crosscut carcass saw from them since they’re affordable and you really can’t go wrong with it. Just be mindful that if you want high-end performance, Bad Axe is superb but comes with a high price tag. Decide on your needs first!
I started on Western saws before getting into Japanese ones, and I still love both styles for different tasks. If you're looking at brands, I've used LN and Veritas, and while LN has a nicer feel, Veritas offers great value. Just remember, you might find the Veritas handles a bit funky but they work well. If you're okay with some fettling, even budget-friendly brands can serve you well!
That’s encouraging! I plan on transitioning to more Western-style saws, starting with a carcass and dovetail saw.
Thanks for the tips! Do you know any budget German brands I should consider?
I have experience with both, and I actually prefer the feel and traditional look of the LN saws. They just work better for me, even though the Veritas saws are decent. If you're looking for a good investment, LN is a fine choice if it fits your budget well!
If you're leaning towards Veritas, I can vouch for their affordable pricing and decent quality. They do need a bit of adjustment as I felt the hang angle on some models was off. I switched to Bad Axe after trying a couple of Veritas, and it’s a noticeable difference in comfort and cut. Just experiment first before committing to higher-end models!
I've been a fan of the LN tapered saws. They help me avoid going over my lines on the back, which is a nice bonus. While I can't speak to the Veritas joinery saws, they seem pretty good for their price. Sharpening-wise, both brands are quite manageable, so you're not diving into a complex process.
Totally agree! I lean towards the LN classic aesthetic too, but you can't go wrong with either.
When it comes to backsaws, the choice often boils down to personal preference. I've had pretty good experiences with various brands, but both Lie-Nielsen (LN) and Veritas make solid saws. The thing to know is that all saw plates are generally made from similar spring steel, so the real distinction lies in quality of sharpening and set. Learning to sharpen your saw is critical since even new ones can sometimes need a bit of TLC. I always advise starting with cheaper or vintage saws to hone your skills before jumping to the high-end stuff. Invest in a good saw vice and quality files; they’ll make your life a lot easier! Check out those vintage saw resources if you can—they're gold for sharpening tips!
Lol, I feel that! I mean, who really wants to keep buying Ryoba blades?
Great info! I think a saw vice is less critical though; I've managed just fine with some scrap wood in a vise.
If you're planning on investing in Western saws, definitely try both brands first. The comfort and feel are super important—everyone has different preferences!
Yeah, I feel the same! Thanks for the recommendation on that.
Yep, I’ve found Veritas chisels are great. Their saws are solid for the price.