How To Use Hacksaw Blades

By Author: Arjun Kapoor
Total Articles: 9
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Hacksaws are one of the most common hand tools. Nearly everyone owns one, and if you don't have one, you need to buy one. These are inexpensive and very economical to use. Sawing with such a hand tool is easier if you handle it with care, or else, it is a sure invitation for disastrous results.

The main reasons most people have difficulty when sawing metal with a hacksaw are:

1. You aren't using a sharp blade

2. There is too much flex in the blade

3. The number of teeth is too low for the project

4. You are putting too much pressure on the saw

Cutting metals is supposed to be a tedious task, in view of a general audience. Hacksaws were hence designed to cut metals.

What is a Hacksaw?

A hacksaw blade is comprised of a metal frame designed to hold a metal blade that has typical specifications. The blade is generally of 1/2 inch height and 12 inches long in general. The blade fits into the frame with the two holes that are pinned through the metal frame. The blades are so designed to cut ...
... on little push stroke pressure. The handle is has a firm grip designed, so that the user requires just ample amount of pressure on the blade when you push it through the material.

Steps to set up a Hacksaw:

Step 1. Determine which blade you will use to cut the material. Use a 32 t.p.i. blade for conduit, an 18 tooth blade for cutting off a bolt or plastic pipe and an 8 tooth for wood.

The wavy blade leaves a wider slot (kerf) that keeps the blade from sticking in the groove you are cutting. This makes cutting your object much easier. Wood can be cut through such blades but it will slower than a wood saw. Use a 8 or 10 tooth blade for the purpose. Take your time and don't put a lot of pressure on the hacksaw or you might bend the blade or may be damage the teeth on the blade.

Step 2. Insert the blade so that the teeth are pointing forward. Put the blade so it grips when you push the saw. Most of the hacksaws are designed in adjustable frames so as to help you suit your need of time. In case you feel the blades have gone blunt over the regular use, choose to replace it rather than mending it. Sharp teeth of these hand tools are one important thing that should be cared of at the end of the day. Lesser the sharpness, you tend to add more pressure to the work and much of your hard-work won't result as finished product.

Step 3. Tighten the thumbscrew until you can't turn it with your hand (Hand tight). This amount of tension on the blade should keep the blade from bowing as you cut. Use these hand tools firmly to get better cutting results.