10 best dovetail saws

A dovetail saw is a specialized hand tool used in woodworking, particularly for the precise cutting of dovetail joints. Dovetail joints are a type of interlocking joint commonly used in joinery, cabinetry, and furniture making. These joints are known for their strength and aesthetic appeal, making them a staple in high-quality woodworking projects.

Here are some key features and information about dovetail saws:

  1. Design: Dovetail saws have a distinct design characterized by a thin, narrow blade with fine teeth that have a rip-cut pattern. The blade is usually around 8 to 10 inches in length and tapers toward the handle.

  2. Teeth Configuration: Dovetail saws have teeth with a high tooth count per inch (TPI), typically ranging from 14 to 20 TPI or more. This high tooth count allows for precise and clean cuts in wood.

  3. Rip-Cut Teeth: The teeth on a dovetail saw are filed for rip cuts, which means they are optimized for cutting along the grain of the wood. This is ideal for creating the straight, clean cuts needed for dovetail joints.

  4. Crosscut Capability: While dovetail saws are primarily designed for rip cuts, some models may have a hybrid tooth pattern that allows for limited crosscutting capabilities as well.

  5. Handle: The handle of a dovetail saw is often designed for a comfortable grip and precise control. It may be made of various materials, such as wood or plastic.

  6. Back Saw: Dovetail saws are a type of back saw, which means they have a reinforced spine along the back of the blade.This helps to keep the blade straight during cuts and ensures accuracy.

  7. Precision: Dovetail saws are prized for their ability to make fine, precise cuts, making them essential for tasks like cutting dovetail joints, tenons, and other intricate joinery work.

  8. Common Uses: In addition to cutting dovetail joints, dovetail saws are also used for other woodworking tasks that require precision, such as cutting small tenons, trimming, and fine detail work.

  9. Maintenance: Like all cutting tools, dovetail saws require proper maintenance to keep them sharp and in good working condition. Regular sharpening and occasional cleaning are essential.

In summary, a dovetail saw is a specialized hand tool designed for making precise and clean rip cuts in woodworking, especially for creating dovetail joints. Its fine-toothed blade and ergonomic design make it an essential tool for woodworkers looking to create high-quality, interlocking joints in their projects.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best dovetail saws on the market
  

IRWIN Dovetail Saw, 10-Inch (2014450)

IRWIN

Based on 442 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This IRWIN ProTouch Dovetail Saw / Jamb Saw features a spring-loaded design that enables you to reverse the blade for left- or right-cutting. The Wide-Body Flush-Cut 50-mm blade on this jamb saw is designed for flush-cutting door jambs and millwork for tile installation and prep, while the ProTouch handle provides ergonomic comfort, even during long work sessions.

From the Manufacturer

ProTouch Dovetail/Jamb Saw, ReversibleFlushCut,PT Handle

  • This dovetail saw uses a spring-loaded, reversible blade that can be used for left- or right-cutting
  • The ProTouch handle on each jamb saw provides ergonomic comfort
  • A Wide-Body Flush-Cut blade on this dovetail saw measures 50 mm
  • 14-pt. tooth count
  • 10" blade length and 2" blade thickness
  • This dovetail saw uses a spring-loaded, reversible blade that can be used for left- or right-cutting
  • The ProTouch handle on each jamb saw provides ergonomic comfort

User questions & answers

Question: Would a Japanese style back saw make cross cuts better or easier
Answer: They are not noise cancelling so you can here things around you as for people talking or tv playing around you. There was no noise coming from the headphones, the sound was clear.
Question: Specs indicate 14 point teeth, how does this translate relative to teeth per inch (TPI) as traditionally specified for american saws
Answer: Yes
Question: What's the actual thickness of the blade? (not 2" width as specificed
Answer: Hi sidali, We only recommend charging the unit to a computer via the supplied USB Cable. -Jerome
Question: Where can I purchase a replacement blade
Answer: Hi, have not noticed anything like that. A hissing noise is often experienced in active noise cancelling headphones, which these are not. I've been really impressed all around with the sound quality of these.

Zona 35-380 Thick Dovetail Saw, 18 TPI, 020-Inch Kerf, Blade Length 8-Inch, Cut Depth 1-3/4-Inch

ZONA

Based on 337 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Thick Kerf Dovetail Saw has Zona's longest razor saw blade and can be used for more forceful 'push stroke' cutting.121⁄2″ overall length.

  • The Thick Kerf Dovetail Saw has Zona's longest razor saw blade
  • Can be used for more forceful 'push stroke' cutting
  • 121⁄2 inch overall length
  • Country of Origin: UNITED STATES

User questions & answers

Question: Is this a good saw to use for cutting straight cuts on a pinewood derby car? I will be cutting cross cuts and with the grain
Answer: It is made in China. Let me know if you have any other questions. Thanks, Michelle Gaylord, Dog Lover Gift Baskets
Question: Can this be used to cut fret slots
Answer: I'm not sure, since I own the Kindle HD 8.9 (and the original 7" Fire). It should, since it fits them and the equipment at my gym (24Hr Fitness). Hope this helps
Question: Guitar fret wire - standard medium/medium size, nickel silver - six feet- will it work with this
Answer: The plug is L shape
Question: What fret wire would work with this? This is my first time making a instrument
Answer: Of course Beats Solo HD sounds better; these aren't meant to be Sony's Crown Jewel, just a nicely durable and cheap pair of headphones. However, the difference is scarce at best, and these headphones do sound very good. Do not waste 180 dollars on a Beats pair just for a slightly crisper bass.

Product features

Dovetail Saw 18 teeth per inch

Thick Kerf Dovetail Saw has a blade that is .020″ thick, with a .022/.024″ tooth set range, 18 TPI – teeth per inch, 8″ long, with 1-3/4″ cutting depth, and steel back for stability. Excellent for push stroke cuts in hard or soft wood. Made in USA.

Steel back for added stability

The Thick Kerf Dovetail Saw has Zona’s longest razor saw blade and can be used for more forceful ‘push stroke’ cutting. 12-1/2″ overall length.

Blade Specs

18 TPI

.020″ thick 8″ long x 1-3/4″ cutting depth

From Zona Tool Company

Tools for makers, students, scale modelers, miniaturists, sculptors, luthiers, architects, inventors, designers, tinkerers, artisans and many others.

Spear & Jackson 9540B-91 Traditional Brass Back Tenon Saw, 10" x 15", Brown/Silver

Spear & Jackson

Based on 167 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Universal teeth for general use, cuts along and across the grain. Brass back for maximum rigidity. For joint cutting & sawing small pieces of wood and wood based materials. Comfortable wooden handle securely fixed by rivets. High carbon steel blade. Precision ground teeth. Riveted handle for strength. Fine finish.

  • Universal teeth for general use, cuts along and across the grain
  • Brass back for maximum rigidity
  • For joint cutting & sawing small pieces of wood and wood based materials
  • Comfortable wooden handle securely fixed by rivets
  • High carbon steel blade

User questions & answers

Question: Does the saw come sharp
Answer: Thank you for contacting us. Bright Starts Explore & Cuddle Elephant Car Seat and Stroller- Care and Maintenance Wipe clean with damp cloth and mild soap. Do not immerse in water. Best Regards
Question: Is this saw sharpened for a cross cut or rip cut
Answer: No there isn’t a rubber ball. We used to have ferrets and this would be fun for them. My dog is now 9 months old and she finally chewed this toy apart. I don’t think a ferret would do anything to it but drag it around.
Question: What is the PPI
Answer: It is tied but also sewn together at the green ties in this case. My lab and shitzu tug and chew on it and it still looks great
Question: Is this tool american made
Answer: Dogs of all sizes and ages will love this toy!

Product features

Spear & Jackson Saws

Spear & Jackson began making saws well over 200 years ago. Today we still offer saws that are fit for a variety of applications and needs.

Our range of traditional Tenon & Skew Back saws feature universal precision ground teeth for general use which cuts along and across the grain. High carbon steel blades, and comfortable traditional wooden handles that are securely fixed by rivets.

Teeth have not been hardened and are therefore designed to be resharpened once they become blunt.

9540B & 9550B Traditional Tenon Saws

  • Universal teeth for general use
  • Cuts along and across the grain
  • Brass back for maximum rigidity
  • For joint cutting & sawing small pieces of wood
  • Comfortable wooden handle secured by rivets
  • High carbon steel blade
  • Precision ground teeth

9515K and 9500R Skew Back Saws

  • Precision cross ground teeth
  • Teeth can be resharpened
  • Skew back for balance and reduced friction
  • Cuts timber chipboard, plywood and other wood based materials

Similar to the 9515K, the 9500R Skew Back Saw has a medium finish as opposed to the 9515K's rough finish. It is 22" x 10 pts.

Our Traditional Saws

Our range of traditional Tenon & Skew Back saws feature universal precision ground teeth for general use which cuts along and across the grain. High carbon steel blades, and comfortable traditional wooden handles that are securely fixed by rivets.

Two Cherries 520-6020 10-Inch Brass Back Dovetail Saw

Robert Larson

Based on 155 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Two Cherries 10-Inch Brass Back Dovetail Saw is designed for cutting dovetail and other fine joints. The saw sports 15 teeth per inch--allowing you to easily cut through a variety of different wood species--and can accommodate cutting up to 2 inches deep. Also ideal as a versatile, general-purpose saw, the dovetail saw features a high-quality German steel blade with brass backing and a comfortable wooden handle.

From the Manufacturer

This beautifully made brass back saw is especially designed for cutting dovetail and other fine joints. This is also a wonderful general-purpose saw to have around the shop. Quality German steel blade with stiffening brass back and wooden handle. Made by Two Cherries.

  • Reliable 10-inch saw ideal for cutting dovetail and other fine joints
  • Pre-sharpened
  • Ideal for joint cutting
  • 15-teeth per inch
  • High-quality German steel blade

User questions & answers

Question: What is cutting depth of the saw
Answer: No,we have these style bible,what you choosed,what we engraved for you normally.if you want engrave your own bible,you can choose a style that is shipped by seller and order it,then send an email about your order ID and request bible to us,we will engrave as your request.thank you.
Question: How thick is the blade, I’m looking for .020 to .023 kerf
Answer: It will come with a curb link chain instead of the ball chain....
Question: Would it be good for tenons
Answer: It was shiny. It was very nice!
Question: Wait, is this saw crosscut or rip? Half of the people say one thing, and the other half say the other
Answer: Thank you for contacting us! Yes, it is BPA free. Best Regards

IRWIN Dovetail Saw, 7-1/4-Inch (213104)

IRWIN

Based on 685 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Designed for fine woodworking, this IRWIN Dovetail Saw is great for interior trim work and detailed work around windows. The flexible blade is also great for making flush cuts on dowels. This pull saw features a polymer handle that gives a comfortable, stable grip, even during long sessions.

From the Manufacturer

The IRWIN 213104 dovetail pull saw is great for utility work where power tools could damage surrounding materials. The dovetail saw is also a good tool for cutting shims. The pull stroke action eliminates binding and facilitates a straight cut. The induction hardened teeth stay sharp longer. Also included is a quick release for easy replacement blade changes.

  • Use this dovetail saw for interior trim work and detailed work around windows
  • The flexible blade on this pull saw is also great for flush cuts on dowels
  • A polymer handle on these dovetail saws is comfortable and durable
  • 22-pt. tooth count gives a smooth, even cut
  • 7-1/4" blade length
  • Use this dovetail saw for interior trim work and detailed work around windows
  • The flexible blade on this pull saw is also great for flush cuts on dowels

User questions & answers

Question: Does it come with a case? (At least for the blade
Answer: A few years ago F.O.L. had a size mix up. The shirts fit comfortably loose, but then I don't have a super models shape. I am middle aged male with a non-alcohol beer gut ( I don't drink ). Pant size is 48 to 52 depending on time of year and couch potato comfort, jacket size is a 58 medium length. AGAIN as per my earlier post THEY DON'T SHRINK TOO MUCH AFTER 3 WASHES.
Question: Can this cut aluminum nicely
Answer: It take from 1-2 weeks to ship within the USA
Question: I just need the blade MPS
Answer: This father to son bracelet have no son and father image on it. sorry.
Question: Can the blade be replaced? if so, what is the blade part number and/or the url to purchase an additional blade
Answer: no... stainless steel is nickle free. And it's No allergy

Stanley Fatmax 15-252K 10-Inch Dovetail Saw with Reversible Handle

Stanley

Based on 83 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Designed for precise cutting including dovetails, small joints and cutoff. Springloaded pin allows blade to reverse quickly for left or right cutting. Reversible handle provides access in close quarters. Extrawide blade (3") for fine woodworking. Steel back prevents bowing for true straight cuts.

From the Manufacturer

This Fine Woodworking Back/Dovetail Saw has a reversible handle and is 10" long. Offset handle for flush cutting. . The 3" wide blade has stiff steel back for true cuts. .

  • Stanley - Black & Decker
  • Used for Handtools & Tool Organizers, Handsaws
  • The produt is manufactured in Taiwan
  • This Fine Woodworking Back/Dovetail Saw has a reversible handle and is 10" long.
  • Offset handle for flush cutting.
  • Designed for precise cutting including dovetails, small joints and cutoff
  • Spring-loaded pin allows blade to reverse quickly for left or right cutting
  • Reversible handle provides access in close quarters

User questions & answers

Question: What is the handle made of? What type of wood
Answer: I just wrote Fruit of the Loom Customer Service about the shirt's weight and they replied that they are 5.2 ounces. That's on the fairly heavy end of the range. Lightweight t-shirts, whether crew or v-neck I have found to be in the 4.2-4.5 range, whereas for contrast a Hanes Beefy-T crew is 6.1 ounces. I personally am looking for a lighter weight v-neck for summer as a sleeping shirt, and have found Next Level to be what I'm looking for. They're 4.3 oz. and have a pocket and are extremely soft--but run around $7.50 apiece. These FoL v-necks are heavier and w/o the pocket and are fine shirts at a much cheaper price. Just depends on what you're looking for. :-)

5 Inches Woodworker Fret Saw

Based on 144 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Woodworkers Fretsaw by Knew Concepts



Made in USA, these fret saws are designed for quickly cutting waste from hand-cut dovetails. Their innovative truss-like frames are light-weight and far easier to use than their predecessors - the traditional jewelers fret saws.



This light-weight but stiff frame reduces the occurrence of blade breakage and the thumb-screw blade clamps make it a cinch to install a blade. Gone is the awkward tensioning procedure associated with traditional fret saws. A simple cam lever easily tensions the blade in a second and you're ready to put the saw to use.



The unique blade mounting system allows the blade to be swiveled 45 degrees right or left and a detent locks the blade at center. This is quickly accomplished by rotating the cam tensioner to release the tension, then retention the saw blade.



This 5in. size weighing 5.2 oz.will accommodate coping and larger fret work while still doing a superb job of removing waste from hand-cut dovetails.

  • Supplied with a 15 TPI #7 skip-tooth blade.
  • Lightweight, maneuverable, and easy to adjust.
  • One of the most innovative fret saws available.
  • Weighs only 5.2 ounces, yet is incredibly strong.
  • Unique blade holder makes blade changes and tensioning simple.

User questions & answers

Question: Is this saw worth the price? A coping saw is $10. What does this saw do that a coping saw cannot do
Answer: I purchased for my 9 and 11-year-old sons and it fit great. They are average height. It could be a little long on a 5-year-old depending on height. It does have an inner band to tuck in the excess once tied, so you could easily adjust to fit a younger child.
Question: Are there any blade used this product? Thank you
Answer: I bought this for my 8 year old and it fit perfectly so I don’t think it would work for a taller child.
Question: Is this the model with the lever tension and swivel blade clamps
Answer: Yes it’s pre-tied with Velcro to connect
Question: Is this the Mark 3 or Mark 4 saw
Answer: May be a little long, but will fit around the neck. It's perfectly sized for the height of 6-10 year olds
Question: how long is the blade of this product
Answer: the color is matte
Question: Can I use this to cut 1/8 inch wood dowels or should I use snips
Answer: 13 inches. Great tie. Fits my 7 yro perfect with few inches to grow.
Question: Does it leave saw marks when you cut dowels or wood plug flush with the serface
Answer: Thank you for your question. New stock will arrive for this item early in 2021.
Question: Would this be a good saw for a small petite woman to handle? Need to cut through 3/4" dowels but doesn't have to be perfect cut
Answer: I often wear them with unbuttoned dress shirts. They never show with one and rarely with two. Depends on the shirt manufacturer I guess.

Shark Corp 01-2204 Dowel/Dovetail/Detail Saw Blade

Shark Corp

Based on 107 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Replacement blade for 10-2204 Dowel/ Dovetail/ Detail Saw. Very fine cutting saw with very narrow kerf. Designed for tight detailed cuts in all types of wood. Blade flexibility allows flush cutting of dowels and plugs. A great saw for those detail cuts that a regular saw can¿t handle. Recommended for all woodworkers.

  • Package Dimensions: 12.1 L x 0.3 H x 3.3 W (inches)
  • Package Weight: 0.11 pounds
  • Country of Origin : China

User questions & answers

Question: Will this saw blade work on a marples pull saw mps
Answer: It's a deep red.
Question: where can I buy the saw handle that fit this blade? thanks
Answer: The widest end is 2.5 inches. The narrowest end is 1 3/8 inches.
Question: Most important meaurement, what is the tooth length (first to last tooth
Answer: Hi, Selina, This was a gift and I think the tie went to a thrift shop after a while. It didn't seem too large or two small. I would agree with Michael and Freida - 2 1/2 inches.
Question: how is it you list something as Prime shipping and it takes 6 days to be shipped out , then another 5 days to receive it
Answer: I bought it for my 8 year old grandson. I would say perhaps 8 to 12 year old.
Question: What is the kerf
Answer: Yes. I bought it for my tall 11 year old & it fits well.
Question: Is there a difference between the 370 and 372? They look the same
Answer: I purchased this tie for my 9 and 11 year old and it was a bit long for my 9 year old. I would guess unless your 6 year old is very tall it will be too long on him.

MATCHFIT Dovetail Clamp Pro

Based on 350 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Introducing new MATCHFIT Dovetail clamp Pro create jigs and shop fixtures with the incredibly versatile MATCHFIT Dovetail clamp Pro. With the included ½” 14-degree MATCHFIT Dovetail router bit, you can route your own tracks, and make every inch of your workshop more functional. This revolutionary all-in-one package includes: - MATCHFIT Dovetail clamps - MATCHFIT Dovetail router bit - setup gauge - set of the all-new Dovetail hardware variety pack   Buy all together to save and work smarter. Product Description: it’s everything you need to create your own track system and take your woodworking to the next level. Use the MATCHFIT setup gauge to set the cutting depth of the dovetail router bit, and create your own tracks. The dovetail clamps and dovetail hardware move through the dovetail grooves below the surface of the material, allowing you to create a variety of jigs that move freely, and secure your work piece anywhere you can route a Groove. Create your own fences,  stops, hold-downs, and assembly fixtures in a snap. The dovetail clamp Pro works great with the following: tall fence/jointing sleds table saw sleds auxiliary fences assembly tables edge guides and stops Miter saw bench stops and hold-downs   add to your cart today! Route your own tracks and make every inch of your shop more functional.

  • Revolutionary all-in-one MATCHFIT Package
  • You can route your own tracks to build versatile jigs, fixtures, and hold-downs
  • Dovetail Clamps and hardware move through the dovetail grooves below the surface of the material
  • Create your own Adjustable fences, stops, and sleds
  • Create your own Adjustable fences, stops, and sleds
  • Versatile Hold-Down Clamps for any table saw sled and woodworking jig

User questions & answers

Question: inch shank dovetail bit available for this kit
Answer: Pretty sure the only difference is that the night pacifiers glow in the dark and the day ones do not. Functionally ( other than glowing in the dark) the pacifiers are the same.
Question: Matchfit Dado Stop not included
Answer: Thank you for contacting MAM USA! All the pacifiers can go in the dishwasher. However, place all pacifiers and small bottle parts into a basket on the top shelf of the dishwasher to avoid any parts falling onto the heating element. Be sure all pacifiers have the water expelled following washing/sanitizing. You can do this by holding the pacifier knob with the nipple pointed down. Shake the pacifier repeatedly. Turn it sideways, take some paper towel and squeeze the nipple. This will help remove the water that gets in behind the knob and in the nipple. Repeat the process. Thank you for your question!
Question: tiene un juego con la broca cola de milano en
Answer: Navy LOVE IT!
Question: I have many dovetail bits. DO I need to buy this one for it to fit properly
Answer: The tie itself is 51 inches. I'm guessing it's about 20 when it's tied.

Product features

2) Dovetail Clamps

Secure material for cutting or assembly without your clamps getting in the way.

Dovetail Hardware Variety Pack

Make stops and hold-downs that move freely and tighten down anywhere along your Dovetail Tracks.

Dovetail Router Bit

Engineered to route silky smooth Dovetail Tracks with a single pass.

Setup Gauge

Quickly dial in the Dovetail Router Bit’s cutting depth for fast setups between processes.

Create your own clamp tracks.
Make custom stops and hold-downs.
Clamp anywhere you can route a groove.

Gyokucho Razorsaw Kataba Saw 255mm No. 105

GYOKUCHO

Based on 34 reviews Check latest price
  • Blade is 0.020" thick, 10" long
  • Saw is 22" long with 22 cross-cut teeth per inch
  • Designed for crosscuts in hardwoods such as oak, teak and maple
  • Blade is easily replaceable
  • Handle is wrapped with bamboo for a firm grip

User questions & answers

Question: Is this the model 372? If not do you have the Model 372 Rip & Crosscut combo saw
Answer: The designs will fade eventually but it doesn’t happen right away. It gradually happens over time due to washing and sterilizing (and dropping). You’ll get quite a bit of use out of them though before it starts happening. The only pacifiers that I’ve found where the designs haven’t faded yet (only some scratching from dropping) are the tommee tippie ones with the vintage looking flowers on them.
Question: Two people are saying this is the 372, but the photo is of 410. Which is it
Answer: Hi there! In our instructions, we recommend boiling the pacifiers for 5 minutes or sterilizing the pacifiers prior to use. Please note that during cleaning, some water may enter the pacifier nipple. This is to ensure hygiene inside of the nipple. The water can be expelled by squeezing and shaking the pacifier nipple. Please let us know if you have any further questions!
Question: Two people are saying this is the 372, but the photo is of 410. Which is it
Answer: Correct it is two night paci and one day paci
Question: Is ripcut or crosscut or both
Answer: Hi there, this value package does not come with the sterilizing case. The sterilizing case only comes with our 2 pack of pacifiers. Thank you for your question!

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