Top 29 Slang For Saw – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to woodworking or DIY projects, having the right tools is crucial. One essential tool that often comes in handy is the trusty saw. But did you know there are various slang terms used to refer to this versatile cutting tool? Our team has gathered the top slang expressions for saw to help you navigate the world of woodworking like a pro. Get ready to expand your tool vocabulary and impress your fellow craftsmen with these insider terms!

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1. Buzzsaw

A buzzsaw is a power tool with a toothed rotating blade used to cut through materials such as wood or metal. The term “buzzsaw” is often used colloquially to refer to any type of power saw.

For example, a construction worker might say, “I need to use the buzzsaw to cut these boards.”
In a conversation about woodworking, someone might ask, “Do you prefer using a buzzsaw or a hand saw?”
A DIY enthusiast might say, “I bought a new buzzsaw for my home renovation project.”

2. Chop saw

A chop saw is a type of power saw that is specifically designed for making straight cuts. It is typically used in woodworking or metalworking. The term “chop saw” comes from the motion of the blade as it chops down onto the material being cut.

For instance, a carpenter might say, “I need to use the chop saw to cut these metal pipes.”
In a discussion about power tools, someone might ask, “What’s the difference between a chop saw and a miter saw?”
A DIY enthusiast might say, “I just got a new chop saw for my workshop.”

3. Jigsaw

A jigsaw is a handheld power tool with a reciprocating blade that moves up and down to cut through materials such as wood or plastic. The term “jigsaw” is often used interchangeably with “sabre saw” to refer to this type of tool.

For example, a craftsman might say, “I use a jigsaw to create intricate designs in my woodworking projects.”
In a conversation about power tools, someone might ask, “Can a jigsaw cut through metal?”
A DIY enthusiast might say, “I need to borrow a jigsaw to cut out a piece for my DIY project.”

4. Handsaw

A handsaw is a manual tool with a toothed blade used for cutting through materials such as wood or plastic. Unlike power saws, a handsaw requires physical effort to use. The term “handsaw” is often used to distinguish it from power saws.

For instance, a carpenter might say, “I prefer using a handsaw for small, precise cuts.”
In a discussion about traditional woodworking tools, someone might ask, “Do you still use a handsaw in your projects?”
A DIY enthusiast might say, “I bought a new handsaw for my woodworking hobby.”

5. Circular saw

A circular saw is a power tool with a toothed circular blade used for cutting through materials such as wood or metal. The term “circular saw” is often used interchangeably with “skilsaw” to refer to this type of tool.

For example, a contractor might say, “I use a circular saw to quickly make straight cuts in plywood.”
In a conversation about power tools, someone might ask, “What’s the difference between a circular saw and a table saw?”
A DIY enthusiast might say, “I borrowed my neighbor’s circular saw to cut some lumber for my project.”

6. Reciprocating saw

A reciprocating saw is a type of saw that has a push-and-pull motion. It is commonly referred to as a Sawzall, which is a brand name for reciprocating saws made by Milwaukee Electric Tool.

For example, a construction worker might say, “I need to grab my Sawzall to cut through this metal pipe.”
A DIY enthusiast might ask, “Does anyone have a reciprocating saw I can borrow? I need to demo a wall.”
Another might comment, “I love using my Sawzall for pruning trees. It makes the job so much easier.”

7. Table saw

A table saw is a woodworking tool that has a circular saw blade mounted on an arbor. It is called a bench saw in some regions.

For instance, a carpenter might say, “I need to make a precise cut, so I’ll use the table saw.”
A woodworker might ask, “Does anyone have a bench saw I can use? I need to rip some boards.”
Another might comment, “I prefer using a table saw for joinery. It gives me more control.”

8. Band saw

A band saw is a power tool with a long, sharp blade consisting of a continuous band of toothed metal stretched between two or more wheels. It is commonly referred to as a bandsaw.

For example, a woodworker might say, “I’ll use the bandsaw to cut out the curved shape.”
A craftsman might ask, “Can I borrow your band saw? I need to resaw some lumber.”
Another might comment, “A bandsaw is a versatile tool that can cut through various materials with ease.”

9. Scroll saw

A scroll saw is a small electric or pedal-operated saw used to cut intricate curves in wood or metal. It is also known as a jigsaw, although a jigsaw typically refers to a handheld power tool with a reciprocating blade.

For instance, a woodworker might say, “I’ll use the scroll saw to create detailed scrollwork.”
A crafter might ask, “Does anyone have a jigsaw I can borrow? I want to make a wooden puzzle.”
Another might comment, “A scroll saw is perfect for making intricate cuts and delicate designs.”

10. Miter saw

A miter saw is a power tool used to make accurate crosscuts and miter cuts in a workpiece. It is commonly referred to as a chop saw.

For example, a carpenter might say, “I’ll use the miter saw to cut the trim at a precise angle.”
A DIY enthusiast might ask, “Can I borrow your chop saw? I need to make some angled cuts.”
Another might comment, “A miter saw is essential for making clean and precise cuts in woodworking projects.”

11. Crosscut saw

A type of saw designed for cutting wood perpendicular to the grain. It is called a “crosscut saw” because it is typically used to make crosscuts across the wood fibers.

For example, “We used a crosscut saw to cut down the tree.”
In a woodworking project, someone might say, “I need a crosscut saw to make precise cuts.”
A lumberjack might mention, “Using a crosscut saw requires coordination and teamwork.”

12. Rip saw

A type of saw designed for cutting wood parallel to the grain. It is called a “rip saw” because it is typically used to make rip cuts along the length of the wood.

For instance, “I used a rip saw to cut the boards for the new fence.”
In a carpentry workshop, someone might ask, “Can you pass me the rip saw? I need to trim this piece.”
A DIY enthusiast might say, “Learning how to use a rip saw properly is essential for any woodworking project.”

13. Panel saw

A type of saw designed for cutting large panels or sheets of material, such as plywood or drywall. It is called a “panel saw” because it is commonly used in paneling or construction projects.

For example, “The panel saw made it easy to cut the plywood into the desired sizes.”
In a home renovation project, someone might say, “I need a panel saw to cut these large pieces of drywall.”
A contractor might mention, “A panel saw is a valuable tool for any construction site.”

14. Backsaw

A type of saw with a stiffened back that provides stability and precision during cutting. It is called a “backsaw” because the back of the saw reinforces the blade.

For instance, “The backsaw is perfect for making accurate cuts in woodworking.”
In a carpentry workshop, someone might ask, “Can you hand me the backsaw? I need to make some precise miter cuts.”
A furniture maker might say, “Using a backsaw allows me to create clean and precise joinery.”

15. Bow saw

A type of saw with a narrow blade stretched tightly between two handles, resembling a bow. It is called a “bow saw” because of its shape.

For example, “I used a bow saw to trim the branches of the tree.”
In a gardening project, someone might say, “A bow saw is great for pruning and shaping bushes.”
An outdoor enthusiast might mention, “I always carry a bow saw when camping for firewood.”

16. Dovetail saw

A dovetail saw is a type of woodworking saw used for cutting dovetail joints. It has a thin blade with a reinforced back for precision cutting and creating tight-fitting joints.

For example, a carpenter might say, “I need to use a dovetail saw to cut the tails of this dovetail joint.”
In a woodworking forum, someone might ask, “Can anyone recommend a good dovetail saw for beginners?”
A DIY enthusiast might share, “I just finished building a dovetail jewelry box using my trusty dovetail saw.”

17. Coping saw

A coping saw is a small, narrow-bladed saw used for intricate cutting and shaping of wood, plastic, or other materials. It is commonly used in woodworking and carpentry to make curved or irregular cuts.

For instance, a craftsman might say, “I use a coping saw to cut intricate designs in wood.”
In a DIY tutorial, someone might explain, “To create a perfect coping joint, use a coping saw to carefully cut along the profile.”
A woodworker might recommend, “A coping saw with a fine-tooth blade is essential for precise cuts.”

18. Tenon saw

A tenon saw is a type of handsaw used for cutting tenons, which are projecting pieces of wood that fit into a corresponding mortise to create a strong joint. It has a rigid back and a fine-toothed blade for accurate and clean cuts.

For example, a furniture maker might say, “I always use a tenon saw to cut the tenons for my chairs.”
In a woodworking class, an instructor might demonstrate, “To create a tenon joint, start by cutting the tenons with a tenon saw.”
A carpenter might advise, “When using a tenon saw, make sure to keep a steady hand for a precise cut.”

19. Veneer saw

A veneer saw is a specialized saw used for cutting thin sheets of veneer, which are thin slices of wood used to cover or decorate surfaces. It has a very thin blade with fine teeth to prevent tearing or splintering of the delicate veneer.

For instance, a cabinetmaker might say, “I use a veneer saw to cut precise strips of veneer for my furniture.”
In a woodworking workshop, someone might ask, “What’s the best way to cut veneer without damaging it? Should I use a veneer saw?”
A DIY enthusiast might share, “I just finished applying a veneer to my tabletop using a veneer saw for a perfect fit.”

20. Japanese pull saw

A Japanese pull saw, also known as a ryoba saw, is a type of handsaw used in traditional Japanese woodworking. It has a thin blade with teeth on both sides, allowing for both crosscuts and rip cuts. The pull motion allows for greater control and precision.

For example, a woodworker might say, “I prefer using a Japanese pull saw for its versatility and clean cuts.”
In a woodworking forum, someone might ask, “What’s the best way to sharpen a Japanese pull saw?”
A carpenter might recommend, “If you’re working with delicate materials, a Japanese pull saw is a great choice for precise cuts.”

21. Flush-cut saw

A flush-cut saw is a type of hand saw with a flexible blade that is used for making precise cuts close to a surface. It is often used in woodworking and carpentry to trim off excess material.

For example, when installing laminate flooring, a flush-cut saw can be used to trim the edges for a perfect fit.
In furniture making, a flush-cut saw is essential for trimming dowels or tenons to be flush with the surface.
A carpenter might say, “I always keep a flush-cut saw in my toolbox for those delicate trimming jobs.”

22. Keyhole saw

A keyhole saw is a small, narrow-bladed saw with a handle shaped like a keyhole. It is designed for cutting small, intricate shapes or patterns, particularly in wood.

For instance, when installing a door handle, a keyhole saw can be used to cut the keyhole shape in the door.
In woodworking, a keyhole saw is often used to create curved or irregular shapes in a piece of wood.
A carpenter might say, “A keyhole saw is a must-have tool for any detailed woodworking project.”

23. Drywall saw

A drywall saw is a specialized hand saw with a narrow, pointed blade that is used for cutting drywall. It has a handle that is shaped like a pistol grip for easy control and maneuverability.

For example, when remodeling a room, a drywall saw is used to cut openings for electrical outlets or light switches.
In construction, a drywall saw is often used to make precise cuts in drywall sheets for a perfect fit.
A contractor might say, “A drywall saw is an essential tool for any drywall installation or repair job.”

24. Pruning saw

A pruning saw is a type of saw with a curved blade that is specifically designed for cutting branches and limbs from trees and shrubs. It is commonly used in gardening and landscaping.

For instance, when pruning a tree, a pruning saw is used to remove dead or overgrown branches.
In landscaping, a pruning saw is often used to shape hedges or trim bushes for a neat and tidy appearance.
A gardener might say, “A pruning saw is a must-have tool for maintaining the health and appearance of trees and shrubs.”

25. Hacksaw

A hacksaw is a hand saw with a fine-toothed blade that is used for cutting metal, plastic, and other materials. It has a C-shaped frame with a handle at one end and a blade tensioning mechanism at the other.

For example, when working with metal pipes, a hacksaw is used to cut them to the desired length.
In DIY projects, a hacksaw is often used to cut through bolts, screws, or nails.
A mechanic might say, “A hacksaw is an essential tool in any workshop for cutting metal or plastic materials.”

26. Fret saw

A fret saw is a type of saw with a narrow, fine-toothed blade that is used for making intricate cuts in wood and other materials. It is often used in woodworking and crafting.

For example, a woodworker might say, “I need to use a fret saw to make these delicate cuts.”
A hobbyist might ask, “Can anyone recommend a good fret saw for my woodworking projects?”
Someone learning to use a fret saw might say, “It takes practice to control the blade and make precise cuts.”

27. Compass saw

A compass saw is a type of saw with a narrow blade that has teeth on one side. It is used for making curved cuts in wood and other materials. The name “compass saw” comes from the similarity between the shape of the saw and a drawing compass.

For instance, a carpenter might say, “I’ll use a compass saw to cut out the curved shape.”
A DIY enthusiast might ask, “Can a compass saw be used to cut through metal?”
Someone working on a craft project might comment, “The compass saw allows for precise curved cuts.”

28. Hole saw

A hole saw is a type of saw with a cylindrical shape and a toothed edge. It is used for creating holes in various materials, such as wood, plastic, and metal. The saw’s design allows for the removal of a circular piece of material.

For example, a plumber might say, “I need a hole saw to install a new faucet.”
A DIYer might ask, “What size hole saw should I use for drilling through drywall?”
Someone working on a home improvement project might comment, “The hole saw makes it easy to create clean, precise holes.”

29. Sliding compound miter saw

A sliding compound miter saw is a power tool that is used for making crosscuts and miter cuts in various materials, including wood, plastic, and metal. It has a sliding feature that allows the blade to move forward and backward, increasing its cutting capacity.

For instance, a carpenter might say, “I’ll use a sliding compound miter saw to cut the trim at an angle.”
A DIY enthusiast might ask, “Can a sliding compound miter saw be used to cut metal?”
Someone working on a woodworking project might comment, “The sliding compound miter saw offers precision and versatility for making angled cuts.”