Woodworking projects sometimes call for a dowel or rod to be cut off at surface level. Power saws aren't usually up to the task and most hand saws, on top of too inflexible to stay flush with the surface, would damage the surface with their offset teeth.
Enter the Japanese Flush-Cut Saw. This handy saw is not only rigid enough to make fine cuts in thin material, but also flexible enough to press tightly against the surface of your project -- imagine a long, metal spatula with sharp, toothy edges. The teeth curl back toward the handle and do not offset each other which means two things: one, the bottom of the saw is smooth and will not marr up your project; and two, it only cuts on the pull stroke.
There really is no other saw that can do this job. Sure, perhaps only a handful of you will find need for such a device in the near future, but I love this thing, so there you are. And if you are in a family full of men, you now have a new topic to bring up at dinner. And there are birthdays and Father's Day to consider. Isaac calls this simple tool a "revelation."
Funny -- I just noticed this -- ours has a stamp on the blade that reads, "For your pleasant life." How about that!?
We can't live without our pull saw! There are so many uses for it, like cutting the trim around the door to put in a wooden threshold, or to cut off anything non-metal at floor height without damaging the surrounding wood or tile.
Thanks for letting people know about this great saw.
Posted by: Cari Skuse | March 30, 2011 at 06:46 AM
Thanks for sharing. I'm always on the lookout for gifts to give the menfolk in my life. This looks like a winner! LindaSonia
Posted by: LindaSonia | March 30, 2011 at 07:25 AM
I have faced the dilemna of cutting things like that many times and I would love to treat myself to one! Thanks so much for the info. :)
Posted by: Julie | March 30, 2011 at 06:06 PM
This is one of those tools that you buy for the man in your life but know full well that you will get more use out of it than he will!!! ha ha ha
Posted by: 31Summers | March 31, 2011 at 04:58 PM
Love the saw but what do you get for a son who already has one. Please, please a picture of Elijah. I know he is inches taller and wonderful to look at. Since I am not there to see him grow and change I need a picture. What an amazing family you guys have. The most original! I love you all, Crazy Grandma
Posted by: elinor peace bailey | April 01, 2011 at 10:52 AM
Not something you see commented on every day. However , some really valid comments here, thanks for an enlightening post!
Posted by: Jeff | April 04, 2011 at 01:33 PM
This looks like a good opportunity for the wood workers out there. Definitely will keep it in mind as a gift giving possibility. Thanks for the information.
Posted by: bruce | April 05, 2011 at 06:58 AM
Heather,
I want one for me!! I need to saw some legs on something and pretty sure that baby is coming to my house. Thanks for the info!
Nadine
Posted by: nadine woodraska | April 05, 2011 at 01:23 PM
It does look like a handy tool! I assume one would pick it up at a place like Home Depot?
Posted by: George | April 05, 2011 at 02:49 PM
I love saws, though I have absolutely no reason to go and get this one right now. We have super old saws (from the previous owners of the house) and I'm hoping to keep them in good condition for a long time to come.
Posted by: Seanna Lea | April 09, 2011 at 09:53 PM