Hand Saws · 37 compared side by side

Best Hand Saws for Cutting Metal in 2027

Choosing a hand saw for cutting metal comes down to three things: the blade material, the tooth count (TPI), and the frame's reach. Bi-metal and HSS blades hold up better against steel and aluminum than plain carbon blades. Higher TPI numbers, such as 24, give finer cuts in thin stock. Blade length and cutting depth decide how big a piece you can work through. Frame type and tool-free blade changes affect control and speed. We put 37 products on one spec sheet so you can compare these details directly.

Quick answer

  • Best overall: KATA KT21019M (#1, Best Score 72; blade length 10.0 in, blade tpi 24 TPI)
  • Tool-free blade swaps: KLEIN TOOLS 31432 (#2, Best Score 67; blade length 10.0 in, blade tpi 24 TPI)

Ranked from 37 hand saws that met our standard, compared on blade material, teeth per inch (TPI), blade length.

Updated November 202694 reviewed · 37 met our standard11 specs comparedBy Comparabo editors

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Top picks

Best overall
#1
KATA KT21019M

KATA KT21019MKATA 10-in Mini Hacksaw

Ranks first on our spec score and includes three 24 TPI bi-metal blades.

Blade length
10.0 in
Blade TPI
24 TPI
Weight
0.30 lb
Check price on Amazon
Tool-free blade swaps
#2
KLEIN TOOLS 31432

KLEIN TOOLS 31432Klein Tools Compact Medium-Cut Hacksaw

Tool-free blade change and a 24 TPI bi-metal blade in a 10 in frame.

Blade length
10.0 in
Blade TPI
24 TPI
Weight
0.50 lb
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Top pick
#3
Mossy Oak MO17009

Mossy Oak MO17009Mossy Oak 3-in-1 Folding Saw

Blade length
7.5 in
Blade TPI
—
Weight
0.77 lb
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Comparison table

Swipe or scroll sideways to see every model.
Top 10 hand saws
Spec
#1
KATA KT21019M
Best overallCheck price on Amazon
#2
KLEIN TOOLS 31432
Tool-free blade swapsCheck price on Amazon
#3
Mossy Oak MO17009
Check price on Amazon
#4
Hanpex X053-AU
#2 on our Best ScoreCheck price on Amazon
#5
KLEIN TOOLS 31432FC
Check price on Amazon
#6
HAUTMEC HT0398
Tool-free 12-in optionCheck price on Amazon
#7
PLOWFAR PLHTHF0722-red-1
Check price on Amazon
#8
AIRAJ HF-1074
Check price on Amazon
#9
Lenox 12132HT50
Check price on Amazon
#10
SUIZAN SFL-003
Check price on Amazon
Best Scoreout of 10072676565656161605959
Saw typeMini hacksawCompact hacksawfolding pruning sawHacksawHacksawHacksawHacksawHacksawHacksawFlush cut pull saw
Blade lengthin10.0 in10.0 in7.5 in12.0 in (best in row)10.0 in12.0 in (best in row)12.0 in (best in row)12.0 in (best in row)12.0 in (best in row)7.1 in
Cutting depthin———4.00 in—4.00 in4.00 in4.00 in——
Blade TPITPI24 TPI24 TPI—24 TPI—24 TPI24 TPI24 TPI24 TPI30 TPI
Blade materialbi_metalbi_metal—bi_metalbi_metalbi_metalbi_metalbi_metalbi_metal—
Included bladescount3 count (best in row)—3 count (best in row)——1 count——1 count—
Tool-free blade change—Yes (best in row)Yes (best in row)—Yes (best in row)Yes (best in row)Yes (best in row)Yes (best in row)—No
Adjustable blade angle——Yes———————
Weightlb0.30 lb (best in row)0.50 lb0.77 lb0.66 lb0.45 lb0.69 lb——1.85 lb0.31 lb
Handle gripErgonomic handleContoured overmolded handleTPR rubber comfort grip handleNon-slip durable handleContoured overmolded handleSoft non-slip ergonomic handleErgonomically shaped handle—Rubberized handlesWingnut wood wrapped in vinyl rattan
Warranty————————Lifetime*—
Best in row— not published by the maker yet

How we chose

We reviewed 94 hand saws and kept only the 37 that pass every check below. Those are ranked by a Best Score built from spec fit for this job, sales rank.

Read the full method

In-depth reviews

The reviews below are based on each product's specifications and listing information. They do not reflect hands-on use.

Best overall

KATA KT21019MKATA 10-in Mini Hacksaw

Light, compact mini hacksaw with three bi-metal blades

Blade length
10.0 in
Blade TPI
24 TPI (best of the reviewed tools)
Weight
0.30 lb (best of the reviewed tools)
Included blades
3 count (best of the reviewed tools)

The KATA mini hacksaw takes the top spot on our spec score, and its listing focuses on small, controlled cuts. It has a 10 in frame and a 24 TPI bi-metal blade. The listing says the blade suits metal rods, thin tubing, bolts, PVC, and plastic. Weight is 0.3 lb, the lowest in this lineup, so it is easy to hold for long stretches of light work.

Three blades come in the box: one installed and two spares. That matters if you plan to cut several metal pieces or switch to plastic without buying more blades. The handle is listed as ergonomic, which supports steady, short strokes. The listing does not mention tool-free blade changes or a cutting depth, so check those before you buy.

The listing is clear that this saw is for light-duty work. It is not meant for heavy demolition, large lumber, or thick hardened steel. For a buyer who cuts rods, bolts, and thin tubing, that limit is useful to know. For thicker stock, a full-size saw is a better match.

Pros

  • Three bi-metal blades included
  • Lightest in the lineup at 0.3 lb
  • Ergonomic handle for control

Cons

  • Light-duty use only, per listing
  • Cutting depth not published
Buy it if
you need a compact saw for thin metal rods, bolts, and tubing.
Skip it if
you plan to cut thick steel or large stock.

VerdictA strong pick for light metal and plastic cuts, with spare blades and the lowest weight on the page.

Tool-free blade swaps

KLEIN TOOLS 31432Klein Tools Compact Medium-Cut Hacksaw

Compact 10-in saw with a tool-free blade lever

Blade length
10.0 in
Blade TPI
24 TPI (best of the reviewed tools)
Weight
0.50 lb
Included blades
—

The Klein Tools compact hacksaw is a 10 in saw with a 24 TPI bi-metal blade. Klein lists it for low-clearance areas, where a shorter frame is easier to position. Weight is 0.5 lb, and the listing describes a flexible blade that bends with the cut to help maintain flush cuts.

Its main listed feature is tool-free blade exchange. A lever lets you change blade length and swap blades without tools. The blade can extend to reach hard-to-reach places. The contoured overmolded handle is listed for secure handling. Cutting depth is not published, so check the fit for your stock.

This saw suits a buyer who works in tight spaces and changes blades often. It does not list a blade count, and it has no published cutting depth. If you need a longer stroke for pipe or rebar, a 12 in saw on this page fits that job better.

Pros

  • Tool-free blade exchange lever
  • Extendable blade for hard reach
  • Light at 0.5 lb

Cons

  • Shorter 10 in blade
  • No cutting depth published
Buy it if
you work in tight spaces and swap blades often.
Skip it if
you need a deep cut in large pipe.

VerdictA compact, tool-free option for tight spots, with a 24 TPI bi-metal blade.

#2 on our Best Score

Hanpex X053-AUHanpex 12-in High-Tension Hacksaw

Full-length 12-in bi-metal hacksaw with adjustable tension

Blade length
12.0 in (best of the reviewed tools)
Blade TPI
24 TPI (best of the reviewed tools)
Weight
0.66 lb
Included blades
—

The Hanpex 12-in hacksaw has a 12 in blade, a 24 TPI bi-metal blade, and a 4 in maximum cutting depth. A longer blade gives you more length per stroke, and the 4 in depth covers many pipes and bars. The listing names stainless steel, copper tube, iron pipe, and rebar among suitable materials.

The frame has an adjustable tension knob, and the listing says a steel-reinforced core supports cutting speed. Weight is 0.66 lb, which is light for a 12 in saw. The handle is described as non-slip, a useful feature when you press hard on metal. No included blade count is published, so plan on spares for a long job.

Compared with the 10 in saws on this page, the longer blade suits bigger stock. It lists the same 24 TPI bi-metal blade and 4 in depth as the HAUTMEC, and it weighs less than the CRAFTSMAN. It is a practical middle choice for metal work that needs reach.

Pros

  • 12 in blade for longer strokes
  • 24 TPI bi-metal blade
  • 4 in cutting depth listed

Cons

  • Blade count not published
  • No tool-free blade change listed
Buy it if
you want a full-length hacksaw for pipe and rebar.
Skip it if
you need a tool-free blade swap.

VerdictA solid 12 in bi-metal hacksaw with a listed 4 in depth and a non-slip handle.

Tool-free 12-in option

HAUTMEC HT0398HAUTMEC 12-in High Tension Hacksaw

12-in bi-metal hacksaw with tool-free tension and blade changes

Blade length
12.0 in (best of the reviewed tools)
Blade TPI
24 TPI (best of the reviewed tools)
Weight
0.69 lb
Included blades
1 count

The HAUTMEC 12-in hacksaw pairs a 12 in, 24 TPI bi-metal blade with a 4 in cutting depth. The listing describes a steel frame that keeps tension high to reduce blade bending. According to the maker, that detail supports straighter cuts in metal.

Blade tension adjusts with a top-mounted knob, and the listing says no tools are needed for blade changes. The soft non-slip handle is listed for comfort during longer use. Weight is 0.69 lb, close to the Hanpex at 0.66 lb. One blade is included, so keep spares on hand.

The listing names steel pipe, copper tubing, plastic pipe, and wood as cutting targets. It presents itself as an all-purpose saw. For metal-only work with thick stock, check whether the depth and blade suit your material before buying.

Pros

  • 24 TPI bi-metal blade
  • Tool-free blade change
  • 4 in cutting depth listed

Cons

  • Only one blade included
  • Depth is 4 in, not deeper
Buy it if
you want a 12 in bi-metal saw with tool-free blade changes.
Skip it if
you need more than one blade in the box.

VerdictA capable 12 in bi-metal hacksaw with tool-free blade changes and a listed 4 in depth.

Deepest cut listed

CRAFTSMAN CMHT20138CRAFTSMAN Hand Saw, 12-Inch Hacksaw (CMHT20138)

Deepest-cutting 12-in hacksaw with adjustable blade angles

Blade length
12.0 in (best of the reviewed tools)
Blade TPI
—
Weight
1.33 lb
Included blades
1 count

The CRAFTSMAN 12-in hacksaw lists the largest cutting depth on this page at 4.375 in. Its blade is 12 in long. The listing says the solid metal frame is designed for tension up to 225 lbs. A deeper cut can reach larger stock without repositioning as often.

The blade angle adjusts to 90 and 180 degrees, which the listing says allows flush cuts. A large tension knob and full-grip plastic handle are noted for comfort. Weight is 1.33 lb, the heaviest here, so expect more arm effort over long cuts. The listing does not state blade material or TPI.

Because the listing leaves blade material and TPI unstated, confirm the blade spec before cutting metal. This model suits a buyer who values depth and angle control more than a published fine-tooth spec. Only one blade is included.

Pros

  • Deepest cut listed, 4.375 in
  • Adjustable 90 and 180 degree angles
  • Frame rated for 225 lbs tension

Cons

  • Heaviest here at 1.33 lb
  • Blade material and TPI not listed
Buy it if
you need depth and flush-cut angles more than a fine blade spec.
Skip it if
you need a confirmed bi-metal or 24 TPI blade.

VerdictBest for depth and angle flexibility, but the listing leaves blade material and TPI unstated.

Best among the reviewed tools

Buying guide

Check the blade material first

Bi-metal and HSS blades are the materials named for cutting steel and other metals. Confirm the blade material on the spec sheet before you buy. Some listings leave it out, so ask the maker if it matters for your job.

Match TPI to the metal

Higher TPI means finer teeth and smoother cuts in thin metal. The saws here list 24 TPI, which suits rods, tubing, and bolts. Thicker stock can need a different tooth count, so check your material.

Think about blade length and depth

Blade length sets how much you can cut per stroke. Cutting depth sets how large a pipe or bar fits in the frame. Longer blades and deeper frames suit bigger stock, while 10 in saws fit tight spaces.

Look for blade changes and angles

Tool-free blade changes make swapping blades faster. Adjustable blade angles help with flush cuts near a surface. Weight matters on long jobs, since heavier saws tire your arm faster.

FAQ

What is the best hand saw for cutting metal?

Based on our spec score, the KATA 10-in Mini Hacksaw ranks first. It lists a 24 TPI bi-metal blade and includes three blades. It is built for light-duty metal cuts such as rods, bolts, and thin tubing, and the listing says it is not for thick hardened steel.

Is a bi-metal blade good for cutting steel?

Bi-metal blades are one of the materials listed for cutting metal. Most saws on this page list a 24 TPI bi-metal blade. Check the blade on each product, since the CRAFTSMAN listing does not state its blade material or TPI.

What does TPI mean on a hacksaw blade?

TPI stands for teeth per in. A higher number means more, finer teeth. The saws on this page list 24 TPI, which the listings describe for metal rods, tubing, and bolts. Fine teeth give smoother cuts in thinner metal.

Which hacksaw is best for tight spaces?

The Klein Tools compact hacksaw and the 10-in saws on this page suit tight spaces better than 12-in frames. The Klein listing says its blade can extend to reach hard-to-reach places and that its blade changes are tool-free.

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Helpful guides

Top pick · #1KATA KT21019M
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