Jigsaw vs. Hacksaw — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 5, 2024
A jigsaw is an electric tool for detailed cutting curves on various materials, whereas a hacksaw is a manual tool designed for straight cuts, primarily in metal.
Difference Between Jigsaw and Hacksaw
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Jigsaws are power tools that enable precise curved cuts in a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic, making them versatile for detailed work. Whereas hacksaws are manual saws with a C-shaped frame that hold a thin, fine-toothed blade, ideal for cutting through metal pipes and bars.
While jigsaws offer the flexibility to make intricate shapes and patterns due to their fine blades and variable speed settings, hacksaws are best for straightforward tasks requiring linear cuts. The precision of a jigsaw in crafting curves contrasts sharply with the utility-focused design of the hacksaw.
The operational mechanics differ significantly; jigsaws use an electric motor to move the blade in a rapid up-and-down motion, facilitating smooth cuts in delicate projects. On the other hand, a hacksaw requires manual effort, with the user applying physical force to push and pull the blade through the material.
Jigsaws can accommodate various blade types, allowing them to cut through materials ranging from dense hardwood to metal and ceramics, showcasing their adaptability. Hacksaws, while primarily used for metal, can also cut plastic and wood, but their effectiveness is limited by the material's thickness and the blade's tooth configuration.
The choice between a jigsaw and a hacksaw depends on the nature of the project. Jigsaws are preferred for detailed, artistic cuts and complex shapes, while hacksaws are chosen for their simplicity and effectiveness in making straight cuts, especially in plumbing and metalwork.
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Comparison Chart
Type
Electric power tool
Manual tool
Cutting Action
Up-and-down motion
Push-and-pull motion
Best For
Detailed, curved cuts
Straight cuts in metal
Material Usage
Wood, metal, plastic, ceramics
Primarily metal, some plastics and wood
Blade Type
Various, for different materials
Fine-toothed, replaceable
User Effort
Dependent on electricity, less physical strain
Manual, requires physical effort
Precision
High for intricate shapes and patterns
High for linear, clean cuts
Compare with Definitions
Jigsaw
Versatile Material Handling.
With the right blade, the jigsaw smoothly cut through the metal sheet.
Hacksaw
Primarily Used for Metal.
The plumber reached for her hacksaw to size the copper tubing.
Jigsaw
Power Tool for Detailed Cuts.
He used the jigsaw to cut intricate patterns into the plywood for the art project.
Hacksaw
Manual Tool for Straight Cuts.
He used a hacksaw to cleanly cut through the metal pipe.
Jigsaw
Ideal for Curves and Complex Shapes.
Crafting a custom puzzle, the jigsaw proved indispensable for the complex shapes.
Hacksaw
Dependent on Physical Effort.
Cutting through the thick metal required considerable effort with the hacksaw.
Jigsaw
Variable Speed Settings.
Adjusting the jigsaw’s speed allowed for precise control over different materials.
Hacksaw
C-shaped Frame Holding a Blade.
With a new blade, the hacksaw made quick work of the steel bar.
Jigsaw
Electric Operation.
Plugging in the jigsaw, she appreciated how quickly it powered through the workpiece.
Hacksaw
Simple yet Effective Design.
For straightforward cuts, the simplicity of the hacksaw was unmatched.
Jigsaw
A usually power-driven saw with a narrow vertical blade, used to cut sharp curves.
Hacksaw
A hacksaw is a fine-toothed saw, originally and mainly made for cutting metal. The equivalent saw for cutting wood is usually called a bow saw.
Jigsaw
To cut or form with a jigsaw.
Hacksaw
A saw consisting of a tough, fine-toothed blade stretched taut in a frame, used for cutting metal.
Jigsaw
To arrange intricately; interlock.
Hacksaw
A saw, with a blade that is put under tension, for cutting metal
Jigsaw
A power saw with fine teeth and a narrow blade which can cut curves in wood or metal.
Hacksaw
To cut with a hacksaw.
This bolt is so rusted I'll have to hacksaw it off.
Jigsaw
A jigsaw puzzle.
Hacksaw
Saw used with one hand for cutting metal
Jigsaw
Something that can be compared to a jigsaw puzzle.
Jigsaw
(transitive) To cut something using a jigsaw.
Jigsaw
A portable power saw with a reciprocating blade; can be used with a variety of blades depending on the application and kind of cut; generally have a plate that rides on the surface that is being cut
Jigsaw
Fine-toothed power saw with a narrow blade; used to cut curved outlines
Common Curiosities
Are jigsaws safe for beginners?
Yes, with proper safety precautions and guidance, jigsaws can be safely used by beginners.
What is a jigsaw primarily used for?
A jigsaw is used for making precise, intricate cuts and shapes in various materials.
How do you choose a hacksaw blade?
Choose based on the material to be cut and the desired finish, considering the blade's tooth count per inch (TPI).
Can a hacksaw cut wood?
Yes, a hacksaw can cut wood, though it's primarily designed for metal and works best on thin wood pieces or non-hardened materials.
Is a jigsaw suitable for straight cuts?
While a jigsaw can make straight cuts, it excels at curved and complex shapes.
What is the main advantage of a hacksaw over a jigsaw?
The main advantage is its simplicity and effectiveness in making straight cuts in metal.
Can a hacksaw blade be installed backwards?
Yes, and depending on the cutting direction, flipping the blade can make push cuts easier.
Are there battery-operated jigsaws?
Yes, there are cordless jigsaws powered by rechargeable batteries.
What materials can a jigsaw not cut?
Jigsaws struggle with very thick or extremely hard materials, where a more powerful saw might be necessary.
How often should hacksaw blades be replaced?
Replace them when they become dull or damaged to ensure clean cuts and safety.
Can jigsaws be used to cut tiles?
Yes, with the appropriate blade, jigsaws can cut ceramic tiles.
How does the blade thickness affect a hacksaw's performance?
Thicker blades are less prone to bending and breaking, offering more stability during cutting.
Why might someone choose a jigsaw for a project?
For its ability to make precise, decorative cuts and its versatility across materials.
Is there a significant price difference between a jigsaw and a hacksaw?
Yes, jigsaws, being power tools, are generally more expensive than manual hacksaws.
What's the importance of variable speed in a jigsaw?
It allows for control over the cut, adapting the speed to different materials and intricacies.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
