Best Dovetail Handsaws of 2025

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 2, 2025

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Dovetail handsaws are a type of saw that is specifically designed for making precise cuts in woodworking projects. These saws have a thin, narrow blade that is tapered towards the handle, allowing for greater control and accuracy when cutting. They are particularly useful for cutting dovetail joints, which require a high degree of precision and attention to detail. Dovetail handsaws are available in a range of sizes and styles, from traditional handcrafted models to modern, ergonomic designs. Whether you are a professional woodworker or a hobbyist, a dovetail handsaw is an essential tool for any woodworking project that requires precision and accuracy.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

SUIZAN Japanese Dozuki Dovetail Hand Saw Cover #TOP 1
SUIZAN Japanese Dozuki Dovetail Hand Saw
ftb score rating icon 9.9
IRWIN Dovetail Saw, 7-1/4-Inch Cover #TOP 2
IRWIN Dovetail Saw, 7-1/4-Inch
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Zona Thick Dovetail Saw Cover #TOP 3
Zona Thick Dovetail Saw
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Dovetail Handsaws

SUIZAN Japanese Dozuki Dovetail Hand Saw

D-003
Multicolor
7 Inch (180mm)
SUIZAN Japanese Dozuki Dovetail Hand Saw Cover
SUIZAN Japanese Pull Saw Hand Saw 7 Inch Dozuki Dovetail Saw Tenon Saw for Cross Cut Rip Cut Angle Cut Woodworking tools

The SUIZAN Japanese Dozuki Dovetail Hand Saw is a pull saw made of high-quality Japanese steel, providing razor-sharp cuts. Its lightweight design requires less power and produces a cleaner edge compared to push saws. This product is manufactured by Japanese master craftsmen in a town known for its craft-making tradition. This saw can be used for rip, cross, and diagonal cuts, making it a versatile addition to any woodworking collection.

What We Like
Razor-sharp cuts with high-quality Japanese steel
Lightweight and easy to use with less power required
Made in Japan by master craftsmen with a tradition of over 100 years
#TOP 2

IRWIN Dovetail Saw, 7-1/4-Inch

2011491
Navy
One Size
IRWIN Dovetail Saw, 7-1/4-Inch Cover
IRWIN Marples Dovetail Pull Saw, Fine Woodworking (2011491)

The IRWIN Dovetail Saw with a 7-1/4" blade length is ideal for interior trim work, detailed work around windows, and flush cuts on dowels. The 22-pt. tooth count provides a smooth and even cut. The polymer handle offers comfort and durability.

What We Like
Flexible blade for flush cuts on dowels
Comfortable and durable polymer handle
Smooth and even cut with 22-pt. tooth count
#TOP 3

Zona Thick Dovetail Saw

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

The Zona Dovetail Saw features the longest razor saw blade from the brand, making it ideal for precision cutting. With an 18 TPI (teeth per inch) configuration, it excels in providing clean cuts, which is essential for detailed woodworking projects. The saw is designed for effective 'push stroke' cutting, allowing you to apply more force and achieve better results. Additionally, it has a cut depth of 1-3/4 inches, perfect for tackling thicker materials without hassle. Its overall length of 12-1/2 inches ensures a comfortable grip, giving you the control you need for intricate tasks.

What We Like
Long razor saw blade
Effective push stroke cutting
Clean cuts at 18 TPI
Comfortable grip
Suitable for thick materials
#TOP 4

Temple Tool Co. Japanese Pull Saw

Temple Tool
D-240-R
Temple Tool Co. Japanese Pull Saw Cover
Japanese Pull Saw - Rip-Cut 9.5 - Hand Saw for Dovetails, Tenons, Fine Joinery - Dovetail saw Dozuki Wood Saw - Temple Tool Co.

The Temple Tool Japanese Saw is designed specifically for fine woodworking tasks such as dovetails and tenons. With its sharp rip teeth and lightweight build, you can enjoy effortless cutting that keeps the grain in mind, making your projects smoother and more precise. The beautiful Wingnut wood handle adds elegance while providing a comfortable grip. Handcrafted in Japan, this saw reflects over a century of craftsmanship, ensuring you receive a reliable tool that combines performance with aesthetics. Experience the joy of woodworking with a tool made to enhance your skills, regardless of your experience level.

What We Like
Effortless, precise cutting
High-quality craftsmanship
Comfortable grip
Durable Japanese steel
#TOP 5

SUIZAN Japanese Dozuki Dovetail Hand Saw

D-004
Brown
6 Inch (150mm)
SUIZAN Japanese Dozuki Dovetail Hand Saw Cover
SUIZAN Japanese Pull Saw Hand Saw 6 Inch Dozuki Cross Cut Dovetail Saw Tenon Saw for Woodworking tools

The SUIZAN Japanese Dozuki Dovetail Hand Saw is a pull saw that cuts materials via pulling, resulting in a cleaner edge. Made of high-quality Japanese steel, it delivers razor sharp cuts. All SUIZAN products are manufactured in Japan by Japanese craftsmen. This saw is ideal for cross-cutting with a blade length of 6" and an overall length of 15.5". Using traditional Japanese-style saws can diversify your woodworking and offer a brand new experience.

What We Like
Lightweight and requires less power
Delivers clean and precise cuts
Made of high-quality Japanese steel

Temple Tool Co. 9.5" Ryoba Pull Saw

Temple Tool
R-240
Temple Tool Co. 9.5" Ryoba Pull Saw Cover
Japanese Pull Saw - 9.5 Ryoba Hand Saw with Rip-Cut and Crosscut - Wood Saw for Dovetails, Tenons, Joinery, Cutting Boards to Length & Width- Temple Tool Co.

The Temple Tool Ryoba Saw is a versatile hand tool designed for both rip and cross cuts. With its dual-edge design, you can easily cut along the grain or across it, making it perfect for various woodworking tasks. The high-quality Wingnut wood handle not only looks great but also ensures a comfortable grip during use. Since it cuts on the pull stroke, it features a lightweight and narrow blade that provides smooth and effortless cutting. Crafted in Japan by skilled artisans, this saw reflects a tradition of excellence in woodworking tools.

What We Like
Dual-edge cutting versatility
Comfortable wooden handle
Smooth pull-stroke design
High-quality Japanese craftsmanship

Thomas Flinn Pax Taytools 8 Inch Gent Dovetail Saw

Pax / Taytools
Gold
Thomas Flinn Pax Taytools 8 Inch Gent Dovetail Saw Cover
Thomas Flinn Pax Taytools 8 Inch Gent Dovetail Saw, Solid Rolled Brass Back, 20 TPI, 1-5/8 Inch Wide Plate, Walnut Handle

The Pax Taytools Gent Dovetail Saw is a high-quality handsaw made by Thomas Flinn, the last traditional saw and plane maker in the UK. This saw features an 8-inch long saw plate made from durable high carbon alloy steel, which ensures longevity and easy sharpening. The saw plate also has a solid brass rolled back, measuring 0.500 inches wide and 0.160 inches thick, providing extra weight for smooth and accurate cutting. The 20 TPI (teeth per inch) allows for precise and clean cuts, making it ideal for dovetail joinery. The solid walnut handle, with a solid brass ferrule, offers a comfortable grip and enhances the overall aesthetic of the saw. With its exceptional craftsmanship and thoughtful design, the Pax Taytools Gent Dovetail Saw is a reliable tool for woodworking enthusiasts and professionals alike.

What We Like
High-quality craftsmanship
Precise and clean cuts
Durable and easy to sharpen
#TOP 8

Two Cherries 10-Inch Brass Back Saw

520-6020
Brown, Silver
Two Cherries 10-Inch Brass Back Saw Cover
Two Cherries 520-6020 10-Inch Brass Back Dovetail Saw

The Two Cherries Brass Back Saw is a reliable tool designed for precision cutting of dovetail joints and other fine connections. Its 10-inch length makes it easy to maneuver while providing the control you need for delicate work. Pre-sharpened, this saw is ready to use right out of the box, saving you time and effort. With 15 teeth per inch, it ensures clean and smooth cuts, perfect for achieving professional results. Made from high-quality German steel, the blade offers durability and longevity, making it a valuable addition to your woodworking toolkit.

What We Like
Precision cutting
Ready to use
Durable German steel
Smooth cuts
#TOP 9

Crown FLINN1 Dovetail Saw

Crown
FLINN1
Silver
Crown FLINN1 Dovetail Saw Cover
Crown FLINN1 10-Inch Dovetail Saw

The Crown Dovetail Saw is a top-quality tool designed for precision woodworking. With its high-quality steel blade, you can expect clean and accurate cuts, making your projects smoother and more professional. The beech handle not only offers a comfortable grip but also ensures durability, allowing you to work for extended periods without discomfort. As a product of Crown Hand Tools Ltd from Sheffield, England, you can trust in its exceptional craftsmanship. This saw is a reliable addition to any woodworker's toolkit, enhancing your ability to create intricate joints and detailed designs.

What We Like
High-quality steel blade
Comfortable beech handle
Exceptional craftsmanship
Precision cutting
#TOP 10

Taytools 8 Inch Dovetail Saw

LTB8R
Taytools 8 Inch Dovetail Saw Cover
Lynx Thomas Flinn Taytools British 8 Inch Dovetail Saw with Stained Beech Handle 20 TPI and Filed for Rip Cutting

The Taytools Dovetail Saw is crafted by Thomas Flinn, the last traditional saw maker in the UK. Its saw plate, made from Sheffield spring steel, is tapered to ensure a balance between durability and easy sharpening. A solid brass spine maintains the blade's straightness and rigidity, providing you with a reliable tool for precise cuts. The stained European Beech handle, secured with brass button screws, not only looks elegant but also offers a comfortable grip for extended use. This saw is designed specifically for dovetail cuts, allowing a maximum depth of 2-3/8 inches, making it ideal for your woodworking projects.

What We Like
High-quality Sheffield steel
Comfortable stained beech handle
Excellent rigidity and balance
Designed for precise dovetail cuts
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is a tenon saw the same as a dovetail saw?

A well-sharpened well-set dovetail saw is used as much for other cutting alongside its larger cousin the tenon saw, which also is not a dedicated use saw either. Most tenon saws are sharpened for aggressive rip cut, which is exactly what you need for cutting the cheeks of tenons.

2. What is a dovetail saw good for?

Dovetail saws are ideal for making small cuts that a larger saw would overdo. The precision feature helps with accuracy, an important trait in furniture making and decorative woodworking. Helps you make dovetail joints. Dovetail joints require the precise fit of two parts of wood.

Editor's Notes

During our dovetail handsaw research, we found 24 dovetail handsaw products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 44,140 customer reviews through our big data system to write the dovetail handsaws list. We found that most customers choose dovetail handsaws with an average price of $28.60.

The dovetail handsaws are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of dovetail handsaws, including SUIZAN, IRWIN, Olson, Temple Tool, Pax / Taytools. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 240 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.