Japanese Woodworking Tools Gain Western Converts

Japanese woodworking tools are gaining ground in Western workshops, with pull-saw sales up 35% year-over-year according to major retailers. The shift reflects a broader interest in techniques that prioritize precision over power.

Why Pull Saws Work Differently

Traditional Western saws cut on the push stroke, requiring thicker blades to prevent buckling. Japanese saws cut on the pull stroke, allowing thinner blades that remove less material and create cleaner cuts with less effort.

For joinery work, this translates to tighter-fitting joints straight from the saw, reducing cleanup time with chisels and planes.

Starting Points for Beginners

The ryoba, a double-edged saw with crosscut teeth on one side and rip teeth on the other, offers versatility for those testing the waters. Quality entry-level options from brands like Gyokucho or Z-Saw run $30-50.

Many furniture makers now maintain both Western and Japanese saws in their tool kits, selecting whichever best suits the task at hand. There’s no need to commit exclusively to either tradition.