8 Best Hacksaws (To Cut Metal, Steel, PVC Pipes, and More)

Last Updated on November 5, 2022 by Barry Gray

Since time immemorial, people have been using hacksaws to cut through tough materials such as metal, steel, or PVC pipes. Although hacksaws have evolved over time, they are still one of the most important tools that you should have. 

But with all the different options available on the market, choosing the best hacksaw can be overwhelming. That is why I have compiled a list of 8 of the best hacksaws.

I tested various hacksaws on different materials such as steel pipes, metal, and bolts before compiling the best ones. I have also included a buyer’s guide at the bottom so that you know how to choose the right hacksaw for you. 

hacksaw cutting pipe

Premium Choice HacksawLenox High-Tension Hacksaw (1213HT50)

  • Blade length: 12 inches
  • Maximum blade tension: 50000 PSI
  • Number of teeth: 24
  • Weight: 1.85 lbs

The Lenox 1213HT50 has everything you might need in a hacksaw: comfort, quality, design, and overall effectiveness. This hacksaw uses an I-beam construction, which allows the blade to reach tensions of up to 50000 PSI for more accuracy and faster cutting. The frame is large enough to have enough space for storing 5 extra blades! 

The hacksaw is well-designed and gives you a good line of sight while cutting. The handle is rubberized, making it very easy and comfortable to grip and use. You can use this tool in any kind of environment – even when it is cold and wet. You can use a Lenox reciprocating blade to even convert this tool into a jab saw. You can saw through the toughest of materials with ease using this hacksaw. 

Pros

  • Blade tension of up to 50000 PSI
  • Faster and more accurate cutting
  • High quality blades made in the USA
  • Rubberized handle is comfortable to hold
  • Storage space
  • Can be converted into a jab saw

Cons

  • Changing the blade is a bit difficult
  • Not suitable for professional work

My Thoughts: This is one of my favorite hacksaws. It does the job wonderfully and its features really make it very easy to use. 

Best Budget-friendly HacksawCraftsman Hacksaw (CMHT20138)

  • Blade length: 12 inches
  • Maximum blade tension: 225 lbs
  • Number of teeth: 24
  • Weight: 1.23 lbs

The Craftsman CMHT20138 is one of the most wallet-friendly hacksaws out there. But that doesn’t mean it compromises on its quality. It works just as well as the other high-end hacksaws that cost twice as much. It is a no-frills hacksaw that works efficiently and gets the job done. You can cut wood, plastic, or metal with this hacksaw. 

The frame of this hacksaw is made out of solid metal and can handle tensions of up to 225 pounds to ensure stability. There is a large tension knob that is easy enough to use. You can comfortably tighten the saw for added blade security while handling heavy-duty tasks. The full grip handle also adds to the comfort level of the hacksaw. 

The 12-inch blade is capable of making cuts that are 4.375 inches deep. You can also make flush cuts because the blade is adjustable from 90 degree to 180 degree handles. The blade is also easy to switch out. The hacksaw works very well, but it is not suitable for heavy-duty jobs or for daily-use. There have been complaints about the product arriving with missing parts, so make sure you can easily get a replacement in case that happens. 

Pros

  • Very affordable
  • Solid metal frame
  • Can handle tensions of up to 225 lbs
  • Large tension knob
  • Comfortable to hold
  • Blade is adjustable from 90 degrees to 180 degrees
  • Swapping blades is easy
  • Cutting depth of 4.375 inches
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Not suitable for heavy-duty work
  • Complaints of the hacksaw being delivered with missing parts

My Thoughts: If you need a hacksaw only for some occasional light-duty work, this is an ideal choice. It does the job well and won’t burn a hole through your wallet, either. 

Best Versatile HacksawDewalt 5-in-1 Hacksaw (DWHT20547L)

  • Blade length: 12 inches
  • Maximum blade tension: 330 lbs
  • Number of teeth: 24
  • Weight: 2 lbs

As the name suggests, the Dewalt DWHT20547L is a 5-in-1 hacksaw, meaning you get 5 functions in the same tool. You can use it as a regular hacksaw, a low profile hacksaw, a pistol grip jab saw, a long reach saw, and also a 45 degree saw. 

The Dewalt DWHT20547L is great for heavy duty tasks. It feels very sturdy in your hands and has an amazing blade-tightening system that makes sure the tool won’t wobble around while using it. The tool can handle a tension of up to 330 pounds, which makes for smooth and accurate sawing. The tensioning lock is a bit tight, but applying a tiny bit of grease should loosen it up. 

The handle is covered with rubber, which means you can grip it comfortably. It is designed to accommodate large hands (or hands with gloves) quite easily. Its versatile functions allow you to cut even in tight spaces. You can use the 45 degree or 90 degree angle for flush cuts. The tool even has a space to store extra blades. It is a bit more expensive and heavier when compared to other hacksaws, but it is well worth the money and the weight helps with tackling heavy-duty jobs. 

Pros

  • Sturdy and durable
  • Great for tackling heavy-duty jobs
  • Very versatile
  • Amazing blade tightening system
  • Easy to change blades
  • Rubberized handle
  • Smooth and accurate sawing
  • Can make flush cuts with it
  • Can use it in tight spaces as well
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons

  • A bit expensive
  • Heavier than other hacksaws
  • The tensioning lock is a bit tight

My Thoughts: The Dewalt name has a reputation when it comes to the tools industry, and this hacksaw is a perfect example of it. With its features and versatility, it offers a lot of bang for the buck. This is a tool that will last you a very long time!

Best Compact HacksawCapri Tools Mini Hacksaw (20105)

  • Blade length: 12 inches/ 10 inches
  • Maximum blade tension: Not available
  • Number of teeth: 24
  • Weight: 0.43 lbs

When you want to cut something in tight spaces, you need a compact hacksaw, which is where the Capri Tools mini hacksaw comes in handy. The tool is super compact and lightweight and weighs less than a pound. This allows for precision when cutting bars and poles in places where a regular hacksaw won’t fit. It has a patented design that lets you use either a 12 inch blade or a 10 inch blade

The mini hacksaw has a body made out of heavy duty aluminum, so it is surprisingly durable despite its size. It has an ergonomic non-slip soft handle that makes the tool comfortable to hold and use. The saw blade is made of heavy duty bi-metal. It doesn’t have a tension adjustment feature, but the blade is held securely, so you don’t have to worry about it wobbling around. 

It is convenient, easy to use, and makes for a great addition to your tool box. You can even use it underwater! Keep in mind that this hacksaw is not suitable for heavy-duty work, though. 

Pros

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Ideal for cutting in tight spaces
  • Accommodates blades of two sizes
  • Durable
  • Ergonomic handle
  • Heavy duty bi-metal blade
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons

  • No tension adjusting feature
  • Not suitable for heavy-duty work

My Thoughts: This hacksaw works great for its intended use, which is cutting in tight places that will be hard to access with a regular hacksaw. It will come in handy for jobs that need a small tool, so it is best to have this along with a regular hacksaw.

Most Comfortable To UseKlein Tools 702-12 Hacksaw

  • Blade length: 12 inches
  • Maximum blade tension: 30000 PSI
  • Number of teeth: 24
  • Weight: 1.5 lbs

When you use a tool for long periods of time, your muscles are bound to get tired. This is why comfort is one of the most important things you need to consider when looking for a tool. In that department, the Klein 702-12 hacksaw delivers.

This hacksaw has a lightweight aluminum build and features soft grips that make it comfortable to hold. It is also durable. Moreover, the handle offers a convenient storage space for extra blades. However, the top tube storage has a bolt going through it, so you may not be able to store too many blades. 

This tool is versatile and comes with a hacksaw blade as well as a reciprocating saw blade, which means you essentially get 2 tools for the price of 1. The blades are made out of bi-metal, which means they are durable. It has an adjustable blade tension of up to 30000 PSI which allows for fast and precise cuts. It also has an alternative 45 degree mounting for flush cuts

Pros

  • Comfortable to use
  • Durable
  • Soft grips
  • High tension
  • Storage space for extra blades
  • Comes with a reciprocating saw blade, so it is 2 tools in 1
  • Bi-metal blades are durable
  • 45 degree mounting for flush cuts

Cons

  • Storage space has a bolt going through it, so the number of blades you can store will be limited
  • The storage space lid is flimsy
  • Heavy to hold

My Thoughts: A versatile tool that is comfortable to hold and will last you a long time? Yes, please! However, I recommend that you make alternate arrangements for blade storage as this feature is less than desirable on the hacksaw. 

Easiest Hacksaw To UseMilwaukee 48-22-0012 Hacksaw

  • Blade length: 10 inches
  • Maximum blade tension: Not applicable
  • Number of teeth: 24
  • Weight: 0.5 lbs

The Milwaukee 48-22-0012 is yet another compact hacksaw that is ideal for cutting in tight spaces. With a weight of only half a pound, it is very lightweight and is one of the easiest hacksaws to use. It will come in handy for when you want to breeze through different tasks that require a simple compact hacksaw. 

The hacksaw’s handle has a rubber over mold which makes it comfortable to hold. The blade is made out of bi-metal and is very durable. My favorite feature of this tool is that it allows for a blade replacement that is 10x faster when compared to other hacksaws. That’s right! The tool-less blade change feature makes swapping out the blades a breeze. 

What’s even better is that you can also adjust the blade length for easier flush cutting! Overall, it is a great tool that feels very light in your hands and works well for small jobs in tight spaces. It is not really suitable for everyday use or for heavy jobs, though. So it will work best as an addition to a regular hacksaw. 

Pros

  • Very easy to use
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Ideal for cutting in tight spaces
  • Rubber over mold handle is easy to grip
  • Bi-metal blade is durable
  • 10x faster blade change
  • Tool-less blade change
  • Blade length is adjustable for flush cuts
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Not suitable for heavy-duty jobs
  • Not suitable for daily use

My Thoughts: Just like the Capri mini hacksaw, this one works great for its intended use. Use it in addition to your regular hacksaw for the best results. 

Best High-tension HacksawCrescent Nicholson 4-in-1 Pro Series Hacksaw (MSA 80975)

  • Blade length: 12 inches
  • Maximum blade tension: 30000 PSI
  • Number of teeth: 12
  • Weight: 0.3 lbs

The Nicholson has an amazing blade tensioning system and can handle tensions of up to 30000 PSI. This means fast and accurate cutting! The hacksaw is also very lightweight – it weighs only a third of a pound. It comes with a cushioned grip handle for more comfort and control. This feature, along with its weight, make this hacksaw easy to use. 

This tool is good for general use with its 90 degree position. You can also angle it at 45 degrees for flush cuts. One of my favorite things about this hacksaw is its low-profile position system. Using this, you can make a wide variety of cuts with the hacksaw. To use it in tight spaces, you simply have to fold the front of the frame. 

It can also be configured as a jab saw to make inside cuts. However, you cannot use the hacksaw blade for the jab saw. The frame has a place where you can store your blades as well. But it doesn’t seem to be very well thought out. It only supports one extra blade. The quick tension release allows you to change blades and tension easily as well. Overall, it is a great hacksaw that offers multiple cutting options. 

Pros

  • High tension
  • Lightweight
  • Cushioned grip
  • Can make flush cuts
  • Low-profile position system
  • Can be used as a jab saw
  • Storage space inside the frame
  • Quick tension release
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Blade storage space is poorly designed
  • Cannot use the hacksaw blade for the jab saw

My Thoughts: Versatile, lightweight, and high tension. What more could you ask for? This tool is well worth the price and I definitely recommend it!

Best Value for The MoneyBeetro Hacksaw Set

  • Blade length: 12 inch/ 10 inch/ 6 inch
  • Number of teeth: 24/ 18
  • Weight: 2.16 lbs

The Beetro hacksaw set is.. well.. a set. This means you get three different hacksaw frames – a 12 inch hacksaw, a 6 inch hacksaw, and a mini 10 inch hacksaw. What’s better is that each hacksaw frame comes with 2 blades! All of them are made out of aluminum alloy and high carbon steel, meaning they are sturdy and durable

The ergonomic handle design of the hacksaw offers maximum security and comfort while cutting. There are different blades for cutting through wood, metal, and PVC pipes. There is also a dual-sided blade that can be used to cut both wood and metal. 

The 12 inch hacksaw allows adjustable blade angles of both 45 degrees and 90 degrees so that you can meet your different cutting needs. It also has a large easy-turn knob which makes blade adjustments easy. The 10 inch hacksaw is great for making intricate cuts, and the 6 inch one can be used to cut in tight spaces. Changing the blades is also super easy! 

Pros

  • 3 hacksaws of different sizes for different needs
  • Durable
  • Ergonomic handle design
  • Extra blades
  • Dual-sided blade to cut both wood and metal
  • Can be used to make flush cuts
  • Changing blades is easy
  • Large easy-turn knob

Cons

  • Complaints of blades being flimsy
  • Need screwdriver to change blades on the 10 inch hacksaw

My Thoughts: I love this kit because you are basically getting 3 hacksaws for the price of 1. They are pretty sturdy and can meet all of your different cutting needs!

Now that we are done with the best hacksaw recommendations, here is an in-depth guide for you so that you know what to choose when you are looking for a hacksaw. 

How To Choose The Best Hacksaw for You

using hacksaw to cut aluminum

Hacksaws are pretty straightforward tools. Still, there are some things you need to look out for when you choose one. 

Tension

A hacksaw that can withstand high tension is recommended because this will ensure that the blade remains taut and does not wobble when in use. 

Sharp Blades

Obviously, a blunt blade isn’t going to be of much help to you, so make sure the blades of the hacksaw are sharp enough to cut through metal and plastic.

Durability

Your hacksaw should be sturdy and durable enough to last you a long time. Make sure it is well-built using top quality materials. 

Versatility

More and more versatile hacksaws are popping up on the market. Check whether your hacksaw can be converted into other tools – such as a jab saw.

A versatile hacksaw means you are essentially getting 2 tools (or more) for the price of 1, which is obviously a better deal for you.

Hacksaws that can accommodate blades of different sizes are also useful. 

Storage Space

Some hacksaws come with a space to store your extra blades – either in the handle or in the frame. This makes for safe blade storage and makes it very easy for when you want to swap blades as well. 

Weight

Since you will be using the hacksaw by hand, it needs to be of an optimal weight. Too light, and it may not have enough power to cut. Too heavy, and your hands will get tired. 

Ergonomic Handles

Look for handles that have a rubber overmold. They help you grip the tool more comfortably and make it easier for you to work longer without getting tired. 

That’s it for now, folks. Hope you enjoyed this article. Let me know which hacksaw you ended up choosing in the comments below. Don’t forget to wear protective gear! As always, happy woodworking! 

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Barry Gray

Hi, I’m Barry. I’ve loved woodworking and bringing things back to life for more years than I care to remember. I hope my passion for tools comes across loud and clear in everything you read here on The Tool Square.

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