Best Hand Saw Under £100
Finding a reliable hand saw that balances sharpness, durability, and ergonomics without breaking the bank is key for any DIYer or tradesperson. We have analysed owner reviews, blade specifications, and brand reputations to find the best hand saws under £100 that deliver clean cuts and lasting performance.
Quick answer
For the best all-round performance under £100, the Bahco 244-XT High-Performance Ergo Saw is our top pick, praised for its exceptional blade sharpness and comfortable handle. For a budget-friendly option that still cuts well, the Stanley FatMax 20-550 is a solid choice for general DIY tasks.
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Research updated June 2026.
Bahco 244-XT High-Performance Ergo Saw
Superb sharpness and ergonomic design for fast, accurate cuts.
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bahco 244-XT | Overall Performance | 21 in, 7 TPI | 4.8/5 | Under £100 |
| Stanley FatMax 20-550 | Budget DIY | 22 in, 8 TPI | 4.5/5 | Under £100 |
| Irwin Jack 10503560 | Rough Cutting | 22 in, 7 TPI | 4.6/5 | Under £100 |
| Silky Gomboy 270 | Pruning & Green Wood | 10.6 in, 7 TPI | 4.7/5 | Under £100 |
| Spear & Jackson 20-550 | Traditional Feel | 22 in, 7 TPI | 4.4/5 | Under £100 |
What to Look for in a Hand Saw Under £100
When choosing a hand saw, the blade length, teeth per inch (TPI), and handle comfort are the most critical factors. A 20-22 inch blade is standard for most DIY tasks, while a TPI of 7 to 8 offers a good balance between speed and finish quality. Hardpoint saws are durable and hold their edge well, making them ideal for general use.
Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Hand Saw
A common mistake is buying a saw with too many teeth per inch (TPI) for rough cutting, which leads to slow progress and clogging. Another error is ignoring the handle ergonomics; a poorly designed handle can cause fatigue and reduce cutting accuracy over longer sessions.
Bahco 244-XT High-Performance Ergo Saw
Best OverallPros
- Exceptionally sharp blade out of the box
- Comfortable, non-slip ergonomic handle
- Fast cutting with minimal effort
Cons
- Blade is not replaceable
- Higher price point in the budget range
The Bahco 244-XT is widely regarded as one of the best hand saws available, and its performance justifies the price. Owner reviews consistently highlight how sharp the blade is straight from the pack, cutting through softwood and hardwood with speed and precision. The bi-material handle is designed to reduce vibration and provide a secure grip, even when hands are sweaty.
While the blade cannot be replaced once dull, many users report the saw staying sharp for years of regular DIY use. For anyone wanting a top-tier cutting experience without spending over £100, this is the saw to beat.
Stanley FatMax 20-550
Best Budget DIYPros
- Excellent value for money
- Durable hardpoint teeth stay sharp
- Good all-rounder for various materials
Cons
- Handle can feel bulky for smaller hands
- Not as fast as premium models
The Stanley FatMax 20-550 is a reliable workhorse that offers great performance for its low price. With an 8 TPI blade, it is well-suited for cross-cutting and ripping softwood, and the hardpoint teeth mean it stays sharp for a long time without needing sharpening. Many owners appreciate the comfortable bi-material handle that reduces slipping.
While it may not cut as aggressively as the Bahco, it is a fantastic choice for general DIY tasks around the home. For those on a tight budget, this saw delivers dependable cuts without breaking the bank.
Irwin Jack 10503560
Best for Rough CuttingPros
- Aggressive tooth design for fast cuts
- Durable blade resists bending
- Good for demolition and framing
Cons
- Rougher finish than finer-tooth saws
- Handle may not suit all users
The Irwin Jack 10503560 is built for speed and durability, making it ideal for rough cutting tasks like pruning branches or cutting framing lumber. Its 7 TPI blade is designed to remove material quickly, and the hardpoint teeth maintain their edge well under heavy use. Owner reviews often mention how well it handles tough jobs without binding.
This saw is not intended for fine woodworking, as the cut finish is rougher compared to saws with more teeth. However, for anyone needing a tough, fast-cutting saw for construction or garden work, the Irwin Jack is a strong contender.
Silky Gomboy 270
Best for Pruning & Green WoodPros
- Incredibly sharp for green wood
- Folding design for safe storage
- Lightweight and easy to carry
Cons
- Short blade limits large cuts
- Not ideal for dry timber
The Silky Gomboy 270 is a specialist folding saw that excels at pruning and cutting green wood. Its Japanese-style blade is exceptionally sharp and cuts on the pull stroke, allowing for thin, precise kerfs. Gardeners and arborists frequently praise its ability to slice through branches with minimal effort.
While its short blade makes it less suitable for long rips or cross-cuts in construction lumber, it is unmatched for outdoor and garden use. The folding mechanism also makes it safe to carry in a pocket or tool belt.
Spear & Jackson 20-550
Best Traditional FeelPros
- Classic wooden handle for comfort
- Good balance and weight
- Sharp hardpoint teeth
Cons
- Wood handle can be slippery
- Not as fast as modern ergo designs
The Spear & Jackson 20-550 offers a traditional design with a wooden handle that many users find comfortable and well-balanced. It features a 22-inch blade with 7 TPI hardpoint teeth, making it suitable for general cross-cutting and ripping. Owner reviews note that it cuts well and holds its edge for a reasonable time.
While it lacks the advanced ergonomics of the Bahco, its classic feel and reliable performance make it a good choice for those who prefer a more traditional saw. It is a solid, no-frills option for basic DIY tasks.
FAQs
What is the best hand saw under £100 for general DIY?
The Bahco 244-XT is widely considered the best for general DIY due to its exceptional sharpness and comfortable handle.
Is a hand saw with more TPI always better?
No, a higher TPI (teeth per inch) gives a finer finish but cuts slower, while a lower TPI cuts faster but leaves a rougher edge.
Can I use a hand saw for cutting metal?
Standard hand saws are designed for wood; for metal, you need a hacksaw with a blade specifically for metal cutting.
How do I maintain my hand saw?
Keep the blade clean and dry to prevent rust, and store it in a sheath or dry place to protect the teeth.
What is a hardpoint hand saw?
A hardpoint saw has teeth that are hardened during manufacturing, making them stay sharp longer without needing sharpening.
Is the Stanley FatMax 20-550 good for beginners?
Yes, it is an affordable and reliable saw that is easy to use, making it a great choice for beginners.
What is the difference between a rip saw and a crosscut saw?
A rip saw is designed to cut along the grain of wood, while a crosscut saw is for cutting across the grain.
Can I replace the blade on the Bahco 244-XT?
No, the Bahco 244-XT has a fixed blade that cannot be replaced once it becomes dull.
What is the best hand saw for pruning under £100?
The Silky Gomboy 270 is the top choice for pruning due to its sharp blade and folding design for portability.
How long should a hand saw blade be for general use?
A blade length of 20 to 22 inches is standard for most general DIY tasks and offers a good balance of control and cutting capacity.
Are wooden handles better than plastic handles on hand saws?
Wooden handles offer a classic feel but can be slippery; modern bi-material plastic handles often provide better grip and ergonomics.
What is the best budget hand saw under £100?
The Stanley FatMax 20-550 is the best budget option, offering solid performance and durability at a very low price.
Our verdict
For the best overall hand saw under £100, the Bahco 244-XT is our top recommendation due to its sharp blade and comfortable design. If you are on a tighter budget, the Stanley FatMax 20-550 offers excellent value for general DIY tasks without sacrificing quality.