9 best coping saws

A coping saw is a type of handsaw that is commonly used in woodworking and carpentry. It is a versatile tool designed for making intricate and detailed cuts, often used for tasks like cutting curves, patterns, and coping joints. Here's what you need to know about coping saws:

  1. Blade and Frame:

    • A coping saw consists of a thin, narrow blade attached to a U-shaped frame.
    • The blade is typically removable and can be replaced with different types of blades suitable for various materials and cutting tasks.
  2. Blade Tensioning:

    • Coping saws have a mechanism for adjusting the tension of the blade. Proper tension is essential for accurate cutting.
    • To change the blade or adjust its tension, most coping saws feature a screw or a quick-release lever.
  3. Blade Orientation:

    • The blade of a coping saw is typically installed with the teeth facing the handle. This allows for precise cutting when making intricate shapes and curves.
  4. Cutting Techniques:

    • Coping saws are ideal for making curved or irregular cuts in wood, plastic, and even some metals.
    • They are commonly used for coping joints, such as when fitting molding or trim to match irregular wall surfaces.
  5. Versatility:

    • Coping saws are versatile tools that can be used for various tasks, including cutting out notches, creating curves, and trimming excess material.
    • They are also popular among hobbyists and craftsmen for making detailed and artistic cuts in wood and other materials.
  6. Safety:

    • Like all hand tools, safety is crucial when using a coping saw.Always wear appropriate safety gear, such as safety glasses and gloves.
    • Ensure that the workpiece is securely clamped or held in place to prevent movement during cutting.
  7. Maintenance:

    • To keep a coping saw in good working condition, regularly inspect the blade for damage and replace it when it becomes dull or broken.
    • Clean the saw and lubricate any moving parts to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
  8. Availability:

    • Coping saws are widely available at hardware stores, home improvement centers, and online retailers. They come in various price ranges and qualities, so you can choose one that suits your needs and budget.

In summary, a coping saw is a valuable hand tool for making precise and intricate cuts in various materials, particularly in woodworking and carpentry. It is a versatile tool that allows for detailed work, making it a popular choice among professionals and hobbyists alike. Proper maintenance and safe usage are essential for getting the best results from a coping saw.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best coping saws on the market
  

IRWIN Tools ProTouch Coping Saw (2014400)

IRWIN

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This IRWIN ProTouch Coping Saw has a Flat-Bar frame and DuraSteel pins to provide lasting use. The ProTouch handle features an ergonomic triangular shape to provide comfort during long sessions. The high-speed steel coping saw blades help make quick work of most materials.

The Irwin ProTouch 6-1/2-Inch Coping Saw has a high-speed steel blade for precision cuts and DuraSteel pins to keep the blade in place. The ergonomic triangular ProTouch handle keeps your hands comfortable and in control. This coping saw is backed with a lifetime warranty.

From the Manufacturer

ProTouch¿ Coping Saw, PT Handle

  • High-speed steel coping saw blades cut through most materials with ease
  • A Flat-Bar frame and DuraSteel pins on this coping saw provide durable use
  • This coping saw has an ergonomic ProTouch handle to give added comfort
  • 17-pt. tooth count
  • 5-1/2" frame depth and 6-1/2" blade length
  • High-speed steel coping saw blades cut through most materials with ease
  • A Flat-Bar frame and DuraSteel pins on this coping saw provide durable use

User questions & answers

Question: What saw blade comes with this coping saw? course or fine
Answer: Amazon specify that the blade that comes with the saw has 17pts. That would make it the coarse blade as fine blades have 21pts blades
Question: Can blade be locked to 90° position
Answer: The blade can be tightened in any position but I don’t think that is has any notched positions available that it can be locked in.
Question: Where is it made
Answer: Like Kobalt, True Tempure, Craftsman , Irwin has gone with these companies to provide above standard low cost premium tools, made in China. Now let's look at the other end of the spectrum, Fruend, German tool manufacturer sells their stainless steel coping saw for about 89.00 with one blade. Irwin sells for under 20.00 with an additional pack of blades[ 3] for about 7.00.
Question: Does the handle unscrew to loosen the tension on the blade
Answer: Yes it does, holding the holder for blade and turning handle will loosen blade. I always keep the blade tight, unless I am replacing blade.

Product features

ProTouch Coping Saw Features:

  • High speed steel blade for ease of cutting through material
  • Flat-Bar frame and DuraSteel pins for durability
  • Ergonomic ProTouch Grips for comfort

About Irwin Tools:

IRWIN TOOLS manufactures and distributes professional grade hand tools and power tool accessories worldwide for trade professionals who demand superior performance and durability on the job. For over a century, innovation has been the hallmark of IRWIN TOOLS. Beginning in 1885, with the development of the first IRWIN Auger Bit, and progressing with the introduction of Vise-Grip Locking Tools, SPEEDBOR Flat Bits, MARATHON Saw Blades, and QUICK-GRIP Bar Clamps, IRWIN has been at the forefront of the industry, creating superior tools for the professional tradesman.

OLSON SAW SF63510 Coping Saw Frame Deluxe Coping Frame/End Screw, Original

OLSON SAW

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This is a sturdy, professional saw that allows standard pin end coping saw blades to be tensioned at both ends (using the handle and thumb screw) for more precise cuts in wood plastic and metal. Saw intricate, irregular or curved shapes with complete control!

Blades can be turned 360 degrees to saw in any direction - push or pull stroke.

Depth of cut is 4-3/4". Hard wood handle. Equipped with Olson's 6-1/2" long 15 TPI blade. Uses any 6-1/2" long Coping Saw Blade.

  • This is a sturdy, professional saw that allows standard pin end coping saw blades to be tensioned at both ends
  • Blades can be turned 360 to saw in any direction- push or pull stroke
  • Hard wood handle
  • Power source type: Hand Powered

User questions & answers

Question: Would this be good for cutting through professional clay sculptures with armature wire inside? (about action figure scale 5-6 inches tall
Answer: Efficacy will depend on the hardness of the clay, the gauge of the internal wire armature, and blade selection, but with the proper blade this is a very good coping saw. The wire armature might be real problem though, if it is any thicker than say window screen mesh. Thinner-gauge (more TPI / Teeth Per Inch) blades, such as 32 TPI, will be better for metal cutting, and give cleaner cuts through the clay. But: more fragile and breakable than thicker blades.
Question: What are the measurements of the frame
Answer: The inside dims are 6.5" X 4.112" or 6 1/2" X 4 1/8" . the frame is asymmetrical so the dims vary slightly.
Question: What is country of origin
Answer: Nearly positive it is US. I have four of these saws, as I have rwo shops. Saw is inexpensive enough to set one with the blade turned to the right and the other to the left-as I use the saws for wasting out dovetails, makes the task quicker. Get Pegasus blades and tension correctly, you'll have a saw as good as the hundred dollar spread.
Question: Does this saw come with a starter blade or do I need to buy one (or a pack) separately
Answer: Comes with a blade. Olson makes excellent blades and you may want a variety pack of their blades.

Product features

Olson's Deluxe Coping Saw

Sturdy, professional saw holds standard 6-1/2" pin end coping saw blades. Great for precise cutting of intricate, irregular and round shapes with complete control! Blades can be turned 360º to saw in any direction. Depth of cut is 4-3/4in. Hardwood handle. Equipped with Olson 15 TPI blade.

Unique Blade Tensioning Screw

Blades can be tensioned at both ends (using the handle and thumb screw) You also can use the saw to cut on the push or pull stroke. These saws are widely used to cut moldings – to create coped rather than mitered joints.

Portable and Sturdy

Featuring a hardwood handle to provide steady control, the Olson Saw SF63510 Coping Saw Frame Deluxe Coping Frame with blade tensioning end screw makes DIY projects simple, smooth and accurate. Popular for cutting dovetails, this hand tool easily cuts a variety of larger projects and trim materials. Being portable, this saw by Olson can be carried anywhere around the workplace.

Cut soft metals

With this coping saw frame you can add a blade for cutting soft metals and cut lead, gold, silver, tin, zinc, aluminum, copper, brass and bronze.

IRWIN Tools Coping Saw Blades, Fine, 3-pack (2014501)

Irwin Tools

Based on 529 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Replacement blades for the ProTouch Coping Saw (2014400). Fine-tooth blades (also available in coarse-tooth). Carbon Material. IRWIN Tools Coping Saw Blades, Fine, 3-pack (2014501)

From the Manufacturer

Coping Saw Replacement Blades (Fine-21pt)-Carded-3PK

  • The package length is 23.5 centimeters
  • The package height is 0.25 centimeters
  • The package width is 5.08 centimeters
  • Package Weight : 4.54 grams
  • For fine woodwork

User questions & answers

Question: What is the length between the pins
Answer: Distance between pins is 6-1/2". Overall length of blade is approx 3/16" longer.
Question: How many total blades? It says 3 pack - is this 3 blades, or 3 packs with 3 blades each (total of
Answer: total # of blades=3
Question: can these cut stainless steel Hex Nuts
Answer: IRWIN #2014501 is recommended for Plastic and Wood cutting applications.
Question: package says life time guarantee, So if I break o ne they will be replaced
Answer: HAND TOOLS GUARANTEE FULL LIFETIME GUARANTEE: Each IRWIN hand tool is warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship for the life of the tool under normal wear and tear, except for damage caused by misuse or alteration. Return the tool to place of purchase for replacement if warranty applies. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, which vary from state to state.Limited Warranty: IRWIN warrants to the original owner that their products are free from defects in material and workmanship for it’s reasonable useful life. IRWIN MAKES NO OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, CONCERNING THE PRODUCT OF THE MERCHANTABILITY FOR FITNESS THEREOF FOR ANY PURPOSE.

Olson Saw CP30800BL Coping Saw Blade, 24-TPI

Based on 79 reviews Check latest price

Product description

For precise sawing of wood, plastic, copper and other soft metals. Made from the finest hardened and tempered spring or high carbon steel with precision punched or milled teeth for accurate sawing, smooth finishes and longer life.

  • For precise sawing of wood, plastic, copper and other soft metals
  • Made from the finest hardened and tempered spring or high carbon steel with precision punched
  • Extra fine teeth for smooth finish, extra narrow for tight turning
  • Item Package Dimension: 8" L x 2" W x .5"D
  • Blades are 6-1/2" long between pins

User questions & answers

Question: How many blades in a pack
Answer: There are 4 blades in a pack.
Question: From pin-to-pin, how long are the blades
Answer: Pin to pin center distance is 6-5/16 inch [163.34mm] Pin diameter is 0.047 inch [1.22mm]. Pin lenghth is 0.145 inch [3.70mm] Blade thickness is 0.017 in [0.42mm]
Question: What holds the non handle end of the blade stationary? Positive stops? Or a setting nut like the Olson? Thank you in advance
Answer: It’s a post and slot on both ends. Very secure fitting for holding the blade. You may be able to enlarge the picture on Amazon to get a better view.
Question: Does it come with a blade
Answer: Yes, it comes with a blade.
Question: Is this made in the United States
Answer: it is not. but it is solidly constructed. heavy wooden handle, and the flat steel of the throat allows for a higher tension then on models with rounded metal.
Question: What is the screw quality? I have bought 2 coping saws with the same problem, the screw gets loose doesn't screw anymore and the coping saw is useless
Answer: I bought this for the same issue . It is a good saw not great .It suffers from the same issues as the cheap ones just not quite as bad .
Question: Does this fit craftsman
Answer: Yes, the coping saw blades are standard size to fit all.
Question: What is the length of the blade? Description says 9.6” package says
Answer: 6-1/2" (165mm)

Product features

CP30800BL 4 Extra Fine , 24 TPI (teeth per inch), .090" wide x .018" thick

These Coping Saw Blades are 6-1⁄2″ Long between pins to fit all standard coping saw frames

For precise sawing of wood, plastic, copper and other soft metals. Made from the finest hardened and tempered spring or high carbon steel with precision punched or milled teeth for accurate sawing, smooth finishes and longer life.

Extra Fine Teeth

A coping saw is a type of bow saw used to cut intricate external shapes and interior cut-outs in woodworking or carpentry. It is widely used to cut moldings to create coped rather than mitre joints. They are also used for cutting dovetails. Coping saw blades are always thicker and coarser cutting than typical fret or scroll saw blades. Coping saws can cut circles if used carefully.

Smithline Ergonomic Professional Grade Coping Saw

Smithline

Based on 42 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Smithline Ergonomic Professional Grade Coping Saw has a new, patented soft grip handle. This new design improves your comfort, reduces wrist strain, allows for more flexible grips and more variation in hand position while cutting. The Smithline Ergonomic Professional Grade Coping Saw has a standard 6 1/2" blade, with a throat depth of 4 3/4". The Ergonomic coping saw is made from top quality materials for long-lasting professional and home use. The new ergonomic handle is manufactured and assembled on the frame in Canada.

  • NEW Patented ERGONOMIC Handle for improved comfort & handling
  • REDUCE WRIST STRAIN with our newly designed soft grip handle
  • QUALITY STEEL frame for professional use
  • Rubberized COMFORT grip
  • Hardened tempered blade for clean cutting

KAKURI Coping Saw Coping Frame and 5 Replacement Blades Set (Woodworking, Wood Board, Plastic, and Metal Cutting Blade)

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price
  • MULTI-PURPOSE COPING SAW BLADE REPLACEABLE TYPE: An easy-to-use saw with replaceable blades. It comes with blades for woodworking, wood plate, PVC, and light metal so that you can cut various types of objects. Ideal for DIY and craftwork as well as dismantling work.
  • DEEP FRAME DESIGN FOR A VARIETY OF TIMBER: Since the frame has a depth of 6.3" (160 mm), you can cut out even large and wide timber at once. The frame is less likely to interfere even when cutting curves or hollowing out the inside of wood.
  • EASY INTERCHANGEABLE STYLE: No special tools (wrenches or screwdrivers ) are required to replace the blade. Just rotate the handle to remove the blade and replace it with a new blade. You can quickly and easily attach a spare blade by hand. Even when working outdoors without tools, you can replace the spare blade and choose it to match the object you cut.
  • SPECIAL QUENCHING FOR LONG-LASTING SHARPNESS: All of the blades are completely hardened and tempered, so they have a long durable, excellent sharpness. The handle is easy to hold with the wooden handle that fits in your hand.
  • PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS: Blade Type: General woodworking×2, Wooden board ×1, Plastic×1, Light metals×1 / Blade Length: 5.1 inches / Frame depth: 6.3 inches /Overall Size: 6.9×1.1×11.8 inches/ Weight: 7.4 oz

Product features

Cut various material just by one saw set!

Includes 4 types of spare blades for cutting various materials such as wood, plastic, and light metal. It is a convenient fret saw set that can widely use from DIY to dismantling garbage. Easy to cut smooth curves. Since all the blades are completely hardened, the sharpness lasts long. The handle is a wooden grip that fits in your hand.

Deep frame structure!

Since the frame depth is 6.3", large and thick materials can be cut. The frame does not get in the way when cutting curves or cutting inside of materials.

Easy to interchange!

If you want to cut different kinds of materials, you can easily replace the blade. Blades can be replaced with just your hands, and no special tools are required.

For General Woodworking (x 2)

Normal blade for general woodworking. For soft wood such as lauan, cedar, and cypress.

For Wooden Board (x 1)

Specifics for thin plywood board. For hard wood such as oak, pine, and teak.

For plastic, PVC (x 1)

Extra fine teeth blade for plastic materials. For plastics, PVC pipes, laminated wood, etc.

For light metal (x 1)

Special ironworking teeth blade. For light metals such as brass, copper, and aluminum.

OLSON SAW CP30000BL Coping Saw Blade Assortment

OLSON SAW

Based on 457 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Olson coping saw blade set - 4-pack assortment pack coping saw blades. 6-1/2" Long between pins to fit all standard frames. Includes 1 each: fine, medium, coarse, and metal cutting blade. Made from the finickiest hardened and tempered spring or high-carbon steel with precision punched or milled teeth for accurate sawing, smooth finishes, and long life. - blade length: 6-1/2 in., teeth per inch: 10, 15 & 18 TPI, Pkg Qty: 4, Package Type: Card

  • For precise sawing of wood, plastic, copper and other soft metals
  • Made from the finest hardened and tempered spring or high carbon steel with precision punched
  • Contains one each of 303, 304, 306, & 307
  • Package dimensions:0.51"L x 3.81"W x 17.53"H

User questions & answers

Question: What is the length of these blades
Answer: Randall this confusing. The package says blades it fits standard 6 1/2" coping saws, but between pins it measures 6 3/8". My Olson saw has a lot of adjustment. Good Luck
Question: Has anyone tried sharpening these with regular saw files
Answer: Let's see. One must build a saw chock (to hold the blade in a vise). Then, assuming an 18-ppi blade, you have to sharpen 6 x 18 = 108 teeth with a small file. You could, using a double extra-slim taper 4" file, attempt to sharpen these, I suppose. It would take you maybe a half-hour if you know what you're doing and if you can find all your equipment right away. But I'll spend the $6 and get four more blades rather than go to all that work to save a buck and a half. Interesting question, though.

Product features

Made in USA

Assortment Pack of 4 Coping Saw Blades 6-1/2in. long between pins to fit all standard frames.

4-blade Assortment

Made from the finest hardened and tempered spring or high carbon steel with precision punched or milled teeth for accurate sawing, smooth finishes and long life.

For standard coping saws

For precise sawing of wood, plastic, copper and other soft metals.

Cuts a variety of materials

Fine- .125" wide x .020" thick 20 TPI Fine teeth for a smooth finish, narrow width for tight turning.

Medium- .125" wide x .020" thick x 15 TPI Most common blade used for coping saw.

Coarse- .125" wide x .020" thick x 10 TPI Coarse, fast cutting of thicker materials.

Metal Cutting .250" wide x .014" thick x 32 TPI For cutting non-ferrous metals such as aluminum, copper, brass & mild steel.

Zona 36-678 Coping Saw Blades, 6-1/2-Inch Long Between Pins, 125-Inch x 020-Inch x 15 TPI, 4-Pack

ZONA

Based on 151 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Flat wire frame for tensioning standard pin end coping saw blades. Precise cuts in wood, plastic and metal. 12″ overall length. 61⁄4″ depth of cut. Blades can be turned 360 to saw in any direction. Comes with 61⁄2″ long, 15 TPI blade.

  • Flat wire frame for tensioning standard pin end coping saw blades
  • Precise cuts in wood, plastic and metal. 12″ overall length
  • Blades can be turned 360 to saw in any direction
  • Item Package Dimension: 8.5" L x 1.5" W x 0.5" H

Product features

Zona 4-pack of coping saw blades

6-1/2" between pins .125" wide x .020" thick - 15 TPI

Made in USA!

Fits standard coping saws

A coping saw is a type of saw used to cut detailed external shapes and interior cut-outs in woodworking or carpentry. It is especially used to cut moldings to create coped rather than mitered joints. ... Coping saws can alsor cut slight bends in the work, allowing circles to be cut if used carefully.

Smithline SL-400 Professional Grade Coping Saw

Based on 141 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Smithline Heavy Duty Coping Saw has a solid steel frame for better durability. Blade length is 6 1/2"; throat depth is 4 3/4". Handle material: rubber/plastic. This coping saw is made from top quality materials for both professional and home use. The saw comes with 2 medium blades, 1 fine blade and 2 extra-fine blades to allow for versatility in cutting various types of wood (including MDF).

  • Heavy Duty Coping Saw
  • Rubberized comfort grip
  • Quality steel frame for professional use
  • Four additional blades included
  • Hardened tempered blades for clean cutting

User questions & answers

Question: does this saw have aluminum blade holders
Answer: Thanks for the question. The blade holders are a die cast zinc alloy.
Question: What country is this made in
Answer: Hello! Thanks for your question. The coping saw is made in China using quality materials. The frame is made with thick, solid steel to keep tension on the blade.
Question: Does this saw frame hold its tension when tightened or does the blade become more flexible as the frame looses its tension
Answer: Thanks for your question. It is a very solid frame that is designed to hold the tension.
Question: I this possible to get a saw with a frame which has at least 10" L x 6" H in inner dimensions
Answer: Hello, thanks for the question. Unfortunately our coping saws are a standard 6” blade and 4.5” depth.

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