Tools I wish I owned: Japanese pull saws

Sometimes, when working with a delicate piece of molding or cabinetry, I need a cutting tool that will cut with surgical precision.

And as I've recently found out, a Japanese pull saw is a carpenter's scalpel.

Western-style saw blades must be thick enough to resist the pressure of a push stroke. Because Japanese saws cut on the pull stroke, the blade is about half as thick. This means a you're making a much thinner, more precise cut.

To begin a cut, grip the handle like you're shaking hands. Hold the blade low to the work, at about 10 degrees, beginning the stroke with the back end of the blade (the part closest to your hand).

With a little downward pressure, pull the saw toward you. Other than watching out for sawdust accumulating in your saw line, it's basically that simple.

You'll be surprised at how quickly and easily one of these lightweight, seemingly flimsy, spatula-like saws slips through wood.

Just don't push it.