A bowsaw or bucksaw is a bow shaped metal-framed crosscut saw with a coarse wide blade. It is a tool that can be used for cross-cutting branches and trees up to six inches (150 mm) in diameter.
It is the traditional tool for cutting Christmas trees as the bow lies flat or parallel to the ground while cutting. No hindrance occurs with lower branches as may occur with a chainsaw.
A bowsaw is also a good tool for pruning as it comes in a range of sizes and cuts parallel to the trunk.
A bucksaw is yester-year’s version of a bowsaw. It has a long blade set in a wooden “H” frame rather than a curved bow.
Editor’ tip: this is a coarse blade saw, not recommended for fine work or clean, straight cuts.
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