After extensive research and testing, we have identified the top panel saws on the market. Our top pick for the best panel saw is the Crown 189 22-inch Panel Saw.
Panel saws are a type of saw that is designed to make straight cuts on large sheets of wood, such as plywood, particleboard, and medium-density fiberboard (MDF). They are commonly used in woodworking shops, furniture factories, and construction sites.
Panel saws come in various sizes and styles, including vertical and horizontal models. The best panel saw should be easy to use, accurate, and durable.
When purchasing a panel saw, the most critical thing to consider is its size and capacity. The size of the saw will determine the maximum size of the sheet that can be cut. The capacity of the saw will determine the thickness of the material that can be cut.
Other factors to consider include the quality of the blade, the power of the motor, and the safety features of the saw.
In this article, we have researched and tested several panel saws to identify the best panel saw for both professionals and hobbyists.
We evaluated each saw based on its accuracy, ease of use, durability, and safety features. We also considered the price of the saw to ensure that it provides good value for money.
Whether you are a professional woodworker or a hobbyist, our recommendations will help you find the best panel saw for your needs.
Best Panel Saws
When it comes to cutting large sheets of wood, there’s no tool more efficient and precise than a panel saw. These saws are designed to make quick work of cutting panels, sheets, and boards to size, and they’re an essential tool for any serious woodworker or carpenter.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best panel saws on the market, comparing features, performance, and value to help you find the right tool for your needs.
1. Crown 189 22-Inch Panel Saw with 10 TPI
If you’re looking for a high-quality panel saw, the Crown 189 22-inch Panel Saw with 10 TPI is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The resharpenable high-carbon steel blade is exceptionally durable and long-lasting.
- The stained beech handle is comfortable to grip and securely attached with screws.
- The teeth are set and sharpened for optimal performance.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the set is slightly heavy to the right, which can affect tracking.
- The saw may require some adjustments to the teeth and set to achieve the best results.
- The lacquer on the blade may need to be removed before use.
This panel saw is manufactured by Crown Hand Tools Ltd in Sheffield, England, and it shows in the exceptional quality of the tool. The blade is made from resharpenable high-carbon steel, which makes it durable and long-lasting.
The stained beech handle is comfortable to grip, and it’s secured with screws to ensure that it stays in place during use. The teeth are set and sharpened for optimal performance, so you can cut through panels with ease.
One potential downside of this saw is that some users have reported that the set is slightly heavy to the right, which can affect tracking.
Additionally, the saw may require some adjustments to the teeth and set to achieve the best results. Finally, the lacquer on the blade may need to be removed before use to ensure that it cuts properly.
Overall, the Crown 189 22-inch Panel Saw with 10 TPI is a high-quality tool that’s worth considering if you’re in the market for a panel saw.
With its durable blade, comfortable handle, and optimized teeth, it’s sure to make your cutting tasks easier and more efficient.
2. Spear & Jackson 9500R Back Saw
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable panel saw, the Spear & Jackson 9500R Back Saw is worth considering.
Pros
- The universal teeth allow for general use and cut along and across the grain, making it versatile for various woodworking projects.
- The precision cross-ground teeth ensure a smooth and clean cut.
- The skew-back design provides balance and reduced friction, making it easier to use.
Cons
- The handle is made of wood, which may not be as durable as other materials.
- The saw may require sharpening after extended use.
- It may not be suitable for heavy-duty or professional use.
This back saw is perfect for DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists who need a reliable saw for occasional use. It’s easy to handle and provides clean and precise cuts.
The universal teeth make it versatile for various woodworking projects, and the skew-back design provides balance and reduced friction, making it easier to use.
The handle is comfortable and securely fixed by rivet, but it’s made of wood, which may not be as durable as other materials. The saw may require sharpening after extended use, but the teeth can be resharpened.
It may not be suitable for heavy-duty or professional use, but it’s a great option for those on a budget or just starting out in woodworking.
Overall, the Spear & Jackson 9500R Back Saw is a reliable and affordable option for those in need of a panel saw for occasional use.
3. Japanese Mini Dozuki Panel Saw
If you’re looking for a compact and precise saw for cutting panels or veneer, the Japanese Mini Dozuki Panel Saw is highly recommended for beginners.
Pros
- The “Woodpecker” hook tooth at the tip “V” end of the blade is used to scratch the line to start the first cut.
- The metal backbone (Dozuki) helps keep the blade stiff.
- The cane-wrapped wood handle is comfortable to grip.
Cons
- The saw is small, which may not be suitable for larger projects.
- The replacement blade is sold separately.
- The saw may not be suitable for cutting thicker materials.
This saw is perfect for detail work, and it effortlessly cuts through wood like a hot knife through butter. The blade is sharp and stays that way for years of steady use.
The Woodpecker hook tooth at the tip is particularly useful for starting the first cut, and the metal backbone keeps the blade stiff for accurate cuts. The cane-wrapped wood handle is comfortable to grip, making it easy to use for extended periods.
However, this saw is small, which may not be suitable for larger projects. The replacement blade is sold separately, which may be an inconvenience for some users. Additionally, the saw may not be suitable for cutting thicker materials.
Overall, the Japanese Mini Dozuki Panel Saw is an excellent choice for those looking for a compact and precise saw for detail work.
4. Z-saw Dozuki Piercing 150 Mini Panel Saw
If you’re looking for a high-quality panel saw, the Z-saw Dozuki Piercing 150 Mini Panel Saw is definitely worth considering. With its precision cutting and pocket cutting capabilities, this saw is ideal for a wide range of precision work from electrical work to DIY.
Pros
- The functional “Woodpecker” tooth at the tip of the blade allows for pocket cutting without a preparation hole, making it easier to use in tight spaces.
- The replaceable blades make it economical and convenient to use.
- Z-saw is a trusted brand and one of the leading pioneers in the Japanese handsaw manufacturing industry.
Cons
- The blade length of 150mm may not be long enough for some users.
- The saw is specifically designed for precision work, so it may not be suitable for larger cutting projects.
- The saw is relatively expensive compared to other options on the market.
If you’re looking for a high-quality panel saw that can handle precision cutting and pocket cutting, the Z-saw Dozuki Piercing 150 Mini Panel Saw is definitely worth considering (check out the best hole saw kit).
With its replaceable blades and trusted brand name, this saw is built to last and can be used for a wide range of projects.
In terms of drawbacks, the blade length of 150mm may not be long enough for some users, and the saw is specifically designed for precision work, so it may not be suitable for larger cutting projects.
Additionally, the saw is relatively expensive compared to other options on the market.
Overall, if you’re in need of a reliable and precise panel saw, the Z-saw Dozuki Piercing 150 Mini Panel Saw is definitely a product to consider.
5. Okada Hardware Mfg Dozuki mini panel saw (H-150)
If you are looking for a saw that can handle intricate works such as crafting musical instruments and dovetails with precision and ease, the Okada Hardware Mfg Dozuki mini panel saw 150 (Dozuki H-150) is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The ultra-precision saw with the finest teeth in the panel saw series makes smooth cuts with great accuracy.
- The blade attachment and detachment are compatible with the mini-panel saw series, making it easy to switch blades as needed.
- The saw is ideal for crafting musical instruments, dovetails, and other intricate works.
Cons
- The saw is designed for general wood, thin plate, plywood, and balsa, so it may not be suitable for heavier materials.
- The maximum cutting depth is 38mm, which may not be deep enough for some projects.
- The saw is corded, so it requires an electrical outlet for use.
The Okada Hardware Mfg Dozuki mini panel saw 150 (Dozuki H-150) is a beautifully crafted saw that delivers precise and clean cuts.
The blade is made from polished cold rolled high-carbon steel strips, which are sourced from prestigious manufacturers in the international market under strict quality control.
The teeth of the blade are ground using the company’s self-developed automatic tooth grinding system using CBN grinding wheels. Even the smallest distortion is automatically detected and carefully corrected.
The saw is also hardened through the “Hard Impulse” treatment to increase the degree of hardness to the level of HV800-950 (64.0 – 68.2 HRC), which is the maximum hardness that can be achieved on steel.
This makes the teeth of the saw blade extremely durable and long-lasting.
The Okada Hardware Mfg Dozuki mini panel saw 150 (Dozuki H-150) is ideal for DIY projects and professional use.
Whether you are a woodworker, carpenter, or hobbyist, this saw can help you achieve the precision and accuracy you need for your projects. The saw is also compact and lightweight, making it easy to store and transport.
Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality saw that can handle intricate works with precision and ease, the Okada Hardware Mfg Dozuki mini panel saw 150 (Dozuki H-150) is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a panel saw, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the best product for your needs. Here are some key features to look for:
Cutting Capacity
The first thing to consider when choosing a panel saw is the cutting capacity. This refers to the maximum thickness and size of the material that the saw can handle. Look for a saw that can handle the size and thickness of the material you will be cutting.
Blade Size and Type
The size and type of blade are also important considerations. A larger blade will generally be able to cut thicker materials, while a smaller blade is better for more intricate cuts.
Additionally, different types of blades are better suited for different materials, so make sure to choose a blade that is appropriate for the material you will be cutting.
Safety Features
Safety should always be a top priority when using any type of saw. Look for a panel saw that has safety features such as blade guards and emergency stop buttons.
It is also important to follow all safety guidelines and wear appropriate safety gear when using a panel saw.
Accuracy and Precision
A high-quality panel saw should be able to make accurate and precise cuts. Look for a saw that has features such as laser guides or digital displays to help ensure that your cuts are accurate.
Durability and Maintenance
Finally, consider the durability and maintenance requirements of the panel saw. Look for a saw that is made from high-quality materials and has a solid construction.
Additionally, make sure to follow all maintenance guidelines to keep your saw in good working condition.
By considering these key features, you can choose the best panel saw for your needs and ensure that you get a high-quality product that will last for years to come.
You might also be interested in checking out our top pick for the best concrete saw.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I look for in a high-quality woodworking panel saw?
When looking for a high-quality woodworking panel saw, there are several features to consider. Firstly, the saw should have a sturdy frame made of durable materials such as steel or aluminum.
It should also have a powerful motor that can handle cutting through thick panels with ease. Other features to look for include a large cutting capacity, accurate measurements, and easy-to-use controls.
How do vertical panel saws compare to horizontal models in terms of precision and ease of use?
Vertical panel saws are known for their precision and ease of use. They are ideal for cutting large panels and sheets of material as they allow the user to make accurate cuts without having to worry about the material slipping or moving during the cut.
Horizontal panel saws, on the other hand, are better suited for cutting smaller pieces of material and are generally less precise than their vertical counterparts.
What are the advantages of using a track saw over a traditional panel saw?
Track saws offer several advantages over traditional panel saws. Firstly, they are more portable and can be used on a variety of job sites (find out the best portable band saw).
They are also more precise than traditional panel saws and can produce cleaner cuts with less tear-out.
Additionally, track saws can be used to cut a variety of materials, including wood, plastic, and metal.
Can a hand saw effectively cut panels, and what type would be recommended?
While a hand saw can be used to cut panels, it is not recommended for larger projects as it can be time-consuming and physically demanding. However, for smaller projects, a hand saw can be a viable option.
When choosing a hand saw for panel cutting, it is recommended to choose a saw with a fine-toothed blade, such as a crosscut or rip saw.
What type of saw blade yields the best results when working with paneling materials?
When working with paneling materials, it is recommended to use a blade with a high tooth count. A blade with 80-100 teeth will produce the cleanest cuts with the least amount of tear-out.
It is also important to choose a blade with a carbide tip, as this will ensure that the blade stays sharp for longer periods of time.
Is investing in a professional-grade panel saw justified for occasional woodworking projects?
Investing in a professional-grade panel saw may not be justified for occasional woodworking projects.
However, if you plan on doing a lot of woodworking or working with large panels on a regular basis, a professional-grade panel saw can be a worthwhile investment. These saws are built to last and offer a range of features that can make cutting panels easier and more precise.