Craftsman CMHT20880 15-Inch General Purpose Hand Saw Review

Craftsman CMHT20880 15-Inch General Purpose Hand Saw Review dives into an in-depth analysis of this essential woodworking tool favored by both enthusiasts and professionals, exploring its specifications, design, build quality, and performance. Gain insights into its value, advantages, maintenance tips, and safety practices to fully leverage its capabilities in your projects.

Key Features of Craftsman CMHT20880 15-Inch General Purpose Hand Saw

Design and Build Quality

The Craftsman CMHT20880 15-Inch General Purpose Hand Saw comes with a special triple-ground tooth technology that ensures fast and clean cuts through various materials, offering precision and efficiency in woodworking and other tasks. This innovative tooth geometry enhances cutting efficiency by up to 40%, providing a premium finish and making it suitable for cutting wood, plastic, and laminate.

The induction-hardened teeth further contribute to long-lasting sharpness, ensuring durability and consistent cutting performance over time. Additionally, the ergonomically designed bi-material handle offers comfort and control during use, making the saw a versatile and reliable tool for a wide range of cutting applications.

This hand saw is equipped with an ergonomically designed handle, made from a combination of materials, to provide a comfortable grip. This feature promotes control and reduces user fatigue during extended use, making it easier to handle and maneuver the saw during cutting tasks. The saw’s thick blade adds stability during cutting, allowing for accurate and controlled cuts.

This stability is essential for achieving precise and clean cuts, making the hand saw suitable for a variety of woodworking and cutting applications. These features combined make the Craftsman CMHT20880 15-inch General Purpose Hand Saw a valuable tool for both professionals and woodworking enthusiasts, offering efficiency, durability, and user comfort in one package.

Value

The Craftsman CMHT20880 15-Inch General Purpose Hand Saw provides great value for its price. Considering its durable build and efficient performance, the saw is reasonably priced, making it a worthwhile investment for both professionals and hobbyists. Its ability to deliver reliable cutting results across various materials makes it a cost-effective tool for woodworking and other cutting tasks. This means that users can expect a high-quality product at an affordable price, making it a valuable addition to any toolkit.

Craftsman has managed to strike a balance between affordability and quality with the CMHT20880 hand saw. Its sturdy construction and dependable cutting capabilities make it a cost-efficient option for those seeking a reliable tool for their cutting needs. This ensures that users can enjoy the benefits of a well-built and efficient hand saw without having to break the bank, ultimately offering great value for the price.

Performance and Usage

The Craftsman CMHT20880 15-Inch General Purpose Hand Saw is designed to excel in cutting through wood with precision and ease. Its triple-ground tooth technology ensures efficient cutting, offering the ability to cut on both the push and pull strokes, delivering a smoother finish. This means that users can expect precise and fast cutting, making woodworking tasks easier and more efficient.

Additionally, the overall design of the hand saw allows for smooth and controlled operation, providing users with the ability to handle cutting tasks with ease and accuracy. With its efficient cutting capabilities and user-friendly design, the Craftsman hand saw is suitable for a wide range of woodworking applications.

Whether it’s for cutting lumber, plywood, or other wooden materials, this hand saw offers the performance and ease of use needed to tackle various cutting tasks. Its ability to deliver smooth and controlled cuts makes it a valuable tool for both professionals and woodworking enthusiasts, enhancing the overall woodworking experience.

Craftsman CMHT20880 15-Inch General Purpose Hand Saw Pros and Cons

Comparative Analysis of the Craftsman CMHT20880 15-inch General Purpose Hand Saw

Feature	Craftsman CMHT20880	DeWalt DWHT20544L	Stanley 20-045
Blade Length	15 inches	15 inches	15 inches
Tooth Count (TPI)	9 TPI	9 TPI	9 TPI
Blade Material	High carbon steel	High-quality steel	High-quality steel
Handle Material	Ergonomic bi-material	Ergonomic plastic with rubber grip	Bi-material handle
Cutting Capacity	Wood	Wood, plastic, drywall	Wood, plastic, composite materials
Tooth Design	Aggressive tooth geometry	Three-sided, induction-hardened	SharpTooth technology
Weight	1.2 pounds	Lightweight	Moderate
Coating	Low-friction coating	Low-friction coating	None
Special Features	Induction-hardened teeth for durability	Ergonomic design, durable construction	15% thicker blade for straighter cuts

Summary

This comparison highlights the similarities and differences between the Craftsman CMHT20880, DeWalt DWHT20544L, and Stanley 20-045 hand saws. All three saws have a 15-inch blade length and 9 TPI, making them suitable for general-purpose cutting.

The Craftsman CMHT20880 15-Inch General Purpose Hand Saw is notable for its high carbon steel blade and ergonomic bi-material handle, while the DeWalt DWHT20544L is known for its lightweight design and ergonomic handle. The Stanley 20-045 stands out with its SharpTooth technology and thicker blade for straighter cuts. Each saw has its unique features that cater to different cutting needs and preferences.

Maintenance

To maintain the performance of Craftsman CMHT20880 15-Inch General Purpose Hand Saw, regular cleaning and blade sharpening are recommended. Proper storage in a dry environment can also prolong its lifespan.

1. Clean After Use: After each use, wipe the blade with a clean cloth to remove any debris or sap. This prevents buildup that can dull the blade over time.
2. Rust Prevention: Apply a light coat of oil to the blade if you plan to store the saw for an extended period. This helps prevent rust and corrosion.
3. Check for Dullness: Periodically inspect the teeth of the saw for dullness. A sharp blade is crucial for efficient cutting. If the teeth are dull, consider having the blade professionally sharpened or replaced.
4. Handle Care: Inspect the handle for any cracks or damage. A damaged handle can affect your grip and control over the saw, leading to potential accidents. Replace the handle if necessary.
5. Storage: Store the saw in a dry, safe place when not in use. Avoid exposing it to moisture or extreme temperatures, which can cause damage.
6. Safety Check: Before each use, ensure that the blade is securely attached to the handle and that there are no loose parts.
7. Avoid Misuse: Use the saw for its intended purpose—cutting wood. Avoid using it to cut materials it’s not designed for, as this can damage the blade and compromise safety.

Safety Tips and Best Practices

When using the Craftsman CMHT20880 15-Inch General Purpose Hand Saw, it’s crucial to follow safety guidelines and best practices to prevent accidents and ensure a smooth cutting experience. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Wear Protective Gear: Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris. Gloves can also help protect your hands from cuts and abrasions.
2. Secure the Material: Make sure the material you’re cutting is securely clamped or held in place. This prevents slipping or movement that could lead to inaccurate cuts or potential injury.
3. Use the Right Technique: Hold the saw firmly with your dominant hand and use your other hand to support the material. Start with a few gentle strokes to create a groove, then increase your speed and pressure for more efficient cutting.
4. Keep the Blade Straight: Ensure the blade is perpendicular to the material being cut to avoid bending or breaking the blade.
5. Don’t Force the Saw: Let the saw do the work. Forcing the saw through the material can cause the blade to bind or break.
6. Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: Be aware of where your hands and fingers are in relation to the blade. Keep them away from the cutting path.
7. Inspect the Saw Before Use: Check the saw for any damage, such as cracks in the blade or loose handle screws, before each use.
8. Store Safely: When not in use, store the saw in a dry place to prevent rust. Consider using a blade guard to protect the teeth and anyone who might handle the saw.
9. Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions: Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific safety and maintenance recommendations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Craftsman CMHT20880 15-Inch General Purpose Hand Saw stands out as a reliable, efficient tool suited to a broad spectrum of woodworking and cutting tasks. With features like triple-ground tooth technology, induction-hardened teeth, and an ergonomically designed handle, it offers a blend of precision, durability, and comfort that both professionals and hobbyists will appreciate. While it may not be the best fit for heavy-duty applications, its versatility, ease of use, and exceptional value make it a compelling addition to any toolkit. By adhering to proper maintenance and safety practices, users can maximize the saw’s performance and longevity, making the most of its cutting capabilities for a wide range of projects.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the Craftsman CMHT20880 15-Inch General Purpose Hand Saw suitable for cutting metal?

No, this saw is designed primarily for cutting wood and similar materials. For cutting metal, a saw with a blade specifically designed for metal is recommended.

2. Can the blade of the Craftsman CMHT20880 15-inch General Purpose Hand Saw be sharpened?

Yes, the blade can be sharpened to maintain its cutting efficiency. It’s recommended to have it professionally sharpened or follow proper sharpening techniques if doing it yourself.

3. How do I prevent the saw from rusting?

To prevent rust, clean the blade after each use and store the saw in a dry place. You can also apply a light coat of oil to the blade for added protection.

4. Is the handle of the Craftsman CMHT20880 15-inch General Purpose Hand Saw replaceable?

The handle is not typically sold separately, so if it’s damaged, you might need to contact the manufacturer for a replacement or consider purchasing a new saw.

5. How does the Craftsman CMHT20880 15-Inch General Purpose Hand Saw compare to other hand saws in its price range?

The Craftsman CMHT20880 15-inch General Purpose Hand Saw offers a good balance of quality and price, with features like triple-ground teeth and an ergonomic handle that are comparable to other hand saws in its price range.

6. Can this saw be used for fine woodworking tasks?

While the Craftsman CMHT20880 15-inch General Purpose Hand Saw is capable of precise cuts, it may not be the best choice for very fine woodworking tasks that require specialized saws.

7. How often should I clean the saw?

It’s recommended to clean the saw after each use to remove any debris or sap and to prevent buildup that can dull the blade.

8. What is the warranty for the Craftsman CMHT20880 15-inch General Purpose Hand Saw?

The warranty details may vary, so it’s best to check with the manufacturer or the retailer from where you purchased the saw for specific warranty information.

9. Can I use this saw for pruning trees?

While the Craftsman CMHT20880 15-inch General Purpose Hand Saw is primarily designed for woodworking, it can be used for light pruning tasks. However, for thicker branches or more specialized pruning, a dedicated pruning saw would be more suitable.

10. How do I know when it’s time to replace the blade?

Signs that it might be time to replace the blade include difficulty cutting, visible damage to the teeth, or if sharpening no longer restores its cutting efficiency.

For more expert woodworking and advice, explore our guides, discover top recommendations in our best section, and delve into in-depth product reviews in our review section. Happy Cutting.