Looking for a reliable hand saw that can tackle tough cutting jobs? We’ve been testing out the Craftsman 12-inch hacksaw, and it’s been a game-changer for our DIY projects.
This sturdy tool has impressed us with its solid metal frame, which can handle up to 225 pounds of tension. We found it super easy to make deep cuts up to 4.375 inches, perfect for those tricky spots around the house.
The adjustable blade angles are a neat feature too – we’ve used them for flush cuts in tight spaces.
We really like how comfy this saw feels in our hands. The big tension knob is easy to grip, and the full-handle design means we can use it for longer without getting tired. It’s pretty light too, which is great for overhead work.
One thing to keep in mind – while it’s great for metal and plastic, it might not be the best choice for big woodworking jobs. But for general home repairs and small projects, it’s been a solid performer.
CRAFTSMAN Hand Saw, 12-Inch Hacksaw (CMHT20138) Overview
We recently got our hands on the Craftsman 12-inch hacksaw, and we’re excited to share our thoughts. This tool is a solid choice for DIY projects and home repairs. The red metal frame looks tough and feels sturdy in our hands.
We found it easy to use and adjust for different cutting jobs.
Key Benefits
- Strong blade tension: The metal frame can handle up to 225 lbs of tension, keeping the blade steady while we cut.
- Versatile cutting: We can make deep cuts up to 4.375 inches and adjust the blade to 90 or 180 degrees for flush cuts.
- Comfy grip: The big tension knob and full-grip handle make it easy to hold and use for longer periods.
- Lightweight design: We can work with it for a while without our arms getting tired.
We like that it works well on both metal and plastic. The 12-inch blade length is just right for most tasks we tried. It’s not the fanciest saw out there, but it gets the job done without fuss. For DIY fans and homeowners, this Craftsman hacksaw is a handy tool to have around.
Solid Metal Frame for Blade Security
We love how sturdy this hacksaw feels in our hands. The solid metal frame isn’t just for show – it’s built to handle serious tension. We cranked it up to 225 pounds and the blade stayed put, no wobbling or flexing. This means we can make clean, precise cuts through metal and plastic without the blade wandering off course.
It’s a big step up from cheaper saws that bend or twist under pressure. The frame’s strength also lets us apply more force when needed for tough materials. We feel confident tackling big jobs knowing the blade won’t slip or come loose mid-cut. It’s a simple feature, but it makes a huge difference in how well this saw performs.
Deep Cutting Capability
We were impressed by how well this hacksaw handles tough cutting jobs. The 12-inch blade slices through metal and plastic with ease. We found it works great for cutting pipes, rods, and other materials up to about 4 inches thick.
The 6 teeth per inch provide a nice balance of speed and smooth cuts. While it’s not meant for heavy-duty industrial use, it’s more than capable for most DIY projects and home repairs.
We like that we can adjust the blade tension for different materials. This lets us dial in the right amount of flex vs. rigidity. The lightweight design also helps reduce fatigue during longer cutting sessions.
Overall, this Craftsman saw punches above its weight class when it comes to tackling thick materials.
Adjustable Blade Angles for Flush Cuts
We love how versatile this Craftsman hacksaw is. The blade can be set at both 90 and 180 degrees, which is super handy. We found it easy to switch between angles to make flush cuts in tight spots.
This feature came in really useful when we were working on a plumbing project under the sink. The adjustable blade let us cut pipes right up against the wall.
It’s not always perfect though – sometimes it takes a bit of fiddling to get the blade locked in at the right angle. But once it’s set, it stays put even during tough cuts. This flexibility makes the saw much more useful for different jobs around the house and workshop.
Ergonomic Handling
We found the grip on this hacksaw to be really comfortable. The plastic handle feels nice in our hands and doesn’t slip, even when we’re working up a sweat.
It’s super lightweight too, which is great for long cutting jobs. We can use it for hours without our arms getting tired. The 12-inch blade length gives us good reach, and the overall design makes it easy to control.
We like how we can adjust the blade tension quickly. This lets us switch between tighter cuts on metal and looser cuts on plastic. The red color is a nice touch – it’s easy to spot in our toolbox. While it works well, the plastic build might not be as durable as metal for really heavy-duty jobs.
Pros and Cons
We’ve had the chance to try out the CRAFTSMAN 12-Inch Hacksaw, and it’s been an interesting experience. Let’s break down what we liked and what could be better.
Pros
- Strong frame: The metal frame can handle up to 225 lbs of tension, making it sturdy for tough jobs.
- Versatile cutting: With its 12-inch blade and 4.375-inch cutting depth, it’s great for a variety of tasks.
- Adjustable angles: We love that we can set the blade at 90 or 180 degrees for flush cuts.
- Comfort: The big tension knob and full-grip handle make it easy to use for long periods.
- Sharp blade: It cuts through materials quickly and cleanly.
Cons
- Weight: Some users might find it a bit lighter than older models.
- Blade durability: We noticed the blade might dull faster with heavy use on harder materials.
- Learning curve: It takes some practice to get used to cutting metal if you’re new to it.
- Not for big jobs: While great for small tasks, it’s not ideal for large-scale projects.
We found this hacksaw to be a solid choice for DIY projects and small jobs around the house. It’s easy to use and gets the job done, but it might not be the best pick for professional-grade work or very large tasks. The comfort features are a big plus, especially when we had to make a lot of cuts. While it’s not perfect, we think it’s a good value for its price point.
What Customers Are Saying
We’ve noticed many customers love this Craftsman hacksaw. They say it’s easy to use and cuts really well. People have used it for various tasks like trimming small trees and cutting metal gym equipment. The saw seems to handle these jobs without much trouble.
Some folks were surprised by how well it worked on tough materials like window screen frames. A few mentioned it’s lighter than their old saws but still feels sturdy. The quality appears good for the price.
Not everyone found it perfect though. A couple of users noted it took more effort than expected for certain cuts. There were also questions about how long the blade stays sharp with heavy use.
Overall, most buyers seem happy with their purchase. They appreciate the saw’s versatility and performance for smaller cutting jobs around the house.
Unpacking the Craftsmanship: A Closer Look at Quality
We were really impressed with the build quality of this hacksaw. The solid metal frame feels sturdy and secure in our hands. We found it easy to adjust the blade tension up to 225 lbs, which helped us make clean, precise cuts.
The large tension knob and full-grip handle make this saw comfortable to use, even for longer projects. We like that we can adjust the blade to 90 and 180-degree angles for flush cuts. This feature came in handy when we needed to cut in tight spots.
At 12 inches long with a 4.375-inch cutting depth, the blade tackles most jobs well. It cuts through metal and plastic smoothly. The lightweight design is a plus for reducing arm fatigue.
While it’s not the fanciest saw out there, we think it offers good quality for the price. It gets the job done without fuss.
Conclusion
We’ve put the CRAFTSMAN Hacksaw through its paces, and it’s proven to be a reliable tool for various cutting tasks. Its compact 12-inch size makes it easy to handle, while still packing enough power to tackle metal and small tree branches. We found it cuts smoothly and efficiently, though it may require a bit more elbow grease compared to larger saws. The build quality is solid, living up to the CRAFTSMAN name. While it might not be the fastest cutter out there, it’s a great value for DIY enthusiasts and homeowners. If you need a versatile hand saw that won’t break the bank, this CRAFTSMAN model is definitely worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve been using this Craftsman hacksaw for a while now, and we’ve gathered some common questions folks tend to ask about it. Let’s dive into the details to help you get the most out of this handy tool.
How do I change the blade on a Craftsman hand saw?
Changing the blade on this Craftsman hacksaw is a breeze. We’ve done it many times. First, loosen the tension knob at the front of the saw. Then, unhook the blade from the pins at both ends. Put the new blade in place, making sure the teeth are pointing in the right direction. Finally, tighten the knob again. It’s that simple!
What are the best uses for a 15-inch Craftsman hand saw?
While this model is actually a 12-inch hacksaw, we can talk about its best uses. We’ve found it great for cutting metal pipes, rods, and even plastic. It’s perfect for DIY projects around the house or garage. The adjustable blade angles make it versatile for different cutting needs.
Can a Craftsman hand saw be used for fine woodworking projects?
This specific Craftsman hacksaw isn’t meant for fine woodworking. It’s designed for cutting metal and plastic. For delicate wood projects, you’d want to look at Craftsman’s other hand saws, like their 10-inch fine-finish saw. That one’s better suited for precise cuts in wood and laminates.
How do I care for and maintain my Craftsman hand saw to ensure longevity?
We’ve found that caring for this hacksaw is pretty straightforward. After use, we wipe it down to remove any debris or moisture. We also make sure to store it in a dry place to prevent rust. If the blade gets dull, we replace it rather than trying to sharpen it. This keeps the saw working like new.
What makes the CMHT20138 model unique compared to other Craftsman saws?
The CMHT20138 stands out with its solid metal frame and high tension capacity. We love that it can handle up to 225 lbs of tension. This feature, combined with its adjustable blade angles for flush cuts, makes it a versatile tool in our kit. The large, comfy grip is also a nice touch that sets it apart.
Is the Craftsman CMHT20138 hand saw suitable for both professional and DIY projects?
From our experience, this hacksaw is great for both pros and DIY enthusiasts. We’ve used it for quick home repairs and more involved projects. Its durability and ease of use make it suitable for regular work, while its affordable price point makes it accessible for casual users. Whether you’re a pro or a weekend warrior, this saw can handle the job.
