Japanese tools are less industrialized than those in the West.
Japanese mechanic tools are somewhat different than those used in the Western world. The industrial revolution changed the way tools were made in the West, although in Japan, more traditional tools remained. Japanese mechanic tools are increasingly similar to those used in Europe and the United States, although some major areas of difference remain.
Saws
Japanese saws remain different from those used in the rest of the world since they are designed to cut on the pull stroke rather than the push. This enables them to be thinner, since the tension of the pull stroke allows thin materials to cut to an extent that would not be possible on the push stroke. Japanese saws, therefore, tend to be lighter. The teeth on Japanese saws are strong and last longer. This can mean that they are more prone to breakage. Costs have reduced in recent years, however, making this less of an inconvenience.
Chisels
Japanese chisels were traditionally meant for chiseling by hand--few of them were compatible with a hammer. Although this has changed in recent years, Japanese chisels usually have a harder surface steel than those in the West, and it is still common to find them without steel surfaces on the tapping end.
Hammers
Japanese hammers are similar to Western hammers; both having a rudimentary purpose and design. Both claw and double headed hammers are common in Japan.
Planes
Japanese planes, as with Japanese saws, function on the pull stroke. This means that Japanese planes must be better sharpened and used in a more controlled manner than a Western plane. Japanese mechanics often buy planes and then tune them at home; it is rare in Japan for a plane to be ready to use "off the shelf."
Tags: Japanese saws, pull stroke, than those, those used, Japanese chisels