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STANLEY FATMAX Rough Back Saw Review: Precise tenon cuts and reliable handling

Stanley Fatmax 2-17-199 Rough Back Saw, Multi-Colour, 12 inch (300mm)
4.7
[Induction-Hardened Teeth]  Triple-edged induction-hardened teeth for long-lasting sharpness and efficient cutting.
[Bi-Material Handle]  Durable bi-material grip enhances comfort and control during extended use.
[Push and Pull Cutting]  Cuts on both push and pull strokes for faster, smoother sawing.
[Built-in Angle Guides]  Handle features 45° and 90° quick-reference markings for precise angle work.
[Reinforced Back & Specs]  Reinforced back provides straighter cuts; 300mm (12in) length with 11 TPI teeth.
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Back saw for joinery and fine woodworking, engineered for straighter, cleaner cuts. Comfortable, grippy handle and built-in angle marks make layout and repeatable cuts less fiddly. Can the STANLEY FATMAX Rough Back Saw hold up under regular workshop use?

⚡ At a Glance
  • Cutting Quality: Triple-edged, induction-hardened teeth, 11 TPI, with a reinforced back that keeps the blade rigid for straighter cuts
  • Best for: Joinery tasks like tenons and mitres where clean, controlled cuts are essential
  • Not ideal for: Large ripping tasks or cutting thick hardwoods where a larger saw or powered tool is needed

Reinforced spine and triple-edged, induction-hardened teeth combine for accurate, durable cutting. Bi-material handle with 45° and 90° markings helps with quick set-up and repeatability.


Straight, accurate cuts, thanks to reinforced back

A rigid steel spine is fitted along the blade length to reduce flex during sawing, keeping the toothline stable. The 300 mm blade length and stiffness translate into consistent kerfs for joinery.

Straighter cuts make tenon faces and shoulders sit flush without excessive paring, saving time on fitting joints.

Faster cutting action, thanks to triple-edged induction-hardened teeth

Teeth treated by induction hardening maintain a sharp edge longer and the triple-edge geometry is designed to cut on both the push and pull strokes. The 11 TPI count balances speed with smoothness.

Cleaner, quicker progress on repetitive cuts reduces effort and keeps edges neat for glue-ups and fittings.

Accurate layout and repeatable angles, thanks to marked handle and grip

The bi-material handle includes quick reference marks for 45° and 90° angles and is shaped for secure control. The material choice improves grip during prolonged use.

Faster set-up for mitres and shoulders, and steadier control during detailed trimming, improves consistency across multiple pieces.

✨ The 4 Key Reasons for STANLEY FATMAX Rough Back Saw
  1. Angle-marked handle - Quick set-up for accurate 45° and 90° cuts
  2. Bi-material grip - Reduced slippage, better control during long tasks
  3. Dual-stroke cutting - Cuts on push and pull, speeding repetitive work
  4. Sturdy construction - Withstands workshop knocks and regular use
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
  • Category: Back saw / Tenon saw
  • Brand: STANLEY FATMAX
  • Model: 2-17-199 Rough Back Saw
  • Blade length: 300 mm (12 in)
  • Teeth per inch: 11 TPI
❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is this saw suitable for tenon and mitre work?

A: Yes. It is a tenon/back saw with a reinforced back and 11 TPI teeth designed for accurate joinery cuts.

Q: Does the handle include angle markings for quick layout?

A: Yes. The handle has marked 45° and 90° reference points to speed up set-up for common angles.

Q: How durable are the teeth?

A: Teeth are triple-edged and induction hardened, which increases edge life and helps maintain cutting performance.

🏆 Our Verdict

Ideal for carpenters, joiners and keen DIYers who need accurate tenon and mitre cuts. Reinforced spine, induction-hardened teeth and a grippy, angle-marked handle combine for dependable workshop performance. Although cost varies, robust construction and hardened teeth promise long-term value in regular use.