A coping saw is a type of bow saw used in woodworking or carpentry to cut complicated exterior designs and internal cut-outs. It is commonly used to cut moldings in order to make coped joints rather than mitre joints. However, any wooden item that requires a curved cutting operation can be made with a coping saw. The coping saw is most often used for shaping furniture. It can also be used for cutting curves in metal (for example, when making door frames or water tanks). Coping saws come in several different sizes depending on the project you are working on. The standard size is 3/4" to 1" thick, but 1" and thicker blades are available as well as 2" and 3" thick blades. The larger the blade, the more capable it is of handling heavier materials. However, keep in mind that the larger the blade, the harder it is to control especially when cutting curves. Accessories such as coping saw guards, finger guards, and leather belts are available to extend the life of your tool. Coping saw guards help prevent loose material from flying off the end of the blade while keeping the blade safe from contact with objects that may damage or dull it. Finger guards protect your fingers from getting injured by the blade while providing extra leverage when using the saw.