This is my first ryoba-style saw, and so far I've used it mostly for cross-cutting white pine, 1x4, 1x6, 2x4 etc. and a few miters. I actually prefer it to my circular saw for this purpose, as it's easier to follow a measurement straight across. Compared to a regular crosscut saw, I estimate this cuts two or three times faster. The pull cut has a good controllable feel to it. I would be hesitant to use it on something like melamine, but it should work a treat for hard- and softwood lumber, ply, osb, mdf, and things of that nature. The blade is rather flexible, the teeth are exceptionally sharp and the plastic handle feels sturdy enough. Definitely a good value for the price.