What is a Kataba saw used for?

The Kataba is a Japanese-designed back-cut saw for general carpentry work. Because it cuts on the pull-stroke, the blade is under tension when working. This enables it to be made very thin, so it cuts a very fine kerf. The result is less friction, so it cuts faster with less effort.

There is no supporting spine along the back as with a Dozuki. To the contrary, a high quality Katab may actually taper down from teeth to back. Lack of a supporting spine enables the Kataba to make deeper, longer cuts. It's flexibility may also allow it to make cuts a stiffer blade could not.