A low cost, compact saw capable of being used in a radioactive cell environment and can eliminate the laborious and time consuming cutting processes involving the use of hand tools. The unit can section small rod (2.3 - 3.0mm) to produce disc samples and can handle rod or tubing up to 15mm diameter. The standard unit is supplied with inexpensive carborundum slitting wheels that are suitable for a wide range of materials but high speed slitting wheels are available in a range of diameters and types for special