Crossword Genius

It cuts, it stings, and it rubs, primarily, when the wrong way round (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ripsaw

'it cuts' is the definition.
(type of saw)

'it stings and it rubs primarily when the wrong way round' is the wordplay.
'it stings' becomes 'wasp' (wasps have stings).
'and' means one lot of letters go next to another.
'primarily' suggests taking the first letters.
'when the wrong way round' is a reversal indicator.
The first letters of 'it rubs' is 'ir'.
'wasp'+'ir'='waspir'
'waspir' written backwards gives 'RIPSAW'.

(Other definitions for ripsaw that I've seen before include "Coarse wood cutter" , "Cutting tool" , "It cuts along the grain" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app