40 years ago when I was first learning to work with wood, there were crosscut and rip saws, each used for their own purpose. As I recall you could use a crosscut saw for either job. A rip saw could only be used for ripping wood. I have just recently got back into working with wood, and I don't think I have seen a saw proclaiming it is one type or the other.
While this question is primarily focused on hand saws, information about power saws would be welcome also.
Are rip saws still sold and used?