Search results for: saws
The Saws Guide
A Note on the Term ‘Handsaw’: Technically all saws can be classed under the term ‘handsaws’ as this is a general term for all saws used by hand (not machines), however, the term ‘handsaws’ can also refer to a specific saw which is described as a large panel saw. In this guide we will be…
Read MoreUsing Saws
The Western saws we use don’t cut on the pull-stroke, so you are cutting on the push-stroke and only using the pull-stroke to retrieve the saw ready for the next stroke. Back Saws and Backless Saws (Dovetail, Tenon, Gent’s and Panel Saw) Put your non-dominant foot forward and your dominant foot back, this will enable…
Read MoreBuying Saws
Buying a Gent’s Saw Buying a Dovetail Saw Buying a Coping saw Buying a Tenon Saw Buying a Panel Saw
Read MoreSetting Up and Sharpening a Saw
This applies to all saws except the coping saw which does not need sharpening as it comes with replacement blades, to see how to insert the blades, click here. Some saws will need setting before sharpening and some will need sharpening before setting. This all depends on the quality of the teeth to begin with.…
Read MoreSaw Files
Saw files can also be known as triangular files or three-square files. They often have single cut teeth across the full width of each facet of the file and can come in many different variations including: Lengths Widths Taper Fineness (the closer the teeth are on the file, the finer it is) Double-cut/ single cut/…
Read MoreBuying a Dovetail Saw
When buying a dovetail saw you need to ensure that it has good, resharpenable steel and has a strong back. Like tenon saws, these can be brass or steel-backed, the main difference is that the steel-backed saws are lighter. You also want to make sure it has 15 PPI or more (slightly smaller teeth) and…
Read MoreBuying a Panel Saw
When choosing a saw, a second hand one can last you years if it has been well looked after, however you should be prepared to sharpen them as they often will arrive dull. Check to see if it has more than 4 teeth missing, severe rust or corrosion avoid purchasing. Spear & Jackson, Garlick, Pax…
Read MoreBuying a Tenon Saw
Paul Sellers recommends a 12” tenon saw with 14-16 PPI. You can get brass-backed or steel-backed ones, the steel-backed saws are slightly lighter in weight so it is down to personal preference, however Paul says most experienced craftsman ultimately use a brass-backed. 🇬🇧/🇺🇸You can buy these new online for approximately £30-40, we found this Spear…
Read MoreBuying a Gent’s Saw
Paul recommends the 10” (25cm) with 16-19 PPI. There are many different names on the saw plate but only one chief maker. They usually come in 6, 8 and 10” sizes, however the 10” will do everything the smaller sizes will do. You shouldn’t have to pay more than £20. Paul recommends new where possible…
Read MoreGet Started in Woodworking for under £100 ($121)
Starting a new hobby can be expensive, however with our buying guides, Paul advises you on buying the right tools for your beginners toolbox to help you get started in woodworking. To make the 3 main joints, you will need: Chisels- 1″ and 1/2″(Approximately £15 for 2) Chisel Hammer (£16) Combination Square (£10) Tenon or…
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