Cross-cut Back/tenon saw
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Does anyone use a cross cut back/tenon saw? Most of my back saws are rip cut. I have used Paul’s saw sharpening method and really like it. I have one back saw that has the much hyped “sash saw” filling. I had it done for me. It is an old Metroplitan Hardware store (NYC) saw. It was in rough shape when I found it but now I know how to sharpen. I rarely use the saw. Since it doesn’t have the progressive rake I find it difficult to start. I have been thinking about redoing it with Pauls method. When I compare it to my rip tooth pattern, I really don’t find any difference. I also have the Veritas cross-cut carcase saw and think I would like to sell it or trade it. I never use it. I thought maybe I should keep on with a cross cut pattern but not sure if I would ever need it.
DavidI have two 14″ Disston 12 pt. saws, one in rip and one in x-cut. They were reconditioned and sharpened by a saw collector long before I learned how to sharpen.
I too wonder if I really need both. I have never tried to use the rip for a crosscut, or vise versa. I will do some tests and report back here.
-Scott Los Angeles, California, USA
I have used a rip back saw for everything. The only time I use a cross cut is because I feel my Metropolitan saw needs some attention. A rip saw is way easier to sharpen too, so its little trouble to maintain. With the high tpi/ppi, I see little use for a dedicated cross cut pattern back saw. I think Paul mentioned a cross cut back/tenon saw worked better in some specific situation but I can’t remember what.
DavidHi
In Paul’s book he states that only below 9PPI does it make a difference to have saws configured for crosscut. Above 9PPI everything can be rip. Makes life easier!As mentioned most back saws have a high enough TPI it does not matter.
That said, you dont mention the tpi on the saw in question.Tuscloosa, Alabama
Lung T'an Hu Huesh Kung-fu Woodshop
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