Resaw recommendations
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I have a whole pallet-full of dry 5/4 oak cutoffs from a mill. I want to trim the boards down to make boxes. My main panel saws (2x vintage D-8s, 7&9 TPI, rip) seem to be hogging off more than I had hoped. (I’m trying to get 3/8” and 3/4” thicknesses off each board.)
My question is if there is a saw more suitable for resawing or if I should just sharpen my D-8s again and continue to improve technique?
-creto
Amateur sawdust creator
Japanese pull saws, either a double edged Ryoba or a singl edged kataba saw produce thinner kerfs.
I have no recommendation on brands. For ripping only, I find the kataba style easier to use and it gives a cleaner cut. That said, I almost never use this option.In the western genre frame saws also have much thinner plates. If you are looking for something to cut larger slabs , you probably have to make your own horizontal frame . This site will show you options based on budget. You can buy just the saw plate for a Jackson or two and make your own saw frame.
https://www.simplecove.com/406/an-inexpensive-frame-saw/
Or google simplecove inexpensive-frame-saw
For smaller work Paul has a tutorial on making a frame saw from a band saw blade.Lastly, sites like highland woodworking offer resaw bandsaw blades that give very smooth and thin cuts, but of course you need the bandsaw.
What are the dimensions of your 5/4 off cuts?
(lucky)- Debra J
What are the dimensions of your 5/4 off cuts?
(lucky)They are various sizes. None under 12” in length. Almost all are at least a hand in width.
-creto
Amateur sawdust creator
That looks like a pallet-load of fun!
I have resawn mesquite, ash and construction lumber with a similar Disston. Check that it’s sharp and doesn’t have too much set. I have tried it with a Japanese-style pull saw and that went a lot slower. But I don’t use the pull saw much and have less practice with it.
Also, you may want to start by flattening and squaring up the faces. After that, you might not be able to get 3/4″ boards off of 5/4 rough. For sure you can get 1/2″ boards.
Mark out your resaw lines as two parallel lines all the way around. Saw between the lines as best you can, flipping the board every dozen strokes or so. Put on some good music too.
By the time you’re through the first layer of that pallet, you will be an accomplished resawing pro.
- Debra J
Jeez with that quantity I’d try and get access to a band saw and/or planer and get a big pile tidied up. Partly cos thats a lot of space taken up until you use some of it.
If the boards are only 12-18” long I might be tempted to try a scrub plane if you want to get 3/4” out of them and you want to start with only one or two boxes. Would be good for your planing technique … and a good workout! Depends how hard and dry they are I guess.
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