What Is a Back Saw
A back saw is a type of hand saw used in woodworking for precise cutting.
It has a stiffening rib on the edge opposite the cutting edge, which allows for better control and more precise cutting.
Back saws are limited in the depth to which they can cut and usually have closely spaced teeth.
They are commonly used for cutting dovetails, mitres, or tenons in cabinetry and joinery.
Some examples of backsaws include the tenon saw, dovetail saw, sash saw, mitre saw, and carcass saw.
Back saws typically have a higher number of teeth per inch and minimal set to leave a narrow kerf.
Carpenters and cabinetmakers in Japan commonly use back saws.
The design of a back saw involves a thin and stiff blade, reinforced with a metal back made of brass or steel.
They are often used with a mitre box for angled cuts and a bench hook for stability.
The history and evolution of backsaws date back to the medieval period, with the first hard evidence of backsaws appearing in the 1750s.
Did You Know?
1. The back saw, also known as a tenon saw, is named after its unique design where the back of the saw blade is reinforced with a metal or wooden spine.
2. Back saws were originally developed in the 18th century and were primarily used by cabinetmakers and woodworkers to make precise cuts for joinery work.
3. Unlike other hand saws, the back saw has a fine-toothed blade with approximately 10-14 teeth per inch, allowing for smoother and more accurate cuts in wood.
4. Back saws gained popularity in the early 20th century with the rise of hand tool modernization and the development of power saws. However, they still remain a popular choice among traditional woodworkers due to their precision.
5. The popular phrase “cutting against the grain” comes from the basics of using a back saw. As the saw’s teeth are angled in a specific direction, cutting against the grain can cause tear-out and splintering, while cutting with the grain ensures a cleaner cut.
Introduction To Back Saws
A back saw is a versatile hand tool used in woodworking for precise and accurate cutting. It is specifically designed for tasks that require finesse and accuracy, such as cutting dovetails, mitres, or tenons in cabinetry and joinery. The distinguishing feature of a back saw is the stiffening rib on the edge opposite the cutting edge, which provides better control and reduces the risk of the saw bending during use.
Back saws are known for their limited cutting depth, which makes them ideal for making delicate and controlled cuts. They usually have closely spaced teeth that are sharpened in a rip tooth pattern, allowing for a narrow kerf and a clean cut.
Characteristics And Uses Of Back Saws
Back saws are essential tools for carpenters and cabinetmakers due to their ability to provide smooth and precise cuts. These saws typically have a higher number of teeth per inch, normally ranging between 15 to 20 T.P.I. The increased tooth count, combined with minimal set, ensures optimal cutting performance. The teeth of back saws are typically sharpened in a rip tooth pattern, making them ideal for cutting along the wood grain.
Carpenters and cabinetmakers heavily rely on back saws for precise tasks such as cutting joints like dovetails or tenons. These saws are particularly useful in achieving accurate angled cuts when used in conjunction with a mitre box. Moreover, to ensure stability during cutting, a bench hook is often employed alongside back saws.
To summarize, back saws are widely used in woodworking by professionals who value accuracy and precision. Their high tooth count and rip tooth pattern make them ideal for achieving smooth cuts along the wood grain. Additionally, carpenters can utilize back saws in combination with a mitre box and bench hook to achieve angled cuts and enhance stability, respectively.
- Back saws have a higher number of teeth per inch (15 to 20 T.P.I.)
- Rip tooth pattern is used for cutting along the wood grain
- Useful for cutting joints like dovetails or tenons
- Can be used in conjunction with a mitre box for accurate angled cuts
- Bench hook provides stability during cutting.
Types Of Back Saws
There are several types of back saws, each designed for specific purposes. Some of the most commonly used types include the tenon saw, dovetail saw, sash saw, mitre saw, and carcass saw.
The tenon saw is a versatile backsaw of medium size, used primarily for cutting tenons in mortise and tenon joinery. Its stiff blade and fine teeth allow for precise and controlled cuts.
The dovetail saw is a small and lightweight back saw designed specifically for cutting dovetails, a type of joint commonly used in woodworking. It has a thin blade with fine teeth to create clean and precise cuts.
The sash saw, historically used for fabricating window sashes, can also refer to a thinner and more flexible saw used to free painted shut sashes. It is designed for delicate and precise cutting.
The mitre saw is used for making angled cuts, typically in combination with a mitre box. It has a reinforced back and fine teeth to ensure accurate cuts at specific angles.
The carcass saw falls between a tenon saw and a dovetail saw in terms of size and tooth configuration. It is often used for general cabinetmaking tasks.
Design And Construction Of Back Saws
The design of a back saw involves a thin and stiff blade, reinforced with a metal back made of brass or steel. This reinforcement prevents the blade from bending or flexing during use, ensuring accurate and controlled cuts. The blade is usually attached to a solid wooden handle, providing a comfortable grip for the user.
There are variations in handle design, with some saws featuring a pistol grip handle for better ergonomics and control. The handle is often shaped to fit the hand comfortably, enabling extended periods of use without strain.
The teeth of back saws are carefully shaped and sharpened to optimize their cutting performance. They are usually rip teeth, which means they are designed to cut along the grain of the wood. The number of teeth per inch and the tooth shape may vary depending on the specific type of back saw.
History And Evolution Of Back Saws
The history and evolution of back saws can be traced back centuries. The medieval period showcases various types of saws, including a two-handed saw with a long thin serrated blade, as well as the bow saw, frame saw, and pit saw.
The main evolution of back saws appears to have occurred between the 17th and 18th centuries. By the early 19th century, the backsaws we know today had evolved to their current forms and functions. During this period, there were advancements in construction techniques, handle design, and tooth geometry, resulting in improved cutting accuracy and efficiency.
The precise appearance and date of the first back saws are still a topic for further research. The earliest concrete evidence of back saws dates back to the 1750s, although there is a mention of a tenon saw as early as 1736. Throughout history, carpenters and cabinetmakers have used backsaws not only in Western countries but also in Japan, where they have become a staple tool in traditional woodworking practices.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a hand saw and a backsaw?
While both a hand saw and a backsaw are tools used for cutting, they have some notable differences. A hand saw typically has a thicker and sturdier saw plate that can endure the forces of sawing, eliminating the need for a stiffening back. On the other hand, backsaws are specifically designed for more precise cutting tasks such as creating dovetails, tenons, and miters. Their design focuses on accuracy and control, making them suitable for detailed woodworking projects.
What makes a backsaw different from a crosscut saw?
While both a backsaw and a crosscut saw are tools used for cutting, they differ in their construction and specific usage. The main distinction lies in the rigid back of a backsaw, which provides extra stability and precision during straight cuts. This feature makes a backsaw the ideal option for tasks that require utmost accuracy, such as trimming miters and bevels. In contrast, a crosscut saw lacks a rigid back and is more suitable for making cuts across the grain of wood, as it can effectively remove material in a wider fashion.
Why is it called a back saw?
The back saw gets its name from the row of holes along the back of the blade, which suggest the possibility of attaching a wooden stiffening rib. These holes are believed to be purposefully designed to add rigidity to the blade. Additionally, the handle of the back saw is attached with rivets rather than a tanged handle, further indicating its distinctive design. Another noteworthy feature of the back saw is the progressive pitch of its teeth, which allows for more precise and efficient cutting. The combination of these characteristics gives the back saw its unique name, distinguishing it from other types of saws.
What is the difference between a Japanese saw and a back saw?
The main difference between a Japanese saw and a back saw lies in their design and purpose. A Japanese saw is a pull saw that excels in rough dimensioning, re-sawing, and flush cutting. Its pull stroke allows for greater control and precision, making it ideal for various woodworking tasks. On the other hand, a back saw is a Western-style saw specifically designed for joinery. Its rigid back provides stability during precise cuts, making it a popular choice for creating dovetails and tenons. While both saws have their strengths, they are typically used for different purposes in woodworking projects.