With a sharp handsaw and the right cutting technique, you can saw just as straight and true as your grandfather did, back in the days when handsaws ruled. Try these four steps the next time you need to call on your handsaw.
Step by Step 1. Set up on a solid platform. Sawhorses, a workbench or concrete blocks can all provide good support for sawing. If you're cutting thick stock like 2-by lumber, it's helpful to have your boards low enough to kneel on as you cut. Your body weight provides the clamping action. Just make sure there's enough clearance beneath the workpiece to make a full cutting stroke with your saw. Measure and mark your stock and align the saw blade slightly to the waste side of your mark to allow for the width of the saw kerf.
2. Make three pull strokes to establish your kerf. Use the tip of your thumb to keep the blade right where you want it. The teeth on most handsaws are angled forward to cut on the push stroke, so a couple of pull strokes will produce less resistance, making it easier to get the kerf started.
3. Make some sawdust! Saw back and forth using the full length of the blade. Keep your eye on the line and the saw will follow. Let the teeth and the tool's weight do the work.
4. Finish with lighter strokes. As you near the end of the cut, support the waste side of the wood with your free hand and lighten your strokes. This helps to prevent splintering as the waste piece falls away. Good job!
TOOLS AND MATERIALS
Handsaw
Sawhorse
Workbench or work table
