Posted by
Easy WoodCraft on
Jun 6, 2016
If you've never used a bow saw, give it a try. It's amazing how versatile one of these can be. A bow saw can be used to rip, crosscut, or cut curves. Although found less and less in today's shop, you can still find them in the occasional woodworking catalog. The beauty of a bow saw is that the blades are interchangeable. You can install a wide rip blade for ripping, a narrower blade for cross-cutting, or a fine blade for detail work.
Anatomy
A bow saw is a type of frame saw where the blade is held in an H-frame. Pins on the ends of the handles fit into holes in the ends of the blade. A stretcher connects to the cheeks of the frame via a loose mortise and tenon joint. Blade tension is provided by a twisted cord, cable, or threaded rod. The most common type of bow saw uses a toggle or twist stick to wind the cord to increase or decrease tension.
Basic use
Select the desired blade and install it in the saw. Adjust the twist stick to tension the blade. The grip that you use with a bow saw is really a matter of personal preference. Some folks like to place their hands on opposite cheeks of the frame. A more traditional grip is to hold a handle with one hand and then overlap your other hand over it so it also grips the frame. Others feel comfortable with just one hand guiding the saw.
Thanks for reading Bow Saws. Please share...!
