Effective immediately (21 November 2015), I have stopped taking new orders for custom backsaws. For a full explanation, please read this blog entry.
This carcase saw traces its roots to 1816, where it is shown in Smith's Key (a catalog from which retailers could order merchandise). While it is the same length as my Disston carcase saw, the similarities end there.
The biggest real difference between the two is the handle. Looking beyond the most apparent difference (this saw has an open handle, while the other has a closed handle), it is seen that the hang of this handle is dramatically lower. This low hang angle has a very real mechanical consequence, as it invites you to get closer to your work, either by raising it or by bending at the waist or knees.
The most striking visual difference between the two is the heavily canted blade on this saw. While the canting has little effect on how the saw cuts, it does decrease the depth of the blade beneath the spine, thereby allowing the use of a thinner plate. While I recommend the use of 0.020" thick plate only on dedicated crosscut saws in my Disston carcase saw, I am comfortable in recommending its use on either crosscut or hybrid saws in this version.
From the handle wood and pattern to the spine and hardware materials and design, this saw can be customized to meet your
aesthetic sensibilities. Before ordering, please take a look at the range and descriptions of the available
options.
Features include:
Patterned after the 12 inch carcase saw shown in Smith's Key from 1816.
Ready to order? Configure your saw using the dropdown
menus below, or contact me to explore options beyond those found below. Because your saw will be made to your specifications, each saw requires a $40
non-refundable deposit at the time of ordering. The balance is due when your saw is completed and ready to ship.
After you place your deposit, I will send you a few questions that will help me customize your saw to fit your needs. If your needs or desires change before I begin building your saw, there is no extra charge - just let me know so I can update your design.
Made in the USA. Fully warranted for one year.
"I bought one of Isaac's saws at the MWTCA meeting in Ashland, N C, last weekend. You can't go wrong. I've tried it in pine, mahogany, walnut, rosewood and ebony. Starts nice, cuts smooth, fast and straight. Besides all that it looks great. A happy customer."
- Jim Leamy, planemaker
"...one thing's for sure, you certainly do know something about filing a saw. I had my Eccentric saw out today and I was alternating test cuts with your saw and then Andrew's saw. Of all the saws I've attained none ever came close to the saw Andrew made for me....until today. If I had dovetails to cut tomorrow I would be in a quandary over which of these two saws to use."
Quartersawn elm |