I've watched several videos on sharpening saws. Your's made the difference, when you said, "I'm sure the saw will be better when you're done than when you started." That gave me the confidence to get on with it and you were right. The ones I've sharpened are much better than when I started.
idk why this comes into my recommendation videos, but im glad i clicked on it. this brings back the memory of my late grandpa sharpening his hand saw at his farmhouse, and him being angry at me for bothering him too much lol. miss u grandpa
I saw saw sharpening when I was still young and growing up disposable saw was becoming the norm. Now I don’t have a classic or heirloom saw but you made me think of sharpening my dull saw and keeping them instead of buying new ones. Once you get the dynamic it is fairly easy. I have learned to take my time. This is not something you could do in a flash.
The before shots with the flat spots was great - including an after shot of what they look like sharpened would have been great. But this was really helpful.
I've seen quite a few of your shorts, and i recently inherited three older handsaws, one of them just like the one in this video. when i searched for a way to sharpen them I was happy to see you pop up! Thank you for this sir! I'm going to save this and share it with a couple friends
I am a complete do do when it comes to hand tools. I am just now starting to understand whats up. Your explanation of how to was simple and very easy to understand. Thank you.
Explanations and demonstrations are very clear and easy to understand. I have taught several high school shop classes and I give you an “A” on your presentation!
James....this video really clarified some confusion for me. A few years back, I rescued a half dozen saws from a dumpster. I took the best one and added it to my patrol vehicle’s tool Arsenal (I’m a retired Federal Wildlife Officer)....and threw the rest in the basement. Recently got into woodworking (restorations, decoys, etc) and decided to restore one of the saws....with good cleaning techniques, I found a 70+(?) year old 10ppi Disston D-8 that I was even able to bring back the etching! The sharpening has presented a challenge mainly due to my eyesight....so I broke out my old firearms armoring magnifier....watched your video....and the rest, is history! Bravo-Zulu on a great video presentation!
Use both hands one in front and one on the handle of your file. File in slight angle pushing file foward. You also need to use a saw set before sharpening. That was the cliff note version. My father sharpened saws for dacades and past this skill down to his sons myself included.
I recently acquired a few older saws and I'm happy that I found your channel this week. The instruction you provide is clear and I certainly feel more confident in sharpening my saws, so thank you!
+Jcope1382 Thank you that is a huge complement! if you have any questions please let me know. I would love to help out in any way I can I may even make a video just for you.
Amazing....every time I have a question on how to....up pops one of your videos... I love that you thoroughly explain all this, as I have an old disston, that I'm going to give a go with... I think it's a tenon saw, more rectangular looking, with 12 ppi. Again thank you for your diligence.
I appreciate your effort, I learned somewhat, please do the video again showing fine detail, as you (and I) are working with fine points a clear and precise visual is imperative. Thanks
@@WoodByWright good deal bro, I can really appreciate your love for vintage wood working tools, you have a good mannerism in how you explain things, that means alot, thanks again
At first I assumed I would need to find a video showing the process up close for me to understand it but you did such a great job explaining the how and why to each process that there is no reason for me to search for another video. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I do a lot of sharpening on all different kinds of tools and like you said it can be very relaxing. You didn't mention if you correct the side bend of the teeth. A while back my friend had a tool that he didn't know what it was. I searched online and found it was for bending the saw blade teeth precisely and he gave it to me quite a wonderful tool anyway great video and "Keep on Sharpening" Thanks from Keith
Enjoyed your video, haven't sharpened a hand saw for 25 years, back in my carpentry apprenticeship. Had ago and yes it is therapeutic, I think I'll get some new eye glasses before I attempt it again. Cheers
I find them there most every shop I go to around the country. Usually for 3-10. Usually have to sift through 10 other bad ones but they are in most every anteque shop.
Great video! New to hand tools and I bought a crosscut saw that drifted so badly to the right that I never used it. thought I just had a bad one. Followed these directions tonight and cut a 1/4 strip off the end of and 8 inch piece of White Oak in about 2 minutes! the piece was 1/4" all the way across too. Thanks!
Thanks Wright, this was so helpful! Most of my tools are 2nd, 3rd- hell. Probably 5th hand, including my hand saws. Being on both on a budget & having almost a chip on my shoulder about making what I've got to last, this was perfect. Cheers, man. Hope you're doing great
Very helpful and informative James thank you, until this morning I didn't know there were two types of Saw nor did I know how to sharpen them thanks man!!
I'd like a close up of the finished teeth. And maybe a close up of the process. But thanks for the vid. The idea of getting something from the 1800's and spending a few hours and maybe a few more bucks for the tools to sharpen the tool. And being able to have a sharp straight cutting saw for the rest of my life, whether or not there is power, for future lives for that matter, is definitely worth learning / doing.
You're welcome - you're doing a lot better than me. I'm doing some cool stuff - gardening, and I think about making videos but almost never do. I actually did put two calisthenics videos up - something else I think about videoing - like I like demonstrating creative ways to work out and work within your comfort level.
شكرا لك لقد تعلمت منك الكثير هناك نقطة اريد ان توضحها هوى أن ترينا الشكل الأولي قبل الشحذ وقبل العمل لكي نقارن بين الأشياء اللتي لدينا ونستوعب بشكل جيد وشكرا
Now I'm going to go back to the thrift store and pick up all thoes old saws i saw for 5 dollars each, and grab a bunch, I'll try this and maybe have some good saws shop for once
I have 2 big saws from my gpa and 1 small saw from my gpa also. The 2 big ones r super super nice but the small saw has a plastic? handle that sorta looks like wood. My dad wants me to sharpen them so thxs for the video. I really don't wanna mess up my gpas saws...
My how we’ve come such a long ways in almost 3 years. I’ll bet you have a slightly different technique now. It’s funny... I typically watch every maintenance video for every tool I have. Just in case on the off chance someone is doing something slightly better/easier. But I missed this one. Thanks James.
7:50 Watching this video again because I just sharpened a crosscut saw, and this exact thing happened... every tooth that was on the left side of the saw was taller than the teeth on the right. This happened, I think, because I sharpened all the teeth on the right side, then tried to sharpen all the teeth on the left side. The result was that when sharpening the left side tooth, I was also filing away some of the right side tooth in front of that one, leaving the right side one shorter. It's important to work from the back of the saw to the front, alternating the angle of the file each time (which seems obvious once I realized it). Edit: this was only a problem with my technique - focus on grinding the tooth in front of the file, and apply pressure forward instead of straight down. Appreciation to James for sorting me out :)
Wood By Wright Yep, I was doing it wrong. Once I focused on grinding only one of the teeth, I no longer had the problem. I was even able to file one side at a time without issue. Thanks!
Very nice. Watching both this and Paul Sellers video made alot more sense when done in complement. BTW a 5 dollar LED headlamp will make life so much easier here.
I'd like to see close ups when you work on the teeth? All I saw was teeth that had been dulled after and no sharpened teeth? Still, the instruction was good.
Aloha James, Finally broke down enough and started working on sharpening my saws. Paul Sellers has a fine piece on it (he's been woodworking from before our first splinters). I always watch whatever I can find on my subjects of study and bounce back and forth between the living and my past mentors (now resting). This posting of yours remeans great. But what a change from your current 'look'. How many years ago did you make this one ? Just doing the math, was this 15-20 years ago? A different world ! Even looking at your tool wall, shows your start up collection. Aloha from the Baker's of Wahiawa !
Thanks Mark. Yeah this one was a while ago. That was soon after I started making videos for other people to watch. Probably somewhere around 6 years ago.
Excellent video, it was a joy to watch. The instruction was good and everything was explained clearly. I agree with a previous poster tho, a closeup of the end result would have been nice. Thanks you.
thanks Ryan. I have more recent versions of the video with close up shots. unfortunately with the camera I had back then I could not get those nice shots.
May I suggest a saw vise as you mentioned. Watching you run your file in your wooden vise, there was a lot of chattering. Makes for a ragged cut and longer to reach your stopping point. Also, with a properly sharpened and set hand saw, looking along the length of the teeth at eye level, it is a perfect V. With a small tilt, a needle will shoot down the V like a luge sled. Love your videos.
I wish you had covered setting the teeth and to know how much to adjust the saw. Covering the numbers on the saw set pliers and what you use for which saw etc. I’ve inherited some quality old saws and a sawset tool but not sure what to do and how
I generally consider setting to be separate from sharpening as I only do that every few sharpenings. That is a video that I want to do some time though. as to which setter to use it is all personal preference. some love one or another but it all comes down to how does it feel to you. the numbers on the tool mean nothing at all other than one end of the scale means more set and the other means less set. the bigger the tooth the more set you put in. the better your skill the less set you put in. so if you are new to hand sewing and you are working with a 4ppi saw then make it as big as your set can go. if you are skilled and working with small teeth (
@@WoodByWright Fair call. I used this method for years as well. Then graduated to a single chunk of tree with a saw cut down the centre with chamfered edges. Did the job. Then a few years back my Wife came home with an antique Henry Disston saw vise she found at a Garage sale. Best part was she had no idea what it was but bought it because she knows how much I love old world tools. You can only imagine how happy I was with that gift.
Enjoyed your video. Before I came to my senses, I kept pushing that dull saw forward. What do you think happened? Yes, you guessed it. It flexed and bent all over the place. It's now not perfectly straight. Will this matter, after I put the time into sharpening it? Or can I tweak it back into shape?
sure you can bend it back. with a panel saw you just bend the plate. it often takes a LOT of bending. if it is kinked though then the saw might be trash. that is crazy difficult to fix.
Wondering why you didn’t set the teeth after sharpening. Setting helps prevent binding. I love the saw, and love your passion for your tools. I’m so sad to see so many people just buying crappy tools and then throwing them away when they start failing.
I usually only set the teeth every four to six sharpenings. I consider it to be a whole separate process. I have a few videos on that and doing in different ways but most of the time I don't do it with my sharpening.
I found your video really helpful in sharpening some nice saws I picked up at an estate sale as well as restoring the steel and handle from a previous video of yours. Thank you. My only question is, how often should this be done after the first restoration? I am sure it depends on the saw and the wood and the amount of use, but how often are you doing this to yours? Is is just feeling the saw not cut as well when using it?
it really depends on its use and how clean a cut you want. my dovetail saw gets sharpened every 6-8 months. my big ripping hand saw gets sharpened every 3-4 months. but I use them every day almost.
Well done-well done. However I might suggest a little better lighting thereby creating better photos so we can better see what you are doing and the results you get. I have several of dads old saws I would love to have been able to use.
Wood By Wright Your right about relaxing. Contrary to what my last video showed I really enjoy working with hand tools. The only problem is they don't mix with business.
I wish I could have done that back then. Unfortunately my camera back then would not get close up on it. I have several more recent videos that have far better shots of it when I was able to upgrade and get better equipment.
Thank you, Mr Wright -- GREAT video. ...But I do have a few questions. When you're "jointing" the teeth, I see that for the first two or three strokes (starting at 3:41 or so), you start back at the near end, and make passes that cover all of the teeth, all the way to the far end. But starting at 3:52, on the third pass, from the way you are holding the file, it appears that you start your stroke five or six inches from the near end, thus missing the first 60 teeth or so. Shouldn't you always file all the teeth on every pass, to keep them at the same height? Maybe that's moot...I seldom use the first or last few inches of the saw, and I suspect many others don't as well. Still.... I really appreciated the close-up of the terrible condition of the saw's teeth BEFORE you sharpened it (8:07 - 8:37). But I would dearly love to see a similar close-up of those teeth AFTER you sharpened them. Is there any chance you could edit this video and add that in? You mention that the sharpening file is triangular, but with very thin faces on the edges between the three sides, making it, in effect, a six-sided file. I couldn't find any files whose descriptions had that feature. Then I found an old article on sharpening, and it indicated that a good saw file would NOT have sharp edges, but slightly rounded or flattened edges, to avoid sharply pointed gullets that would lead to cracks in the blade. Is that what you meant? I was going to order a Great Neck tooth setter, but many reviewers described the poor quality, especially the soft metal of the anvil. Then I found Paul Sellers' POOR-MAN’S SAW TOOTH SETTER (TUTORIAL AND VIDEO). I used Mr Sellers' idea to make a simple screw into a WIZARD tooth setter. I have an old Stanley saw that couldn't cut balsa wood, and every cut would start to turn in about two inches, and the saw jammed on every cut. I used your process to joint the teeth and shape them properly, getting them pretty sharp. Then I set the teeth. Then I went back for a final sharpening, just two soft strokes on each tooth. The saw now cuts straight, fast, and leaves much smoother cut ends...it is clearly better than when I bought it in the 1970's. Thank you.
This saw I believe had a crown where the teeth in the center were too high. but it was so long ago I am not sure. In that case, I would hit the center more than the heel and toe to help bring it down. I wish I had mentioned that, but I was learning how to make videos back then. just as I wish I had thought to show a close up of the teeth after. that would have been beneficial if I had thought of it in this one. I do that in some of the newer ones. Correct. the edges fo not come to a point. most now have a flat edge. though they will not be smooth as you still need that section to cut. otherwise, the file will not advance down. I love Pauls cheap method. works well. and yes do not get the great neck setter it is trash. if you go to an MWTCA meet you can pick up antique saw sets for $2-$5 usually there are a few guys there with buckets of them. Sounds like a good time. it is amazing what a sharp saw can do!
@@WoodByWright I'd never heard of MWTCA, had to look it up. For others who might not know, it's the Mid-West Tool Collectors Association. Living near Seattle, clearly I won't be going to any MWTCA meets any time soon. I was hoping there might be a NORTH-West Tool Collectors Assn, but when I looked up NWTCA, I found it was the Northwest Tibetan Cultural Assn (LOL). Oh, well, there's always Craig's List. Thank you, James, for the kind (and super quick) reply.
@@WoodByWright W00t! I found the PACIFIC Northwest Tool Collectors (PNTC), with monthly meetings alternating between Seattle WA and Hillsboro OR. There's hope yet!
No. The pitting on the sides of the plate do not affect the function of the saw. if you grind everything else down to be the same level then you just end up with a thinner plate that doesn't work as well.
It depends on how often you use it. My most commonly used saws I usually sharpen once every 6 months or so. The ones I don't use quite as much but might only get sharpened once a year
James. Do you ever place more pressure on your file in one direction? Someone I watch does and gets good results but I think it just makes the teeth less uniform in shape. What are your thoughts
I liked the audio trick while you work..smart man.killing two birds with one stone..do you like that comparison about killing anything..nice work thanx
Another great video. Unfortunately my saws are all hardened but will be looking for some older ones. Would slightly bowing boards help you clamp large saws in small vices? And might spray painting the exposed teeth prior to filing help see the flat spots and spot teeth you're working on?
I have thought of planning a bit of a bow into the boards I use, but so far I have not had a problem. even with my 30" pannel saws they hold it fine. if I had a smaller vice that would be huge but mine is 12" wide. hardened saws are a great place to start. they last longer and you don't have to mess with sharpening. for alot of people that is the place to be. I have not needed to mark the teeth because after using them a few times they get a dirty blackened surfice. and when you sharpen them it cuts through the grime and you see shinny steel where you have been. plus I don't know if I like the idea of paint closing the file. but I have never tried it. so it could be worth a try some time.
+Wood Wright Yeah paint might do that. I've seen some others use a maker. But who needs tools when you got dirt :-). I will need to check my saw if it is rip or cross cut. And want to some saws with less tpi for joinery but they are hard to find or expansive. might start with an older saw or just get some steel, not sure what type though. I believe Paul Sellers has a video on resizing saw teeth. ever done that?
+Nearoth if you want to make your own you can get spring steel from McMaster or where ever. I have two saws made that way. the thickness is how stiff it will be. for a frame saw I like .03-.02 and for pannel saws .05 or thicker. again that is a personal prefrence.
Thanks. Yes this video is made back a long time ago when I had no idea what I was doing video wise. Still learning a lot but the video quality is improved greatly. I have several newer ones that have better quality.
![BOWKYLION - วิงวอน (ex-change) [Official MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/cLdnZWDaO-w/mqdefault.jpg)
Newer video can be found here: th-cam.com/video/e7YsjKhqk-w/w-d-xo.html
Came here from your short😂
I've watched several videos on sharpening saws. Your's made the difference, when you said, "I'm sure the saw will be better when you're done than when you started." That gave me the confidence to get on with it and you were right. The ones I've sharpened are much better than when I started.
idk why this comes into my recommendation videos, but im glad i clicked on it. this brings back the memory of my late grandpa sharpening his hand saw at his farmhouse, and him being angry at me for bothering him too much lol. miss u grandpa
I saw saw sharpening when I was still young and growing up disposable saw was becoming the norm. Now I don’t have a classic or heirloom saw but you made me think of sharpening my dull saw and keeping them instead of buying new ones. Once you get the dynamic it is fairly easy. I have learned to take my time. This is not something you could do in a flash.
The before shots with the flat spots was great - including an after shot of what they look like sharpened would have been great. But this was really helpful.
He goofed it up
I agree I wanted pics of what a sharpened one should look like
I've seen quite a few of your shorts, and i recently inherited three older handsaws, one of them just like the one in this video. when i searched for a way to sharpen them I was happy to see you pop up! Thank you for this sir! I'm going to save this and share it with a couple friends
I am a complete do do when it comes to hand tools.
I am just now starting to understand whats up.
Your explanation of how to was simple and very easy to understand. Thank you.
Watching from New Zealand.
Thank you for showing how simple it is to sharpen a saw.
A lot of people may think this is time consuming. But you will have the sharpest saw blade on this planet after going through this sharpening process.
Explanations and demonstrations are very clear and easy to understand. I have taught several high school shop classes and I give you an “A” on your presentation!
I love the conciseness of this video! You did very well explaining it, keeping it simple and informative, thank you!
James....this video really clarified some confusion for me. A few years back, I rescued a half dozen saws from a dumpster. I took the best one and added it to my patrol vehicle’s tool Arsenal (I’m a retired Federal Wildlife Officer)....and threw the rest in the basement. Recently got into woodworking (restorations, decoys, etc) and decided to restore one of the saws....with good cleaning techniques, I found a 70+(?) year old 10ppi Disston D-8 that I was even able to bring back the etching! The sharpening has presented a challenge mainly due to my eyesight....so I broke out my old firearms armoring magnifier....watched your video....and the rest, is history! Bravo-Zulu on a great video presentation!
thank you. that means a lot. I love hearing about an old saw coming back to life!
I've owned 5 saws for years, and I know they are dull now. I watched your other vids to learn what types I have. Thanks!
Use both hands one in front and one on the handle of your file. File in slight angle pushing file foward. You also need to use a saw set before sharpening. That was the cliff note version. My father sharpened saws for dacades and past this skill down to his sons myself included.
I recently acquired a few older saws and I'm happy that I found your channel this week. The instruction you provide is clear and I certainly feel more confident in sharpening my saws, so thank you!
+Jcope1382 Thank you that is a huge complement! if you have any questions please let me know. I would love to help out in any way I can I may even make a video just for you.
Several generations of people cared for that saw; you can tell
Great video!
I don't know why soo many videos on this are 20 - 30 minutes long. Pointless.
Thank you for this easy to understand video mate : ]
Amazing....every time I have a question on how to....up pops one of your videos... I love that you thoroughly explain all this, as I have an old disston, that I'm going to give a go with... I think it's a tenon saw, more rectangular looking, with 12 ppi. Again thank you for your diligence.
So simple and to the point. My favorite woodworking TH-camr. Just sharpened my old panel saw I grew up with, it's like night and day!
Sweet! I love hearing of an old tool coming back to life!
You helped. My hesistance to sharpen my saws is no more.given the proper steps and techniques.tip of the hat to you my friend.
thanks Jesse. glad I could help.
I appreciate your effort, I learned somewhat, please do the video again showing fine detail, as you (and I) are working with fine points a clear and precise visual is imperative. Thanks
Thanks. I have a newer one with a better camera that let me get far closer.
@@WoodByWright good deal bro, I can really appreciate your love for vintage wood working tools, you have a good mannerism in how you explain things, that means alot, thanks again
Thanks for posting this. I have some saws that my late Dad gave me from his grandfather and I wanted to try and sharpen. Thanks again.
+marchindy That sounds like a fantastic project! I love handed down saws!
Who would sell such a nice piece for 50 cents?! People these days don't know anything about refurbishing stuff. Great tutorial mate
Just bought seven saws in a sale and will have to give setting and sharpening a go
Using visual aids to show how individual tooth actually sharpened by file is helpful
At first I assumed I would need to find a video showing the process up close for me to understand it but you did such a great job explaining the how and why to each process that there is no reason for me to search for another video.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thanks. I have newer videos with better equipment so I could get closer if you want to see more.
@@WoodByWright Absolutely.
I do a lot of sharpening on all different kinds of tools and like you said it can be very relaxing. You didn't mention if you correct the side bend of the teeth. A while back my friend had a tool that he didn't know what it was. I searched online and found it was for bending the saw blade teeth precisely and he gave it to me quite a wonderful tool anyway great video and "Keep on Sharpening" Thanks from Keith
thanks Keith. I have a few other videos on setting the teeth. I do not do it every time I sharpen.
Thanks for passing on the know-how. I kind of knew the principle but you have given me the confidence !
Glad I can help.
Enjoyed your video, haven't sharpened a hand saw for 25 years, back in my carpentry apprenticeship. Had ago and yes it is therapeutic, I think I'll get some new eye glasses before I attempt it again. Cheers
+Bagheera68237 sounds like fun.
It's interesting how similar this is to sharpening a chain saw. Thanks James! I need to hit up some resale shops
well you got me there. I have never sharpened a chain saw but I might be picking that skill up some time. right after I pick up a chainsaw.
Well you already have the skill, just switch to a round file
What's more complicated is two man saws..
Well even those are the same principle just bigger files.
Thanks! I have a couple of Henry Disston saws that need sharpening. It’s a lost art. No one does it anymore.
You scored on that saw! So cool
What a terrific find... a saw in such good condition at a resale shop.
I find them there most every shop I go to around the country. Usually for 3-10. Usually have to sift through 10 other bad ones but they are in most every anteque shop.
That was an awesome video but I have to be honest I was waiting for you to cut a piece of wood! Next time, give us a finale please!!!
thanks. ya that was a very old video. I have done over 1000 scene that one and have learned to show the tool in use.
Was looking to learn how to do this. You explained it perfectly. Thanks.👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Thanks a lot for your help. I feel more confident now with sharpening.
Great video! New to hand tools and I bought a crosscut saw that drifted so badly to the right that I never used it. thought I just had a bad one. Followed these directions tonight and cut a 1/4 strip off the end of and 8 inch piece of White Oak in about 2 minutes! the piece was 1/4" all the way across too. Thanks!
+David Justice sweet! That is what I like to hear.
You are a very good teacher. Thank you.
Thanks Wright, this was so helpful!
Most of my tools are 2nd, 3rd- hell.
Probably 5th hand, including my hand saws.
Being on both on a budget & having almost a chip on my shoulder about making what I've got to last, this was perfect.
Cheers, man. Hope you're doing great
Thank you for the 'How to Shatpen a Hand Saw'
great that you're sharing this so tat the skill doesnt get lost.
I will definitely try it sometime
Cam u do a video on sharpening the one man lynx brand cross cut saw. Theres really not one out here that is clear.
Thanks
Thanks man you were a great help. Looking forward to more of your stuff.
Very helpful and informative James thank you, until this morning I didn't know there were two types of Saw nor did I know how to sharpen them thanks man!!
my pleasure. thanks for watching!
I'd like a close up of the finished teeth. And maybe a close up of the process. But thanks for the vid.
The idea of getting something from the 1800's and spending a few hours and maybe a few more bucks for the tools to sharpen the tool. And being able to have a sharp straight cutting saw for the rest of my life, whether or not there is power, for future lives for that matter, is definitely worth learning / doing.
thanks. I redid the video a couple months ago and added some close-ups. learning video work is a lifelong thing for me. LOL
You're welcome - you're doing a lot better than me. I'm doing some cool stuff - gardening, and I think about making videos but almost never do. I actually did put two calisthenics videos up - something else I think about videoing - like I like demonstrating creative ways to work out and work within your comfort level.
@@WoodByWright I was looking for your redo...couldn't find it. What's the URL?
@@OffGrid9 th-cam.com/video/e7YsjKhqk-w/w-d-xo.html here is one of them.
Wood By
This information can be hard to find. Thank you!
شكرا لك لقد تعلمت منك الكثير هناك نقطة اريد ان توضحها هوى أن ترينا الشكل الأولي قبل الشحذ وقبل العمل لكي نقارن بين الأشياء اللتي لدينا ونستوعب بشكل جيد وشكرا
Now I'm going to go back to the thrift store and pick up all thoes old saws i saw for 5 dollars each, and grab a bunch, I'll try this and maybe have some good saws shop for once
I have 2 big saws from my gpa and 1 small saw from my gpa also. The 2 big ones r super super nice but the small saw has a plastic? handle that sorta looks like wood. My dad wants me to sharpen them so thxs for the video. I really don't wanna mess up my gpas saws...
Thank you for sharing now I know I gonna share to my brother when I take vacation to the Philippines
Thanks. have fun sharpening!
My how we’ve come such a long ways in almost 3 years. I’ll bet you have a slightly different technique now. It’s funny... I typically watch every maintenance video for every tool I have. Just in case on the off chance someone is doing something slightly better/easier. But I missed this one. Thanks James.
Thanks man. I have changed a few things I do. Lol. It is fun to see how time changes us.
Yeah. Figured I’d watch a pro for my morning meditation. Have a great day bud.
Learned something new. Thanks
I have slowly been getting into Wood crafting and I am a bit ignorant about it.
we all got to start somewhere. the art is Full of odd skils to learn.
7:50 Watching this video again because I just sharpened a crosscut saw, and this exact thing happened... every tooth that was on the left side of the saw was taller than the teeth on the right.
This happened, I think, because I sharpened all the teeth on the right side, then tried to sharpen all the teeth on the left side. The result was that when sharpening the left side tooth, I was also filing away some of the right side tooth in front of that one, leaving the right side one shorter.
It's important to work from the back of the saw to the front, alternating the angle of the file each time (which seems obvious once I realized it).
Edit: this was only a problem with my technique - focus on grinding the tooth in front of the file, and apply pressure forward instead of straight down.
Appreciation to James for sorting me out :)
right on. I generally just put pressure forward on the file so as not to grind the other tooth.
Unless, of course... I’m just doing something a little bit wrong. It’s a possibility...
Wood By Wright
Hmm... Yeah, I might have been pushing straight down.
Wood By Wright
Yep, I was doing it wrong. Once I focused on grinding only one of the teeth, I no longer had the problem.
I was even able to file one side at a time without issue.
Thanks!
Very nice. Watching both this and Paul Sellers video made alot more sense when done in complement. BTW a 5 dollar LED headlamp will make life so much easier here.
Thanks. Great video. Would have liked to have seen a close up of the final sharpened teeth too as a comparison.
thanks. I have that in the newer version of the video. back when I made this I did not have equipment to get a good close up shot unfortunately.
I love sharpening tools. Although I can't help but think for 30 bucks I can just buy a new saw lol sharpening the old tools like this is cool though
Unfortunately you can't buy a rip saw for $30.
I'd like to see close ups when you work on the teeth? All I saw was teeth that had been dulled after and no sharpened teeth? Still, the instruction was good.
I ahve a newer sharpening video where I got a camera that could focus on that. sorry this is an old one and I did not have good video equipment then.
Great video. First time I'd seen it done. I'm good too go now. No more buying a new saw untill it's properly expired 😁
Aloha James,
Finally broke down enough and started working on sharpening my saws. Paul Sellers has a fine piece on it (he's been woodworking from before our first splinters). I always watch whatever I can find on my subjects of study and bounce back and forth between the living and my past mentors (now resting).
This posting of yours remeans great. But what a change from your current 'look'. How many years ago did you make this one ? Just doing the math, was this 15-20 years ago?
A different world !
Even looking at your tool wall, shows your start up collection.
Aloha from the Baker's of Wahiawa !
Thanks Mark. Yeah this one was a while ago. That was soon after I started making videos for other people to watch. Probably somewhere around 6 years ago.
Excellent video, it was a joy to watch. The instruction was good and everything was explained clearly. I agree with a previous poster tho, a closeup of the end result would have been nice. Thanks you.
thanks Ryan. I have more recent versions of the video with close up shots. unfortunately with the camera I had back then I could not get those nice shots.
Amazing hand sew sharpining tutorial..thanks this videos..new friend here full support ..
May I suggest a saw vise as you mentioned. Watching you run your file in your wooden vise, there was a lot of chattering. Makes for a ragged cut and longer to reach your stopping point. Also, with a properly sharpened and set hand saw, looking along the length of the teeth at eye level, it is a perfect V. With a small tilt, a needle will shoot down the V like a luge sled.
Love your videos.
Yes I have other videos showing that as well as a series making a vice. But I also like to show that you don't need it. They just help.
That saw was a beauty for 50cent I just bought one there for £12 going to sharpen it up first time doing dot 😁
I'm surprised my high school shop teacher didn't make me do this when I was his TA
All of above....love your apron.... I need it....love it
Great video buddy 👍
I wish you had covered setting the teeth and to know how much to adjust the saw. Covering the numbers on the saw set pliers and what you use for which saw etc. I’ve inherited some quality old saws and a sawset tool but not sure what to do and how
I generally consider setting to be separate from sharpening as I only do that every few sharpenings. That is a video that I want to do some time though. as to which setter to use it is all personal preference. some love one or another but it all comes down to how does it feel to you. the numbers on the tool mean nothing at all other than one end of the scale means more set and the other means less set. the bigger the tooth the more set you put in. the better your skill the less set you put in. so if you are new to hand sewing and you are working with a 4ppi saw then make it as big as your set can go. if you are skilled and working with small teeth (
Like the audiobook idea. Listened to quite a few classics in my commuting days. Any suggestions?
I listen to podcasts. a lot of fanticy and science fiction. I have a long list.
If StihL made a hand saw angled jig file hmmm. Oh yea no risers to rest on. Hmmmmmmmm what to make what to make. Cool video thnx
My first job was as an apprentice saw doctor with Wm Cook Glasgow 1967 😢
Informative and well presented.
Bet you are glad that you now have a proper saw holding vise.. Makes the job soooo much easier without that annoying vibration thing.
Yes and no. A saw vice is very nice but I sharpened more with this setup as it was much faster and easier to setup.
@@WoodByWright Fair call. I used this method for years as well. Then graduated to a single chunk of tree with a saw cut down the centre with chamfered edges. Did the job. Then a few years back my Wife came home with an antique Henry Disston saw vise she found at a Garage sale. Best part was she had no idea what it was but bought it because she knows how much I love old world tools. You can only imagine how happy I was with that gift.
Sounds like you married the right one.
@@WoodByWright Yes Sir! Although at times I do question her sanity putting up with my weirdness :)
That's incredible
Enjoyed your video. Before I came to my senses, I kept pushing that dull saw forward. What do you think happened? Yes, you guessed it. It flexed and bent all over the place. It's now not perfectly straight. Will this matter, after I put the time into sharpening it? Or can I tweak it back into shape?
sure you can bend it back. with a panel saw you just bend the plate. it often takes a LOT of bending. if it is kinked though then the saw might be trash. that is crazy difficult to fix.
Any guidance on offsetting the teeth? Isn’t this necessary also?
Setting the teeth is something that I do every four or five sharpenings. I generally consider it to be a separate job from sharpening.
Excellent information and presentation, thank you.
thanks. my pleasure
Wondering why you didn’t set the teeth after sharpening. Setting helps prevent binding. I love the saw, and love your passion for your tools. I’m so sad to see so many people just buying crappy tools and then throwing them away when they start failing.
I usually only set the teeth every four to six sharpenings. I consider it to be a whole separate process. I have a few videos on that and doing in different ways but most of the time I don't do it with my sharpening.
Quality content!
I found your video really helpful in sharpening some nice saws I picked up at an estate sale as well as restoring the steel and handle from a previous video of yours. Thank you. My only question is, how often should this be done after the first restoration? I am sure it depends on the saw and the wood and the amount of use, but how often are you doing this to yours? Is is just feeling the saw not cut as well when using it?
it really depends on its use and how clean a cut you want. my dovetail saw gets sharpened every 6-8 months. my big ripping hand saw gets sharpened every 3-4 months. but I use them every day almost.
Thank you Sir.🎉
Great video! thank you~
Well done-well done. However I might suggest a little better lighting thereby creating better photos so we can better see what you are doing and the results you get. I have several of dads old saws I would love to have been able to use.
thanks. yes this is an old video from back when I was learning how to make videos.
Nice, that is how I sharpen mine, I am decent at sharpening rip saws but fine crosscut saws give me trouble.
+endlessmountainwoodworks They are defiantly a a skill that requires practice. But it can be such a relaxing art. keep up the good work!
Wood By Wright
Your right about relaxing. Contrary to what my last video showed I really enjoy working with hand tools. The only problem is they don't mix with business.
man yes. People can not pay me for the time I put into things. but the art alone is worth the work for me!
Would love to see more close up of the tooth cutting.
I wish I could have done that back then. Unfortunately my camera back then would not get close up on it. I have several more recent videos that have far better shots of it when I was able to upgrade and get better equipment.
great info. Thanks for the clear instruction.
any time. thanks for watching.
that is totally my job here in philippines😊
Thank you, Mr Wright -- GREAT video. ...But I do have a few questions.
When you're "jointing" the teeth, I see that for the first two or three strokes (starting at 3:41 or so), you start back at the near end, and make passes that cover all of the teeth, all the way to the far end. But starting at 3:52, on the third pass, from the way you are holding the file, it appears that you start your stroke five or six inches from the near end, thus missing the first 60 teeth or so. Shouldn't you always file all the teeth on every pass, to keep them at the same height? Maybe that's moot...I seldom use the first or last few inches of the saw, and I suspect many others don't as well. Still....
I really appreciated the close-up of the terrible condition of the saw's teeth BEFORE you sharpened it (8:07 - 8:37). But I would dearly love to see a similar close-up of those teeth AFTER you sharpened them. Is there any chance you could edit this video and add that in?
You mention that the sharpening file is triangular, but with very thin faces on the edges between the three sides, making it, in effect, a six-sided file. I couldn't find any files whose descriptions had that feature. Then I found an old article on sharpening, and it indicated that a good saw file would NOT have sharp edges, but slightly rounded or flattened edges, to avoid sharply pointed gullets that would lead to cracks in the blade. Is that what you meant?
I was going to order a Great Neck tooth setter, but many reviewers described the poor quality, especially the soft metal of the anvil. Then I found Paul Sellers' POOR-MAN’S SAW TOOTH SETTER (TUTORIAL AND VIDEO). I used Mr Sellers' idea to make a simple screw into a WIZARD tooth setter.
I have an old Stanley saw that couldn't cut balsa wood, and every cut would start to turn in about two inches, and the saw jammed on every cut. I used your process to joint the teeth and shape them properly, getting them pretty sharp. Then I set the teeth. Then I went back for a final sharpening, just two soft strokes on each tooth.
The saw now cuts straight, fast, and leaves much smoother cut ends...it is clearly better than when I bought it in the 1970's.
Thank you.
This saw I believe had a crown where the teeth in the center were too high. but it was so long ago I am not sure. In that case, I would hit the center more than the heel and toe to help bring it down. I wish I had mentioned that, but I was learning how to make videos back then. just as I wish I had thought to show a close up of the teeth after. that would have been beneficial if I had thought of it in this one. I do that in some of the newer ones.
Correct. the edges fo not come to a point. most now have a flat edge. though they will not be smooth as you still need that section to cut. otherwise, the file will not advance down.
I love Pauls cheap method. works well. and yes do not get the great neck setter it is trash. if you go to an MWTCA meet you can pick up antique saw sets for $2-$5 usually there are a few guys there with buckets of them.
Sounds like a good time. it is amazing what a sharp saw can do!
@@WoodByWright I'd never heard of MWTCA, had to look it up. For others who might not know, it's the Mid-West Tool Collectors Association. Living near Seattle, clearly I won't be going to any MWTCA meets any time soon. I was hoping there might be a NORTH-West Tool Collectors Assn, but when I looked up NWTCA, I found it was the Northwest Tibetan Cultural Assn (LOL). Oh, well, there's always Craig's List. Thank you, James, for the kind (and super quick) reply.
@@WoodByWright W00t! I found the PACIFIC Northwest Tool Collectors (PNTC), with monthly meetings alternating between Seattle WA and Hillsboro OR. There's hope yet!
@@OffGrid9 yup that is a good group. I was glad to get out there for their big meeting last year.
Thank you for the informational video!
my pleasure!
For saws that are pitted on their face do you sand or steel wool them first to clean a clean flat surface?
No. The pitting does not really affect the function of the saw.
No. The pitting on the sides of the plate do not affect the function of the saw. if you grind everything else down to be the same level then you just end up with a thinner plate that doesn't work as well.
Good video
Thanks. I'm gonna do this to my bandsaw.
Sweet. Looking forward to seeing it
I should have it done in about a month, lol
How often do you usually need to sharpen your saw?
It depends on how often you use it. My most commonly used saws I usually sharpen once every 6 months or so. The ones I don't use quite as much but might only get sharpened once a year
hi james..very good video and i just wonder how did u settled the bur problems? or just ignore it? and how u set the teeth? tools?
if you file half from one direction and half from the other then the bur is not an issue at all.
James. Do you ever place more pressure on your file in one direction? Someone I watch does and gets good results but I think it just makes the teeth less uniform in shape. What are your thoughts
I prefer to keep the teeth more uniform. You don't need much pressure at all with a good file.
Inspiring video!
I liked the audio trick while you work..smart man.killing two birds with one stone..do you like that comparison about killing anything..nice work thanx
Instructions unclear I’m now selling sharp seashells by the seashore
Another great video. Unfortunately my saws are all hardened but will be looking for some older ones.
Would slightly bowing boards help you clamp large saws in small vices? And might spray painting the exposed teeth prior to filing help see the flat spots and spot teeth you're working on?
I have thought of planning a bit of a bow into the boards I use, but so far I have not had a problem. even with my 30" pannel saws they hold it fine. if I had a smaller vice that would be huge but mine is 12" wide. hardened saws are a great place to start. they last longer and you don't have to mess with sharpening. for alot of people that is the place to be.
I have not needed to mark the teeth because after using them a few times they get a dirty blackened surfice. and when you sharpen them it cuts through the grime and you see shinny steel where you have been. plus I don't know if I like the idea of paint closing the file. but I have never tried it. so it could be worth a try some time.
+Wood Wright Yeah paint might do that. I've seen some others use a maker. But who needs tools when you got dirt :-).
I will need to check my saw if it is rip or cross cut.
And want to some saws with less tpi for joinery but they are hard to find or expansive.
might start with an older saw or just get some steel, not sure what type though.
I believe Paul Sellers has a video on resizing saw teeth. ever done that?
+Nearoth if you want to make your own you can get spring steel from McMaster or where ever. I have two saws made that way. the thickness is how stiff it will be. for a frame saw I like .03-.02 and for pannel saws .05 or thicker. again that is a personal prefrence.
thank you, very good explanation in your video. but i think you better enlighten your room, that would make your video comfortable to watch
Thanks. Yes this video is made back a long time ago when I had no idea what I was doing video wise. Still learning a lot but the video quality is improved greatly. I have several newer ones that have better quality.
@@WoodByWright alright thanks, very kind of your response
Thank you for this!
my pleasure Klaus!
AWESOME
You say in your replies that you have a more recent video with better shots of the process and results. Could we have a link?
Here you go. th-cam.com/video/e7YsjKhqk-w/w-d-xo.html And th-cam.com/video/XE9Ne3MUXn0/w-d-xo.html
@@WoodByWright Great,Thanks!