MP

Matt Parker

27/07/2005 12:54 PM

Crosscut Saws


I have asked this question in a couple of other newsgroups,
but instead of getting an useful answer, I have mostly got
"buy a chainsaw".


We recently had storm bring down some trees and I will be cleaning
them up soon. I am looking for a good crosscut saw to use for the
task. Biggest diameter log is about 10". I see that Garrett Wade has a
28" saw that looke pretty good, but doesn't have a normal logging
tooth (IE tuttle):

http://www.garrettwade.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?iProductID=107133

The Crosscut Saw Company has several to choose from but I don't know anything
about their quality - do they sell good stuff?

However, they mostly seem too large - I'm not felling, just cutting up to stove
length:

http://www.crosscutsaw.com/1.html

And finally, Lehmans has a few, can't tell anything about their quality:

http://www.lehmans.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?iProductID=1151
http://www.lehmans.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?iProductID=26

Are there any sources I'm overlooking?

I'm leaning toward the one from Garrett Wade, but the tooth style
worries me.

Or maybe the German made saw from Lehmans.

Thoughts?

Matt


This topic has 48 replies

Aa

"AAvK"

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 10:01 PM


Matt, just ignore replies you consider to be rediculous.
Never "let them have it" and argue back. Otherwise, you
burn your bridges, as I have learned by my own social
mistakes in this NG. You don't have to kiss ass either.
And I know I wasn't asked, you were told anyway.


--
Alex - newbie_neander in woodworking
cravdraa_at-yahoo_dot-com
not my site: http://www.e-sword.net/

ee

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 1:05 PM

It's been a few decades since I used one of those things, but I can
remember enough to say this:
You want one that'll let you do the longest stroke your arms can
handle. Three feet probably isn't too long. If you've got long arms,
3.5 shouldn't be too bad. Long slower strokes are better than fast
short ones. You get a better rhythm. Doesn't matter how thick the log
is, longer strokes work better.

You don't want the garrettwade. It's a combination tooth, and they
admit that they sacrificed some performance to make it a dry/green
cutter. Probably not much, but after a few cuts you'll notice. I'd go
with either the crosscut or Lehmans.

One of your posts makes me think you can sharpen a saw or you know
someone who can. Lehmans says right up front the saw needs to be
sharpened when you get it and I'd bet the crosscut saw would too. Oh,
and when I used one of those it was the one with the extra handle like
the crosscut, and I used it. It helped. It still dang near killed me,
though. Of course, unlike me, you'll be able to stop anytime you want
and take a break. :-)

Have fun! After a few weeks with those things, I can look at 'em with
nostalgia but I'm never gonna pick one up to cut wood with it again.

t

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 2:00 PM

>
> I don't mean to sound overly critical - it is just that this world is
> full of people that love to tell you what you should do rather than
> just answer a simple question.

Oh, you mean people like the guy (you) who earlier in this thread told
everyone how to be a leader in their household? Or is unsolicited
advice acceptable when you are delivering it?

> I must be getting old.

That may be true, but I doubt it's an explanation for your reactions
and behavior. I suspect you were confrontational and obnoxious even
when you were young.

t

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 5:30 PM



Matt Parker wrote:
> [email protected] writes:
>
> > Oh, you mean people like the guy (you) who earlier in this thread told
> > everyone how to be a leader in their household? Or is unsolicited
> > advice acceptable when you are delivering it?
>
> Show me where I offered advice on it. I made the observation that the nation
> is full of such but at no time did I accuse him of suffering from it.

Okay, maybe the word "advice" was a bit of a stretch, but your comment
was pretty convicting and appeared to be directed toward him.
>
> BTW, my wife cringes at the term SWMBO. To her, it describes an
> over-bearing and shrewish woman. I love and honor my wife, thus I
> don't call her that.
>
>
> > > I must be getting old.
> >
> > That may be true, but I doubt it's an explanation for your reactions
> > and behavior. I suspect you were confrontational and obnoxious even
> > when you were young.
>
> No, but whenever I have asked a question, I have usually wanted that
> question answered and not have to spend 15 minutes explaining why I
> want to know.

May I suggest that it might have been more productive if you had simply
restated and clarifed your question and left out the complaints about
the responses that obviously frustrated you?

'Nuff said. I'll get off my soapbox. I sincerely hope that you found
some helpful information.

Tom

f

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 8:09 PM



Matt Parker wrote:
> I have asked this question in a couple of other newsgroups,
> but instead of getting an useful answer, I have mostly got
> "buy a chainsaw".
>
>
> We recently had storm bring down some trees and I will be cleaning
> them up soon. I am looking for a good crosscut saw to use for the
> task. Biggest diameter log is about 10". I see that Garrett Wade has a
> 28" saw that looke pretty good, but doesn't have a normal logging
> tooth (IE tuttle):
>
> http://www.garrettwade.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?iProductID=107133
>
> The Crosscut Saw Company has several to choose from but I don't know anything
> about their quality - do they sell good stuff?
>
> However, they mostly seem too large - I'm not felling, just cutting up to stove
> length:
>
> http://www.crosscutsaw.com/1.html
>
> And finally, Lehmans has a few, can't tell anything about their quality:
>
>
> http://www.lehmans.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?iProductID=26
>
> Are there any sources I'm overlooking?
>
> I'm leaning toward the one from Garrett Wade, but the tooth style
> worries me.
>
> Or maybe the German made saw from Lehmans.
>
> Thoughts?
>

What you have in mind is called bucking. THe Garret Wade saw looks
more like it is for crosscutting dimensional lumber, not thick logs
regardless of what th etext says.

I bought a 4' replacement bow saw blade from a home center and
made my own bucking (bow) saw out of wood. THe problem I have
always had with the steel bow saws is that the frame isn't
springy enough to keep the blade taught.

I'd suggest the crossctu saw from the crosscut saw company. I
have had no experience iwth them, but they at least LOOk like
the right kind of saw. I know a few people who hav ebought
Garret Wade saws and they were not favorably impressed.

Best bet would be to buy an antique and tune it up.

Let us know what you choose and how it works.

--

FF

f

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

28/07/2005 8:13 AM



Conan The Librarian wrote:
>
> ...
> As for the saw binding near the end of the cut -- I just roll the
> log over and finish the cut from the opposite side once I get close.
> ...
>

If the log is up off the ground I _start_ the cut on the underside
and after cutting up a fair bit switch to cutting down to finish it.
Sometimes.

--

FF

f

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

28/07/2005 8:17 AM



Conan The Librarian wrote:
> Matt Parker wrote:
>
> > BTW, my wife cringes at the term SWMBO. To her, it describes an
> > over-bearing and shrewish woman. I love and honor my wife, thus I
> > don't call her that.
>
> FWIW, the usage of SWMBO on this newsgroup does not pertain to an
> overbearing and shrewish woman. See the following message for more
> info:
>

The Original SWMBO, Ayesha, was beautiful and powerful, perhaps
overbearing,
but in a majestic sort of way.

--

FF

bb

"bf"

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

28/07/2005 11:00 AM



Matt Parker wrote:
> Was is with guys nowadays that have to run every purchase over $100
> past their wives? I can understand talking it over before buying a car
> or something of that nature, but somehow I think we have raised a
> generation of men that don't know how to be leaders of their
> households.
>
> Matt

I agree wholeheartedly. Somehow a lot of guys got convinced that they
are children and need to ask their wife permission for everything or
they will "get in trouble".

I don't do that, and I don't expect my wife to ask me permission for
everything either. But we are both mature adults and spend
responsiblily.
It's pretty sad if a man is so irresponsible, that a wife needs to
"police" his spending habits.

MP

Matt Parker

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 4:53 PM

"Edwin Pawlowski" <[email protected]> writes:

> "Matt Parker" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> I find it interesing that you decided to take me to task on this comment,
> but ignored my other comments about saw size the the quality of Lehman's
> products.

No offense intended. I simply took you to task for this statement:

>> I have asked this question in a couple of other newsgroups,
>> but instead of getting an useful answer, I have mostly got
>> "buy a chainsaw".

> Because it is a good idea for your use. An electric one will probably do.


I find it frustrating that someone would start giving me advice on what I need
without knowing the situation.


> Only thing to say at this point is "go **** yourself".

I'm sorry you feel that way, mister. I believe I have presented
a valid point and that kind of reply won't cut it in a debate.


Matt

Aa

"AAvK"

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 9:51 PM


Matt, take a look at this sellers listings on eBay. I think he has good prices
considering the used prices at "The Crosscut Saw Co."

http://search.ebay.com/_Tools-Hardware-Locks_W0QQcatrefZC12QQfsooZ1QQfsopZ1QQsacatZ13849QQsassZkiri500

You seem to be experienced, I am not. But, he is always re-listing his saws.
You would want to email him and ask further details, he doesn't say much
but I think those prices are worth serious consideration.

--
Alex - newbie_neander in woodworking
cravdraa_at-yahoo_dot-com
not my site: http://www.e-sword.net/

DH

Dave Hinz

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 9:11 PM

On 27 Jul 2005 15:13:20 -0500, Matt Parker <[email protected]> wrote:
>
> "Edwin Pawlowski" <[email protected]> writes:
>
>> > I have asked this question in a couple of other newsgroups,
>> > but instead of getting an useful answer, I have mostly got
>> > "buy a chainsaw".
>>
>> Because it is a good idea for your use. An electric one will probably do.
>
> What is it that causes the average usenet poster to assume that they
> know more about your situation than you do?

Probably a poorly-worded question. If your question indicates zero
knowledge or research present, then that will be assumed.

> I don't mean to sound overly critical - it is just that this world is
> full of people that love to tell you what you should do rather than
> just answer a simple question.

There are technical groups, though, full of people asking 'How do I do
(really stupid thing that nobody in their right mind would do)'.
Finding out what the question behind the question is, so the _real_
answer can be given, is valuable.

"I think I see what you're getting at, but the way you're trying to do
it is the hard way to do it" is a valid response, in some situations.

WB

"Wood Butcher"

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 4:18 PM


"Matt Parker" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
>
>
> What is it that causes the average usenet poster to assume that they
> know more about your situation than you do?

All the responses I've read so far have been right on target with
your stated situation: "just cutting up to stove length".


>
> I don't mean to sound overly critical - it is just that this world is
> full of people that love to tell you what you should do rather than
> just answer a simple question.

NONE of the responses told you what you should do. I told you
what I'd do and what would also work, as did others. To this you
took offense. The one poster who did tell you "what you don't want"
got a "first well-reasoned response" comment from you.

>
> I must be getting old.

Maybe. And maybe you're just cranky. Either way you are certainly
unreasonable and have earned the flak you are getting.

Art

JG

Joe Gorman

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

28/07/2005 11:26 AM

Matt Parker wrote:
> "Upscale" <[email protected]> writes:
>
>
>>There's a half million questions that if not answered correctly will kill
>>you or maim you for life, especially with woodworking.
>
>
> Yup, handsaws are well known for their maiming for life
> capability. Sorry, but it wasn't like I asked how to make
> nitroglycerin.

http://www.roguesci.org/megalomania/explo/nitroglycerin.html
Joe :-)
>
>
>
>>Anything less would be irresponsible of the person giving you advice. If you
>>don't understand that, then you shouldn't bother with this newsgroup and you
>>shouldn't be doing any woodworking.
>
>
> Alrighty, thank you one and all for helping prevent me from cutting
> off a limb (human) with a handsaw.
>
> Of course, no one *asked* me if I had taken any safety training on
> using chainsaws...
>
> Matt
>

JG

Joe Gorman

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

28/07/2005 11:36 AM

[email protected] wrote:
>
> Matt Parker wrote:
>
>>I have asked this question in a couple of other newsgroups,
>>but instead of getting an useful answer, I have mostly got
>>"buy a chainsaw".
>>
>>
>>We recently had storm bring down some trees and I will be cleaning
>>them up soon. I am looking for a good crosscut saw to use for the
>>task. Biggest diameter log is about 10". I see that Garrett Wade has a
>>28" saw that looke pretty good, but doesn't have a normal logging
>>tooth (IE tuttle):
>>
>>http://www.garrettwade.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?iProductID=107133
>>
>>The Crosscut Saw Company has several to choose from but I don't know anything
>>about their quality - do they sell good stuff?
>>
>>However, they mostly seem too large - I'm not felling, just cutting up to stove
>>length:
>>
>>http://www.crosscutsaw.com/1.html
>>
>>And finally, Lehmans has a few, can't tell anything about their quality:
>>
>>
>>http://www.lehmans.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?iProductID=26
>>
>>Are there any sources I'm overlooking?
>>
>>I'm leaning toward the one from Garrett Wade, but the tooth style
>>worries me.
>>
>>Or maybe the German made saw from Lehmans.
>>
>>Thoughts?
>>
>
>
> What you have in mind is called bucking. THe Garret Wade saw looks
> more like it is for crosscutting dimensional lumber, not thick logs
> regardless of what th etext says.
>
> I bought a 4' replacement bow saw blade from a home center and
> made my own bucking (bow) saw out of wood. THe problem I have
> always had with the steel bow saws is that the frame isn't
> springy enough to keep the blade taught.
>
> I'd suggest the crossctu saw from the crosscut saw company. I
> have had no experience iwth them, but they at least LOOk like
> the right kind of saw. I know a few people who hav ebought
> Garret Wade saws and they were not favorably impressed.
>
> Best bet would be to buy an antique and tune it up.
>
> Let us know what you choose and how it works.
>
And if you feel the urge to turn any of this into lumber the old
fashioned way they may still have a few of their pitsaw blades, no
handles. They must be prepaid mail order. item description: 'PIT SAW
BLADE, UNSHARPENED BLADE ONLY'
They had at least one 0n 7 March of this year.
Joe
PS be careful if you decide to make the nitroglycerin;-)

JG

Joe Gorman

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

29/07/2005 10:13 AM

Matt Parker wrote:
> Joe Gorman <[email protected]> writes:
>
>
>>And if you feel the urge to turn any of this into lumber the old
>>fashioned way they may still have a few of their pitsaw blades, no
>>handles. They must be prepaid mail order. item description: 'PIT SAW
>>BLADE, UNSHARPENED BLADE ONLY'
>
>
> Nah, I'm not sure I can convince my BIL to stand in the pit.
>
> Most of these blowdowns are elm. Not just any elm, but really nasty,
> trashy elm. I probably won't even try to burn them for heat.
>
>
>
>>PS be careful if you decide to make the nitroglycerin;-)
>
>
> Actually, I already knew how to make nitroglcerin but have
> never felt the need. ANFO is better for tree stumps, or was
> before the OKC mess.
>
> Matt
>
I used the teenagers who were out of school but doing nothing else
useful. Might have even been quieter.
Joe

Pn

Prometheus

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

28/07/2005 3:50 AM

On 27 Jul 2005 19:59:58 -0500, Matt Parker
<[email protected]> wrote:

>Bits and pieces. I think I'm going to get a Gransfors Bruk cruiser size axe
>to limb these blowdowns. I was trying to avoid a bow saw, but I have some
>red oak and BLO laying around, so I guess I could knock one out.

FWIW, I like the axe better for crosscutting as long as I've got a
keen edge on it. The bowsaw is just for getting a relatively flat
surface to drive a spur center into. Problem I seem to run into is
that the blade binds in the kerf when the log starts to collapse- and
the axe doesn't do this, of course. If you do happen to run across a
good saw that you'd recommend, though, I'd be interested in knowing
what you found!

>Matt

MP

Matt Parker

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

28/07/2005 2:48 PM


Joe Gorman <[email protected]> writes:

> And if you feel the urge to turn any of this into lumber the old
> fashioned way they may still have a few of their pitsaw blades, no
> handles. They must be prepaid mail order. item description: 'PIT SAW
> BLADE, UNSHARPENED BLADE ONLY'

Nah, I'm not sure I can convince my BIL to stand in the pit.

Most of these blowdowns are elm. Not just any elm, but really nasty,
trashy elm. I probably won't even try to burn them for heat.


> PS be careful if you decide to make the nitroglycerin;-)

Actually, I already knew how to make nitroglcerin but have
never felt the need. ANFO is better for tree stumps, or was
before the OKC mess.

Matt

Uu

"Upscale"

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 8:11 PM

"Matt Parker" <[email protected]> wrote in message
>
> Of course, no one *asked* me if I had taken any safety training on
> using chainsaws...

And how exactly would one know that without asking further questions?
They're supposed guess your mind from long distance and jump directly to
asking if you've had safety training? That's part of the process of asking
questions instead of jumping directly to an answer.

And yes, you do portray an old prick quite nicely. I should know what they
look like, I see one in the mirror every time I shave.

ll

lgb

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 7:30 PM

In article <[email protected]>, no-one@mostly-no-
where.com says...
> I like a good chainsaw when I need one. However, in all three posts I
> have made, I have never asked "should I get a chainsaw or a handsaw" -
> I have only asked where to find a good handsaw.
>
OK, my response is to find an old Disston or Atkins at a used tool
dealer, on Ebay, or if you're lucky, at an estate sale. Therir quality
is, IMNSHO, better than most any handsaw you can buy today. Are you
anywhere near Spokane WA? I've got a few from around 1900 that need
setting and sharpening, but the steel is good.

--
BNSF = Build Now, Seep Forever

Uu

"Upscale"

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

28/07/2005 7:30 AM

"Prometheus" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> >> No, but whenever I have asked a question, I have usually wanted that
> >> question answered and not have to spend 15 minutes explaining why I
> >> want to know.
>
> That's rediculous. It's like saying that a guy who wants advice on
> good hand planes should go piss up a rope because he didn't care to
> hear jointer reviews in response.

I was responding directly to his request for answers to his questions
without having to explain why he wanted to know. *Anything* can be in
particular context with something else and safety is always a concern. If
you don't see that, then there's nothing I can say that will convince you
otherwise.

EP

"Edwin Pawlowski"

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 7:58 PM


"Matt Parker" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
>
> I have asked this question in a couple of other newsgroups,
> but instead of getting an useful answer, I have mostly got
> "buy a chainsaw".

Because it is a good idea for your use. An electric one will probably do.
>

> The Crosscut Saw Company has several to choose from but I don't know
> anything
> about their quality - do they sell good stuff?
>
> However, they mostly seem too large - I'm not felling, just cutting up to
> stove
> length:
>
> http://www.crosscutsaw.com/1.html

IMO, a 3' saw is not too large for 10" dia cuts. A 20 to 24" stroke, pule
the 10" of the wood, and it is about right.


> And finally, Lehmans has a few, can't tell anything about their quality:
>
> http://www.lehmans.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?iProductID=1151
> http://www.lehmans.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?iProductID=26
>

Lehmans has a good reputation for quality.

DM

"David Merrill"

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 7:14 PM

If you must use a handsaw, go to a hardware store, Sears or Walmart and buy
a bow saw for about $10. For your purpose, it's far superior to the saws
you are considering; disposable blade (no sharpening); much less sweat
equity invested in cutting up the tree because of thin kerf blades used on
bow saws.
http://www.acehardware.com/sm-bow-saws--fi-1260189_cp-1254884.1255108.html
Get the rectangular rather than the triangular frame type. Enjoy the
exercise :-)

That said: "buy a chainsaw" if you have more than one tree to cut up. If
your trees are within, say, 100 feet of an electric outlet, an electric
chainsaw should suffice and is much less hassle for a novice user than a gas
saw (but still needs periodic sharpening
http://www.oregonchain.com/faq.htm#sharpening; buy a sharpening file; don't
let the blade touch rocks or the ground). Obviously you would also need a
100 ft power cord of adequate wire gage. HF has cheap electric chain saws as
does Walmart, Sears, etc.
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=2956

Arguably safer than even an electric chain saw in the hands of the
inexperienced is a reciprocating saw. HF has a really cheap one that might
last for a few trees. Then buy from Lowes or Home Depot (for almost what
you paid for the saw) the longest brand name pruning blade they stock for
reciprocating saws. (HF Chinese blades REALLY suck in my experience.)
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=04095

David Merrill

"Matt Parker" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
>
> I have asked this question in a couple of other newsgroups,
> but instead of getting an useful answer, I have mostly got
> "buy a chainsaw".
>

Uu

"Upscale"

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 6:23 PM

"Matt Parker" <[email protected]> wrote in message
>
> No, but whenever I have asked a question, I have usually wanted that
> question answered and not have to spend 15 minutes explaining why I
> want to know.

There's a half million questions that if not answered correctly will kill
you or maim you for life, especially with woodworking. That means that it's
*imperative* that someone knows the origin and details surrounding your
question before answering it for you.

Anything less would be irresponsible of the person giving you advice. If you
don't understand that, then you shouldn't bother with this newsgroup and you
shouldn't be doing any woodworking.

Uu

"Upscale"

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

29/07/2005 1:33 AM

"Prometheus" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> >
> >I was responding directly to his request for answers to his questions
> >without having to explain why he wanted to know. *Anything* can be in
> >particular context with something else and safety is always a concern. If
> >you don't see that, then there's nothing I can say that will convince you
> >otherwise.
>
> What's with the odd snippage?

Didn't seem odd to me. Maybe the problem is that I jumped into the thread
part way and missed some of the context at the beginning. That might explain
why it seems out of place. Don't worry about it. If it's any consolation,
I'm finished anyway.

EP

"Edwin Pawlowski"

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 11:30 PM


"Matt Parker" <[email protected]> wrote in message
>
> Thank you, yours is the first well-reasoned response I have received.
>
> Matt

I mentioned the saw length also but you chose to ignore that and pick on
what you didn't want to see. I made an observation to your reference but you
chose not to see it that way.

Yes, you are an old prick.

MP

Matt Parker

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 2:51 PM

"David Merrill" <[email protected]> writes:

> If you must use a handsaw, go to a hardware store, Sears or Walmart and buy
> a bow saw for about $10. For your purpose, it's far superior to the saws
> you are considering;

For pete's sake, I'm not looking for a piece of Chinese made
disposable crap.


> disposable blade (no sharpening);

How is that superior?


> much less sweat equity invested in cutting up the tree because of
> thin kerf blades used on bow saws.

Have you used a good quality, sharp, Tuttle tooth saw?


> That said: "buy a chainsaw" if you have more than one tree to cut up. If
> your trees are within, say, 100 feet of an electric outlet, an electric
> chainsaw should suffice

Electric chainsaws are generally crap.

> and is much less hassle for a novice user than a gas saw

And, I was using gas chainsaws a quarter century ago.


> Arguably safer than even an electric chain saw in the hands of the
> inexperienced is a reciprocating saw.

I have a Milwaukee sawz-all for rough carpentry, but it would be a
sorry choice for cutting up logs. The vibration alone would make your
hands miserable before you cut through one log.


> HF has a really cheap

Very true. Cheap - not economical.


Matt

WB

"Wood Butcher"

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 11:58 AM

A chainsaw would be my 1st choice for that job.
However, if you're a glutton for punishment and want to do
it manually a bowsaw will do fine.
http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/search.do?BV_UseBVCookie=Yes&verticalFullName=Lawn+%26+Garden&keyword=bow+saw&displayTarget=searchresults

No need to spend $$$ on a saw for cutting up firewood.

Now you're trying to justify with SWMBO the purchase of one
of the saws you identified .... that's a different story.

Art

"Matt Parker" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
>
> I have asked this question in a couple of other newsgroups,
> but instead of getting an useful answer, I have mostly got
> "buy a chainsaw".
>
>
> We recently had storm bring down some trees and I will be cleaning
> them up soon. I am looking for a good crosscut saw to use for the
> task. Biggest diameter log is about 10". I see that Garrett Wade has a
> 28" saw that looke pretty good, but doesn't have a normal logging
> tooth (IE tuttle):
>
> http://www.garrettwade.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?iProductID=107133
>
> The Crosscut Saw Company has several to choose from but I don't know anything
> about their quality - do they sell good stuff?
>
> However, they mostly seem too large - I'm not felling, just cutting up to stove
> length:
>
> http://www.crosscutsaw.com/1.html
>
> And finally, Lehmans has a few, can't tell anything about their quality:
>
> http://www.lehmans.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?iProductID=1151
> http://www.lehmans.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?iProductID=26
>
> Are there any sources I'm overlooking?
>
> I'm leaning toward the one from Garrett Wade, but the tooth style
> worries me.
>
> Or maybe the German made saw from Lehmans.
>
> Thoughts?
>
> Matt

JG

"John Grossbohlin"

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

28/07/2005 2:06 AM


"Wood Butcher" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
>A chainsaw would be my 1st choice for that job.
> However, if you're a glutton for punishment and want to do
> it manually a bowsaw will do fine.
> http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/search.do?BV_UseBVCookie=Yes&verticalFullName=Lawn+%26+Garden&keyword=bow+saw&displayTarget=searchresults

Over the past 35 years or so I've cut down and up many a tree with a similar
bow saw. I bought it at a the Boy Scout shop for about $4 and still use
it... It's probably had a half dozen replacement blades on it over the
years. The last major job was cutting up a sizeable multi trunk locust tree
that the remains of a hurricane took down. Needless to saw, the blade needed
replacing after that... ;-)

John

Pn

Prometheus

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

28/07/2005 8:57 PM

On Thu, 28 Jul 2005 07:30:14 -0400, "Upscale" <[email protected]>
wrote:

>"Prometheus" <[email protected]> wrote in message
>> >> No, but whenever I have asked a question, I have usually wanted that
>> >> question answered and not have to spend 15 minutes explaining why I
>> >> want to know.
>>
>> That's rediculous. It's like saying that a guy who wants advice on
>> good hand planes should go piss up a rope because he didn't care to
>> hear jointer reviews in response.
>
>I was responding directly to his request for answers to his questions
>without having to explain why he wanted to know. *Anything* can be in
>particular context with something else and safety is always a concern. If
>you don't see that, then there's nothing I can say that will convince you
>otherwise.

What's with the odd snippage?

CT

Conan The Librarian

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

28/07/2005 7:23 AM

Matt Parker wrote:

> BTW, my wife cringes at the term SWMBO. To her, it describes an
> over-bearing and shrewish woman. I love and honor my wife, thus I
> don't call her that.

FWIW, the usage of SWMBO on this newsgroup does not pertain to an
overbearing and shrewish woman. See the following message for more
info:
http://groups-beta.google.com/group/rec.woodworking/msg/12af4e70f0c0d448?hl=en&


I refer to my wife as SWMBO, and she knows about it and gets a laugh
out of it. You see, we are comfortable enough in our relationship that
she doesn't take offense at an obviously ironic/humorous term.

As to your original question -- I've not tried the saws in question,
but do have some experience cutting mesquite from the log. I've used
both a homemade bowsaw and a cheapo Stanley "sharksaw", and the best
advice I can give you is whatever you choose, you want the saw to be as
long as possible (within reason). You want to be able to establish a
rhythm of *long* strokes where you are using your whole body behind the
stroke.

As for the saw binding near the end of the cut -- I just roll the
log over and finish the cut from the opposite side once I get close.


Chuck Vance

ND

"Norman D. Crow"

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

29/07/2005 9:12 AM


"Matt Parker" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
>
> The thought came to me that I should have posted that I was
> tree-jacking on national forest land and thus a chainsaw was out of
> the question because of the noise level. :)
>

Tree-jacking? Stealing wood? That seems to explain that you want the hand
crosscut saw for "stealth". If it's "trash" wood, unfit for burning, then
why are you even bothering? If you're doing it to clear a hiking or
snowmobile trail, then the forestry service shouldn't object, and there
would be no need for silence.

FWIW, you said what you wanted to do and asked about crosscut saws. Could
have saved a LOT of the angst in this thread if you had
(1) Didn't say why, just asked about the saws, or
(2) Explained that you had a chainsaw, but there were noise restrictions.

You started with "too much" or "not enough" information in the OP, and got
answers that I would have given myself. Considering what you started with, I
would have said "get a chainsaw".

My miss-spent youth included learning how to pull a 2 man crosscut saw,
cutting logs to ~8' length, splitting w/wedges & sledge-hammer, then hauling
to the house & making stove length with a buzz rig. Definitely a lot more
work than chain-sawing to stove length, splitting with an ax and hauling to
the woodshed.

--
Nahmie
The greatest headaches are those we cause ourselves.

ND

"Norman D. Crow"

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

29/07/2005 6:32 PM


"Matt Parker" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
>
> "Norman D. Crow" <[email protected]> writes:
>
>> Tree-jacking? Stealing wood? That seems to explain that you want the
>> hand
>> crosscut saw for "stealth".
>
> Yep, there's nothing like firing up a Husqvarna Rancher at 2:00 in the
> morning to make people start rubberneckin.
>
>> If it's "trash" wood, unfit for burning, then why are you even
>> bothering?
>
> Refresh my memory, does old-growth cherry make good firewood?
>
> Ombodysay ashay anway underdevelopedway ensesay ofway umorhay.
>

Quoting part of one of your posts:


"Most of these blowdowns are elm. Not just any elm, but really nasty,
trashy elm. I probably won't even try to burn them for heat."

You never mentioned any Cherry.

My sense of humor is very much intact, and functions perfectly. I'm even
capable of laughing at myself. However, I'm done now because that hook
hurts.

Seems the only post Mr. Parker has EVER made to the wRECk is this thread, so
I'm all done.

DFTFT

Norman D. Crow

MP

Matt Parker

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 2:43 PM


"Wood Butcher" <[email protected]> writes:

> A chainsaw would be my 1st choice for that job.
> However, if you're a glutton for punishment

After some of the chainsaws I have used over the years, a good handsaw
isn't what I would call punishment.

> a bowsaw will do fine.

If I wanted a bowsaw, I would make one. I am looking for a high
quality hand saw that can be resharpened.

> Now you're trying to justify with SWMBO the purchase of one
> of the saws you identified .... that's a different story.

Was is with guys nowadays that have to run every purchase over $100
past their wives? I can understand talking it over before buying a car
or something of that nature, but somehow I think we have raised a
generation of men that don't know how to be leaders of their
households.

Matt



MP

Matt Parker

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 7:59 PM


[email protected] writes:

> Okay, maybe the word "advice" was a bit of a stretch, but your comment
> was pretty convicting and appeared to be directed toward him.

I apologize for that then, because it was no way meant to be directed
right at him. I meant it as a comment on this era in general.

I get sick of constantly reading posts on usenet saying "I'm going
to do this if my wife will let me" or "I would buy one of these if
I could just get it past SWMBO".

I tell my wife what I'm spending money on, but I don't ask her permission
and she doesn't try to veto it. If there is something she wants, I say
"ok, let's see how we can make it happen".

> May I suggest that it might have been more productive if you had simply
> restated and clarifed your question and left out the complaints about
> the responses that obviously frustrated you?

The thought came to me that I should have posted that I was
tree-jacking on national forest land and thus a chainsaw was out of
the question because of the noise level. :)

See? I even put a smiley on it...



> 'Nuff said. I'll get off my soapbox. I sincerely hope that you found
> some helpful information.

Bits and pieces. I think I'm going to get a Gransfors Bruk cruiser size axe
to limb these blowdowns. I was trying to avoid a bow saw, but I have some
red oak and BLO laying around, so I guess I could knock one out.

Matt

MP

Matt Parker

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

29/07/2005 12:34 PM


Matt Parker <[email protected]> writes:

> Nah, my wife valedictiorian of your high class, worked as a college
> financial aid office for years, etc. She just realize that she would
> rather be a wife and mom instead of an executive.


Jiminy Crickets! That will teach me to proofread my posts.

That paragraph was supposed to read:

My wife was the valedictiorian of her highschool class, worked as a
college financial aid officer for years, etc. She just realize that
she would rather be a wife and mom instead of an executive.


Matt

MP

Matt Parker

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 7:47 PM


"Upscale" <[email protected]> writes:

> And yes, you do portray an old prick quite nicely.

And I thought I would have to practice...


> I should know what they look like, I see one in the mirror every
> time I shave.

Hmmm. I shaved my beard this year, but I don't think it made me any
more sociable.

I also tossed my last pair of bib overalls. But I think a trip to
the MFA for couple more pair is overdue.

Matt

MP

Matt Parker

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 3:26 PM


"[email protected]" <[email protected]> writes:
<snip>
> You don't want the garrettwade. It's a combination tooth, and they
> admit that they sacrificed some performance to make it a dry/green
> cutter. Probably not much, but after a few cuts you'll notice.

That was what worried me.

Thank you, yours is the first well-reasoned response I have received.

Matt

EP

"Edwin Pawlowski"

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 8:28 PM


"Matt Parker" <[email protected]> wrote in message
>
> What is it that causes the average usenet poster to assume that they
> know more about your situation than you do?

I find it interesing that you decided to take me to task on this comment,
but ignored my other comments about saw size the the quality of Lehman's
products. Only thing to say at this point is "go fuck yourself".


>
> I must be getting old.

Yea, just an old prick

MP

Matt Parker

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

29/07/2005 6:48 PM


Larry Jaques <novalidaddress@di\/ersify.com> writes:

> Care for attempt #3? <bwahahaha>

Well, I've got my glasses on now, but I think I'll pass.

Matt

MP

Matt Parker

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 6:45 PM


"Edwin Pawlowski" <[email protected]> writes:

> I mentioned the saw length also but you chose to ignore that and pick on
> what you didn't want to see. I made an observation to your reference but you
> chose not to see it that way.

Ok, I appreciate your input on the length and on the quality of
Lehmans. I still stand by my view of your suggestion of a
chainsaw. Don't take it too personally - one of the big problems with
communications on usenet is that you can't see people's faces and
eyes. As for myself, I have never felt compelled to liberly sprinkle
"smilies" throughout a text.


> Yes, you are an old prick.

Nah, you just don't know me well enough. Some people just think
I'm eccentric.

Matt

As

Australopithecus scobis

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

28/07/2005 7:39 PM

On Thu, 28 Jul 2005 11:00:22 -0700, bf wrote:

>
> Matt Parker wrote:
>> Was is with guys nowadays that have to run every purchase over $100
>> past their wives? I can understand talking it over before buying a car
>> or something of that nature, but somehow I think we have raised a
>> generation of men that don't know how to be leaders of their
>> households.
>>
>> Matt
>
> I agree wholeheartedly. Somehow a lot of guys got convinced that they
> are children and need to ask their wife permission for everything or
> they will "get in trouble".
>
> I don't do that, and I don't expect my wife to ask me permission for
> everything either. But we are both mature adults and spend
> responsiblily.
> It's pretty sad if a man is so irresponsible, that a wife needs to
> "police" his spending habits.

Depends on your household income and paycheck cycle. Makes sense to make
sure you both don't spend that hundred bucks at the same time. Unless both
previous posters are just "keep 'em barefoot and pregnant" Taliban
wannabes, in which case, never mind.

--
"Keep your ass behind you"
vladimir a t mad {dot} scientist {dot} com

LJ

Larry Jaques

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

29/07/2005 3:25 PM

On 29 Jul 2005 12:34:07 -0500, the opaque Matt Parker
<[email protected]> clearly wrote:

>
>Matt Parker <[email protected]> writes:
>
>> Nah, my wife valedictiorian of your high class, worked as a college
>> financial aid office for years, etc. She just realize that she would
>> rather be a wife and mom instead of an executive.
>
>Jiminy Crickets! That will teach me to proofread my posts.
>
>That paragraph was supposed to read:
>
>My wife was the valedictiorian of her highschool class, worked as a
>college financial aid officer for years, etc. She just realize that
>she would rather be a wife and mom instead of an executive.

Uh, Matt, try looking up "valedictiorian" in the dictionary.
G'wan.
I dare ya.

Care for attempt #3? <bwahahaha>


--
Guns don't kill people. Rappers do!
-----------------------------------
www.diversify.com Rap-free Website Development

MP

Matt Parker

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 3:13 PM


"Edwin Pawlowski" <[email protected]> writes:

> > I have asked this question in a couple of other newsgroups,
> > but instead of getting an useful answer, I have mostly got
> > "buy a chainsaw".
>
> Because it is a good idea for your use. An electric one will probably do.

What is it that causes the average usenet poster to assume that they
know more about your situation than you do?

It is akin to asking for pointers on where to find a good Italian
resturant and being told that what you really want is a McDonalds.

I like a good chainsaw when I need one. However, in all three posts I
have made, I have never asked "should I get a chainsaw or a handsaw" -
I have only asked where to find a good handsaw.

I don't mean to sound overly critical - it is just that this world is
full of people that love to tell you what you should do rather than
just answer a simple question.

I must be getting old.

Matt

MP

Matt Parker

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

29/07/2005 8:18 AM


Australopithecus scobis <[email protected]> writes:

> Depends on your household income and paycheck cycle. Makes sense to make
> sure you both don't spend that hundred bucks at the same time.

I think it is a deeper problem then that. My gut feeling is that we
have had a generation of guys who were lousy dads. That, coupled with
the high divorce rate, has created yet another generation of men who's
primary role model and symbol of strength in the household was their
mother.

If anybody reading this was in this situation, please don't think I'm
beating on you. I was lucky - I was in my late teens before my parents
divorced.

> Unless both
> previous posters are just "keep 'em barefoot and pregnant" Taliban
> wannabes, in which case, never mind.

Nah, my wife valedictiorian of your high class, worked as a college
financial aid office for years, etc. She just realize that she would
rather be a wife and mom instead of an executive.

Matt

MP

Matt Parker

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 5:59 PM


"Upscale" <[email protected]> writes:

> There's a half million questions that if not answered correctly will kill
> you or maim you for life, especially with woodworking.

Yup, handsaws are well known for their maiming for life
capability. Sorry, but it wasn't like I asked how to make
nitroglycerin.


> Anything less would be irresponsible of the person giving you advice. If you
> don't understand that, then you shouldn't bother with this newsgroup and you
> shouldn't be doing any woodworking.

Alrighty, thank you one and all for helping prevent me from cutting
off a limb (human) with a handsaw.

Of course, no one *asked* me if I had taken any safety training on
using chainsaws...

Matt

Pn

Prometheus

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

28/07/2005 3:44 AM

On Wed, 27 Jul 2005 18:23:42 -0400, "Upscale" <[email protected]>
wrote:

>"Matt Parker" <[email protected]> wrote in message
>>
>> No, but whenever I have asked a question, I have usually wanted that
>> question answered and not have to spend 15 minutes explaining why I
>> want to know.
>
>There's a half million questions that if not answered correctly will kill
>you or maim you for life, especially with woodworking. That means that it's
>*imperative* that someone knows the origin and details surrounding your
>question before answering it for you.

I've just gotta ask... how is "get a chainsaw", with no attendant
advice on safety, usage or even brand recommendations, somehow "safer"
than giving advice about the quality of a hand saw. Lots of accidents
with chain saws, far fewer that I've heard of with a handsaw- and what
accidents there are are likely less deadly.

>Anything less would be irresponsible of the person giving you advice. If you
>don't understand that, then you shouldn't bother with this newsgroup and you
>shouldn't be doing any woodworking.

That's rediculous. It's like saying that a guy who wants advice on
good hand planes should go piss up a rope because he didn't care to
hear jointer reviews in response.

To the OP, I know what you're getting at, and I'd like to help, but I
just use a cheap bow saw. Does the trick 99% of the time, though it
may not be as classy.

MP

Matt Parker

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

27/07/2005 5:03 PM


[email protected] writes:

> Oh, you mean people like the guy (you) who earlier in this thread told
> everyone how to be a leader in their household? Or is unsolicited
> advice acceptable when you are delivering it?

Show me where I offered advice on it. I made the observation that the nation
is full of such but at no time did I accuse him of suffering from it.

BTW, my wife cringes at the term SWMBO. To her, it describes an
over-bearing and shrewish woman. I love and honor my wife, thus I
don't call her that.


> > I must be getting old.
>
> That may be true, but I doubt it's an explanation for your reactions
> and behavior. I suspect you were confrontational and obnoxious even
> when you were young.

No, but whenever I have asked a question, I have usually wanted that
question answered and not have to spend 15 minutes explaining why I
want to know.

It seems like it was easier to get a straight answer 20 years ago.

Matt

MP

Matt Parker

in reply to Matt Parker on 27/07/2005 12:54 PM

29/07/2005 2:19 PM


"Norman D. Crow" <[email protected]> writes:

> Tree-jacking? Stealing wood? That seems to explain that you want the hand
> crosscut saw for "stealth".

Yep, there's nothing like firing up a Husqvarna Rancher at 2:00 in the
morning to make people start rubberneckin.

> If it's "trash" wood, unfit for burning, then why are you even
> bothering?

Refresh my memory, does old-growth cherry make good firewood?

Ombodysay ashay anway underdevelopedway ensesay ofway umorhay.

Matt


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