Which files for these frame saw blades?

[Gary Radice]

This month's project is to learn to sharpen my handsaws. I'm assembling the files I need. I know to get tapered (regular, slim, extra slim, 2x slim) to use with what I guess are standard 60 degree tooth saws, but I have this older frame saw that has one blade with teeth at 45 degree/4.5 TPI and another with 30 degrees/6 TPI. What files should I look for and where can I get them?

[Bob Smalser]

This chart is from Pete Taran's site. Simonds file also has a chart.



File Size - PPI of Saw

7" Regular Taper - 4-5.5

7" Slim Taper - 6,7

6" Slim Taper - 8

6" XSlim Taper - 9,10

6" 2XSlim Taper - 11

5" 2XSlim Taper - 12-14

4" 2XSlim Taper - 15-20
You can special order them by the box from Simonds thru your local hardware store (cheapest). You also might make something to store them properly while you're waiting.

http://pic20.picturetrail.com/VOL12/1104763/17912799/280287215.jpg

[george wilson]

I'm not sure of your description. A "cant saw" file might be what you are looking for. they are triangular,but the base of their triangle is wider than the sides,giving a more acute angle to the 2 corners at the bottom of the triangle. The Japanese saw files are also VERY acute,and I am sure they will fit into any tooth form you have with plenty of left over room.

[Bob Easton]

In addition to the source Bob Smalser mentioned, I found saw files at Tools for Working Wood (http://www.toolsforworkingwood.com/Merchant/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=toolshop&Product_Code=EE-555-SF.XX&Category_Code=TRR) (in case if you don't want to special order through your local hw store, or don't need full box quantities).

Be sure to read Bob's tutorial: http://www.wkfinetools.com/contrib/bSmalser/z_art/strSawBlade/strSawBlade1.asp
And Pete Taran's: http://www.vintagesaws.com/library/primer/sharp.html

[Gary Radice]

Yes, the cant saw file might be just the ticket. I need a file that has an angle between the faces of 35 or 45 degrees to fit into the gullet, rather than the 60 degree angle on a taper file. Thanks, George.



I'm not sure of your description. A "cant saw" file might be what you are looking for. they are triangular,but the base of their triangle is wider than the sides,giving a more acute angle to the 2 corners at the bottom of the triangle. The Japanese saw files are also VERY acute,and I am sure they will fit into any tooth form you have with plenty of left over room.