Saw jointer?

[Bob Jones]

Here's a whats-it for you. I think it is a saw jointer, but I'm not sure. Take a look and see for yourself. A quick google search didn't turn up much. This is "as found" so I haven't tried to turn the screw and see what happens. Thanks for any help!

[Jessica Pierce-LaRose]

WK Fine Tools has a list of Atkins patents -

http://www.wkfinetools.com/hus-saws/atkins/patents/patents-Atkins.asp

None of the dates there quite match up, of course.

I believe what you've got is a raker tooth setting gauge for crosscut lumber saws. In fact, a quick google image for Atkins raker gauge search shows pretty much what you've got.

Actually - the link to one at Jon Zimmers Antique Tools lists it as both a raker gauge and jointer. No idea more info on it.

[Mike Holbrook]

The clamping area does not look like the typical clamp built to hold a bastard file, so I am thinking Joshua's idea is closer. I am wondering if it could be used to help remove small kinks from saw plates, remove too much set...?

[Jessica Pierce-LaRose]

The forest services crosscut saw pamphlet might give you a better idea how this thing is used.

EDIT: Looks like the Atkins Excelsior No. 5 - Some info in this PDF

http://www.cross-cut.org/Atkins/txt/1900-Atkins-Catalog.pdf

EDIT: Actually, browsing the '31 catalog available at Rose Antique Tools

http://www.roseantiquetools.com/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderfiles/atkinssaw1931.pdf

It might be the "number 2 saw tool" (page 31) again, same idea - jointer, raker gauge and side file in one.

More info probably available on crosscutsawyer.com, but no hot-linking to other forums here. They've got mostly the same catalogs going around other places.

[Bob Jones]

thanks for the ideas. i figured this group could help me understand this widget. :)

[Mel Miller]

I think most people consider those to be handsaw tools rather than for the long crosscut logging saws. The long Gibbs jointers were made for logging saws, and in fact, the Forest Service used the be one of the main buyers for Gibbs Jointers that were found in the area.