Japanese saw handle repair?

[Paul Erickson]

The handle on my Dozuki saw cracked where the blade goes into the handle, opposite the set screw. I have epoxied it back together, but in looking at other saws, I see that often the handle is wrapped at the blade end or even full length. Anyone know what the wrapping material is, and where I could get some?

Thanks in advance.

cheers, Paul

[Hal Flynt]

The Traditional wrapping is a split rattan or bamboo. It's similar to canning material for chair bottoms. Some older saws were wrapped in shark skin. The idea is to give some grip as well as strengthen the shaft. I would be tempted to try tennis racquet tape.

[Randy Meijer]

Tennis raquet tape would give you some grip; but probably not much additional strength....and it would look really ugly. For looks and strength you might consider using some brass, copper or SS wire??