Thread: Disston Handsaw Identification help needed

http://www.disstonianinstitute.com/ has a good dating page that goes off the brass badge on the handle. you probably already know that.

Great score for the markets SG.. I braved the heat this morning and found but one little lonely chisel.

Thanks RB.
Yes, the medallion indicates it might have been made 1896-1917.
Does the shape of the handle and the fact that the blade has a nib suggest any other information?
From Tele Point
SG

I think the nib makes it "extra special somethingorother" but don't quote me.

I know one out of 50 disstons we get through work have that nib.. I think they are commonly found on older saws.. often see them so badly degraded the nib is nothing more than a slight wave on the nose of the blade.

I'd be interested to see what those in the know have to say.

Hi Scribbly,

Thats a disston #7 saw. The handle is quite characteristic and if you are lucky enough to have the etch remaining you may see the number under the Keystone symbol. Typically a straight back saw, it was not continued after 1928, when Disston then released a D7 which was not anywhere near as attractive as there was less shaping/carving of the handle.

The #7 saw had a handle that was a more traditional design (english influence) out of their range of saws. Generally made out of beech that could take some hard knocks.

I'd say your saw was made from toward the middle to the end of that 1896-1917 period just going by the handle shaping.

There's lots of debate around concerning the nib at the end of the saw. Some say its just decoration and I think Henry Disston'may be quote somewhere to that effect. Others say its a useful spot to help tie on a sheath to cover the teeth.

The disstonian web site mentioned above is a good place to look.

Regards,
Steve

Thanks Steve.
Occasionally a real gem turns up at the Sunday Markets, and I must have gotten lucky.
I'll have to get it sharpened, but the teeth are all intact and the saw in good shape.
I look forward to using it.
Regards
SG