Thread: Another Saw set - Taintor positive No 7

But when you think about how many handsaws were in use, everyday......

Hi Lyle,

the following web site is an interesting read if you want to know more about saw sets.

Graham.


The Saw Set Collector's Resouce - Setting Instructions

I don't know that model, but the Taintor sets I've owned are reallly gizmotic.

Gizmotic???
Haven't heard that before. Does it mean good, bad or ugly...
Lyle

Originally Posted by Lyle

Gizmotic???
Haven't heard that before. Does it mean good, bad or ugly...
Lyle

"Gizmotic" may be entirely U.S. slang...don't know. A gizmo is a device that gets something done in a complicated way (levers and links and ratchets, oh my!). "Gizmotic," then, is a description of something that seems to have levers and links and so on to accomplish something that could be done far more simply.

It's neither good nor bad; indeed, some gizmotic things are worthy and delightful.

For instance: compared to the Stanley No. 20 compass plane
20.jpg

the Stanley 113 compass plane is gizmotic as can be:

113rear.jpg

(Pictures courtesy of Patrick Leach's "Blood and Gore" website on the Stanley planes: Patrick's Stanley Blood & Gore Profit Warning

Lyle

The pic below is from a 1918 leaflet. I am not exactly sure when the Taintor saw sets first appeared, but I have it in my mind that they dated before 1900. however I am not sure where I got that information from and it might be quite incorrect.

Taintor Positive Saw sets 1918 catalogue.jpg

I believe it may have been the first set of this type. The principle is fine. Like you I have the No.7. I wonder if Bill's "gizmotic" reference relates to the more complex No.7½, which boasts both fine and standard plungers. The only adjustment on the No.7 is the adjustable anvil so not overly complex. The construction appears to be pressed metal and consequently has a flimsy feel to it unlike the cast steel saw sets, which feel far more robust. I have never actually used mine and while it looks as though it would be a good tool for occasional saw setting, I think it may become imprecise if used extensively.

Simonds used this set (amongst others, including the ubiquitous Stanley No.42) in their catalogues from as early as 1907. Their designation was the No.197 with no reference to Taintor. This is from a 1912 catalogue.

Simonds No.197 saw set. 1912 catalogue.jpg

Regards
Paul