Thread: Fretsaws

A few more tools as I downsize.

1. Knew Concepts 5" dovetail Fretsaw in Titanium

Some are aware that I had a significant input into the development of Knew Concept fretsaws. The story is here. The designs followed my prescription for dovetailing, and then the late Lee Marshall, who made them in the USA, would send me a model to test out. The fretsaw here was one of the earlier prototypes. This was the first fretsaw to be built with a blade set at 45 degrees. The angle of the blade allows an almost infinite depth of cut across the widest of panels.

Made in Titanium, this created a light and stiff frame. Lee eventually stopped making this design as it was too costly - a wide sheet of expensive Titanium was needed for each saw. The later Birdcage design was produced to reduce costs (and still sells at $408 at Lie Nielsen Australia).

I used this particular fretsaw for about 12 months, until it was superseded by the next (and last) model of this style prior to the introduction of the Birdcage. What this model lacks is a variable angle blade adjustment. It is, instead, locked at 45 degrees, and is best suited to a right-hander. In reality, all my fretsaws are only used at this particular setting, and so nothing is lost.

The original handle has been replaced by one I made (from Jarrah). This is a significant upgrade on the standard handles.

Two apologies: firstly, the blade tightening knobs are the original T-types, and not the round, new versions. Secondly, the quick-release works very well but can bulge out a few mm at the pivot. It is secure and will not come off; it may be squeezed flat with fingers. This sounds confusing until the saw is used, then you will understand. It is of no consequence, but I mention it for transparency.

Price: $95 (excluding postage)

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2. Knew Concepts 8" Heavy Duty Fretsaw in Aluminium


This was the first 8" heavy duty fretsaw made. It is fully up to date, and still unused. Basically new. These are $240 at Lie Nielsen Australia.

The heavy duty version adds a great deal of stiffness to the frame. It really is rock solid.

This saw comes with ...

• Swivel blade clamp model; can rotate the saw blade a full 360, with click stops every 45
• Cam Lever Tension is designed for rapid, repetitive blade changes

Price: $195 (excluding postage)

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3. Hugenoit-Tissot jeweller's saw.

This vintage jeweller's saw is in excellent condition.

Price: $55 (excluding postage)

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Regards from Perth

Derek