Thread: Rip saw

Repete

You have a Docking Saw there. They were a large crosscut saw almost exclusively with 4½ ppi no matter who the manufacturer. They could have a toothline of 24" or 30". Yours looks to be the longer variety. They were intended for use around timber yards and bridge building, but would have been really useful for log cabin construction too. I think your saw is a Disston No.196.

These saws are a very good acquisition for quick cutting.

Offering it for no charge is very generous of you. Postage for those interested will be a little exey as they are large and heavy with the malleable iron handle.

Regards
Paul

I keep one permanently in my vehicle: Just in case .

Thanks Paul, what an interesting tale! Are they rare & would the HTPS want it? As I said, it feels nice in the hand. Peter

Originally Posted by Repete

Thanks Paul, what an interesting tale! Are they rare & would the HTPS want it? As I said, it feels nice in the hand. Peter

Peter

They are a little unusual, but not really rare. It is true to say they turn up more commonly in America, which is where the majority were manufactured, although Spear & Jackson in the UK offered one too.

This is the Disston No.190:

P1090206.jpg

Atkins No.590 looking very similar to the Disston. Is there any sign of an etch on your saw plate?

P1090207.jpg

and Simonds No.248, which differs here with a more solid looking handle from 1919

P1090208.jpg

but by 1938 Simonds too had a perforated handle. The earlier handle was noticeably heavier.

Simonds Docking Saw 1938.png

While these are from early catalogs (Disston 1918, Atkins 1919 and the first Simonds 1919) these saws were produced into the 1950s at least. Being used outdoors, the majority probably did not survive well having been subjected to a hard life and those that did survive are likely post WW2. Again, back to the rarity. I have a few and I was not consciously looking for them. I know other Forum members who have the odd one lurking in the shed.

Regards
Paul

PS: I should emphasise the Docking saws had crosscut teeth. They are probably the coarsest teeth you can find for crosscutting in a handsaw. I mention this as you originally, and quite understandably, described the saw as a rip.

Thanks again, Paul, a shark would be proud of the teeth & you're right about pitch, 4 1/2". The etch is gone, but the blade is in very good nick. I am a hard rubbish scrounger & I found it locally. I am a member of two Facebook pages, Boroondara Hard Rubbish Rehome & Darebin Hard Rubbish Heroes. Have a squizz. I am also surprised no-one has claimed it!!

Hi Peter. I would love to take it but am unlikely to be over your way any time soon. I would be happy to cover the cost of postage but you may not want the hassle?

Sorry, it has found a home