Ask most woodworkers about their introduction to handsaws and a memory of a rusty blade stuttering and sticking its way through a cut comes to mind. Throw in terms like “fleam” and “rake” and a handsaw’s place in a world of power tools seems even more antiquated and mysterious. This is too bad, because a properly sharpened and correctly used handsaw can become one of the most efficient and trusted tools in any workshop. With expert know-how compiled from the pages of Popular Woodworking, The Essential Handsaw Book will change your perception and introduce you to everything you need to know to master handsaws, backsaws, and specialty saws. You’ll learn correct sawing techniques, the sharpening process, and how to hand-cut dovetails. After upgrading your knowledge and abilities, you can apply your newly honed skills to creating sawbenches, a bench hook, a classic six-board chest, and more.
