Rob Cosman is a professional woodworker and tool maker who has been involved in the industry for more than 30 years. He has an extensive background in tool restoration as well as creating custom tools and tool sets.
In addition to creating custom tools and sets, he serves as an instructor at woodworking schools, demonstrating the use of various woodworking and hand-tool techniques. Rob’s work has been featured on multiple television shows, including The Woodwright’s Shop, The New Yankee Workshop, and This Old House.
He is the author of several books related to woodworking, and also runs a series of woodworking classes and workshops. He is highly regarded amongst woodworkers, and is an aggressive advocate of the fine craftsmanship required to make quality woodworking products.
Where are Veritas saws made?
Veritas saws are manufactured by Veritas Tools, a division of Lee Valley Tools, which is based in Canada. They have a manufacturing plant in Ottawa, Ontario and an additional plant in Ogdensburg, New York.
Veritas manufactures a variety of saws, including coping saws, pneumatic-clamp saws, hacksaws, dovetail saws, and Japanese saws, as well as sharpening tools and saw blades. All Veritas tools are made with a commitment to providing the highest quality possible.
They use only the best materials and components, so their products are extremely durable, offer superior performance and are designed for lifetime use.
How do you use a dovetail coping saw?
Using a dovetail coping saw is not a difficult task. To begin, select a blade with a sharp edge to ensure a smooth and clean cut. Securely attach the blade to the coping saw frame, making sure it is securely tightened in place.
Next, affix the workpiece to a workbench or flat surface. It is important to ensure that the body of the saw is held securely so that the saw doesn’t move during the cutting process. Start by forming a shallow cut along the length of the wood.
This cut should be shallow to allow for precise cuts without slipping out of the workpiece.
Once the initial sawing is complete, start cutting across the grain of the wood. Focus on making small and precise movements to ensure a smooth and neat finish. It is important to apply gentle pressure when cutting to avoid any irregularity that could be caused by too much force.
When finished, remove the saw blade and clean the teeth of any remaining sawdust. Ensure the blade and frame are stored properly and away from any items that might damage it.
Whats the difference between a coping saw and a fret saw?
A coping saw and a fret saw are both types of saws that are typically used to cut intricate shapes and patterns in wood, or other types of materials. The main difference between the two is that a coping saw is a manually operated saw, while a fret saw is a frame saw that is driven by a power-tool such as a drill.
A coping saw is a tool that has a thin metal blade that is typically attached to a U-shaped frame. In order to make a cut, the user hinges the blade at one end of the U and allows it to cut perpendicularly through the material as it is maneuvered in a reciprocating motion.
Since the blade is thin, coping saws are well-suited for making curved and intricate cuts in soft and thin materials such as wood, plastic, and metal.
On the other hand, a fret saw is a frame saw that is powered by a drill or a motor-drive. The blade is secured to a frame that is connected to a motor which causes it to move up and down at a high speed.
Because of its fast-cutting action, many fret saws are used for cutting more complex and intricate shapes and patterns than what is possible with a coping saw. Although some fret saws can be used for cutting wood, it is generally best suited for cutting hard and thick materials such as metal and plastic.
Is a fret saw the same as a coping saw?
No, a fret saw and a coping saw are not the same tools. A fret saw is a small, specialized saw that has a narrow blade that is used to make intricate and delicate turnings, carvings, and other shapes in wood and other similar materials.
It has a very fine blade that is tensioned between two metal arms and held in place with a screw. The handle on the fret saw is straight, allowing the saw to be used in tight areas where a larger saw wouldn’t fit.
A coping saw, on the other hand, is a larger saw that is used for larger cutting and shaping tasks. It has a much wider, thicker blade than a fret saw and also has a handle that is bent at an angle to help handle the weight of the saw and to facilitate better maneuverability.
The blade tension is also adjusted with a screw. The coping saw’s thicker, coarser teeth makes it more suitable for cutting through tougher materials, such as hardwoods, whereas a fret saw would be used for more delicate and intricate carving tasks.
What kind of saw is needed to cut curves?
A jigsaw is the type of saw most typically used to cut curves. This saw has a small, sharp blade that is ideal for cutting intricate shapes and curves. Jigsaws are also fairly affordable and easy to use, making them perfect for tasks that require more precision than other saws.
In addition to cutting curves, jigsaws can be used to make straight cuts, cut through most types of material, like wood, plastic, and metal, and to even cut in tight spaces.
How thick can coping saw cut?
The thickness of materials that can be cut with a coping saw depends on the saw blade that is used; the blade width and thickness determine the cutting capacity. Generally, coping saws can cut materials that are up to 4-5 inches thick, depending on the blade that is used.
Thinner blades, such as a 0.22 inch model, can cut through material as thin as 1/2 inch, while thicker blades, such as a 0.5 inch model, can cut through materials up to 4-5 inches thick. Additionally, the design and construction of the frame also affects the cutting capacity; stiffer and stronger frames typically offer more efficient and stronger cutting performance, thus allowing them to cut thicker materials.
What materials can be cut with a fret saw?
A fret saw is a type of saw used for intricate cuts and patterns in wood, plastic, metal, and other material. It’s most often used to cut fretwork – intricate, decorative designs cut from thin sheets of wood, metal, and plastics.
Common materials that can be cut with a fret saw include wood, like plywood and thin sheets of hardwood; thin metals like aluminum and brass; plastics like acrylic, plexiglass, and plastic laminate; and a number of other thin materials like flexible metals, thin cardboard or paperboard, or even thin leather or fabric pieces.
Fret saws can have either a fixed or scroll blade, and the depth and type of blade determines what types of material can be cut. To cut thicker material, a deeper blade with a coarser teeth is required, while thin materials can use shallow blades with fine teeth.
For better results and accuracy, it’s recommended that materials be clamped to a work table prior to cutting with a fret saw.
What is special about a dovetail saw?
A dovetail saw is a special type of handsaw designed specifically for the precise cutting of dovetail joints. It has a narrow and thin blade with fine teeth that are perfectly spaced for exceptionally accurate and clean cuts.
The blades are usually around 8 to 10 inches long and have a stiff, reinforced spine that helps keep the teeth in perfect alignment. Additionally, the teeth are often filed to a 60-degree angle, which allows the saw to cut at a shallower depth and makes it capable of producing the angled edges needed for a tight, strong joint.
The teeth are also ground in either a crosscut or rip configuration, allowing the saw to be used for both types of cuts. Because of its precision, a dovetail saw is an essential part of woodworking and can be a great tool for creating furniture, drawers, and other wood projects that require tightly fitting, durable joints.
What is a coping saw used for?
A coping saw is a type of hand saw used for intricate, detailed cutting and is very useful for cutting intricate curves, shapes, or even notches into wood. It consists of a metal handle with a narrow blade held in place with a tensioning screw.
The narrow blades of a coping saw make them well suited for intricate cutting tasks, such as cutting curves in the middle of a piece of material instead of cut-outs along the edges. They can also be used for cutting more complex shapes and patterns like circles, ovals, and notches into wood.
Coping saws are often used by woodworkers, cabinet makers, antique restorers, and artists to make fine woodwork or establish components in their projects.
Do you push or pull a coping saw?
When using a coping saw, you should pull the saw towards you in a slow and controlled motion. This pulling motion gives you greater control and accuracy. Coping saws have very thin blades that are held in tension in order to cut straight and make smooth curves.
Pulling the saw gives you greater control over the speed of the blade and the accuracy of the cuts. When pushing a coping saw, you may be putting too much force on the blade and cause it to wander off track or bind.
How tight should coping saw be?
The tension on a coping saw should be relatively tight in order to ensure even and accurate cutting. The tension is adjusted by adjusting the knurled knob in the middle of the saw frame. When this knob is tightened, the tension increases, which tightens the blade.
The blade should be tight enough to stay in the saw frame without vibrating or slipping, but not so tightly that the blade is difficult to set or becomes distorted. The tension should also not be so tight that it affects the accuracy of the cut or causes the blade to buckle.
A good indication is to test the saw against your thumb, where it should have a moderate but firm resistance.
Which way do you put the blade in a coping saw?
When putting the blade in a coping saw, be sure to get the blade in the right direction. The blade needs to be inserted so that the teeth of the blade point away from the handle. Although many blades are sharp, double-check the direction the teeth are pointing before inserting it in the saw as you can easily bend or warp the blade if it is placed in the wrong way.
Place the end of the blade in the blade slot at the top of the saw and wrap the blade around the outside edge of the saw frame. Secure the blade by tightening the thumb screw and the frame clamp to hold the blade.
Checking the tightness of the screws is important because if the blade isn’t secure, it can slip out or reduce cutting performance.
How is a new blade secured to the frame of a coping saw?
A new blade is typically secured to the frame of a coping saw using a mechanism which involves tightening a thumbscrew. Depending on the model, there may be two thumbscrews, one on either side of the blade.
To install a new blade, the thumbscrews should be loosened, the old blade removed and the new blade installed. The new blade should be positioned with the teeth facing downwards and both sides of the blade clamped between two pieces of metal on either side of the frame.
The blade should then be tightened down by turning the two thumbscrews clockwise, ensuring that the blade is held firmly but not overly tight. After the new blade is secured it can then be used for cutting.
Are all coping saw blades the same size?
No, not all coping saw blades are the same size. Coping saw blades vary in size and thickness and have different teeth designs and angles, making them suitable for different types of cuts. The size and shape of blade for a particular job will depend on the type of wood being worked on and the desired results.
Generally, coping saw blades come in three different sizes: a 9 in (229 mm) blade, a 12 in (305 mm) blade, and a 15 in (381 mm) blade. The larger, thicker blades are better for cutting harder woods, while the thinner, smaller blades are best for softer woods.
Each blade also has its own number of teeth per inch (TPI). Generally, fewer teeth per inch will provide a rough cut, while more teeth per inch will give a smooth cut. So, there is no one size fits all for coping saw blades.
How can I improve my coping saw?
Improving your coping saw can involve a few different steps. First, ensure that you have the proper tools and supplies to keep your saw in good condition. Check that the saw is oiled and sharp. Make sure that you are using the right blades for the job, and replace them regularly if they become worn out or damaged.
Inspect the handle and blade to make sure they’re securely fastened, and if needed, adjust the saw’s set screws or tighten the blade so it doesn’t move around.
If you are cutting difficult materials, you may need to replace your coping saw with a better quality model with more precise cutting capabilities. Additionally, purchasing a coping saw stand can make it easier to handle the saw and make straight cuts.
Finally, practice using your coping saw to get used to how it handles and works. As you gain experience, you will be able to make more precise and accurate cuts with your saw.
Are Veritas saws Resharpenable?
Yes, Veritas saws are resharpenable. Veritas saw blades are made from high-quality German steel which is renowned for its superior longevity and sharpness. This makes them excellent for sharpening, as the steel is strong and can be honed to a fine edge.
The blades come pre-sharpened, but regular honing can help them keep their edge over time. To sharpen Veritas saw blades, use a sharpening stone, honing guide, and honing oil. You can also take the blades to a professional sharpening service to have them sharpened.
It is important to keep the saw blades sharpened, as a dull saw will leave a rough, uneven finish and it can make working with the saw more difficult.
Are Japanese saws good?
Generally speaking, Japanese saws are highly praised for their performance and craftsmanship. The blades are incredibly thin and precise, and the cutting action is incredibly smooth and efficient. They are lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them a great choice for precise cuts and intricate detail work.
The blade teeth are razor-sharp, so they can easily cut through a variety of woods, plastics, metals, and more. Additionally, Japanese saws tend to last longer than their Western counterparts, as they are made with very high-quality steel.
They are also typically adjustable, which allows you to customize your saw to fit your specific needs. Japanese saws are a great option for anyone who needs to make accurate and precise cuts, and they can be an especially great choice for those who are new to woodworking.
Why are Japanese saw handles so long?
Saw handles in Japan are longer than in other parts of the world for a few different reasons. Firstly, Japanese saws are typically pushed rather than pulled, requiring that the handle be longer than a saw made for pulling.
Secondly, the teardrop shape of the handle helps to create better control over the saw, making it easier for the user to maneuver it accurately. Finally, the longer handle allows for a better distribution of weight along the saw’s axis, making it easier to use for extended periods of time without feeling too heavy in the hand.
By having all of these features, the saw handle’s traditional length ensures that it is comfortable and ergonomic.