Set on a handsaw?

As I understand it, the usual method is to stone the sides evenly using a fine grit. I’ve only tried it once on an inexpensive saw, and it seemed to do the trick. I’m no expert on the subject, though. Maybe more experienced LJs can offer better advice.

-- John, BC, Canada

Hi Alexandre.
The set is the amount it is off set sideways. Maybe you could put it between two pieces of steel in the vise and squeeze the teeth in between to remove some of the offset??? Just a guess. Then you would have to go over each tooth with a setting tool to make them all even again only with less offset.

...............Jim

-- Jim Jakosh.....Practical Wood Products...........Learn something new every day!!

Put the teeth of the saw inside a piece of paper (check the thickness of the paper so you know how thick it is.) Place the saw teeth with paper on both sides inside a preferably metal vise with two flat pieces of steel on either side of the saw plate/teeth and paper. Tighten the vise as much as possible. Repeat, as necessary, until the entire toothline of the saw has been squeezed. Your saw will have approximately the same amount of set to each side as the thickness of the paper.

This is a method ascribed to Mike Wenzloff currently but one I understand that he picked up from past practice.

It works. I’ve done it.

Okay, Thanks!

-- My terrible signature...

I usually run the saw over an abrasive surface, either some 320 grit sandpaper on a granite block, or a coarse diamond stone. Do both sides evenly and take a small test cut after each pass to see if you’re getting the kerf you want. It helps to use a block of wood to ensure solid contact with the abrasive.

Rich;)

-- Rich;) -"Dada make a big mess?" "Yes Dada made a big mess."

Two sources I read and follow both addressed removing some of the set from a hand saw and they both said to lightly draw a file down each side once or twice. Lightly is key. Then try cutting to check your progress. You can make another pass if necessary. I would advise against putting it in a vise and crushing the set. The amount to remove to get the set right is very small and crushing in it in a vice can remove it all very quickly and unevenly. I fixed a rip saw that had a massive set on it and just two passes each side with a file got it done.

Good Luck.

-- Mike