I bought an old handsaw at a yard sale today for $5 and I was wanting to know if anyone knew how old it may be. The only writing I can find on it is in the little round insert on the handle which has an eagle with it’s wings open and has three arrows in it’s left talon and a small branch with leaves [I think] in it’s right talon. The insert is about the size of a nickle and says [warranted] at the top and below that is[pat dec 27 1897] {I think}. Both these writings are above the eagle’s head. Below the eagle it says [superior]. The handle has three wheat carvings on it. One is going forward and one is going down in front of the grip and one is going up on the grip. It has a little surface rust and could use a tune up with a file. All the screws are tight in the handle and there are no cracks in the wood. Does anyone know any background to this saw?
BT
Replies
The "Warranted Superior" screws and medallions are generic screws that several saw makers used on saws made under the name of different retailers. The screws and medallions used to also be standard hardware stock in lumber yards and hardware stores. Some collectors may be able to identify your saw by the pattern of the wheat carving but I can't.
BT,
See if you can bring up the etch. I've had good results with silicon carbide and mineral spirits. Start with 600 grit and rub along the length of the saw, watching for the etch and being careful not to go too far. Here's a reference that I find useful: http://www.disstonianinstitute.com/
Rick
I will try that as soon as I can. Thanks for the replies.
BT
I checked out the site you posted and it is very interesting. The handle of my saw looks like the d-23 and the blade is shaped like the d-8. Haven't had a chance to peel off the surface rust yet. Thanks for your reply.
BT
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