Replies

1. 
   VTAndy_ | Dec 03, 2007 01:40am | #1

   Jay,
   If you include crosscutting under "general use", then the progressive pitch dovetail saw would be a poor choice. What types of cuts do you need the backsaw for?
   -Andy

1. 
   JayM | Dec 03, 2007 04:39am | #2

   Andy,Cross cutting would certainly be a major task.Jay

1. 
   VTAndy_ | Dec 03, 2007 03:53pm | #3

   Jay,
   The progressive pitch saw's teeth have a rip profile, so it really would not be ideal for cross-cutting. The crosscut carcass saw would be good for smaller stock. You could make a bench hook and use one of the crosscut tenon saws for crosscutting -- they are available in larger sizes, which may better suit the notion of "general purpose". Keep in mind that the primary purpose of all of these backsaws is cutting joints; none of them will serve you very well for crosscutting wider stock. I have found that a Japanese ryoba saw can be very handy for a variety of tasks, since it includes rip and crosscut teeth, and the pitch is progressive as well. You might also want to check out Mike Wenzloff's website, which shows some other saws (like the half-back) that would serve well as general purpose bench saws. Your mileage may vary!
   -Andy