I'm interested in adding some saws to my woodworking toolbox and am drawn to Disston saws for their reputation and craftsmanship. However, I'm debating whether it's practical to go for saws that are over 50 years old. I'm specifically looking for a coarse saw, a fine saw, and a tenon saw. Any insights or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
3 Answers
I've tried various saws, including costly modern options and antiques. My favorites are the Thomas Flinn saws for being budget-friendly while still functional. They might not be the prettiest, but they get the job done. Just a heads up – they might need some sharpening out of the box to perform their best.
Disston saws are considered top-notch by many woodworkers. Some even see them as the standard to measure all handsaws against. If you're thinking about a 50+ year old Disston, you're likely making a good choice. Their quality is hard to match, especially in terms of handle design and overall feel.
Pre-1930s Disston saws have handles that beat any modern counterparts hands down. Sure, you might find newer saws with better steel for about €80 or more, but they might not hold their edge as long without frequent resharpening. In terms of craftsmanship, Disstons are definitely worth considering.