(D.) The handle of the saw should be grasped firmly by three fingers, as in Fig. 43, with the forefinger extended along the side, thus making more room for the three fingers, and giving better control of the saw. Very little strength should be used in forcing a fine saw to cut, as its own weight generally is sufficient; if the saw is forced, it will not run smoothly, but will bind, and if a thin board is being worked, it is apt to split. The saw should be used from the face side of the material, so that any splinters or variation will be upon the back side and out of sight.
(E.) It is the custom of some carpenters to reset the handles of their heavy saws by drilling holes through the blade so that the handle may be fastened as close to the cutting edge as possible, as in Fig. 44. This brings the force of the stroke nearer the direct line of the cut, which obviously allows a more economical application of force. Never leave a saw in a cut, for if the piece of wood falls off the trestles, the saw is apt to be broken. (Saw-filing will be discussed later.)
Fig. 45.—Knife Blades.
A, used by wood-worker;
B, used in manual-training schools.
38. The knife blade used by the wood-worker for general work is similar to that shown in Fig. 45, at A. That shown at B is the form of blade in most common use in manual-training schools, as it is better adapted for whittling, its shape assisting the student to some extent to prevent the knife from following the grain.
39. Planes.—(A.) The plane is the most complex, as well as one of the most important, tools which the wood-worker uses, and a high grade of skill is necessary to keep it in order, as well as to use it properly.
Fig. 46.—Section of Iron Plane.
1, cutter, iron, or bit; 2, cap iron; 3, plane iron screw; 4, cap lever; 4a, cam; 5, cap screw; 6, frog; 6a, mouth; 7, Y lever; 8, vertical adjusting nut; 8a, vertical adjusting screw; 9, lateral adjustment; 10, frog screws; 11, handle; 12, knob; 13, handle bolt and nut; 14, bolt knob and nut; 15, handle screw; 16, bottom, or stock.