74 



LOGGING 



enables the cutting of a deep but narrow incision. The usual 

 dimensions are: length, ii|^ or 12 inches; width of blade, 3^ 

 inches. The weight averages 5^ or 6 pounds. Straight hickory 

 handles 36 inches in length are considered best. 



SAWS 



Saws are made in a variety of lengths and widths of blade, 

 and in numerous shapes and patterns of teeth to meet special 

 requirements and to conform to the preferences of certain 

 localities. 



The Blade. — In small- and medium-sized timber a 6- to 6^-foot 

 saw is commonly used, while for the fir timber of the Pacific 

 Coast the saws range in length from 8 to 10 feet, with a maxi- 

 mum length of 18 feet in the redwood region. The width varies 

 with the pattern of the saw, and ranges from 4 to 8^ inches. 



A slightly curved saw blade is most frequently used because it 

 affords a larger space for sawdust. This makes it run with less 

 friction and the work is less fatiguing. In order further to 

 reduce friction, saws are usually made thinner at the back than 

 at the cutting edge. Saws made for felling large Pacific Coast 

 timber are often more limber than those used for log-making, 

 because the latter are operated by one man and a stiff saw is 

 needed to prevent the blade from buckling on the forward stroke. 



The price of a saw is governed by its length and the quality 

 of steel. The following prices are approximate: 



Handles. — The handles used on cross-cut saws are round, 

 about i^ inches in diameter, and range in length from 12 to 18 

 inches. They are fastened either by clasps which fit into holes 

 in the ends of the saw, or by loops which fit over the ends of the 



