John Spear 4ppi Rip Saw 28 Inches Long -- Freshly Sharpened

Here is a magnificent example of Sheffield sawmaking expertise - a 28 inch long rip saw made by John Spear, one of the original partners of the venerable Spear & Jackson firm.

This particular saw dates to about 1830 as indicated by the stamp on the blade and the distinctive design features of the handle. The wording 'Double Refined Spring' was reserved for only the best steel. The beech handle is in remarkable condition for being over 190 years old, suffering only from a couple of minute chips. The flecking in the grain and the color are simply amazing.

The plate has no apologies other than for age spots and a missing nib. There is no rust, pitting, nor are any of the large rip teeth missing. There is a short section of smaller teeth at the toe to aid in starting the cut.

The 4ppi rip teeth have been freshly sharpened:

Tooth Type: rip
Rake Angle: 7º
Fleam Angle: 00º
Slope Angle: 0º
Tooth Set: 0.004"