How to Use a Handsaw - Western Backed Dovetail

This video discusses how to use a handsaw. More specifically, this video demonstrates the process of starting a western back saw. This type of saw cuts on the push stroke which is different than Japanese saws which cut on the pull stroke. The saw being demonstrated is a dovetail saw that is filed for rip cut and was recent sharpened. See the videos below for both a demonstration on using the saw and how to sharpen a saw for rip cuts.

Here are the videos that describe and attempt to demonstrate the proper technique.

Here is another video that demonstrates a simple exercise on cutting a dovetail feature. This is useful practice before trying to cut dovetails in your more expense project material.