In a message dated 7/6/03 12:03:44 AM, Dale writes:
>2. Use the hack saw properly, i.e., do not use a seesaw, back and forth
>cutting action but cut only on the forward stroke. Try to not force it
>but let the
>nice sharp(!) saw blade do the cutting. Relax and soften up on the back
>stroke... It will make a difference.
Another hint (courtesy of my high school metalshop teacher) is to slow down your cutting rate to about one stroke per second... Heat buildup when sawing metal is intense and even with bimetal blades, you will get much more life from your saw if you slow down. The guys at our local bike shop attack the steering tube like they're in a lumberjack rodeo and they wonder why their saw is always dull... it's because they cut so fast the tips of the teeth are melting.
And if you're cutting freehand, turn the blade around so that it cuts on the pull stroke (like Japanese saws and jewelers saws). If your blade is in tension on the cutting stroke (rather than compression) it will track a straighter line and won't be prone to chatter. It will take a little getting used to, but you'll get a better cut with less effort.
Bob Hovey
Columbus, GA