Bad Axe 10" Half-Blind Dovetail Saw

$285.00

Shipping calculated at checkout

Extra Small
Small
Regular
Large
Extra Large

Current lead time: about 4 weeks for most configurations. Call or email info@badaxetoolworks.com for more accurate lead times.

Introducing our specialized Half-Blind Dovetail Saw, meticulously crafted to deliver precision cuts in thin stock while minimizing the risk of blowouts.

"Why opt for this saw?" It's crucial to understand its intended purpose. This saw isn't your go-to choice for standard through-cut dovetailing in 3/4 stock or cutting tails for both sides of a drawer simultaneously. For such conventional tasks, our 12" Stiletto Dovetail Saw shines.

Instead, consider the Half-Blind Dovetail Saw for integrating half-blind dovetails in 3/4 up to 6/4 stock, or when working with through-cuts and off-cuts in 1/4 up to 2/4" stock. While it's capable of handling 3/4 stock, it's important to note that the .015 plate thickness limits its heat dissipation capacity. Excessive heat generated by friction may cause expansion in the ultra-thin metal, a factor often overlooked by enthusiasts enamored with super-thin plates.

In essence, our Half-Blind Dovetail Saw is a specialized tool tailored for delicate tasks. Embrace its purpose-driven design and experience the joy of precision woodworking with this exceptional tool in hand.

The bottom line upfront:

  • 16 ppi (teeth per Inch)
  • Filed Rip
  • Plate Thickness .015"
  • Kerf of .0225"
  • Depth of cut 1 1/2"
  • Perfect for delicate work like jewelry boxes
  • Great for cutting dovetails in up to 3/4" and half-blind dovetails in up to 6/4" stock.

Plate Thickness & Filing: Crafted with a .015 thick Swedish Spring Steel plate, meticulously filed at 16 teeth per inch (ppi) in a rip configuration along a 10-inch toothline. This filing pattern is specifically designed for finesse and excels in making through-cuts in delicate, thin stock ranging from 1/4 to predominantly 2/4, with occasional use up to 3/4. Additionally, it performs exceptionally well in creating half-blind dovetails in 3/4 up through 6/4 stock.

Depth Under the Back: The saw boasts a generous depth under the back, measuring 1 1/2 inches at the heel and tapering down to 1 3/8 inches at the toe. This depth provides ample blade support for the task at hand while maintaining the necessary rigidity and control throughout each cut.

Combined Set: With a precise, clean, and crisp hammer-set, the resulting kerf width is kept to a mere .0225 inches. This whisper-thin kerf ensures minimal material removal and a delicate, refined finish—perfect for intricate and delicate woodworking projects. Our dedicated Half-Blind Dovetail Saw offers a harmonious blend of finesse, control, and precision. Its specialized design allows you to achieve flawless, blowout-free cuts in thin stock, while excelling at creating beautiful half-blind dovetail joints. Elevate your craftsmanship with this exceptional tool that is tailored to meet the demands of your most delicate woodworking tasks.

Folded Sawback: Delve into the craftsmanship behind our traditional folded sawbacks, a hallmark of excellence that sets Bad Axe's saws apart from the rest. Unlike milled static backs commonly found in mainstream offerings, our folded backs embody a heritage of meticulous artistry and functional superiority.

Crafted through time-honored techniques, our folded backs undergo a precise process, resulting in a seamless, robust construction. This method not only enhances the structural integrity of the saw but also allows for dynamic adjustments and retensioning of the toothline, crucial for maintaining optimal cutting performance over time.

In contrast, milled static backs lack the versatility and resilience of our traditional folded backs. Their uniformity limits the ability to adjust tension, rendering them prone to premature wear and diminishing cutting efficiency, especially under rigorous use.

At Bad Axe, we stand by the enduring tradition of folded sawbacks for their unparalleled durability, versatility, and craftsmanship. Each saw embodies a legacy of excellence, meticulously crafted to deliver precision and reliability for generations to come. Experience the difference that traditional folded backs make in the world of woodworking – where precision meets heritage, and craftsmanship knows no compromise.

Handle: Inspired by the timeless design of the 1876 Disston-pattern open handle, each Bad Axe handle is meticulously crafted from full-heart quartersawn stock in a selection of premium hardwoods including Cherry, White Oak, Hard Maple, and Walnut.

Why choose quartersawn wood? Despite being the priciest option, quartersawn stock offers unparalleled stability, minimizing the effects of seasonal wood movement that can compromise the accuracy of the saw plate alignment. At Bad Axe, we prioritize the use of quartersawn wood to ensure the longevity and reliability of our handles.

Furthermore, we are committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. All our handle stock is sourced from a trusted family-owned business known for their sustainable lumber harvesting practices. This partnership, established from the inception of Bad Axe, underscores our dedication to supporting North American hardwoods and promoting eco-conscious manufacturing processes.

    Check out our hand size chart and measuring graphic in order to get the best fit on your new saw.

    Handle Size Length
    Extra Small Less than 3 1/8"
    Small 3 1/4" - 3 1/2"
    Regular 3 5/8" - 3 7/8"
    Large 4" - 4 1/4"
    Extra Large More than 4-3/8"
    • “This is a saw I can use all day. It works with me, not against me. It flows through two cherry drawer sides almost effortlessly. Smooth!” — Professional Woodworker and Writer Chris Becksvoort, New Gloucester, ME C.H. Becksvoort, Furniture-Maker

    • “This is hands down the best working dovetail saw I’ve ever used. What immediately and honestly sets these two saws apart is that Bad Axe didn’t look at what everyone else was doing on the dovetail saw market nor did they open a history book and copy something from a dead wood worker. No sir, low and behold they asked people like you and I what we wanted in a dovetail saw and then got down to business and made it. Seriously, I can’t find a thing I’d change about them, and let’s face it, I can be picky about good design and hand tools. For balls on accuracy, speed and performance, with two sizes available, these are an investment in quality.”— Tom Fidgen, Toronto, Canada, The Unplugged Woodshop

    • “The saw arrived yesterday and, after I finally could take my eyes off it, we went for a drive through some hard oak. What can I say? Indeed, every bit as functional as it is beautiful, cuts perfectly. I simply love the walnut and brass combination. Of course, a problem immediately occurred in that now I have three or four premium saws from other companies up for sale so that I can invest in a couple more Bad Axes. Outstanding sir, you make us proud of American craftsmanship. I shall do my best to up the craftsmanship in wood that this saw will allow.” — Ted Miller, McDonald, TN                                                    

    • ". . . it was precisely what I had wanted, a baby brother to my other dovetail saw, and took a short minute to try it out on a piece of scrap wood. Magnificent. Just the right feel, just the right kerf, just the right cut. There is one flaw to the tool, however, and it is a serious one I will have to learn to deal with. It cuts so precisely and easily that I will not be able to blame any poor workmanship on the tool. It will be all mine. Curse you, Bad Axe Tool Works!" — Don Williams, from The Barn on White Run

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