(fig. 69). This saw is used almost exclusively for sawing with the grain, for which purpose it is specially intended.

The blade should be 26 ins. long, and the back and cutting edges should taper somewhat; the amount varies, but the more the blade tapers the better, provided the saw possesses the other more important qualifications already described.

Weight is a good thing in a rip saw, but the blade should not be thick.

The teeth of this saw should be as in fig. 70. There are generally about three and a half to four teeth per inch, and the throats are deep, to allow of the accumulation of waste fibres.

It is not often that boys are strong enough to use a rip saw, but if they can, the full size is the best.

Fig. 69.

Fig. 70.