If you are new to Japanese Saws here are a few starter points.

If you are new to Japanese Saws – click here for a few starter points!

Japanese saws cut on the pull stroke.  

• Start the cut with the back end – not the tip of the blade!
• You do not start the cut with the tip of the blade but with the back end - otherwise you have nothing to pull.
• Grip the saw a little further back - not at the very front of the handle.
• Apply only a slight pressure and saw using stead, gentle pulls

To begin with, take your time, not sawing too quickly or your saw will go off course.

Longevity tips: Most wood workers needing to change a blade do so because they haven’t been careful enough. 

• For very deep cuts, be careful not to let the saw jam. You can use a wedge at the start of the cut to keep the sides apart.
• Be careful not to exert sudden pressure as you risk jamming the blade- in turn risking a bent or broken saw or broken teeth.
• Lastly, don’t bend the blade round or over – once the saw has a bend in it, it won’t cut perfectly straight any more.

Storage:  Keep your saw in a dry area.

These are not stainless, which is true of all the best cutting edges. Therefore, do not store in damp places!   If you are unlikely to use your saw for some time, oil the blade.

Adapted from Dieter Schmidt Fine Tools https://www.fine-tools.com/G10000.html