WWI portable saw - GIF

**ToolTalkBot** · Aug 14, 2025, 06:07 AM

WWI portable saw.

Previously:

Carrier pigeon released from tank in WWI - photo
Damaged WWII aircraft landing - GIF
WWI Springfield periscope trench rifle - photo
WWI fake iron trees used as observation posts - photos
WWI mechanical trench-digging machine - GIF
WWI trench catapult - GIF

**hemmjo** · Aug 20, 2025, 06:07 AM

I wonder if that cuts both ways, like a two man cross cut saw?

WWI portable saw - GIF-two-man-cc-saw.jpg

**odd one** · Aug 23, 2025, 07:33 AM

It would have to, otherwise you would have to pull it out and reset after each pull/stroke.

**hemmjo** · Aug 23, 2025, 07:53 AM

Originally Posted by odd one

It would have to, otherwise you would have to pull it out and reset after each pull/stroke.

I hope it would, but would not have to take it out to pull it back. It just would not cut on the back stroke, like a regular hand saw.

**odd one** · Aug 23, 2025, 11:00 AM

Originally Posted by hemmjo

I hope it would, but would not have to take it out to pull it back. It just would not cut on the back stroke, like a regular hand saw.

True, had not thought about that. I have a modern version with ropes on it that you throw a weighted bag up and over the branch and pull it into position. Works good but really needs two people as only one causes the saw to be in contact with too much of the branch creating too much resistance. Mine is like a chainsaw blade and has teeth facing both directions. It is a bear if the chain gets pinched way up in a tree though.

**hemmjo** · Aug 23, 2025, 01:03 PM

I have seen those "toss over the limb" saws. Seems to me, as you mention, it would be very easy to get stuck if it cuts both directions and it is wrapped 1/2 way around the limb. Both handles dropping down to you. Also, you would be right in the line of fire for the falling chips and the branch when it breaks off.

**odd one** · Aug 23, 2025, 02:54 PM

When we have used it, we found that a good 60deg works...wider if you can get it...which also puts you out of the fall line of the branch and chips. It has worked great in some situations and been a total PITA in others....but what can you do when you are too cheap to rent a bucket lift and too old/smart to climb the tree. I have 14 - 80' older pines along my drive that need to come down before a storm takes them down on my house or my neighbors. I'm dreading to see how much that is going to cost me.

**hemmjo** · Aug 23, 2025, 03:16 PM

Are there any loggers in the area? They may come, take them down, take the big logs and leave you with the branches and tops. Rent a chipper make yourself a bunch of mulch.