The RakeMaker II - a guide for accurate rake angles
Due to an overwhelming workload, I am suspending production of the RM II while I search for a machine shop to take up manufacturing some of the parts for me.
The key to a well sharpened handsaw is accurate and consistent tooth geometry. Two of the most important elements of saw tooth geometry are the rake and fleam angles. By bringing an unprecedented level of precision and repeatability to saw filing, it is possible to file your saws more accurately and consistently, leading to more predictable sawing characteristics.
Inspired by, and loosely based on a saw filing guide patented by Henry Briggs in 1919, the RakeMaker II is the most versatile saw filing guide made today. With built-in rake and fleam scales, accurate and repeatable saw filing is within everyone's reach.
The RakeMaker II takes advantage of our innate ability to discern parallel and horizontal lines. By magnifying the angle of the file, even small deviations from the target rake and fleam angles are readily apparent. In use, the comfortable hardwood handle (which is held in a fixed horizontal orientation) provides a tactile frame of reference that further aids in maintaining your rake angle.
Filing from both sides of the saw is easier than ever, as the rake and fleam angles can be quickly and accurately reversed. And because it is so easily adjustable, filing progressive rake is now nearly a trivial matter.
For further precision and ease of use, the optional level vial can be mounted on the fleam guide. While it seems excessive at first glance, many find that using the vial to level the guide is actually faster than aligning the guide with the toothline.
- Rake angles of 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 degrees are readily set using the modified vernier scale on the body of the guide. Angles between these markings are easily intrerpolated.
- Fleam angles from 0 to 45 degrees (in 5 degree increments) are marked on the fleam guide.
- Approximately 2 7/8" long and 3 3/8" wide.
- Holds tapered saw files ranging from 6 inch needle files (for teeth as fine as 18 or 19 ppi) to 7 inch slim files (for teeth as coarse as 4 or 5 ppi).
- Because the file holder compensates for the taper on the end of most files, the axis of the filing guide is parallel to that of the file.
Made in the USA of stainless steel, bronze/brass, and premium hardwoods. Fully warranted for one year.
RakeMaker II Instructions
Recommended Reading
- Saw tooth geometry
- Practical cross cut angles
- Saw tooth spacing templates
- Saw handle scans
- Pete Taran's saw filing primer
Isaac, Got it today at about 3:15 PM and by 4 had 2 of my nest singing beautiful songs!! Thank you so much. I've got quite an investment in this saw passion and this little device has brought it to fruition for me.....just seemed to bring all the studying and hap hazard attempts at proper sharpening to a culmination and now I am confident that I CAN restore any saw in my shop to the exact service I need. Your invention made the difference for me. This device gives me the confidence that has been missing when I try to visualize and create the rake & fleam consistently.
I truly cannot thank you enough.
- Don, California
RakeMaker II with level attachment - $105
RakeMaker II with the optional level attachment for the maximum accuracy in filing rake angles.
Shipping within the US is $3.50 via USPS First Class Mail. For shipping charges to other countries, please contact me before ordering.
Until I build up an inventory of these filing guides, orders will be filled from a waiting list. Please email me at [email protected] to have your name added to the list. In this email, please let me know if you want apple, cherry, or walnut for the handle wood. There is no down payment required and no obligation to take it when your name comes up. At this point, expect a wait of several months.
Due to an overwhelming workload, I am suspending production of the RM II while I search for a machine shop to take up manufacturing some of the parts for me.
RakeMaker II without level attachment - $95
If you don't want or need the level attachment, the RakeMaker II is available without one. When using this version, simply align the fleam guide so that it is parallel to the toothline when viewed from the side.
Shipping within the US is $3.50 via USPS First Class Mail. For shipping charges to other countries, please contact me before ordering.
Until I build up an inventory of these filing guides, orders will be filled from a waiting list. Please email me at [email protected] to have your name added to the list. In this email, please let me know if you want apple, cherry, or walnut for the handle wood. There is no down payment required and no obligation to take it when your name comes up. At this point, expect a wait of several months.
Due to an overwhelming workload, I am suspending production of the RM II while I search for a machine shop to take up manufacturing some of the parts for me.
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| RM II - Apple | RM II - Cherry | RM II - Walnut |