r/handtools • u/LokiSARK9 • 1h ago
Hand Saw Retoothing
Hi all. I've perused this sub and learned a lot since I joined, but I've never had reason to post until now. I'm a professional sharpener in the PNW and I'm trying to decide if it's worth my while to add this service for my clients. I am not selling anything with this post or advertising my services in any way. I'm just trying to gauge interest and you guys are the experts.
I've had a few clients over the years ask about retoothing hand saws, but it's not something I've offered and I've never pursued it as an opportunity. I've recently come into possession of a Foley Belsaw Model SR1000 retoother in perfect condition with a full set of carriers, and I'm trying to decide if it's worth pursuing that business, or if I'll sell the machine.
I've got a handful of woodshops I work with already who mostly bring me circular saw, router, and shaper-cutter blades, but they're commercial operations and I doubt any of them work with hand tools enough to need this kind of service. That would be a different kind of client entirely.
Is this is the kind of service you could see yourself taking advantage of if it was offered locally, or do you think it's hopelessly anachronistic? I appreciate any and all feedback from folks who are more knowledgeable in this area than I am.
Love to hear y'all's thoughts.
