SawSharp's 19-20 March 2026 Saw Sharpening 2-Day Basics Course

A two-day saw sharpening basic course covering theory, tools and practical exercise for sharpening rip and x-cut handsaws

Learn the basics of saw sharpening with Mark Harrell, founder of SawSharp and Bad Axe Tool Works.

Hi, I'm Mark--come to my workshop for a bite-sized, two-day session of saw sharpening, where you'll learn the basics on tooth geometry, saw sharpening tools and how to brush-stroke your rip or x-cut filed handsaw to a fresh edge on properly shaped toothline that has simply grown dull.

The only things you need to bring is an open mind, bifocals if you need them, a six-inch ruler, and two of your favorite handsaws (or panel saws) we can work on to get a fresh edge on those teeth. No projects, please--just saws that have grown a little dull.

Administrative notes: You'll pay for the 2-day class up front. Total course cost is $500.

Refund Policy. Setting up the logistics for this course requires an expenditure of supplies on my part, so no refunds. That said, life happens--if you are unable to attend the seminar due to unforeseen circumstances, I will transfer your seat to another class of your choosing, or issue you a $500 credit toward any vintage saw service and/or Bad Axe saw(s) of your choosing.

Bad Axe Saw discount: I have worked out a deal with the Bad Axe leadership to allow any SawSharp course attendee to receive a one-time, one-saw 15% discount.

Lunch on site: I will arrange for lunch daily, which works out to $15 per meal (usually a mix between sub sandwiches and pizza). This incurs an additional charge of $15 per lunch--or not, if you bring your own. You're welcome to as much coffee and water you want at the shop free of charge.

What to bring: Bifocals, a 6-inch ruler, two of your favorite vintage handsaws--preferably in rip and x-cut--and an open, ready-to-learn mind. I'll supply the files, and all other saw sharpening equipment

See you here!

2-Day Seminar Curriculum & Schedule:

Day 1:

AM

• Is my saw worth saving?
• Nomenclature: heel, toe, spine, toothline, sawback, etch,open/closed handles.
• Saw Accessory Use and Design: bench hooks and saw benches.
• How to make your own saw maintenance & sharpening system.

PM

• Complete disassembly of a backsaw (including removing the back) & reassembly.
• How to release a frozen fastener set.
• Clean without ruining the etch.
• Sawtooth geometry and how to manipulate it.
• Advantages of hammer sets over plier sets.
• Practical Exercise: Hammer-set and joint a toothline.

Day 2:

AM

• Understanding the 6 ppi rip hand or panel saw
• Sharpening Dry-Fire:
• Stance and placement.
• Visual cues when sharpening.
• Maintaining consistent symmetry.
• Sharpen an 6 ppi rip toothline.

PM

• Understanding the 8 ppi x-cut hand or panel saw
• Sharpening Dry-Fire:
• Stance and placement.
• Visual cues when sharpening.
• Maintaining consistent symmetry.
• Sharpen an 8 ppi x-cut toothline.

End of Course Review and The Henry Disston Story