I have just completed rescuing and restoring an old drag
saw, which was the predecessor of the chain saw and used for logging felled
trees.
A photograph is below, with my
chain saw under it
for scale.
The drag
saw does not cut nearly as well as my chain saw, but for those fond of old
machinery, it has obvious advantages.
The next photo gives one a chance to compare the mechanical drive for
the two.
How will I ever be satisfied
with my chain saw again?
The functioning of the parts of the drag saw is obvious, and
watching it in action is a
meditative (although a bit loud) experience. It takes one back in time to a more colorful
period of logging. And having taken it
apart, tended to its unwell parts, and reassembled and painted it, I have a
detailed knowledge of exactly how it works, have gained a number of hours of
therapy through working with my hands, have added to the beauty of our yard,
and saved the saw for future generations.
I do not have a “before” photo of this project, but I will
attach three photos to show you a similar project—the resurrection of a Gravely
garden tractor. How can one start with
the rusty,
although it turned out surprisingly complete, pile of junk shown in
the first photo and produce the beautiful functioning machine shown in the
second and third without feeling happy?
And wonders of wonders, old machines in the “before” condition shown
cost nothing.
I am not alone. This
is a compelling hobby, and an excellent escape from the internet.
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