Some of my friends invited me to attend a local 'flea market' yesterday. "Alright", I said, "but I am not going to buy any more tools, for I have pledged to 'she who must be obeyed' that the last tool was my final purchase!" Ah, what fools we mortals be! And we all know that the disease is incurable.
Anyway, I succumbed abjectly at the first 'old tool stall'. The purveyor was a pleasant enthusiast who offered a well presented collection of nice old tools - just wiped clean and completely un-restored specimens - exactly the way I like 'em!
Of course I couldn't resist a fine Disston D-8 Rip saw - all there - with a nice etch for $10. But what really caught my eye was this exquisite Geo. Bishop & Co. back saw with a pretty nice etch and well sharpened and set teeth. As soon as I picked it up I knew I had to have it for it 'hung' just right and it was in really nice condition. I have read some about the quality and excellence of Bishop saws over the years, but I have always been primarily a 'Disston man'. "Thirty five dollars" the gentleman said. "How about twenty five" I replied in my best 'wheeler dealer' voice. "Sold - its a deal". We shook hands and now I am the proud owner of as fine a back saw as I have ever owned.
I know very little about Bishop saws - I spent last evening stroking the one I just bought and 'Googling' Bishop saws. I know a little more than I did before yesterday, but I would appreciate all information anyone can provide. Introducing my newly acquired Bishop back saw:
James