Hi All:
Could you please recommend a good first handsaw for joinery? I know there are many options (and many types); however, I'd like to find a saw, or combination of saws for $125 or less. I'd like to try out hand cut dovetails. I also would like to use the saw (or saws) to try cutting tenons.
I know that my question probably seems naive to many of you experienced neanders, however, I know nothing about hand tools.
For the past couple of months, I have been working on a crib for my first child, who is due November 7. I posted some images of the design in the Design Forum. It is based on a commercially available crib (picture attached).
Last night, I was attempting to make the tenons on the tops of the slats that are mortised into the curved top stile (or rail?) on each side. I got most of the tenon cut with my dado stack, but tried to finish it up (e.g, cutting the narrow shoulders) with a $7 flush cut saw from Menards.
It was surprisingly fun and relaxing to do that hand work, but I KNOW that a better saw would be easier, more accurrate, and more fun.
What should I buy? Where should I buy it?
Thanks!