Handsaw for ripping oak

[Me!]

I am currently trying to rip (cut along the grain) some large bits of new seasoned oak with a Bahco 244 handsaw and I'm finding it very hard work. I've always found these to be very good saws, and they claim "Fast efficient cross cut and rip performance". So, do other people use bespoke rip saws for work like this, or is the 244 as good as it gets and I just need to get fit to do this job?

Any suggestions on other saws will be very welcome. Many thanks.

 

[livias]

Power tool :lol:

 

[Me!]

Power tool :lol:

Well, I've just typed homemade bandsaw into YouTube. I could have a lot of fun making one of those, ...

 

[88v8]

I have a Disston ripsaw.
Nevertheless, ripping seasoned oak is hard work, necessitating much sharpening.

I would start by ripping it as deep as you can with a circular saw.
Then continue by hand.
You may have to work the hand saw into the cut as the kerf will be wider.

Not wishing to teach granddad to suck eggs, it is easier when ripping to constantly vary the angle of attack. In this way the saw teeth have the minimum engagement, which means that the unit pressure is greater.
Illustration: cut a 4" piece with the blade flat along the 4". Now cut a 1" piece, Which was easier?

Ivor

 

[Zebra]

I did exactly that with 200+ year old oak, by hoof. Took bloody ages. Perseverance!