Handles and Holes

[sumnergeo]

I have and use eastern style saws, the type that come with loop handles. For trail work, we replace the loop handle with a western-style handle that has pins and can be rotated 90 degrees when the saw is close to the ground. There are two holes at the end of the saw. Which one should we use, the one closest to the teeth or the one closest to the back? Why are there two holes rather than one?
Since I don't have a western style saw but want to be able to single buck, I cut off the ends of a six-ft Simonds 324 and repunched the two holes. Works great in both holes but is there something I'm missing?

[Jim_Thode]

Western style falling saws have a single hole and bucking saws have two holes. The two holes on a bucking saw can be used to change then down pressure on the saw when single bucking. The hole near the back will put more down pressure on the push stroke of the saw and the hole near the teeth will put less down pressure on the push stroke. At least I believe that is the purpose of two holes. In actual practice you may be able to move your hand up and down the handle to do the same thing.

My favorite handles only attach the the top hole and there is no bolt in the back of the handle to restrict hand movement up and down the handle.

[sumnergeo]

That makes sense! It explains also why the loop handles are the best for bucking in a farmyard or woodlot, lots of downward force from the hands above the back of the saw.

I've never seen a handle like the one you posted - very nice.