Junior Hacksaw

thingiverse

A hacksaw frame specifically designed to accommodate 6-inch "junior" hacksaw blades takes center stage. Unlike its larger counterpart, the full-size 12-inch blade, which features a hole at each end, junior blades boast small pins at their termini. In this ingenious design, two M3 x 8mm socket head screws guide the blade and securely trap the pin, ensuring a snug fit. To secure the blade in place, simply slide the handle end into position before flexing the frame to allow the far end to be slotted in. The resulting tension keeps the blade taut. While this design's practical applications are somewhat limited, as one would typically need 6-inch blades and a hacksaw frame simultaneously, its functionality is undeniable. If you find yourself at the store purchasing blades, consider investing in a frame as well, given their affordability. This hacksaw frame proves to be surprisingly effective, successfully cutting through wood and aluminum with ease. The clever use of socket head machine screws creates a robust slot and retention mechanism that far surpasses printed plastic in terms of strength. This innovative concept undoubtedly holds promise for future applications. The design prints without the need for supports, making it an ideal candidate for AMZ3D orange PLA or PETG materials. Printing with 20% infill in PLA proves more than sufficient, while PETG may also yield suitable results, albeit with potentially reduced tension due to its increased flexibility. For long-term storage, consider removing the blade to prevent plastic creep and subsequent loss of tension over time.