Build a Japanese-Style Sawmill Using Only Compression Joints
Japanese woodworking specializes in advanced joinery (close gaps) and finely planed wood surfaces. This Japanese style goat is built using only compression joints and can be installed and broken with just a hammer.
Building using the Japanese woodworking method takes time and patience, but the finished products are often works of art. No nails or screws are required to assemble this gantry, but an experienced eye is required to manually cut the joints, including the bridle, groove and tenon .
A more advanced and permanent version of this goat is shownhere . Gaskets are used to further tighten the joints by increasing the compressive strength of the joint.
For more information on Japanese woodworking, check out Jay Van Arsdale’s books and videos. He is a woodworking instructor in Japan and has published several books on the topic.
Saw in Japanese style | Light Construction Journal