Hand Crosscut Saw Racing

A lumberjack competition in which two men are sawing a log

Hand crosscut saw racing at the 2017 Redpath Waterfront Festival in Toronto (By James Balutan/GTActivity)
A lumberjack competition in which two men are sawing a log

Hand crosscut saw racing at the 2017 Redpath Waterfront Festival in Toronto (By James Balutan/GTActivity)

Hand crosscut saw racing is a lumberjack competition in which participants use a manual saw to cut through a log in the fastest time possible. A number of variations exist: single competitor (called "single buck"); unisex pairs ("double buck"), in which the partner stand on opposite sides of the log and work the saw in unison; and co-ed pairs (“Jack and Jill”), which is one of the most popular spectator events at lumberjack competitions. Logs are typically white pine with a diameter of 50cm, and participants are permitted to make starting cut in which to place the saw before the timer begins.

Is this activity known by any other names?

Bucking competitions

What are the origins of the activity abroad and in Canada?

Hand crosscut saws have been used in woodwork and forestry for hundreds of years. However, racing events in lumberjack competitions have only existed for less than 60 years. Although individual events at lumberjack competitions have their own, often mythologized histories, organized competitions at the Squamish Days Logger Sports Festival began in 1958 (in British Columbia) and the Lumberjack World Championships in 1960 (in the United States).

Who takes part?

Most lumberjack competitors in hand crosscut saw racing are young to middle-aged men who work in the forestry industry. However, numerous female competitors also participate, particularly in the popular "Jack and Jill" races.

When does it occur / How often do you take part?

Lumberjack competitions typically occur over summer weekends. Lumberjack event demonstrations also occur throughout the year at community festivals or exhibitions.

Are there any organized clubs, groups, organizations or leagues?

The Lumberjack Company

Cultural Significance

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Is there anything else we should know?

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Hand Crosscut Saw Racing

A lumberjack competition in which two men are sawing a log