A [URL=/help/res?type=pitswa]pitsaw[/URL] or whipsaw is a type of saw used in a saw pit, and consists of a narrow blade held rigid by a frame. It is used to reduce large logs into beams and planks. Sawyers either dig a large pit or construct a sturdy platform, enabling a two-man crew to saw, one positioned below the log called the pit-man, the other standing on top called the top-man. The saw blade teeth are angled and sharpened as a rip saw so as to only cut on the downward stroke. On the return stroke, the burden of lifting the weight of the saw is shared equally by the two sawyers, thereby reducing fatigue and backache. The pitman has to contend with sawdust in his mouth and eyes and the risk of being crushed by a falling log.