Original Article: Best Backpacking Saw – Top 5 of 2020
When you’re out on the trail, having the right gear is essential for a safe and enjoyable trek. Like we always stress, you want to be sure you are well prepared, while also keeping your pack light and versatile.
Whether it be for courteous trail maintenance, bushwacking, starting a fire, or even building an emergency shelter, carrying a folding saw in your pack is one of those essential pieces of gear that will make all the difference.
Obviously, it would be quite ridiculous to bring a full-sized saw on the trail with you, and sometimes a hatchet just doesn’t do the trick.
Folding saws for backpacking are lightweight, safe, and offer a multitude of different applications in all different environments.
There are a few different types of folding saws for backpacking.
Types of Backpacking Saws
Bow Saws
As the name implies, these hand-held saws are shaped like a bow and arrow. The blade can be removed and stored for easy transporting, and their larger, rigid frames offer the strength needed to tackle harder jobs.
Folding Saws
These saws resemble that of a typical folding knife. Using a simple button/latch system, the blade can be stored in the handle of the saw, making it incredibly easy to keep in your pack. This style of saw is great for smaller jobs such as trimming on the trail or around the campsite.
Pocket Saws
A pocket saw is similar in design to that of a folding saw, however, they are much smaller and resemble a pocket knife. They are great for shorter trips where you want to have this piece of gear for those “just in case” situations. You won’t be able to cut down a tree, but with enough determination, they can do just about anything else.
Hand-held Chainsaws
This piece of gear is quite unique, and it looks more like a bicycle chain than a piece of backpacking gear. The unique design is lightweight, convenient to store, and incredibly strong, despite the smaller size. This style saw is more often used to cut down larger branches or even trees, but their application is really endless if you get creative enough.
Now that you know the different styles of backpacking saws, here’s a list of the best folding saws for backpacking.
Top 5 Best Backpacking Saws
Mossy Oak Folding Saw for Backpacking
This folding saw has a solid handle with great grip, a secure locking system, and even three multi-purpose blades. It’s smaller, ergonomic design makes it ideal to store in your pack without being too heavy, yet it is still versatile enough to handle all different types of jobs. Thanks to the special locking system, you can adjust the angle of the blade for different cuts or to reach a tricky branch. Each blade that is included has a different set of teeth to specialize in trimming, cutting hardwood or plastic, and even metal. Thanks to the durable carbon steel blades, they are rust-resistant, flexible and will stay sharp time after time. This folding saw is a great all-around blade that is suitable for all types of adventures and won’t break the bank. It even comes with a nylon pouch to make storage even easier.
FEATURES
- Includes 3 different blades all made of carbon steel
- Small, lightweight, and ergonomic, weighing only 9.2 ounces
- Secure and adjustable locking system
- Each blade is 7.5 inches, meaning the whole system can fold up to be less than 8 inches long
- Comes with a nylon carrying case
- Smaller and lightweight, yet very sturdy
- Comes with multiple blades
- Great for everyday use and simple jobs
- The smaller size means it might have a hard time cutting larger pieces of wood
- Some reviews claim that it requires a good deal of strength for cutting trees
Silky Professional BIGBOY2000 Folding Saw
This folding saw is very similar to the Mossy Oak version, however, this one is much, much larger. This will make it much easier to tackle bigger jobs or if you just want to be sure you’re ready for any situation. The 14-inch curved blade offers extended cutting capacity, longer reach, and larger strokes for easy cutting. With a strong aluminum handle and a very straight-forward locking system, this folding saw is ideal for clearing large trees, cutting logs for a nice fire, or even building a shelter made out of thick branches. At only 1.25 lbs, this saw won’t add much weight to your pack and though it is 16 inches long when folded, it’s thin design means you can strap it to the side of your pack just like you would a hiking pole.
FEATURES
- Strong Aluminum handle
- Folds up to 16 inches, weighs 1.25lbs
- 14-inch rust-resistant, hard chrome-plated, curved Japanese steel blade
- Two open locking positions for in-line or flush cutting
- Larger blade offers easier, quicker cutting for larger jobs
- Allows you to tackle larger jobs, while not adding too much weight/size to your pack
- Incredibly strong, curved Japanese steel allows for smooth, easy cutting
- It is the longest of the folding saw options
Coghlan’s Folding Saw
This folding saw for backpacking is different than the previous two on the list in that it utilizes the bow style. With a 21-inch blade, and the ability to store more than one blade, this folding saw has immense cutting power! Due to the design resembling that of a traditional work saw, the bow style folding saw is ideal for cutting down trees and trimming large branches, as the sturdy handle gives you a great angle for easy cutting. Despite the large size, this saw folds down compactly to roughly the same size as the Silky BIGBOY2000 saw. This saw does weigh 16 ounces and though you have to unfold and attach the blade for each use, the compact folding size and optimal cutting strength make it a great tool to bring if you are preparing to tackle bigger jobs.
FEATURES
- 21-inch serrated anodized aluminum blade
- Folds down neatly and compactly, with storage for extra blades
- Bow saw style offers ideal cutting strength for all different types of jobs
- Requires no tools to set up or fold up
- Folds up very small for easy storage
- Offers immense cutting power and the ability to tackle almost any job
- Must assemble the saw for each use
- Some reviews warn of the plastic locking mechanism being somewhat tricky
SUMPRI Pocket Chainsaw
Now, this hand-held chainsaw is not like a traditional folding saw, however its utility cannot be matched, which is why I felt it was important to include it in this list. Like all folding saws for backpacking, the idea is to have a lightweight tool that will help you tackle unique cutting jobs while out on the trail, and this is no exception. Using the strong nylon handles, this hand-held chain saw can cut through just about anything, making it a breeze to trim large branches and trees. With a 36-inch bi-directional chain, you can even cut down full-sized trees! Simply wrap the chainsaw around the base of the tree, as you would with hammock straps, and pull back and forth with both hands. The cutting motion is smooth and easy thanks to the strong self-cleaning teeth, and by simply leaning your bodyweight back as you cut, pulling on the chain, this tool doesn’t require as much strength as the other tools on our list. It is lightweight, easy to use, easy to store, and it even comes with a magnesium all-weather fire starter, making this set-up the perfect item to help you collect wood and start fires while out on the trail.
FEATURES
- 36-inch bi-directional chain to cut down trees and branches of all shapes and sizes
- Strong Nylon Handles
- Comes with a full survival kit, including a heavy-duty storage pouch and magnesium fire starter
- At only 8.8 ounces, this saw is lightweight and incredibly easy to store
- Incredibly versatile and easy for anyone to use
- Very lightweight and easy to store
- Comes with a survival kit as an added bonus
- Not like a traditional folding saw if that’s what you’re looking for
- Can’t replace the blade
ZIPPO Survival Folding Saw/Hatchet Combo
I saved this one for last because, in my opinion, it is the most unique and versatile tool of them all. This folding saw utilizes a bow style and in doing so, the handle of the saw actually opens up to be a full-sized hatchet! The hatchet has a strong polymer cover that gives you a sturdy handle when using it as a saw, and when you want to use the hatchet, simply remove the blade and hatchet cover, store it in the handle, and get chopping. With a 15 inch blade and a 5-inch steel axe head, there is nothing that this tool can’t do! The other side of the hatchet can even be used as a mallet for hammering in tent stakes. With this tool, you can chop, saw, and hammer anything you encounter on the trail. Although this tool is much heavier and larger than the other folding saws, I think that its added utility makes up for the added space it will take up in your pack. And while it doesn’t fold neatly like the other bow saw, you can remove the blade and store it in the handle so that you can clip the hatchet shaped saw to the side of your pack for easy storage. This is a truly unique tool perfect for any large cutting or trimming jobs you need to tackle!
FEATURES
- Bow saw, hatchet and mallet combo
- 15-inch stainless steel saw blade and 5-inch, 420 grade stainless steel axe head
- Dual function saw handle and safety sheath for the axe head
- Can store the blade in the handle
- Weighs 2.6 lbs
- Unique design gives you the ability to saw, trim, chop, shave, and hammer all in one sleek tool
- Incredibly strong and durable, great for tackling large jobs and being prepared for any situation
- Much heavier and larger than other options
- Doesn’t fold up neatly but you can store the blade for easy carrying
Things to Consider when Buying a Folding Saw for Backpacking
When considering which folding saw for backpacking would be ideal for you, there are a few important things to keep in mind.
Size/Weight
The first is the size of the folding saw and how much weight you are willing to add to your pack. This will of course depend on what types of adventures you’re going on.
If you’re out on a day hike and want to have a folding saw with you as a ‘just-in-case’ option, then you’ll likely want to go with one of the smaller, cheaper folding pocket saws.
However, if you are going on long multi-day hikes, or if you are out on the trail for a long day of trail maintenance, you might want to opt for one of the heavy-duty folding saws, as it will give you the ability to tackle a large array of cutting jobs.
With that being said, a hand-held chainsaw or a folding bow saw would be better for multi-day trips as they won’t add much weight to your pack and will still be versatile enough to tackle large cutting jobs such as clearing wood, building a fire or even setting up an emergency shelter.
If you are focusing on trail maintenance, something like the Folding Saw/Hatchet Combo is going to be your best bet, as it will allow you to cut and clear any obstacle on the path. The added weight in your pack will be well worth it as it will allow you to get through these types of jobs quickly and easily.
Price
The final thing to consider, as always, is the price, which is also dependent on the types of adventures you’re preparing for. When purchasing a folding saw for backpacking, keep in mind that the more money you spend, the better quality item you will receive. This is incredibly important for longer adventures, or if you want a tool that is going to last you a long time. Again, if you just want to have this tool for emergencies or convenience, you could save some money by going with the cheaper pocket saw options, which will also help you save a lot of weight.
Once you have factored in all these things, it helps to ask around and see what other people are using so you can gauge for yourself. If you are hesitant, it can’t hurt to go with a cheaper, lighter option and then upgrade in the future as you see fit.
Backpacking Saw Maintenance
Even with the best backpacking saw on the market, it won’t be of much use if you don’t keep the blade sharp and clean. Without a clean and sharp blade, even the best folding saw won’t do the trick. Here’s a great video that will help you maintain your blade. This will make sure you get a nice clean cut every time, as well as keep you safe during each use.
Safely using a Folding Saw for Backpacking
Speaking of safety, one of the most important things to consider when purchasing a folding saw for backpacking is how to use it as safely and effectively as possible.
First and foremost, it’s very helpful to wear gloves while using a folding saw. Not only will this give you a better grip, meaning stronger cutting power, but it will also prevent any injuries that might occur if the saw blade slips or gets stuck.
Always be sure to keep your hands clear of the blade while cutting and don’t let others walk near you while cutting. If you accidentally slip and cut yourself or another person in your group while out on the trail, any kind of professional medical assistance can be miles away. Mitigating risk on the trail is of the utmost importance no matter what activity you are engaging in, but especially while using a tool with sharp blades.
Also be aware that when cutting branches, downed trees, and especially full-sized trees, they will fall. Not only can heavy branches fall on you or another member of your group, but as the weight shifts while you make your cut, the blade of your saw can get stuck or even shoot back at you. Practice using your saw in simple situations near your house to get accustomed to its performance and keep these safe practices in mind when out on the trail.
Your safety in the wilderness is equally as important, if not more important than having a fun time connecting with nature. Even a simple, non-life-threatening injury can have serious consequences if you need to travel miles in the woods to get help. A wilderness first-aid class will help you prepare for emergencies as well as mitigate risk, especially when using a dangerous tool such as a folding saw. Make sure at least one member of your team is well-trained and have at least one first-aid kit on hand at all times.
By having the right tools, being well-prepared, and exercising extreme caution, patience and awareness, you can ensure that everyone has a great time out on the trail! A folding saw for backpacking is another great piece of gear that can help you be self-sufficient in the wilderness, so consider these options, find the best one for you and get out there!