Imagine this: you’re deep in the wilderness, miles from anywhere, and you need to process some firewood for a warm, cozy campfire. You reach for your gear, but your bulky, heavy saw is a pain to carry. Sound familiar? Choosing the right backpacking folding saw can feel like a puzzle. There are so many different kinds, and it’s tough to know which one will actually make your life easier on the trail.
You want a saw that’s light enough not to weigh you down, sharp enough to cut through branches quickly, and durable enough to last through many adventures. But with so many brands and features, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Many people end up with a saw that’s too heavy, doesn’t cut well, or breaks after just a few uses. That’s exactly why we’re diving into the world of backpacking folding saws today.
In this post, we’ll break down what makes a great folding saw for your pack. We’ll look at important features, what to avoid, and how to pick the perfect one for your needs. Get ready to stop worrying about your saw and start enjoying your time in nature!
Our Top 5 Backpacking Folding Saw Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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REXBETI Folding Saw | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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Bahco 9″ Laplander Folding Saw for Trail Maintenance | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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coher Folding Hand Saw for Tree Pruning | 8.5/10 | Check Price |
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Gerber Freescape Camp Saw Folding Hand Saw for Backpacking Hiking Camping Pruning and Bushcraft | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
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7 in Pruning Saw | 8.5/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Backpacking Folding Saw Detailed Reviews
1. REXBETI Folding Saw
Rating: 8.6/10
The REXBETI Folding Saw is a tough tool that’s ready for anything. Whether you’re camping, working in your yard, or need to trim branches, this saw gets the job done. Its long, sharp blade makes cutting thick wood easy. It’s built tough with good materials, so you can rely on it for many projects.
What We Like:
- The durable SK-5 steel blade cuts wood really well.
- Its 11-inch length is great for cutting branches up to 6 or 7 inches thick.
- The saw cuts smoothly and sharply because of its special teeth.
- The rubber-coated handle gives you a strong and comfy grip, even if your hands are wet.
- It folds up nicely, making it easy to carry and store.
- This saw is perfect for camping, survival, and yard work.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the 11-inch blade a bit long for very tight spaces.
- While durable, the folding mechanism could be reinforced for extreme heavy-duty use over many years.
Overall, the REXBETI Folding Saw is a powerful and dependable tool for various cutting tasks. It offers excellent performance for its price and is a smart addition to any toolkit.
2. Bahco 9″ Laplander Folding Saw for Trail Maintenance
Rating: 9.2/10
The Bahco 9″ Laplander Folding Saw is a fantastic tool for anyone who spends time outdoors. Whether you’re a hunter, camper, or just like to explore, this saw is built to handle many tasks. It’s great for cutting wood for campfires, clearing trails, or even for survival situations. The saw is designed to be tough and reliable, making it a dependable companion on your adventures.
What We Like:
- Cuts through wood, bone, and plastic easily.
- The 9-inch blade has special teeth for fast, clean cuts.
- It folds up small and locks securely, making it easy to carry.
- The handle is comfortable and won’t slip, even in wet weather.
- It’s a versatile tool that works well for many outdoor jobs.
- The rust-protected blade lasts longer.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the 7 TPI (teeth per inch) a bit slow for very large logs.
- While durable, it’s a folding saw, so it won’t replace a full-size bow saw for heavy-duty tasks.
This Bahco Laplander Folding Saw is a great addition to any outdoor gear collection. It offers a good balance of performance, portability, and durability for a wide range of tasks.
3. coher Folding Hand Saw for Tree Pruning
Rating: 9.3/10
The coher Folding Hand Saw is a super useful tool for all sorts of outdoor adventures and yard work. It’s designed to be tough and comfortable to use, making jobs like pruning trees, setting up camp, or even preparing game much easier. You can count on this saw to handle different tasks effectively.
What We Like:
- The blade is made of strong SK-5 steel, so it can cut through wood, PVC, and even bone without a problem.
- It has a really comfortable, non-slip handle with a leather strap that gives you a good grip and makes it easy to control.
- Safety is a big deal with this saw. It has a blade that adjusts to two angles, folds up neatly, and locks securely, making it safe for everyone to use.
- This saw is super versatile! It’s perfect for camping, hiking, hunting, gardening, and cutting wood.
- coher backs this saw with a lifetime guarantee, meaning they stand by their product 100%.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the ergonomic handle is great, some users might prefer a slightly larger grip for very heavy-duty work.
- The folding mechanism, while secure, could potentially be a point of wear over very long-term, intense use, though this is unlikely for most users.
Overall, the coher Folding Hand Saw is a dependable and versatile tool that’s built to last. It’s a smart investment for anyone who spends time outdoors or needs a reliable saw for their projects.
4. Gerber Freescape Camp Saw Folding Hand Saw for Backpacking Hiking Camping Pruning and Bushcraft
Rating: 9.5/10
The Gerber Freescape Camp Saw is a handy tool for anyone who loves the outdoors. It’s designed for camping, hiking, and even a little bit of bushcraft. This saw folds up really small, making it easy to carry in your backpack.
What We Like:
- It folds completely flat for easy packing.
- The design keeps all the parts together, so nothing gets lost.
- It has a 12-inch blade that can cut through wood efficiently.
- The bright green color makes it easy to find among your camping gear.
- The rubber handle gives you a good grip, even when it’s wet.
- You can easily replace the blade if it gets dull.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for smaller to medium branches, it might struggle with very thick logs.
- Some users might prefer a longer blade for faster cutting of larger wood.
This saw is a solid choice for campers and hikers who need a reliable cutting tool. Its compact and safe design makes it a great addition to any outdoor adventure kit.
5. 7 in Pruning Saw
Rating: 8.8/10
Tackle your garden chores with ease using this 7-inch Pruning Saw. It’s designed to make trimming branches simple and efficient. This saw is a great tool for any gardener, from beginners to experienced landscapers.
What We Like:
- The 3-sided razor teeth on the 10-inch blade cut branches quickly and smoothly.
- It’s perfect for branches between 5 and 6 inches wide.
- The comfortable, co-molded handle fits well in your hand for long jobs.
- The folding blade locks securely, keeping you safe when the saw isn’t in use.
- Impulse-hardened teeth mean this saw will last for many seasons.
- With up to 6 teeth per inch and a curved blade, it cuts faster than older saws.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 10-inch blade might be too short for very thick branches.
- While the handle is comfortable, some users might prefer a slightly longer grip.
This pruning saw is a reliable companion for keeping your trees and bushes tidy. Its sharp teeth and comfortable design make yard work more enjoyable.
Your Go-To Guide: Choosing the Best Backpacking Folding Saw
Why You Need a Folding Saw for Backpacking
When you’re out in the wilderness, a good folding saw is a game-changer. It helps you prepare firewood for your campfire, clear small trails, or even build a quick shelter. It’s a lightweight and compact tool that packs a big punch.
Key Features to Look For
Blade Length
The blade length is important. A longer blade cuts through thicker branches faster. For most backpacking, a blade between 6 and 10 inches works well. It’s long enough for most tasks but still easy to manage.
Blade Type
Look for a blade with sharp, aggressive teeth. This helps the saw cut through wood smoothly. Some saws have replaceable blades, which is great for when your blade gets dull. Others have blades that are permanently attached.
Folding Mechanism
The way the saw folds is crucial for safety and ease of use. It should lock securely in both the open and closed positions. A good locking mechanism prevents the blade from accidentally opening or closing, keeping you safe.
Handle Comfort
You’ll be using this saw for a while, so a comfortable handle is a must. Look for a handle that has a good grip, even when your hands are sweaty. Some handles are made of rubber or have textured surfaces.
Weight and Size
Since you’ll be carrying it in your backpack, weight and size matter. A good folding saw should be lightweight and fold down small enough to fit easily in your pack without taking up too much space.
Important Materials
Blade Material
Most folding saw blades are made from high-carbon steel. This steel is strong and holds a sharp edge well. Some blades might have special coatings, like chrome, to prevent rust and make them even tougher.
Handle Material
Handles are often made from strong plastics like ABS or polypropylene. Some higher-end saws use aluminum or even lightweight composites. These materials are durable and provide a good grip.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Blade Sharpness and Durability
A saw with a really sharp blade cuts wood faster and with less effort. Blades that stay sharp for a long time are a sign of good quality. Poorly made blades can become dull quickly or even bend.
Locking Mechanism Strength
A strong, reliable locking mechanism is vital. If the lock fails, the blade can snap open or shut unexpectedly, which is very dangerous. A well-built lock ensures the saw stays in the position you set it to.
Overall Construction
How well the saw is put together makes a big difference. Look for smooth joints and no loose parts. A solidly built saw will last much longer and perform better.
Ease of Cleaning
After cutting wood, your saw will have sawdust on it. A saw that’s easy to clean will stay in better condition. Some designs make it harder to get all the debris out.
User Experience and Use Cases
A folding saw is super useful for many outdoor activities. You can use it to cut small trees and branches for a campfire. It helps you prepare kindling, which is small wood that starts the fire easily. You can also use it to trim branches that are in your way on a hiking trail. Some people even use them to build simple shelters or make tools in the bushcraft.
When you use it, always cut away from your body. Keep your fingers away from the blade. Make sure the saw is locked open before you start cutting. When you’re done, clean it and fold it safely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main purpose of a backpacking folding saw?
A: The main purpose is to cut wood for campfires, clear small obstacles on trails, and assist in building simple shelters or bushcraft projects.
Q: What blade length is best for backpacking?
A: A blade length between 6 and 10 inches is generally recommended for most backpacking needs.
Q: Are replaceable blades a good feature?
A: Yes, replaceable blades are a good feature because they allow you to easily swap out a dull blade for a new, sharp one, extending the saw’s usefulness.
Q: What makes a handle comfortable?
A: A comfortable handle has a good grip, even with sweaty hands, and might be made of textured materials like rubber or have an ergonomic shape.
Q: What is the most common material for saw blades?
A: High-carbon steel is the most common material for saw blades because it’s strong and holds a sharp edge well.
Q: How important is the locking mechanism?
A: The locking mechanism is very important for safety. It should securely lock the blade in both open and closed positions to prevent accidental opening or closing.
Q: Can I use a folding saw for large logs?
A: Folding saws are best for branches and smaller logs. They are not designed for cutting large, thick logs.
Q: How do I maintain my folding saw?
A: You should clean sawdust off the blade after each use, dry it thoroughly, and consider applying a light oil to prevent rust. Ensure it’s folded and locked before storing.
Q: Are there different types of teeth on folding saw blades?
A: Yes, blades can have different tooth patterns. Aggressive, sharp teeth are good for fast cutting through wood.
Q: Is it safe to use a folding saw in the rain?
A: It is generally safe to use in the rain, but it is crucial to dry the blade thoroughly afterward to prevent rust, especially if it’s made of steel.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!