Best Bushcraft Saw: 5 Great Options

As an associate survival instructor for The Pathfinder Survival School, I’ve learned that one essential tool is a reliable bushcraft saw. Whether you’re building a shelter, gathering firewood, or clearing trails, a quality saw is a must-have item in your kit (and is far safer than a hatchet). In this article, I’ll explore the best bushcraft saws available today, helping you choose the perfect tool to meet your needs.

All the saws on the list are of excellent quality. However, one blade may be more suitable for a certain purpose due to its specific features. Let’s keep this in mind as we begin.

Below, I’ll discuss all the details to help you find the best saw for your bushcraft/ survival adventures.

What Are The Best Bushcraft Saws?

The best folding saws stand out as the superior choice for bushcraft enthusiasts, offering unmatched safety, portability, and ease of use compared to axes and other saw types.

These saws, ideal for camping, hunting, survival, and bushcraft, combine portability and durability with ease of use, making them a great option for those looking to minimize the size and weight of their gear.

With plenty of cutting power in a compact package, the best folding saws allow you to easily stash them away when not in use, outperforming axes in terms of safety and convenience.

On the other hand, a larger bow saw is great for longer cutting jobs and heavier material. These types of saws are typically more durable and can handle tough, dense woods with ease.

We’ll get into both options below!

1. Bahco Laplander Folding Saw

(Best All-Round Bushcraft Saw)

The Bahco Laplander Folding Saw is widely regarded as one of the best all-around bushcraft saws available (and my personal favorite). It features a 7-inch blade with XT toothing, providing efficient and clean cuts through both green and dry wood.

The folding design makes it portable and safe to carry, and the comfortable handle ensures a secure grip even in wet conditions.

This Bahco folding saw blade is a beast. I have completely bent the thing while cutting wood, but because the blade isn’t hardened, I was able to hammer it back to shape with an axe head.

Hardened blades do cut a bit faster, but if I’m in the field, I’d rather have something more durable.

So when I am in the wilderness, I want the best bushcraft saw that will be durable but also not super long. This is the best of both worlds.

Key Features:

• Excellent cutting performance due to the XT toothing.
• 7.5 Inch blade.
• Compact and lightweight for easy transportation.
• Durable construction for long-lasting use.
• Safety lock mechanism to keep closed.

Cons:

• The folding mechanism may become stiff over time.

2. Silky Gomboy Folding Saw

(Best Saw For Processing A Lot Of Wood)

If you find yourself in situations where processing a large amount of wood is essential, the Silky Gomboy Folding Saw is a top choice. It boasts a high-quality 9.5-inch blade made from premium Japanese steel, providing exceptional cutting power.

The blade’s aggressive teeth can effortlessly tackle hardwoods, making it perfect for processing larger logs and branches.

Silky is a staple brand in the outdoor bushcraft industry (hence why there are multiple on this list), however, this is their number-one seller for good reason.

It is, in my opinion, no doubt the most versatile saw that Silky offers. This survival folding saw has an extremely sharp blade that is hardened which allows it to cut faster than others on the list. However, they aren’t quite as durable as the Bahco folding saw.

Key Features:

• Impressive cutting efficiency and performance.
• Sturdy construction ensures longevity.
• The curved blade design allows for more aggressive cuts.
• Comes with a plastic carrying case.

Cons:

• The larger blade size may make it less compact for carrying.

3. Boreal 15 Folding Bow Saw

(Best Folding Bow Saw)

When it comes to versatility and ease of use, the Boreal 15 Folding Bow Saw stands out. This collapsible bow saw offers a 15-inch blade that can tackle larger wood sizes with ease.

The reason this is all-around one of the best saws is purely due to its sheer versatility of it. You can easily replace blades depending on whatever you might need it for, and it even has extra options like the hunting blade that can cut through bone.

The innovative design allows for a quick and effortless setup, and the tensioning system ensures a secure blade position for efficient cutting.

Key Features:

• Larger blade size for cutting thicker wood.
• Easy setup and compact storage.
• Suitable for a wide range of bushcraft tasks.

Cons:

• The bow design may require additional space when packed.

4. Silky Pocketboy Folding Saw

(Best For Lightweight Trips)

For those who prefer lightweight trips and minimalist gear, the Silky Pocketboy Folding Saw is an excellent choice. With a compact 6.7-inch blade, this saw is ideal for backpacking, hiking, and other outdoor adventures.

Despite its small size, the Pocketboy offers exceptional cutting performance and durability.

Key Features:

• Lightweight and compact for easy carrying.
• Excellent cutting efficiency for its size.
• Versatile and suitable for various tasks.

Cons:

• The small blade size may limit cutting capacity.

5. Silky Bigboy Professional 2000

(Best For Large Limbs And Trees)

When faced with larger limbs and trees, the Silky Bigboy Professional 2000 excels. This saw features a 14.2-inch blade with extra-large teeth, allowing for efficient cutting through the thick wood. The comfortable rubberized handle ensures a secure grip even during intense sawing sessions.

If you had to cut large trees and wanted the closest thing to a pocket chainsaw, this would be it. This thing is a beast and cuts through larger branches like butter. However, it’s a bit larger for a casual day in the woods.

Key Features:

• Impressive cutting power for large limbs and trees.
• Durable construction for heavy-duty use.
• Comfortable grip for extended periods of use.

Cons:

• The larger size may make it less portable for some users.

What to Look for in Bushcraft Saws:

When it comes to selecting a bushcraft saw, several key factors should be taken into consideration. Here are some important aspects to look for when choosing the right saw for your bushcraft adventures:

1. Durability

In the rugged outdoor environment, durability is paramount. Look for a bushcraft saw with a sturdy construction that can withstand rough handling, impact, and exposure to the elements.

Quality materials, such as high-grade steel or carbon fiber, ensure that the saw can withstand rigorous use without compromising its performance or structural integrity. Also, make sure to use it for the intended use.

Don’t get excited about the gimmicky bushcraft tools we sometimes see like the wire saws. These are pieces of junk that will break almost instantly.

2. Versatility

A versatile bushcraft saw is essential for tackling a variety of tasks. Look for a saw that can handle different types of wood, from green and softwood to hardwood (depending on what you are looking for).

Consider the blade length and tooth design, as they affect the saw’s cutting capacity and efficiency. Some saws offer interchangeable blades or adjustable settings, allowing you to adapt the tool to different cutting needs.

3. Weight and Portability

When venturing into the wilderness, every ounce counts. A lightweight and portable bushcraft saw is preferable, especially if you’ll be carrying it on extended hikes or backpacking trips.

Look for a saw that strikes a balance between weight and performance, ensuring that it is easy to carry without compromising on cutting power or durability. Folding saws are particularly convenient as they can be compactly stored and easily transported.

Some of the Silky saws on this list are quite huge, which would be best for more of a homestead versus traveling in the wilderness.

4. Ergonomics and Comfort

Since bushcraft often involves repetitive sawing motions, ergonomics, and comfort are essential. Look for a saw with an ergonomic handle that provides a comfortable and secure grip.

Consider factors such as handle shape, texture, and size, as they contribute to user comfort and reduce the risk of hand fatigue or blisters during prolonged use. The saws on this list are all going to give you the comfort you need, but a Walmart saw likely won’t.

5. Blade Maintenance

Keeping your bushcraft saw in optimal condition is crucial for long-term use. Consider the maintenance requirements of the saw’s blade. Some blades are designed for easy cleaning, while others may require specialized tools or professional maintenance.

For example, a High Carbon Steel survival saw will be a bit more maintenance than other materials.

Choosing a saw with a blade that is easy to maintain (or replace) ensures that you can keep it sharp and ready for use in the field.

6. Safety Features

Safety should always be a top priority when working with any tool. Look for bushcraft saws that incorporate safety features such as locking mechanisms for the blade when folded or extended, preventing accidental openings or closures.

Additionally, some saws may feature blade guards or plastic sheaths to protect both the blade and the user during storage or transport.

7. User Reviews and Recommendations

Before making a final decision, it can be helpful to read user reviews and seek recommendations from experienced bushcraft enthusiasts or outdoor professionals.

Their insights and experiences can provide valuable information about the performance, reliability, and overall quality of different saw models.

By considering factors such as durability, versatility, weight, ergonomics, blade maintenance, safety features, and user feedback, you can make an informed decision when choosing a bushcraft saw that meets your specific needs and enhances your outdoor experiences.

Remember, selecting the right saw is an investment in your bushcraft skills and the success of your wilderness endeavors. But, on the flip side, you don’t need anything crazy.

FAQs About Bushcraft Saws:

Here’re a few questions people ask about bushcraft saws.

Summary: Finding Your Perfect Bushcraft Saws

Choosing the right bushcraft saw is essential for outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists alike. In this comprehensive guide, we explored the best bushcraft saws available on the market today, highlighting their unique features and strengths.

From the versatile (and my favorite) Bahco Laplander Folding Saw to the powerful Silky Bigboy Professional 2000, we covered a range of saws suitable for different bushcraft tasks.

We also discussed important factors to consider when selecting a bushcraft saw, such as durability, versatility, weight, and blade maintenance.

By considering these factors and understanding your specific needs, you can make an informed decision and find a saw that will withstand the rugged outdoor conditions and help you accomplish various cutting tasks effectively.

Additionally, the FAQ section addressed common questions regarding bushcraft saws, providing valuable insights for beginners and experienced users alike.

Whether you’re a seasoned bushcrafter or just starting your outdoor adventures, this guide offers the information you need to make the right choice and ensure a successful and enjoyable bushcraft experience.

Investing in quality bushcraft saw is a decision that can significantly enhance your wilderness skills and enable you to handle a wide range of tasks, from building shelters to gathering firewood.

With the right saw by your side, you can navigate the wilderness with confidence, knowing you have a reliable tool that meets your needs and stands up to the challenges of bushcraft and survival situations.

Thanks for checking this out!

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