Reddit mentions: The best camping saws
We found 79 Reddit comments discussing the best camping saws. We ran sentiment analysis on each of these comments to determine how redditors feel about different products. We found 28 products and ranked them based on the amount of positive reactions they received. Here are the top 20.
1. Sven-Saw 21 inch Folding Saw
- Special 60th Anniversary Edition Sven-Saw features the signature of the inventor, Richard E. Swenson, engraved on the handle.
- All metal - Crafted from the highest quality materials. Built to last
- Made in the United States for 60 years!
- High-visibility red, so you won't leave it behind
- Under 14 ounces
Features:
Specs:
Color | Red |
Height | 0.6 Inches |
Length | 23 Inches |
Weight | 0.875 Pounds |
Width | 1.5 Inches |
Size | 21 |
Number of items | 1 |
2. UST SaberCut Chain Saw with 24 Inch Bi-Directional Blade, Compact Design and Nylon Carry Case for Hiking, Backpacking, Camping, Hunting and Outdoor Survival
DIMENSIONS: 24” L weighs 4.3 oz (saw only)EASE OF USE: Comfortable wrist straps prevent stress on your hands and the reach can be extended by adding extra cordage to each handle (rope not included)RELIABLE: Flexible, pocket size blade cuts at a variety of angles with little clearance making is gre...
Specs:
Color | Black |
Height | 2 Inches |
Length | 7 Inches |
Weight | 1 Pounds |
Width | 5 Inches |
Size | One Size |
Number of items | 1 |
3. MACHEE Commando Wire Saw Bulk, Ideal For Survival Kits SILVER
Material:stainless steal; Length:Approx 65cm/26.8inchesFunction:hinking,camping and other outdoor activities survival tool4 strand braided stainless steel wire constructured with metal ring at each endDirection:using saw to make a flexible knot on cutting object,place both thumb on either side of th...
4. Filzer Buckster Bow Saw BBS-1
- Collapses down compactly into a cylindrical tube (48 cm x 3.5 cm / 19 inches x 1.4 inches)
- All aluminum frame design / with Stainless steel tensioning system
- Blade - 18 inches/46 cm long
- Can cut a log up to 33 cm (13 inches) in diameter
- Weight: 535 g (1.3 lbs)
Features:
Specs:
Color | Orange |
Height | 1.38 Inches |
Length | 18.9 Inches |
Weight | 1.18 Pounds |
Width | 1.38 Inches |
5. 26" Camping Pocket Chainsaw Cuts 3X Faster w/Blade on Every Link - Bonus Front Snap Carrying Case, The Wilderness Survival Guide eBook, and Mylar Emergency Blanket
3x MORE TEETH = 3x FASTER IN CUTTING - With sharp cutting blade on every link, LivWild pocket chainsaw will cut through wood with ease, reduce the amount of time and effort that you need in cutting down a branch. The flexible chainsaw links create steady yet flexible bi-directional motion as you cut...
Specs:
Color | hand-held repellent-34 |
Height | 1.8 Inches |
Length | 4.8 Inches |
Weight | 0.6 Pounds |
Width | 3.9 Inches |
Size | Pocket Size |
6. Sven-Saw 15" Folding Saw
All metal - Crafted from the highest quality materials. Built to lastPerfect for everything from yardwork to wildernessMade in the United States for almost 60 years!High-visibility red, so you won't leave it behindOnly 11.1 ounces!
Specs:
Color | Red |
Height | 0.62 Inches |
Length | 17.38 Inches |
Weight | 0.69375 Pounds |
Width | 1.5 Inches |
Size | 15 |
Number of items | 1 |
7. Agawa Canyon - BOREAL21 Folding Bow Saw - Black Frame, Yellow Handle, All-Purpose Blade
- VERSATILE: Take the BOREAL21 folding bow saw wherever you go - camping, backpacking, canoeing, off-trail, hunting, trail clearing or around the home.
- EASY: Opens in seconds - just unfold, snap into position & start sawing. Automatic blade tensioning with no loose parts - No need to touch the blade while opening & closing
- LIGHT & PACKABLE: Length (21”/53cm) & Weight (18oz/530g)
- EFFECTIVE & ERGONOMIC: High clearance frame for large diameter cuts, optimized geometry for the most efficient saw stoke
- DURABLE: anodized 6063 aluminum frame, fiberglass reinforced nylon handle, all stainless steel hardware, hardened and coated saw blades
Features:
Specs:
Color | Yellow |
Height | 2 Inches |
Length | 21.5 Inches |
Weight | 1.0625 Pounds |
Width | 1 Inches |
8. CROC SHARPEST! 3 Times Faster! Survival Pocket Hand Chainsaw + Hand Made+ Built to Last! Made Steel + with Pouch - Trimming Trees Never Been Easier + Special Guarantee to You!
- New Improved Design! EAT WOOD 3 Times Faster! Available ONLY From Croc. Accept No Imitations.
- 92+ SUPER SHARP TEETH and Comfortable handle ENSURE HIGHEST PERFORMANCE
- Built to last! Made with Highest Quality Steel.
- Extreme Portability,light weight. Easily fits into your backpack
- SPECIAL Guarantee To You TODAY! See Below
Features:
Specs:
Color | 20 inch |
9. Bukm 26-Inch Survival Pocket Chain Saw, Pocket Survival Chainsaw Hand Saw for Camping,Fits in Pocket,Cuts Wood Fast,Survival Kits, Hunting,Boy-Scouts,Emergency Gear,Backyard Cleanup,Pruning w/Pouch
- Pocket Chain Saw - Cut branches and roots, gather fire wood fast, bi directional, self cleaning chainsaw style cutting teeth tears through wood cutting both ways.
- 26" Camping Pocket Chainsaw - Long 26 inch chain (excluding handles), the longer chain equals incredibly fast cutting time with razor sharp blades sawing 3 sides of a thick limb at once.
- Outdoor Survival Chain Saw With Pouch - High strength carbon steel chain for fast cutting. Extremely light weight, versatile, flexible, compact and cuts down large trees with a small powerful tool in minutes. User friendly and simple for anyone to use.
- Pocket Survival Handsaws - The pocket chainsaw comes with a tough nylon front snap pouch. Easily fits in pocket of back pack and survival kits, ect.
- Manual Chainsaw - Comfortable canvas strap handles are easier on your hands than plastic grips, ideal for backpacking, camping, hunting, survival.
Features:
10. Coghlan's Folding Saw
21-inch serrated saw blade; rugged anodized aluminum can hold extra bladesFolds down compactly; weighs just 16 ouncesAffordable, essential gear for camping, backpacking, backcountry treks, and more
Specs:
Color | Multi |
Height | 1 Inches |
Length | 1 Inches |
Weight | 0.95 Pounds |
Width | 1 Inches |
Size | One Size |
Number of items | 1 |
11. Kombat UK Military Wire Saw - Survival Saw
- Valve Body: 2 Way NPT 3/4" DN20 Brass Orifice Size: 15mm, Reduced Bore Actuator: DC12V CR02 3 Wires Control
- 2.Lead Free, Safe for Drink Water and Food. Suitable For Water, Oil, Gas.
- 3.Limit Switches Inside, Cut Off Power Automatically When F.O or F.C
- 4.This motorized valve is a good replacement of the solenoid valve.It can be installed at any angle and direction,and can work in moist conditions.
- 5.Float ball design, no leak, large flow, the valve is bi-directional ball valve , regardless of inlet and outlet , most suitable for heavy dirt and long time no action.
Features:
Specs:
Weight | 0.22 Pounds |
12. Rothco Commando Wire Saw
- Quality tested and ensured for maximum durability
- Designed with only the toughest, roughest users in mind
- Comfort and performance come hand in hand with rothco
Features:
Specs:
Height | 2 Inches |
Length | 12 Inches |
Weight | 0.1 Pounds |
Width | 7.5 Inches |
13. Mossy Oak Mini Saw
Has An Ergonomic Grip Handle, Which Is Perfect For Several Different Applications.Belt Loop Carrying Case Included For Easy Storage And Transportation.Several Uses Includes: Trimming Small Tree Limbs, Cutting Pelvice Bone, And Much More.Country Of Origin: China
Specs:
Color | Multi |
Height | 1 Inches |
Length | 1 Inches |
Weight | 0.4 Pounds |
Width | 1 Inches |
Release date | August 2019 |
Size | One Size |
Number of items | 1 |
14. Agawa Canyon - BOREAL21 Tripper Kit - (21inch folding bow saw with all-purpose blade, canvas sheath, extra aggressive"Sidney Rancher" blade)
Kit Includes:BOREAL21 Folding Bow Saw - black annodized aluminum frame, yellow handle, all purpose bladeOne Lightweight and durable emerald green canvas sheath with extra blade compartment & leather shoulder strapOne extra 21 inch Aggressive "Sidney Rancher" blade
15. 26" Outdoor Camping Tactical Survival Pocket Chainsaw With Pouch | Portable Hand Saw Cuts Like A Knife | 3x Faster With CUTTING BLADE ON EVERY LINK | Bonus Front Snap Carrying Case
33 Serrated High performance! 3X faster!33 teethes make cutting trees more efficient. Built with high quality 65 Mn steel, the BEST material of sawsThe perfect length of 24" make it a perfect fit for anyone. Complete with pouch and belt clip, Makes A Great Gift For Any Outdoor EnthusiastStrong dur...
Specs:
16. Survival Pocket Chain Saw Chainsaw 24 Inches Portable Hand Saw for Camping Hiking Backpacking Hunting Boy-Scouts Emergency Gear Backyard Cleanup Pruning + Compass Fire Starter!
The Chainsaws are built to last with high quality Heat-Treated Carbon Steel Teeth. The super strong durable nylon straps and the perfect length of 24" make it a perfect fit for anyone, including younger kids under adult supervision.Bi-Directional blades that cut when pushed AND pulled - Incredibly f...
18. Agawa Canyon - BOREAL21 Folding Bow Saw - Black Frame, Green Handle, All-Purpose Blade
VERSATILE: Take the BOREAL21 folding bow saw wherever you go - camping, backpacking, canoeing, off-trail, hunting, trail clearing or around the home.EASY: Opens in seconds - just unfold, snap into position & start sawing. Automatic blade tensioning with no loose parts - No need to touch the blade wh...
Specs:
Color | green |
Height | 2 Inches |
Length | 21.5 Inches |
Weight | 1.2 Pounds |
Width | 1 Inches |
19. Sven Saw 15"
- 21" model: Closed: 23"x1.5"x0.56", Open: 23"x20"x15", Wt: 14 oz
Features:
Specs:
Color | Red |
Height | 15 Inches |
Length | 17 Inches |
Weight | 0.75 Pounds |
Width | 0.56 Inches |
Size | 17x1.5x.5 |
Number of items | 1 |
20. SHARPEST Survival Pocket Hand Chainsaw EAT Wood 3 Times Faster with Super Sharp Blade! Chain Saw Gear + Built to Last! Made Steel + with Pouch - Trimming Trees Never Been Easier
- New Improved Design! EAT WOOD 3 Times Faster! Available ONLY From Croc. Accept No Imitations.
- 92+ SUPER SHARP TEETH and Comfortable handle ENSURE HIGHEST PERFORMANCE
- Built to last! Made with Highest Quality Steel.
- Extreme Portability,light weight. Easily fits into your backpack
- SPECIAL Guarantee To You TODAY! See Below
Features:
Specs:
Color | 28 inch |
🎓 Reddit experts on camping saws
The comments and opinions expressed on this page are written exclusively by redditors. To provide you with the most relevant data, we sourced opinions from the most knowledgeable Reddit users based the total number of upvotes and downvotes received across comments on subreddits where camping saws are discussed. For your reference and for the sake of transparency, here are the specialists whose opinions mattered the most in our ranking.
You're asking a very broad question while looking for specifics, making it very hard to pinpoint an answer. I'll give my advice on bug out bag items.
The bag itself - Should be a solid backpacking bag. Keep it light enough that it's manageable. For a very fit individual, the max weight should be your body weight divided by 3. Most of us are not that fit, so adjust accordingly. It should have hip support, well stitched straps, several compartments and a way to attach things to the outside (molle webbing, carabiner loops or exterior straps). Should be weatherproof.
Water - Depends entirely on your location. I live in Canada - Land of lakes and rivers. I wont need to carry a ton of water all the time. I've got a sawyer squeeze as my primary water filter. The collapsible water bottles it comes with work great for water storage as well. Wife and daughter carry a lifestraw as backups. We have some iodine drops as well.
As far as water carrying devices go, i find nalgene bottles work great. Theyre light and strong, and come in various sizes. A canteen is great if you want to use it to cook over a fire. Its not a bad idea either to have a large (5 litre+) collapsible water container. They're plastic and light. I havn't used mine extensively enough to recommend.
Sharp Things - I've got a Kabar as my primary fixed blade. It's tried and true. Good metal, full tang. I've got a leatherman wave multitool. Carry it everyday on my belt. Super handy. I should really add a 3-4" folding knife to my pack as sometimes the kabar is too big, and the multitool is hard to clean.
I also carry a Cold steel shovel. I looked into folding shovels, and they didnt seem reliable. Moving parts means they're more likely to fail. I haven't used this one extensively, but the few times i have tried it, its done an excellent job. If your pack's too heavy, put this one in your car.
Food - Your typical protein bars, dried rice/bean mix, snickers, small jar of PB, oatmeal and dehydrated fruit. A small bit of olive oil packs a ton of calories and adds flavour. It's good to have a small container of salt and pepper, or other spices to add flavour. You can grab MRE's or those mountainhouse dried meals, but theyre expensive. If you regularly buy pepperettes or jerkey, stick some in your bag and rotate it out when you buy it next. Multivitamins can keep you up if youre not getting a ton of food, but dont rely on them. Bring any meds you need, as well as tylenol or aspirin.
Hygiene - Pack a couple rolls of TP. Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant (chuck if too much weight), wash cloth, soap, soap for clothing, feminine products (if applicable), couple garbage bags (can separate dirty clothes), wet wipes, lip balm, hand sanitizer. Sun screen and bug spray in small bottles.
Clothing - Carry at least 7 pairs of good socks. Some warm ones if the location's cold. Extra shirts, underwear are essential. Pants/shorts and sweater are optional (besides whatever you're wearing). Stick your clothing in a waterproof sack. Try to keep only clean, dry clothes in there (no airflow + damp = mold).
-Paracord and rope
-Carabiners
-Sewing kit
-Tent patching kit (if you have a tent or a tarp)
-Tarp (who saw that coming). Doesn't have to be massive. Just know how to set it up to keep you dry.
-Fire Source. Have many. Lighters are cheap, stash away a bunch (7?). The lighter leash is awesome. You should be able to find that cheap at a corner store. Storm matches, for when its rainy. I think these are what I got. You can light them in any weather, put them under water, and they'll still be lit. Not a bad idea to carry regualr matches in a waterproof container. Firestarter packets are great. I just soak cotton balls in Vaseline. Flint and steel is cool, but only useful if youve exhausted all other fire starting methods.
-Super Glue
-Safety pins
-Zip ties
-Light. Hand crank flashlight is awesome. If you have a battery powered one, carry spare batteries. The mini maglite has a belt holster. Those small LED flashlights are great too. Grab a few glowsticks.
-fork and spoon
-emergency blanket or emergency sleeping bag. Only useful if you're SOL.
-poncho
-sleeping bag for your location. If its warm you don't need this. Can use a hammock or sleeping pad. Try and keep these small as they take up a ton of space.
-Compass. Useful if you have a map.
-Map of your location/where youre going.
-Signal mirror and a good whistle.
-Fishing supplies. I've got an emmrod. You can put a fairly small cheap reel on here. I've got the shimano ix2000. It casts a pretty good distance. Hooks, weights, bobs etc. Can all fit in small waterproof containers or camera film containers. Dont forget line! Mines already on the reel. A fishing vest gives you lots of little pockets to keep things in arms reach.
-First Aid kit. There's extensive lists online depending on how large you want it. Some gauze, band aids, polysporin, burn cream are a good start. Try and build it yourself, don't buy the gimmikey premade ones. Keep yours in a waterproof Tupperware container.
-Tiny roll of Gorilla Tape
-Games. Some dice and a deck of cards go a long way. Don't underestimate the value of laughter. If a sudden collapse ever happens, these might save you from depression.
-Headlamp. I've got this rayovac one (i think). Seems easy on batteries and has lasted a few camping trips. Haven't put serious use on it tho.
-Eating equipment. A mug and a small plate go a long way. A folding pan goes a long way, but is heavy. I would love to learn to use a pressure cooker over fires.
-Handkerchief or travel kleenex
-Bandanas. 3 of them.
-Bungee cords can be useful, but they run the risk of snapping and taking out an eye.
-Ziplock bags are handy. Keeps a lot of small things organized and dry.
-Pencils, Pens, notepad/book, sharpie.
-Hatchet is useful, but heavy. Take one if you can. The sven saw is awesome and hasn't broke on me yet.
-Spare pair of glasses (if applicable)
-Some sort of firearm is almost necessary. I don't have one yet, but i was planning on a 10/22 takedown. It's small and easy to pack. Bullets are light. If you need more stopping power than a .22, you're in a heap of trouble. Guns are not my specialty (can you guess), so ill leave it up to you
-In lieu of a firearm, you could grab a crossbow. If that's still too much, a good slingshot will do great.
-phone booklet and address's. In case your phone craps out and you cant charge it.
-A small windable clock is great. A solar watch is better. I think thats the one i have.
All this stuff is useless unless you know how to use it. Do your research, take some courses. Learn the necessary skills to survive, because that's what's really necessary. I like Les Stroud's (survivorman) book Survive!. Learn to tie knots, fish, hunt, forage, fight, build a fire in all conditions, etc.
If you have questions on the use of any of the above items, ask away. Any advice or suggestions, I welcome those too.
I don't know too much about that backpack, so I can't comment, but you should be able to pickup a pack in that price range if you're just getting started.
water
A lifestraw will work, but essencially you need to go source to mouth, so if you need water for anything but drinking (i.e. for cooking) I don't know if the lifestraw will be best. Sure you can suck in, spit out, but there is a better solution: the sawyer mini is about the same price point: http://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Products-SP128-Filtration-System/dp/B00FA2RLX2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1398890779&sr=8-1&keywords=sawyer+mini
meals
and that brings me to water for cooking. MREs are heavy, and while you won't be hiking far carrying that weight even for a short distance might not be the most fun (especially if you are saving money on your pack) - there a many commercially available freeze dried meals which are very light and you simply add boiling water to. Mountain house is the most common - http://www.amazon.com/MOUNTAIN-HOUSE-Beef-Stroganoff-4-80oz/dp/B0002YRNJK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1398890892&sr=8-1&keywords=mountain+house
besides mountain house there is backpackers pantry (better IMO):
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=backpackers%20pantry&sprefix=backpacke%2Caps
and finally if you want to try some of the best I recommend packit gourmet:
http://www.packitgourmet.com/CookInBagMeals.html
clothes
wool is good because it keeps it's insulation warmth when wet. wool can be expensive though. If the weather is going to be good I'd recommend a couple quick drying shirts (which are pretty affordable)
http://www.amazon.com/Russell-Athletic-Sleeve-Dri-Power-3X-Large/dp/B00719Y8HO/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1398891200&sr=8-3&keywords=quick+dry+shirt
and be prepared to own the worlds best pair of underwear - buy two pair wear one, wash one in a river:
http://www.amazon.com/ExOfficio-Give-N-Go-Boxer-Brief-Medium/dp/B001M0MN02/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1398891283&sr=8-1&keywords=exofficio+boxer+briefs
tools
this is probably one of the first things that gets "over packed" what to you anticipate needing a tool for? On the hand saw if you will be collecting fire wood there is a very nice lightweight handsaw that is perfect for backpacking, the Sven Saw:
http://www.amazon.com/SVEN-SAW-Sven-Saw-21/dp/B002J900EQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1398891413&sr=8-1&keywords=sven+saw
cookware
on cookware it all depends on what you'll be cooking. on a budget I'd recommend this cup:
http://www.amazon.com/GSI-Outdoors-Glacier-Stainless-Bottle/dp/B001LF3IB6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1398891523&sr=8-1&keywords=GSI+cup
and this stove:
http://www.amazon.com/Ultralight-Backpacking-Canister-Ignition-silvery/dp/B00ENDRORM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1398891563&sr=8-1&keywords=backpacking+stove
with that you'll be able to boil water for your freeze dried meals, make ramen, and you can also make hot drinks like tea.
The wire saws have a trick to using them---they're best not used as a pull saw, but a a blade to make a bow saw.
There is a better alternative in my view: a hand chain saw works quite well straight out of the box. Some pack down quite small too, though they're all going to be quite a bit heavier than the wire saws.
The above link shows the differences between the two types as well. The chain saws easily chew through a 6" log, the wire saws (or the one which isn't a toy) take a lot more fiddling to get to work and assume materials that may or may not be available.
However, if you have the space, I prefer a collapsible Swede saw. I've used the Sven saw for years and it's fantastic as a backpacking tool. Much better than the other two types in my opnion.
I always take a bow saw, mine is quite similar to this one:
https://www.amazon.com/Filzer-Buckster-Bow-Saw-BBS-1/dp/B01A7GLFO6/ref=sr_1_38?s=outdoor-recreation&ie=UTF8&qid=1496270925&sr=1-38
Haven't used it while paddling, but I have used it for walking and skiing trails.
It is very lightweight, packs and unpacks quickly once you figure it out. It is has sharp huge teeth that will cut through 4-8" trees with ease. On all my backpacking and canoeing camping trips this saw takes priority over any ax or hatchet. I can cut down a dry tree and have 15 rounds cut in 30 minutes or less. I've had mine for ~18 years now and it is still in great shape with regular use.
Some of the folding saws are great, but they are a bit more pricey. I quite like the bow saw, partially because of the strong structure.
Tomahawks are fun but because they were designed as a fighting weapon most aren't as good as axes or hatchets at being an axe or a hatchet. They do work, just not as well.
If you want to buy one for the "cool" factor then go for it, many people here have one for that reason. But, if you want something that will work better I suggest an axe.
That said, for what you have described in your post (ie. fallen tree on road) I would say you shouldn't use either but instead get yourself a bow saw. Saws are usually lighter, cut safer, and you can get through more wood with less energy spent and less strength needed. Agawa Canyon makes a good folding one and Bahco makes one of the best budget, non-folders out there.
Good luck!
Good Stuff I carry, can't do a lot of digging, but for initial brush clearing:Fiskars Loppers (for big stuff) and Hand Trimmers (for small Stuff), a Sven Saw folding bow saw (from REI), and a hand chain saw, the kind with a blade on every link (from Amazon) which works well for larger logs.
The hand chain saw works really well with 2 people if you can get a buddy, a bit slower solo, but still very usable and it packs to nothing.
​
I bought a Fiskars X7 14" hatchet for $23 at WalMart and use it regularly.
I love that hatchet. I attached the plastic sheath to the MOLLE webbing on my pack with two carabiners so it doesn't swing around much. It hacked easily through a 6" diameter Oak limb that had fallen from a tree and after de-limbing, I choked up on the handle of the hatchet to carve a bow-drill kit. I was surprised how versatile the hatchet is. The steel is a little on the soft side, so it will need to be honed regularly, but the softer steel is also very easy to hone with a puck or a stone, so I really don't mind doing it.
I actually just got rid of my Ontario RAT-5 because I simply stopped using it once I got that hatchet. I already had a Mora so I really only used the RAT-5 for batoning.
Best part is, it weighs <2lbs with the sheath. It's a cheap way to figure out if a camp axe or hatchet will work for you. If you like it but want a little more chopping power, you can get the X15, 23.5" chopping axe off Amazon for like $35.
Or, if you decide you like it and want something higher quality, look into Council Tool's Velvicut Boy's Axe or Velvicut Hudson Bay Axe, or something hand-forged by the Swedish elves at Gransfors Bruks or Wetterlings.
Be aware of your technique though. Hatchets and small axes are very dangerous if you aren't cognizant of the swing. If you miss with a short axe, it won't hit the ground, it'll just swing around into your leg, so always use a large safety log underneath your target log to catch the axe, or get down onto your knees if you're chopping something low to the ground. Just generally try not to swing the head of the axe below your hips, it's a waste of calories anyway. Use the lanyard hole on the handle to loop a string around your wrist, because when you get tired, it will come out of your hand, eventually.
If you don't like the axe, you may consider a folding saw, like a Sven 21" or 15", Bahco Laplander or Silky 210 and/or a large survival knife, like an Ontario Spec Plus SP50, Ka-Bar Becker BK7 or an ESEE 6.
Coghlans folding saw. Best saw for the buck hands down. Better than the silky gomboy and better than the sven for sure. Super light. Less than a pound. https://www.amazon.com/Coghlans-8901-Folding-Saw/dp/B000ECSDHG
I have a Gerber multi-tool Suspension GE22-41471. I like it but it's pretty heavy for its size and, as others have said, you don't need half the tools in the wilderness.
Go Outdoors have a selection. Might be cheaper on Amazon.
I have a folding saw which is light.
You could try a wire saw. I haven't tried one myself.
I find my folding trowel very useful.
Don't get this trowel - it's flimsy
I also have a bushcraft knife. I'm not sure it's legal to carry around (UK) all the time but I think it's ok if you're using it while camping etc. (better check if you do buy a knife).
Great set. Though if you plan on using that saw often you may want to replace it with a higher quality model. It's a great bang for your buck saw, but in my experience it does not stand up to continued use well. I took mine to work (I work for a tree company) to test it out and it lost a few teeth/started to dull after only 10-15 cuts.
Silky makes great pruning saws, though more expensive ($40~). That type of saw is mostly suited to cutting green wood, however. If you plan on using it mostly for dead stuff (firewood) it may be worth investing in something like a bowsaw that is designed with that purpose in mind.
Disclaimer: I have no personal experience with that particular bowsaw and cannot personally attest to it's quality. Though it does seem well regarded.
Edit: That knife seems nice, but from what I can tell it is not made of high carbon steel so it cannot be used for firestarting on it's own. It may be worth investing in something cheap like a Mora so that you may use it with a flint
Why are folding saws garbage? I've always brought something similar to this camping with me and I haven't had any issues.
I agree, a pack saw would make a pretty great VEDC addition.
I hang them from a gambrel, and then skin and quarter them. You can do that from a tree in the woods. My kit for the woods has a gut knife, field dressing gauntlet gloves, This bone saw https://www.amazon.com/Mossy-Oak-Hunting-Accessories-MO-MS/dp/B0083ZZH0M/ref=sr_1_5?s=books&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1509567478&amp;sr=8-5&amp;keywords=field+dressing+bone+saw. The rest is done in my kitchen. I use a rapala fillet knife, and a chef knife. I wear a cut proof glove on my left hand, since I am right handed. I cut myself badly once, and now feel the cut proof glove is needed. I was taught how to do it in person, but I bought a dvd on how to butcher deer, but I can't find it. Now, I would probably look for a youtube video with good reviews. Good luck.
Those folding saws are terrible. If you really want to cut wood and save at least some weight, try one of the hand chain saws.
I used this one on a trip and it worked really well for some ~6in logs we cut. Way better than a hatchet or the folding saws and they work pretty fast too.
replace the shovel with this trowel to save weight:
http://www.rei.com/product/799009/gsi-outdoors-cathole-sanitation-trowel
carrying the hatchet is a bit much too I think. and then you are looking for a hatchet? That's a lot of hardware to carry. I'd replace it with one of these to cover some concerns, but I usually find ways around cutting wood:
http://www.amazon.com/ProForce-Commando-Wire-Ideal-Survival/dp/B0018VCJTA
A nice headlamp will probably run you about $35-40, but they are worth it.
I think I paid 9.99 at walmart for these, important for sealing odors to keep away critters:
http://www.amazon.com/Outdoor-Products-3-Pack-Ultimate-Sack/dp/B001AZNATC
I've had the Estwing Camper's Axe for camping and hiking for years. Take it on 10-15 mile hikes, I like it because it's full tang metal, a little heavy, but i've broken other hickory handled axes.
To be fair, you can get by just as well with the Sven Saw, as long as you have access to lots of different kinds of wood. It goes through leg-sized logs very well. I still take the axe on trips because I like the added exercise and feel of chopping stuff.
2011 Xterra, I don't really off-road, but I do get stuck a good amount. I live in northern Michigan.
Without knowing what gear your dad has or needs - it's going to be a crap shoot getting a winning gift.
There are items that we all like, but your dad may already have one he likes more.
Regardless... here are a few basic ideas from Amazon (hopefully available in the Canadian version too):
This guy. I got one after I watched a Skills w/ Phil video and I knew I could use it for all those downed branches, limbs, and small trees you find on trails in the spring and fall. I've used this thing probably half a dozen times and it works like a charm--even better you get a buddy on the other side and use it like and old school bandsaw.
I cut a considerable amount of wood for carving and I never found one of those pulls saws to be better than the worst bow saw I ever used. The knife saws are alright, but again the bow saw tops them.
I eventually went with this: https://www.amazon.com/SVEN-SAW-Sven-Saw-21/dp/B002J900EQ/ It has worked amazingly well.
The little wire saws are about as effective as they look, good for thin limbs and emergency situations. Personally I would never want to use one of these on anything over 1.0" diameter. The teeth just don't eat wood. The big brother to these, with real chainsaw blades like the Saber Cut, are highly effective on just about anything.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002ZO526Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_KicUBb9FR82PY a saw like this can save you a bit of room. They work great and the blades are cheaply replaced.
like this?
https://www.amazon.com/Survival-Chainsaw-Backpacking-Boy-scouts-Emergency/dp/B01LPPFV0C/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1497168482&amp;sr=8-2-spons&amp;keywords=hand+chain+saw&amp;psc=1
junk in my experience despite how long I kept trying it make it work. a hatchet/ax, hand saw or machete will do twice as much with half the effort.
others may have a different experience than me though.
I'm actually looking now at the Sven Saw. 29 reviews on Amazon, not a single one less than 5 stars. It looks super light and compact. Maybe I'll pack both the Fiskars hatchet and this saw?
The sabrecut saw is actually the chainsaw blade style saw:
http://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Survival-Technologies-SaberCut-Black/dp/B001H9N8C0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1348072789&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=sabrecut+saw
I liked how compact it is and thought it would make a nice lightweight addition. Anyone have any experience using these?
Salt Deodorant Bar
I'm assuming that it's a large island with sustainable resources, including fresh water.
Nice, I've got this
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002J900EQ/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
Only think I don't like is the size. I wish I got the smaller version (15 inch I think). Might sell mine on craigslist and get it though
Do it! I bought this 21" folding sev saw and it's fantastic. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002J900EQ I use it for yard work, backpacking everything it zip right through everything
Honestly, if you are wanting something under $20 it's going to be hard to find. You can you use a simple hand chain saw like the one in the link to get the job done. It will be a bit awkward to do in a canoe but, I can see it getting the job done.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GPOO8U2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_bp5lzb02CJ9JC
I have been looking for either a saw or hatchet myself. If I go with a saw it seems like the top contenders are the sven saw 21 or the boreal 21.
It's pretty cheap
You can buy a couple different types of those on Amazon, good for cutting trees for firewood while camping. Or chopping up bodies. w/e
http://www.amazon.com/Rothco-Commando-Wire-Saw/dp/B000WDPGW2/ref=sr_1_2?s=sporting-goods&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1330907582&amp;sr=1-2
http://www.amazon.com/Chainmate-CM-24SSP-24-Inch-Survival-Pocket/dp/B0026OOS60/ref=pd_sim_sg_1
I don't the idea of an axe/hachet because one wrong swing can be very dangerous. And I hate sawwing because of the motion required but this little thing is awesome and easy to use and can cut trees for firewood without issue. It is also packable and light weight.
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https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GPOO8U2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Highly suggest getting rid of the pocket chainsaw for a light weight saw. My favorite from backpacking is Agawa Canyon - BOREAL21 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LWZ4ZLA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_7NZ6Cb70S8ETH
Fairly easy. There's a reason these are called what they are.
https://www.amazon.com/Rothco-8312-Commando-Wire-Saw/dp/B000WDPGW2
Hand chain saw used it so many times. Great for cutting up small stuff for a fire or building a shelter.
Are the metal teeth that you cut off typically hardened steel on old saws like this? I only ask because I recently bought a Boreal 21 folding saw for camping, and you can see the hardened tips on that, so I was wondering if you need to re-harden the tips of your saw after cutting new teeth?
Incredible restoration by the way! During the first few pictures I did not expect you to cut those teeth off haha.
https://www.amazon.com/Agawa-Canyon-BOREAL21-Folding-All-Purpose/dp/B01M0VJYNS
This one: http://amzn.com/B002J900EQ
The tree I cut through was huge. a solid 2 feet thick and the thing cut through in well under 10 minutes
Without knowing where you are, I'm not sure if this will be as useful for you as it may be for others, but a SaberCut pocket chainsaw, for bigger diameter logs that may have come down across the trail, that might be a little impractical for a hatchet.
Maple's going to take forever to cut through with a pocket saw like that. I can imagine a wide chain makes the problem a lot worse as there's a much larger surface area which will require much more effort compared to a thin saw.
You also need to properly know how to fell a tree. If not, you're going to end up binding your saw and getting it stuck, or worse hurting yourself.
Personally I have https://www.amazon.com/Sven-Saw-15-Folding/dp/B003GLX2PK which has a very capable blade for cutting. I used something similar when I was younger and wasn't allowed to use chainsaws and it worked great. I'm still afraid of chainsaws and other power saws to this day and they are far less tiring to use but require a healthy respect of the dangers.
For portability you really can't go wrong with a hand chainsaw. It's a workout but it gets the job done.
Dad and grandpa always used Sven Saws
https://www.amazon.com/SVEN-SAW-SVEN01-BRK-Folding-Blade/dp/B002J900EQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1549256854&amp;sr=8-1&amp;pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&amp;keywords=sven+saw&amp;dpPl=1&amp;dpID=41kIwXlZzAL&amp;ref=plSrch
Firestarter: http://banghott.com/product/portable-fire-starter
Backpacking chainsaw:
https://www.amazon.com/Survival-Chainsaw-Backpacking-Boy-scouts-Emergency/dp/B01LPPFV0C
Thanks for the contest! 123!
> Sabercut saw
http://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Survival-Technologies-SaberCut-Black/dp/B001H9N8C0
Has anyone mentioned the Sven Saw to you?
http://www.amazon.com/SVEN-SAW-Sven-Saw-21/dp/B002J900EQ
exactly. get yourself one of these and one of these and using your newfound knowledge you can make bread in a swamp.
Peanut lighter (free shipping): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GGDD03E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_9.FZxbNKDSH3W
Paracord 25 feet (free shipping w/ prime): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007Z1QP6K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_9aGZxb0JKWNVR
Flint rod (free shipping): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CP1HKDW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fdGZxbCC651JQ
CRKT Eat N Tool (free shipping): https://amzn.com/B0030IRKHK
US military can openers (free shipping w/ prime): https://amzn.com/B005IDQW3S
Wire Saw (free shipping): https://amzn.com/B0018VCJTA
Gerber Shard (free w/ prime): https://amzn.com/B002ZK45IQ
Edit: More stuff
I prefer these saws: http://www.amazon.com/x/dp/B002J900EQ
Larger and lighter for the same price.
Sven saw all the way. Packs light and saws through anything.
Saw it here before.
Edit: OH- Boreal Saw
Sven Saw SVEN01-BRK Folding... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002J900EQ?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf
Those are called wire saws and are more survival type equipment.
here ya go
https://www.amazon.com/Rothco-8312-Commando-Wire-Saw/dp/B000WDPGW2
Get off your lazy ass and go cut some trees, my favorite trail saw is the Sven Saw
After some searching. Seeing some pretty bad reviews on forums though. Difficult to assemble/break down, and unable to tension blade enough to keep from bowing while sawing were the top two complaints.
Edit: Seeing lots of recommendations for the Sven saw, there is a $30 difference in price between the two though.