Anyone who has camped or hiked knows how useful a saw can be in various situations. But if you choose the wrong product, it might break easily.
I’ve experienced the disappointment of relying on a flimsy saw that just doesn’t hold up in the wild. Driven by this, I’ve put some of the best backpacking saw to the test, and I’m sharing the results with you.
Reviews of the Top Backpacking Saws
1. AGAWA BOREAL21 21-Inch Folding Bow Saw
The Agawa Canyon BOREAL21 caught my eye and quickly became a favorite for its no-nonsense design that’s perfect for minimalists. Its lightweight construction paired with a simple open-and-close mechanism makes it my top choice for a backpacking saw this year. Crafted from anodized aluminum, it’s not just lightweight, but sturdy as well.
The BOREAL21’s design complements its fold-out functionality. There’s no fussing about tightening blades; just unfold it, snap it together, and you’re good to go in seconds. Furthermore, you can easily replace the coated, rust-proof blade if it becomes dull.
With its compact design and impressive sawing capabilities, the Agawa Canyon backpacking saw easily outshines the competition.
What I Like
- The 21-inch sawing capacity lets me tackle larger logs without a problem
- Thanks to its special coating, I haven't seen any signs of rust, even after regular use.
- The foldable design lets me easily pack it away when not in use
- Despite its sturdy features, its lightweight construction doesn't strain my arms
- With the blade being extremely sharp, I get clean cuts every time, minimizing effort
What I Don't Like
- Being one of the more expensive folding saws, it took a bit more deliberation before purchasing
- It's still a bit heavier than most folding saws I've compared it to
2. Bahco 396-LAP Laplander Folding Saw
When portability and ease of use are most important, the Bahco Laplander 396 is one of my go-to options for a hiking saw. This Laplander is the pinnacle of sawing minimalism with its ergonomic plastic handle and 7-and-a-half-inch blade.
This Bahco saw features a dual-position locking system for added protection against unintended opening or closing as well as a dual-position safety lock. Plus, the blade gets a nice boost in performance from its low-friction, rust-resistant coating.
Considering how effortlessly it folds up, this backpacking saw easily earns my recommendation. Overall, it is an excellent folding saw that offers both convenience and security and is suitable for both novices and experienced woodworkers.
What I Like
- It cuts in both the push and pull stroke, speeding up the sawing process for me
- I appreciate its compact form; it doesn't take up much space in my toolkit
- It has a safe locking mechanism
- It handles green and dry wood efficiently
- The 7 ½ -inch blade is just right for various tasks
- Its slightly curved blade enhances precision and ease during sawing
What I Don't Like
- For pruning, straight edge saws like this might not be the best choice
- Its small teeth might not work on other heavier-duty tasks
3. Corona Tools 10-Inch RazorTOOTH Folding Saw
The ergonomically designed grip and curved blade make this saw a joy to wield. Because of the impulse hardening process, the teeth maintain their sharpness for a very long time.
The aggressively pointed teeth on all three cutting edges of the Corona Tools 10-Inch RazorTOOTH ensure quick and precise work. With this saw, you engage the cutting action by pulling the blade, and thanks to those triple-cut razor teeth, you’ll find it removes material thrice as fast as your standard blade.
I should mention the blade’s high-carbon steel construction—it ensures durability and resists bending, even when tackling fresh green wood. The chrome plating is a bonus, reducing friction during cuts. However, a quick wipe-down with a light oil now and then is a good practice to ward off any rust.
What I Like
- The high-carbon blade ensures durability and edge retention
- Its 10-inch curved blade makes cutting thick wood a lot easier
- I can't stress enough the importance of the safety lock; it's a welcomed feature
- s a razor-tooth folding saw, it's designed for optimal cutting efficiency
- The aggressive curved blade boosts its cutting prowess in challenging tasks
What I Don't Like
- The handle is thinner than most other backpacking saws
- It primarily operates on a pull stroke, which might require a slight adjustment in technique for some
4. Gerber Freescape Camp Saw
The Gerber Freescape Camp Saw is right up there when talking about the best folding camp tools. I appreciate how effortlessly it folds, making it a breeze to carry around. Plus, its design ensures your arms don’t tire out quickly. It collapses without disassembling, making it simpler to put up and less likely to misplace any of its parts.
Because of its four-pointed shape, this tool is held more like a regular saw than the cheaper pocket knife-style saws. If you’re like me and find yourself sawing often, this design detail is a comfort boon.
Another thing to note? It’s pretty easy to find and stock up on replacement blades for this tool, especially given their razor-sharp quality and 12-inch size.
What I Like
- The 12-inch blade length is a sweet spot for versatility in various tasks
- Its high-speed steel blade is durable and efficient
- Being foldable, it's a breeze to store and transport
- I was impressed by its razor sharp blade; sawing is almost effortless
- The rubber over mold handle is a great addition for comfort and grip
What I Don't Like
- It's on the heavier side, which might not be ideal for those keen on ultralight backpacking
- The assembly isn't as intuitive as I'd hoped
5. Silky Professional Series PocketBoy Folding Saw
The Silky PocketBoy folding saw offers a fantastic range of choices when it comes to size and teeth per inch (TPI). The blade lengths vary from 5.1 inches (6.8 TPI) to 6.7 inches (16.9 TPI). Also, I like the handle — it’s got this non-slip rubber grip that pairs brilliantly with its rust-proof blade.
Its dual-locking mechanism is a standout. It’s designed for sawing at 45 and 30-degree angles. You can either lock its blade upright or lock it moderately inclined upwards.
I’d recommend that upward incline if you’re sawing closer to the ground—it’s a handy little feature to keep your knuckles safe and sound.
What I Like
- The quality of Japan-made high carbon steel speaks for itself, ensuring a durable and sharp blade
- I appreciate the blade length options, letting me choose based on the task at hand
- The blade is rust-resistant
- The ergonomic handle design made long cutting sessions more comfortable
- That heavy-duty blade can handle tougher tasks without much wear
What I Don't Like
- The short blade length is not ideal for larger tasks
- Patience is key; cutting too fast might not yield the best results with this one
6. Sportsman Pocket Chainsaw 36 Inch Long Chain
The Sportsman 36-Inch Pocket Chainsaw is a powerful and precisely manufactured product in the world of manual-powered chainsaws. It’s an upgrade that’s worth every ounce it adds to your backpack.
This Sportsman’s high-carbon heat-treated blades make for precise and quick cutting. However, this saw is pricey, but you’ll surely appreciate its lifetime warranty.
Something that stood out in this handy tool are those large, heavy-duty strap handles. Not only do they ensure precision when cutting wood, but they’re also comfortable—even with gloves on, which is a blessing if you’re out and about in the winter. Plus, the thoughtful addition of a pre-oiled chain stored in a belt pouch makes it even more appealing.
(For other saw options, check this review of the best hand saws for wood cutting.)
What I Like
- Being a heavy-duty pocket chainsaw, it's built to handle demanding tasks
- The impulse-hardened teeth ensure longer sharpness and durability
- Having a belt clip and pouch included is a thoughtful touch for storage and portability
- Its sharp teeth cuts on both strokes
What I Don't Like
- It would've been perfect if they included a sharpening file
- With just a single cutting edge, you might be limited in some cutting scenarios
7. EverSaw Folding Hand Saw Camp Saw 8" Folding Saw
The EverSaw 8-Inch Folding Backpacking Saw has a high-quality steel blade with exceptional sharpness and durability. At the same time, the gear-style lock ensures perfect reliability and safety in either the open or closed position.
From my firsthand experience, the deep, triple-cut razor teeth on the EverSaw make sawing through wood, especially those up to 4 inches in diameter, feel effortless.
This is a wonderful, high-performing workhorse tool that you’d be pleased to take with you on any camping trip. Also, the bonus of a lifetime warranty becomes a compelling choice for anyone concerned about saving money without sacrificing quality.
What I Like
- The 8-inch blade stands out in terms of durability and performance
- It has a lifetime guarantee
- Those triple-cut razor-hardened teeth make a significant difference in cutting efficiency
- The ergonomic handle design feels comfortable
What I Don't Like
- I was slightly disappointed that no blade sharpener was included
- It's a bit heavy
8. Nordic Pocket Saw Pocket Chainsaw
Nordic Pocket Chainsaw is built with one blade that connects to two webbed grips. This chain, when fully stretched, measures 36 inches, but when folded up, it takes up less than 5 inches of space. This Pocket Chainsaw is lightweight, adding only 6 ounces to your bag.
Having a length of 32 inches means you can put some distance between yourself and the tree or wood you’re working on. With this in mind, the Sportsman Pocket Chainsaw is a viable alternative for those who prioritize safety.
This Sportsman Pocket Chainsaw is an excellent option for novices. It’s a lightweight yet powerful chainsaw– perfect for camping trips as it is safe and inexpensive.
What I Like
- The cutting ability of this saw truly impressed me
- I was able to cut wood at a notably faster pace
- A lifetime guarantee always adds confidence in a product's longevity
- Being a light backpacking saw, it's easy on the shoulders during hikes
What I Don't Like
- I did feel it's priced a bit on the higher side
- It may not be ideal for thicker logs
9. Sven-Saw 60th Anniversary Engraved 15" Folding Saw
The Sven-Saw 60th Anniversary 15-Inch Saw might not appear much, but I was surprised by how easily its blades managed to slice through hardwoods. The sturdy blade is from Sweden, while the sturdy frame is American-made.
Holding the metal frame with both hands feels comfortable and gives me enough leverage to handle even dense logs with ease. Despite its all-metal and steel construction, the saw feels surprisingly light. And for safe storage, I can simply retract the blade into its protective sheath by loosening the wing nut.
Ideal for long days in the yard or on the trail, quality steel and an all-metal body give this triangle saw unrivaled durability.
What I Like
- It's an easy-to-use folding camping saw
- Being an all-metal folding bow saw, it feels robust in hand
- Efficiency in cutting was clearly evident during my use
- The color makes it stand out, ensuring I don't misplace it easily in the wild
What I Don't Like
- Being compatible with only Sven blades can be a limitation when seeking replacements
- I'd advise being cautious with the wingnut and washer; they're quite easy to misplace
10. Zippo 3-in-1 Axesaw
If you like your swiss army knife or leatherman, you’ll appreciate the versatility of the Zippo Axe Saw as one of the best backpacking saws. It combines the functions of an axe, a bow saw, and a tent stake mallet, all in one convenient package.
The Zippo Axe Saw is a robust and durable alternative that is useful all over the campsite for those who don’t mind its larger size and heavier weight.
The axe’s hardened stainless-steel blades, molded polymer grip, and 5-inch full-tang head are attested to its toughness and longevity. It came with a safety sheath, allowing you to store the blade in the handle.
What I Like
- The versatility of this camping saw is a standout; it serves multiple functions
- With a safety sheath included, storing the saw becomes safer
- The self-adjusting tensioner is a great feature; no need for manual adjustments
- Its 5-inch stainless steel axe is sturdy and reliable
- I appreciate the dual-purpose handle, maximizing utility
What I Don't Like
- It's a bit expensive
- I've noticed it's a bit heavier compared to other folding saws I've used
Backpacking Saw Buyer’s Guide
Main Types of Backpacking Saws
Bow Saw
For me, nothing beats the classic form of the bow saw, which consists of a framework with a blade spreading throughout its widest points. I prefer them for more demanding sawing tasks where you must apply greater force to the cutting strokes.
Folding camp saws and pocket chainsaws are adequate for light-cutting tasks. Using a bow saw is preferable to a regular saw if you plan on chopping up a lot of logs.
These saws are perfect for use in the wilderness due to their sturdy construction and ergonomic design, which allow you to put your full weight and force behind every cut.
Pros
- Cuts quickly
- Comfortable and effective
- Long aggressive teeth
- Frame is durable and allows easy blade removal
Cons
- Heavier than other types of saws
- A bit expensive
- It may not be ideal for cutting in tighter spots
Pocket Chainsaw
A pocket chainsaw is like an ordinary saw converted by removing the motor, handle, and everything else but the chain and then attaching some handles to either end.
Pocket chainsaws allow you to grab the handles or loops at either end and drag the chain across a log, sawing it in two. The chain can be folded into almost any configuration, making it simple to cram into tight spaces.
Pros
- Lightweight pocket chainsaw
- Compact and transportable
- Length and teeth allow for efficient cutting
Cons
- Learning curve
- Cannot be operated with one hand
Folding Saw
A folding saw is an alternative to a traditional saw blade that retains its cutting efficiency while being compact and secure enough to be carried in a backpack without risk of tearing its contents. When folded into the sheath, the blade’s aggressive teeth are out of harm’s way.
Use these saws if you need to sever wood of medium thickness but prefer a portable option. The teeth of a high-quality folding saw blade should be positioned to cut cleanly at both the push and pull strokes.
Pros
- Versatile
- Lightweight
- For precise cuts
- Compact and transportable
- Can be operated with one hand
Cons
- Not ideal for thick logs
- Blade length may not be ideal for other tasks
Intended Use
Before I even delve into types and sizes, it’s crucial to think about what exactly you’re going to be using your saw for. In my experience, if you’re mainly dealing with small to medium trees and branches, a bow saw between 7 and 12 inches does the trick. But, if you’re looking at bigger tasks, like felling large trees or thicker branches, you might want to consider a manual chain saw.
Also, don’t overlook the tooth spacing per inch. I learned the hard way that while a saw with a high TPI (teeth per inch) might take longer, it definitely offers cleaner cuts. It’s a trade-off that’s worth considering.
Size and Weight
The weight of a backpacking saw is similarly important to its size. Because you will have to transport it, ease of portability and lightweight design are also priorities.
Over the years, I’ve realized that while the tool’s overall size is essential for storage and transport, the blade’s size holds more significance.
You’ll be limited in the materials you can cut or work on by the length of the blade; a short blade of fewer than 7 inches will only be able to handle softer woods and branches no wider than a few inches.
The best backpacking saws are lightweight, so you can easily transport them. If you value portability as much as I do, then you might want to consider a folding saw.
Teeth and Cutting Efficiency
Blade sharpness, blade length, and teeth configuration are all factors in how well a blade cuts. Depending on the design, some blades are only effective on the pull stroke, while others are effective on both.
Several blades have teeth with various or multiple cutting edges for greater efficiency. The goal should be to spend more time sawing wood and less time sweating.
Durability of Blade Material
The blade’s material is crucial, as it must be robust and long-lasting while allowing flexibility. Too rigid, and you’re left with a blade that’s at risk of breaking. Too flexible, and you might not get the precision you need.
High-carbon steel or steel is the most often used material. It’s great for cutting through trees, branches, and whatever else you might encounter on your journey, and it’s inexpensive to produce. If you’re like me and need a blade that can endure the test of time (and nature!), then high-carbon steel is a pretty good bet.
Curved or Straight Edge?
Saw blades can have a straight or curved edge, which is something else to think about. A robust straight-edge saw is the best option for hikers who expect to encounter many thick logs along their route.
If you’re more concerned with working with delicate branches, however, a curved saw is what you need. Curved saws are more comfortable for extended periods, making them the go-to option for novices.
Distance Between Frame and Blade
This is a crucial feature of any saw you buy. You should separate the blade’s upper edge a few inches to create deep cuts.
When selecting a triangle or bow saw, this is an important factor, as the frame might restrict the depth of the cut.
Safety Features
If you’re traveling or camping with kids or pets, safety takes on a whole new dimension. I’ve been there, always on the lookout to make sure everything’s secure and out of reach. It’s essential to ensure that whatever backpacking saw you choose, it should have features to keep both the young ones and the furry companions safe.
I cannot stress enough the importance of tools that can be safely stowed away. Trust me; you don’t want curious hands or paws getting to them. This is one reason why I swear by folding saws. They can be locked up, safely tucked away, and are generally more secure than their non-folding counterparts.
Ergonomic Handles
The handle is also an important consideration. Comfort, a firm grip, and durability are all essential for long-term use. When shopping for a folding saw, it’s important to pay close attention to the quality of the joints and hinges.
Plastic grips are the most popular since they are lightweight and can be easily strung, saving valuable space in your bag. The plastic handles of most saws are covered with a rubberized grip for improved comfort and control.
A rubber layer or grip on the handle might make it easier to carry and less prone to slipping or dropping in wet conditions, which is common when trekking.
Blade Replacement
Ensure that you can easily replace the blade of the saw you intend to purchase or sharpen it. The price of a replacement blade can quickly approach that of a brand-new saw.
Why You Need a Backpacking Saw
I’ve often questioned whether I need specific gear while trekking. Do I genuinely need it, or is it just added weight? With backpacking saws, this question has been pretty easy to answer for me. Especially when I’ve come across ones that are lightweight and collapsible, it’s hard to see a reason not to have one in my kit.
One of the main reasons I carry a backpacking saw is for cutting firewood from medium-sized branches. Imagine setting up camp after a long day and wanting to start a fire. Having a hiking saw on hand allows me to quickly and efficiently prepare branches, ensuring I have the right-sized wood to keep a fire going for a longer time.
Honestly, just for that convenience and the warmth it brings, I firmly believe that a backpacking saw deserves a spot in anyone’s camping kit.
How to Clean and Maintain Your Backpacking Saw
A camping saw is an investment that requires frequent maintenance. In addition to being less effective at cutting, dull and unclean blades increase the risk of fire and injury.
The use of oil to keep the blade from rusting is essential for improved cutting performance and increased safety in the wilderness [1]. I’ve often relied on gun oil or WD-40, both of which do the trick quite nicely.
Now, for those of you who have a saw with a wooden handle, be extra vigilant. These types can be a tad more susceptible to rust, especially where the blade meets the handle. Been there, dealt with that! If you notice rust cropping up, don’t fret. Detaching the handle and giving the rusted spot a good scrub with steel wool or sandpaper usually clears it up.
Furthermore, store your saw in a dry and clean environment. I recommend using a sheath or protective cover to prevent accidental damage and to keep it from getting tangled with other gear.
Another pro tip: if you want to keep your handle in good condition and stop dirt from collecting, you can boil linseed oil and then rub it all over the surface.
How to Sharpen Your Saw Blades
Using a reliable chainsaw sharpener, saw blades need to be sharpened on occasion, in addition to being cleaned. Find a spot where you can see the saw blade well, then clean it. Grab a triangular file that matches the shape of your saw’s blade. When filing the teeth, begin near the handle and work your way down.
Make sure to file the blade’s teeth to uniform lengths and spacing. Make sure none of the teeth on your blade are crooked before you use it. The effectiveness of a blade is drastically reduced if its teeth are bent or uneven.
My Top Pick For a Backpacking Saw: AGAWA BOREAL21 Folding Bow Saw
After careful consideration and comparing numerous options, the AGAWA BOREAL21 stands out as the best backpacking saw in the bunch. It’s not just its portability and lightness that won me over, but also its sheer practicality.
All normal 21-inch blades will fit in the hard-anodized aluminum frame, making this backpacking gear an exceptionally useful saw. When folded, the frame conceals the blade, preventing unintended harm.
Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
