The best Survival-Bushcraft-Saw 2024 (foldable and most reliable)
Take a look at the list of the best folding saws for outdoor, survival, and bushcraft. The buying guide for saws helps you make the best decision.
From Martin Gebhardt. Check out my “About me” page.
👉 The key facts from this guide
- When buying a folding saw, it is important to pay attention to the sawing mechanism. There are saws that cut only on the pull stroke, while others cut on both the push and pull stroke.
- The efficiency of the saw blades is crucial. Saw blades with many teeth per inch are ideal for smooth cuts, while saw blades with fewer teeth per inch cut quickly but coarsely.
- The material from which the saw is made influences its durability and functionality. The handle or frame should be made of a sturdy material that provides additional support to the saw blade.
- The Silky Big Boy folding saw is a good choice if you are looking for a larger survival bushcraft folding saw. It offers solid performance and durability.
- The Corona RS is a high-quality folding saw that has received overwhelmingly positive feedback. It has an efficient curved blade and an appealing handle.
- The Coghlans folding saw is a suitable alternative for campers and hikers who want to take advantage of the benefits of a bow saw that fits into tighter spaces between trees and other obstacles.
With the huge selection of saws on the market, it becomes extremely difficult to make an informed choice.
There are always new brands coming onto the market.
Without good research, you will likely end up buying a low-quality product.
Fortunately, I deal with many tools and in my experience, it is quite easy to identify a good survival bushcraft saw.
At least I spare you the hassle of trying out by keeping you informed about the currently best survival bushcraft saws.
Furthermore, I have compiled a comprehensive shopping guide that will assist you during your purchase.
Top 7 Folding Survival Bushcraft Saws
Whether it's clearing a path, cutting firewood, or building your own shelter for the night - you need a saw.
In the next section, I will thoroughly review each folding saw so that you can familiarize yourself with the specific features of my top list.
I have invested a lot of work and research to provide you with my experiences of these folding saws. Of course, there are many saws on the market, but these are the elite of folding saws.
Here is my list:
- Silky Ultra Accel
- Bahco 396-HP
- MOSSY OAK 3 in 1 Folding Saw
- Agawa Canyon Bow Saw
- Coghlans Folding Saw
- Corona RS 7265D
- Silky Big Boy Folding Saw
And now let's take a closer look at the models.
1. Silky Ultra Accel Folding Saw
Silky is one of the most popular and respected companies in the industry and is quite good at producing high-quality outdoor saws.
At least you can be sure that the Ultra Accel model is a premium product designed for performance.
You're probably wondering why this folding saw is my top choice. Well, let's jump right into the attributes that make it a worthwhile investment.
Data updated 10 hours ago
Silky Ultra Accel Professional 240mm Curved Folding Saw Large Teeth (446-24)
- A folding saw that you can hold on to but works like it's fixed-blade cousins with a curved blade for maximum speed & efficiency
- Built with a sturdy yet lightweight aluminum chassis, the Silky Ultra Accel with 240mm curved blade features an easy-grip rubberized handle
- The legendary cutting ability of Silky and the engineered smoothness that is synonymous with the name are all included-as you would expect
- 9.5-inch (240mm) blade length, 1.4mm blade thickness, 6.4 teeth per inch (7.5 teeth per 30mm) Large teeth configuration, Cut capacity 4.7"
- WARNING: Beware of thinner, non-Professional blades that are made for the Japanese market only. If your blade doesn’t have the word Professional etched into it, please report the seller to Amazon
$69.99
View ProductExcellent Performance
If you're looking for an all-around saw that delivers fast cuts, then the Ultra Accel is your best choice.
This beast comes with a curved blade that provides maximum speed and efficiency. Additionally, the saw has large teeth, which is why cutting wood with this survival bushcraft saw is always a breeze.
Build Quality
It goes without saying that the Ultra Accel has a great and solid design. Every single component is made from high-quality materials to ensure years of enjoyment.
For example, the blade has undergone a technology called "Impulse Hardening" to maintain sharpness and flexibility.
This allows you to push your saw to the maximum without compromising the blade. Furthermore, the frame itself is made of lightweight aluminum and coated with thick rubber. The sturdy and comfortable handle completes the job.
Advantages
Lightweight
Cuts quite fast
Has a very comfortable grip
The blade is durable
Replaceable blade
Limited Lifetime Warranty on material and construction defects
Disadvantages
Small cutting capacity
2. Bahco 396-HP
The Bahco 396-HP is an all-round folding saw that has been on the market for a long time. In fact, it is not difficult to find a Bahco at a bushcraft meeting or at a campsite.
Data updated 10 hours ago
Bahco 396-HP FBA_396-HP Pruning Saw, Silver/Black/Orange
- A general purpose folding pruning saw to tackle a host of general cutting chores
- Designed for cutting both green and dry wood
- Blade is made of heavy gauge steel with hardened teeth for extra durability
- Safety lock for the folding blade
$30.15
View ProductLike many saws from the company, the Bahco is a workhorse and performs much better than its competitors. The saw has definitely established its place in the outdoor industry.
Below are some reasons why you can never go wrong with a Bahco.
Easy to use
You may be familiar with saws that are difficult to move. Fortunately, the Bahco has XT teeth that are designed to cut on both the push and pull strokes. Beginners find it extremely easy to work with this tool.
Since Bahco saws have been with me for over 5 years, I have dedicated a detailed review to the Bahco Laplander. The Bahco Laplander was undoubtedly one of the best purchases I have ever made.
Great design
This outdoor saw is designed to be lightweight and compact so that it fits in your backpack. It is also equipped with a safety lock that keeps the blade in place when not in use.
This ensures that your backpack and belongings are protected from tears and scratches. Finally, the blade is coated with a black finish that reduces friction and provides rust protection.
Advantages
Cuts very quickly
Available at a reasonable price
Lightweight and compact design
Coated blade
Safety lock
Lightweight
Reasonably priced
Great for camping and bushcraft
Disadvantages
Plastic handle
The blade is thin and can bend under pressure
3. MOSSY OAK 3 in 1 Folding Saw
If you are looking for an affordable and well-made folding saw, you should take a look at the MOSSY OAK 3 in 1 Folding Saw.
Data updated 10 hours ago
- EASY CHANGE - Adjust the black knob to change the blades. [ATTENTION] : Choose special direction you need after changing blade, tighten black knob on the back before use, to prevent the blade remove or upward. Featuring triple-cut razor sharp teeth, the folding hand saw can easily cuts wood, tree, bone and plastic metal, be a great help in the bush for trail maintenance or while camping or constructing shelter
- THREE MULTI-PURPOSE BLADES - All blades are sharp for smooth, fast sawing: 1. [Pruning blade - black coated surface]: 5TPI, 65Mn, Length 190 mm (7.5 inch), for ≤ 70 mm branches; 2. [Hardwood/Plastic blade - gray surface]: 11TPI, 65Mn, Length 190 mm (7.5 inch), for ≤ 5 mm plastic pipe or 120 mm hardwood; 3. [Metal blade - polished coated surface]: 18TPI, 58CrV, Length 190 mm (7.5 inch), for ≤ 1 mm copper pipe or 1.5 mm aluminium pipe
- SOFT YET SOLID HANDLE - Economic slip-resistant comfort grip handle features with TPR rubber coated. The proper size can work with any hand size. The rugged razor tooth blade remains stable during strong pulls resulting in accurate cuts
- SECURE LOCK - Tighten the black knob during use to prevent the blade upward or remove. Lock System prevents the blade from accidental close during use. Push the green button and fold the saw blade, store it in your pocket when it's idle. Before putting into use, take the folding saw out from the sheath, open and stretch the saw blade and lock it
- BONUS NYLON POUCH - Nylon sheath in the package, can hold hand saw and 2 additional replaced blades as well, easy and safe to carry multi-purpose tool for utility job. Take different blades for real work of wood, bone, plastic according to the actual situation
$17.99
View ProductThe rubberized handle provides a wonderful grip. The folding mechanism works flawlessly and secures the saw against accidental unfolding.
Generally, the saw is intended for cutting dry wood and it performs great for that purpose.
Advantages
Affordable
Great non-slip grip
Cuts on the pull stroke
Clean cutting edge
Fits well in the hand
Disadvantages
Relatively thin blade
4. Agawa Canyon Folding Bow Saw
The Agawa Canyon folding saw is a great option for people willing to spend a little more money. At the price (about €80), it is definitely one of the best saws for bushcraft.
Data updated 10 hours ago
Additionally, it features a bow design that sets it apart from other folding saws. The great thing about this saw is that it meets your requirements without compromising on functionality, size, or user-friendliness.
Great Design
As I mentioned before, the Agawa Canyon has a simple yet unique design that allows you to get started in seconds.
All you have to do is unfold the frame, snap it into place, and you're good to go. The foldable design allows you to use the saw for camping, hunting, and your survival bushcraft trips.
Durable Construction
Although the Agawa Canyon is expensive, you will be surprised by how uncompromisingly it will serve you. An aluminum frame, fiberglass-reinforced nylon handle, stainless steel hardware, and hardened and coated saw blades will make you happy.
Advantages
Unfolds in seconds
Weatherproof materials
Very sharp blade
Replaceable blade
Robust construction
Extremely durable
Disadvantages
The saw is somewhat large
Handle comfort
If the saw is out of stock but you are looking for a folding saw like this, also check out the "Gerber Bow Saw".
5. Coghlans Folding Saw
The folding triangle saw from Coghlan is the perfect alternative for campers and hikers who want to take advantage of a bow saw that fits into tighter spaces between trees and other obstacles.
Amazon
Offer
Data updated 5 hours ago
- Durable, afforadable, practical
- Everything you need to enjoy the outdoors
- Folds down compactly; weighs just 16 ounces
- 21-inch serrated saw blade; rugged anodized aluminum can hold extra blades
$37.89
List Price: $44.00
The Coghlan folding saw is made of an anodized aluminum frame and a 20-inch blade, which allows for quick work on most light to medium-duty tasks. The saw allows for blade storage within the frame.
My only complaints about this saw are the lack of a grip pad and the cumbersome carrying dimensions. The Coghlan saw lacks any kind of rubber or non-slip padding on the handle, making sawing for extended periods less comfortable.
The saw is also less compact than most folding saws and does not come with a carrying case, making storage inconvenient when not in use. However, this is not a big deal if you have space in your backpack for it.
All in all, if you are a fan of bow saws but are looking for something lightweight, I recommend giving the Coghlan folding saw a try.
Advantages
Blade securely stored within the frame
Replaceable blade
Fits into tighter spaces
Anodized aluminum frame
Lightweight
Disadvantages
Can be somewhat loud when sawing through the frame
Handle comfort
Dimensions
6. Corona RS 7265D folding saw
The Corona RS is another high-quality folding saw that has received overwhelmingly positive feedback. You will definitely fall in love with its overall design and performance.
Amazon
Offer
Data updated 10 hours ago
- 3 SIDED RAZOR TEETH FOR EFFICIENT CUTTING: 10" blade is ideal for cutting 5" - 6" diameter, small to medium, branches
- ERGONOMICALLY DESIGNED, COMFORTABLE, CO-MOLDED HANDLE: Provides a comfortable grip for extended use
- EASY TO LATCH BLADE PREVENTS INJURY WHEN NOT IN USE: Folding blade is curved, taper-ground, and replaceable
- IMPULSE HARDENED TEETH FOR LONG SERVICE LIFE: Extends the life of the tool season after season
- UP TO 6 TEETH PER INCH AND CURVED BLADE DESIGN FOR FASTER CUTTING: Cuts are smoother and quicker than a traditional saw.
$24.76
List Price: $26.98
Furthermore, the saw has established itself in the outdoor industry by giving its competitors a run for their money. This explains why the Corona RS is highly regarded among campers and gardeners.
Efficient blade
As one of the best folding saws, the Corona RS is equipped with an efficient curved blade. Its 25 cm blade has 3-sided razor teeth that cut through wood flawlessly.
The blade has a chrome-plated surface, which helps reduce friction and blockages when cutting wood. You will also notice that the blade made of SK5 steel stays sharp for longer as it contains a high carbon content.
Great handle
Once you get your hands on this saw, you will likely notice that it has an appealing handle. The handle is made of plastic and offers maximum comfort.
The red and black color also makes it look good. But above all, the color helps you easily find it if you have misplaced it in the forest.
Advantages
Impulse-hardened teeth for long life
Long and comfortable handle
Secure locking mechanism
Lightweight
Excellent for cutting large pieces of wood
Aggressive tooth pattern (Up to 6 teeth per inch)
Disadvantages
Quite expensive
7. Silky BigBoy
If you're looking for a larger survival bushcraft folding saw, then the Silky Bigboy should be your first choice. As you would expect from any Silky saw, the BigBoy offers solid performance and durability.
Data updated 10 hours ago
Silky Professional Bigboy 2000 Folding Saw 360mm XL Teeth Outback Edition (754-36)
- PORTABLE FOLDING HANDSAW: This professional handsaw combines superior performance and ergonomics with high-quality design. The handle is made of an arbor composite which provides excellent grip and control for wet, cold and game-processing conditions and the blade itself can be folded down. A storage case is included.
- A VARIETY OF USES: This saw handles large limbs, small trunks and even many construction projects with no problem. A versatile blade for a number of jobs including pruning, trimming, branch cutting, hunting, game-processing or maintaining your lawn or garden. No matter the work you have to do, whether it be hard or delicate, this blade makes the perfect addition to your tool collection.
- LIGHTWEIGHT BLADE: Blacking plating allows the entire blade, including the teeth to be coated with a unique, highly durable Nickel/Tin blend which provides a longer blade life and improved cutting performance.
- HEAVY-DUTY CONSTRUCTION: This saw blade is made with high-quality steel that is 1.8mm thick. The blade's teeth were taper-ground and impulse-hardened to further improve its cutting capabilities and can last up to three times longer than non-hardened blade teeth. The blade itself is 360mm (14.2") in length, with 5.5 teeth per inch (6.5 teeth per 30 mm).
- JAPANESE MIRAI-ME CUTTING TECHNOLOGY: The high-quality and smooth-cutting design used to create this saw blade provides an unmatched cutting experience. Features 4 cutting angles along the blade for rip-cutting, cross-cutting and slant cutting, leaving a smooth surface every time. Silky saws sold in US are covered by Silky’s “Limited Lifetime Warranty” against defects in material and construction.
$99.99
View ProductIf you want to cut large thick pieces of wood, it will be done pretty quickly with this big saw.
Below are some things that make the Silky Bigboy the best value for money.
High Performance
Undoubtedly, the BigBoy is in a league of its own when it comes to efficiency. As one of the largest folding saws on the market, you can rely on it to cut both large branches and small logs with its 35 cm blade.
When purchasing the BigBoy, pay attention to the four tooth sizes/configurations that are offered.
- Yellow handle: extra-large teeth (pruning, green wood)
- Red handle: large teeth (pruning, green wood)
- Black handle: medium teeth (soft wood)
- Blue handle: fine teeth (hardwood, bamboo)
Secure Grip
The BigBoy is equipped with a thick non-slip handle that provides a strong grip. You will also find that the handle is long and comfortable enough to hold with both hands.
Advantages
Cuts green and dry wood
Super sharp
Great saw for camping
Secure non-slip grip
Interchangeable saw blades
Curved blade
Disadvantages
The saw does not cut in both directions (pull saw)
No carrying case
Quite large
If you are interested in the Silky BigBoy, then check out my review: "The Silky BIGBOY in Test - Large Folding Saw for the Forest".
How to choose the best saw (buying guide)
The purchase of a folding saw should not be difficult if you know what to look for. However, beginners often make a bad purchase because they have not considered the most important aspects.
That stands out to me especially at wilderness camps when I look at the participants' equipment. There, beginners often have saws, axes, and knives that may be well-known on the internet (due to a lot of advertising), but are not very useful for outdoor activities.
I will now guide you through some of the most important factors so that you can make an informed decision when purchasing your survival bushcraft saw.
Saw mechanism
Folding saws use various mechanisms for cutting wood. Some only cut on the pull stroke, while others cut on both the push and pull strokes.
If you know the advantages and disadvantages of each type, you can settle for a survival bushcraft saw that meets your needs.
Saws that cut on the pull stroke allow you to cut in a straight line, as you have more control over the cut.
At least you get a precise cut and a smooth surface of the wood. On the other hand, saws that cut both on the push and pull strokes are fast and aggressive.
The only downside is that you have less control over the cut and your wood will have a rough surface.
Beginners will probably find the "push and pull models" more comfortable to cut with, as they are easy to use. Pull saws tend to jam if you apply too much pressure.
Efficiency of the saw blades
You probably know that the saw blade is the most important part of your survival bushcraft saw.
How do you now know that your saw blade is efficient?
Well, you have to look at the number of teeth per inch (TPI) (or per cm). Saw blades with a lot of teeth per inch are great for smooth cuts.
Unfortunately, it will take you a long time to cut through the wood with many saw teeth. On the other hand, a saw blade with fewer teeth per inch is quite fast, but it makes rough cuts.
Also consider what type of saw blade your saw is equipped with and what materials it is recommended for. Most saws on my list come with a standard wood blade, but if you want to cut extra dry wood, wet wood, animal bones, or metal, you will need to purchase these saw blades separately (if the options are available).
Material
It is important to know what material a folding saw is made of. This factor gives you an approximate idea of how long your saw will last and how it functions.
The handle or frame must be made of a sturdy material that provides additional support to the saw blade.
Always choose saw blades made of hardened stainless steel, as they generally last longer and stay sharp for months. Additionally, you should check if the saw blade is coated to prevent rust and friction.
Size and Weight
The other factors you should consider are the size and weight of the saw. Nobody wants to carry a heavy or large survival bushcraft saw unless it is necessary.
The good thing about most brands is that you can choose the size that suits your needs.
If you are looking for a saw to use while hiking or trekking, you should opt for a compact and lightweight option to avoid unnecessary weight.
The only reason you should bring a large folding saw is if you want to saw thick wood. This may be necessary, among other things, if you are setting up a camp or need a lot of firewood.
Security
Just when it comes to handling folding saws, safety is a crucial topic. That's why most companies equip their saws with locks to secure the saw blade when not in use. At least this way, you won't risk cutting into your hands or even damaging your backpack.
But there is more to consider: What kind of locking mechanisms does your saw have? Is the blade secured when not in use? How easy is it to change the saw blade if it breaks or becomes dull? How far away are your hands from the blade when using it?
So consider the types and materials of the locking mechanisms. Also, take a look at the handles and see if they have non-slip properties or if you may need to bring a pair of bushcraft gloves.
Safety should be your top priority without exception when using sharp objects or tools. Consider how you want to protect yourself - and your fingers.
Availability of spare parts
Before you click the "Buy" button, it's good to know if your tool has replacement blades. Popular brands always have affordable spare parts to ensure that your saw can be repaired.
Summary of the best survival bushcraft saws
I hope that I have been able to provide you with a good overview and lots of information.
You should now be able to find the appropriate survival bushcraft saw, thanks to the buying guide. Definitely, an outdoor saw is a fine tool that I never want to be without in the woods.
And the good thing is: You don't have to carry around an axe or a hatchet. Most folding saws are a featherweight compared to heavy axes and hatchets.
I can wholeheartedly recommend a Bahco saw to you. Previously, there was also the Bahco Laplander, but this saw is often sold out or offered at exorbitant prices. Therefore, as an alternative, get yourself the HARDTWERK folding saw or the Silky Ultra Accel, which is, however, more expensive.
To saw large tree trunks and make a lot of firewood in winter, it's better to use the Coghlans folding saw (affordable) or the Silky Big Boy folding saw.
Here are my recommendations for my top survival bushcraft saws:
- Silky Ultra Accel
- Bahco 396-HP
- MOSSY OAK 3 in 1 Folding Saw
- Agawa Canyon Bow Saw
- Coghlans Folding Saw
- Corona RS 7265D
- Silky Big Boy Folding Saw
If you have any doubts or questions, feel free to leave me a message here, I will do my best to assist you.
Author of the guide
Martin Gebhardt
Hey, I'm Martin. On my blog, you will learn the basics and numerous details about living in the wild. I think survival, bushcraft and the good life in nature are the keys to happiness. Find me here on Instagram or on YouTube. You can find more about my mission on the About Me page.
Since this is a gear guide, here ...
🤝8 reasons to trust my recommendation
Practical Experience: I have tested most of the products I recommend under extreme conditions myself.
Independence: As a wilderness mentor, I am not tied to any specific brands - this means my recommendations are unbiased.
Expertise: My many years of experience allow me to understand the intricacies and details of various products that a layperson might overlook.
Target group understanding: I understand the needs and challenges of outdoor enthusiasts, from beginners to seasoned experts.
Quality focus: I attach great importance to quality and longevity. These are characteristics that are crucial in the wild.
Clear communication: I try to explain the pros and cons of each product clearly and understandably so that you can make an informed decision.
Currentness: I always keep my guides up to date and adapt them to new findings or products.
Community Feedback: I work in wilderness schools, teach courses myself, attend courses and am active in various outdoor and survival communities and therefore integrate the feedback and experiences of others into my recommendations.
So when I introduce the best survival knives or flashlights, you can be sure that every recommendation is based on solid experience and extensive knowledge.
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