Best Folding Saw [2022 Review]

A folding saw is a multipurpose tool you can use to cut wood, clear the bush, or build quality shelters in the wilderness. These tools are worth carrying in your toolkit, as they are lightweight and do a better job compared to hand knives or saws.

That’s why whether you are a survivalist or intend to go camping, a quality folding saw is a must-have tool. Unfortunately, many saws on the market are of poor quality. To help you find a great folding saw, we have reviewed the best ones available.

Our Top Folding Saw Reviews

Sven

While the blade can last long, it will eventually need to be replaced. Sven sells its blades with a threaded bolt-neck, secured to one end of the folding saw. It enables the wingnut to attach itself to the side and saw’s tension.

The wingnut is an important element that aids when operating the saw. It secures the blade when your saw is in the folded position and is housed within the aluminum frame.

If you want to unfold the saw, remove the wingnut and remove the blade. The next step will be to tighten the wingnut to tension. Then, secure the blade after passing the bolt through the frame.

While working on your projects, there is a possibility that you may lose the wingnut. If that happens, you will have to look for another one.

Another issue with the wingnut is that when tightened down, it can score the aluminum frame. To prevent this damage, place the washer under the tightened wingnut when you store it.

The Sven saw is portable and lightweight as it only weighs 1 pound. It also does not take up much space when folded, ensuring it fits easily into a camping backpack or a truck toolbox.

When it comes to power, the Sven does not have any issues blasting through thick branches or tough wood pieces that measure up to 7 inches in diameter.

If you are looking for a folding saw with great quality and are ready to look after the wingnut, getting this hand saw is definitely something you should consider.

What We Like

• Sharp saw blades that cut easily through tough wood pieces
• Easy to tension with a wingnut to the desired amount
• High-quality aluminum frame that withstands tough jobs
• Saw blade folds and unfolds easily
• Portable when closed

What We Don’t Like

• Wingnut can drop and get lost when unfolding
• Requires specialty replacement blades

Agawa Canyon-Boreal21

The Agawa Canyon is one of the most sought-after folding bow saws by camping enthusiasts. The versatile saw is good for a wide range of uses, including clearing trails or cutting branches.

It also puts together quickly. The saw will unfold when you take it out and snaps easily ready to use when you are in a hurry.

Another great thing about the Agawa folding bow saw is that it has an automatic blade tensioning and folding mechanism, preventing you from touching it when closing up the saw.

This impressive functionality comes at 480 grams of weight making it lightweight and portable. The saw features an aluminum frame and a nylon handle while steel hardware rounds off the sturdy design.

The Agawa is also known for its rust-resistance ability, great durability, and unmatched strength. This prevents the model from twisting or bending. It also helps the saw to stay firm while sawing.

Also, the nylon handle located at the grip is weatherproof, allowing you to use it in extreme weather conditions without worrying about it getting damaged. It’s also grippy for easier sawing.

One interesting thing about the handle is that it’s positioned at the correct angle for power and comfort while sawing. You might have noticed the high rate of clearance in the frame and blade.

This allows the model to cut through pieces of wood 6 inches in diameter. However, if you rotate it around wood pieces while using, you can cut wood with up to 12 inches diameter.

When it comes to replacing the blade, you don’t have to worry about looking for expensive blades. The Boreal21 saw utilizes any 21-inch standard bow saw blades, giving you a lot of options in terms of performance.

It is difficult to find any issues with this saw. However, it becomes a bit uncomfortable after prolonged use. Additionally, in spite of being lightweight, it’s relatively big.

What We Like

• Aggressive saw blade that cuts through large pieces of wood
• Sturdy frame that withstands tough tasks
• Deploys safely and quickly within a few seconds
• Ability to maintain the right tension
• Lightweight as it only weighs 1 pound

What We Don’t Like

• Frame sometimes limits the size of wood you can cut

Gerber Freescape

The Freescape saw from Gerber is a more portable and lightweight version of the Agawa model, sacrificing a bit of power as a result. We recommend checking this model if you want to save space and only need a saw blade measuring 12 inches.

Just like the Agawa, the Gerber tool quickly unfolds and folds in a few seconds. You also don’t have to touch the blade.

The handle contains the blade when folded to prevent it from getting damaged. This saw is an inch thicker and 9 inches shorter than the Agawa model.

The Freescape saw comes with a super sharp hardened steel blade that cuts wood up to 4 inches with ease. The blade is tensioned manually with a hook located near the handle. If you rotate the saw, you can cut wood up to 10 inches around or up to 5 inches using small strokes.

This hand saw uses standard 12-inch bow saw blades, allowing you to choose how you want the tool to perform. There is also no hassle looking for model-specific blades when it comes to replacing the blade. Simply pick any type of 12-inch saw blade that is perfect for you and the blade will fit this saw without any difficulties.

Another remarkable feature we like about this tool is its high-visibility rubber handle.

It ensures maximum comfort when sawing during bad weather conditions. In addition, the high-visibility green color will help you spot your saw quickly if you drop it in the forest. The tool is also designed to handle a range of different applications.

Overall, the Freescape folding saw is an excellent option for people who want a tool that offers more portability than the Agawa model and have no problem owning a smaller saw. The ability to use standard bow blades, making it much easier to replace used ones.

What We Like

• Unfolds and folds safely without the need to touch the blade
• Sharp saw blade that cuts through wood
• Portable and lightweight at 1.1 pounds
• Non-slip hi-visibility rubber handle
• Lifetime warranty on frame
• Durable and sturdy

What We Don’t Like

• Can’t cut wood larger than 5 inches

Sportsman Pocket Chainsaw

The Sportsman Pocket Chainsaw is practical, handy, and perfect for any hunter or homeowner. It delivers quick and smooth cuts. It’s also portable, easy to use, durable, and ideal for putting into your backpack. What’s more, it only weighs 0.3 pounds making it compact and lightweight.

The blade is constructed with durable high carbon steel, which gives the saw teeth a robust edge capable of standing up to endless sawing of hardwood. Its blade design also resembles the blades of a standard chainsaw and serves the same purpose.

The sharp teeth cut through the wood the way a chainsaw does. However, you will have to use a lot of effort instead of a motor. Additionally, you can cut anything with the Pocket Chainsaw as you would with a chainsaw.

One outstanding feature that sets this model from other saws on this list is its durability. It is secured to its chain through a sturdy handle ring system that ensures the saw doesn’t break especially during hard sawing.

Affordable saws usually break at the loops. However, we give the Sportsman model high marks for durability. Another notable thing about this saw is its portability.

Also included with this folding saw is a fire starter and carrying case. Overall, this model is very effective and can handle the toughest limbs and trees.

What We Like

• Durable high carbon steel design
• Portable and lightweight
• Easy-to-use handle
• Sharp chainsaw blade
• Free fire starter
• Carrying case

What We Don’t Like

• Difficult to clean as it tends to accumulate gunk
• Requires a lot of effort to use

Bahco 396 Laplander

The Bahco 396 folding saw is the most top-rated model for camping. It is a favorite among campers because of its power to handle tough jobs and low weight of 0.9 pounds. It is also extremely reliable, so you can be sure it won’t disappoint you.

Though the model may sometimes struggle with the heavy-duty needs that campers encounter, it’s ideal for an average camper. The versatile folding saw boasts adequate cutting power as it can be used to cut bone, plastic, or wood.

Unlike the other tools on our list, this model isn’t equipped with a frame. It means you will be able to cut different sizes of wood without being limited by it. This model also has a rust-resistant coating that preserves the edge of the hardened saw teeth and prevents the blade from rusting.

Additionally, the coating minimizes friction while sawing which means faster cuts and less work. Also, the blade locks in the closed and open positions making unfolding the blade easy and ensuring it doesn’t open while in the bag.

The non-slip rubber handle is solid with a steel frame to keep the saw secure and steady while sawing. It also ensures your grip is solid during poor weather conditions and the saw is comfortable to use.

One issue with this folding saw is its expensive replacement blades. The color of the handle is another problem that can make it difficult for you to locate the saw if you drop it in the forest.

What We Like

• Safely locks in the unfolded and folded positions
• Non-slip rubber grip with durable handle
• Rust-resistant blade coating that prevents corrosion
• Sharp 7-inch blade that cuts wood easily
• No frame to limit the size of wood pieces you can cut
• Portable and lightweight

What We Don’t Like

• May be difficult to see if you drop it in the forest
• Expensive replacement blades

Silky Pocketboy 170

When looking for a small and reliable folding saw, check out the Silky Pocketboy 170. It features a 6¾-inch blade, folded securely in a 6-inch handle. It is also compact and lightweight as it weighs only 7.4 ounces.

The folding saw comes with a tapered-ground, hard chrome-plated blade for greater cutting efficiency. The saw blade boasts of the patented Smooth Cutting technology designed to deliver seamless cuts even on the hardest wood, bones, or plastic.

The Pocketboy folding saw is equipped with 7 large teeth per inch to allow it to cut through wood quickly and easily. The model has a rubberized non-slip handle that ensures a comfortable grip in different conditions.

The Silky 170 also comes with a translucent hard plastic case with a belt clip and a flip-lock. This will help you to pack it compactly in your backpack or carry it in your belt. Like other Silky folding saws, the brand backs this model with a limited lifetime warranty.

Pocketboy saws are useful tools to have when preparing for camping or a survival adventure. They’re lightweight and reliable, making them the perfect choice for any camper.

What We Like

• The two-stage mechanism for locking blade
• 5¾ -inch blade for cutting through tough wood pieces
• Ergonomic knife-handle 
• Non-slip rubberized handle
• Chrome-plated steel blade
• Portable as it only weighs 7.4 ounce

What We Don’t Like

• Needs to be folded carefully because it lacks a closed position lock

Corona RazorTooth

If you are looking for the best folding pruning saw, it might be a good idea to consider checking the Corona RazorTooth. One of the most notable features of this saw is its sharp blade, perfect for wood cutting and tree trimming.

There is also a chrome plate coating on the blade’s exterior that makes it rust-resistant while minimizing friction. This will enable your saw to cut wood quickly.

The ergonomic and red nylon handle is another great feature worth mentioning. With it, you will have a power position to saw quickly without any awkward wrist positioning or hand strain. The non-slip rubber will also help you to have a good grip during wet conditions.

You are also unlikely to lose the Corona folding saw since the chrome blade and bright red handle will make it easy for you to see it in case you misplace it. Like the Laplander, this tool comes with a lever-operated locking system.

Another advantage of the RazorTooth saw is that it fits easily into a truck toolbox or backpack without taking up too much space. It weighs 0.8 pounds and measures 12 inches long when closed.

Corona backs this model with a limited lifetime warranty for covering workmanship and material quality. However, wear and tear aren’t covered. Overall, this saw is easy to use, and can cut through 6-inch diameter wood pieces.

The sharp saw blade can also last you for a long time whether you use it in the bush, along the trails, or even in your yard. We like the chrome coating as it will prevent your saw from rusting and getting stuck while sawing.

What We Like

• Curved blade that ensures the saw cuts quickly with less effort
• Locks in both closed and open positions
• Blade coating that prevents the saw from rusting
•  Ergonomic rubber handle for comfort
• Sharp blade that cuts through wood effortlessly
• Limited lifetime warranty

What We Don’t Like

• Curved handle exposes some teeth when closed
• Expensive replacement blades

Folding Saw Features and Considerations

Whether you need to work on your yard or are an outdoor enthusiast, you may find yourself looking for a folding saw. You can use it instead of a chainsaw to clear bush on a trail or for smaller tree cutting projects.

However, to ensure you purchase the right tool, reading tons of folding saws reviews may not be enough. You should also know a thing or two about what to consider while shopping.

Type of Saw

Bow Folding Saw

These types of saws have long and thin blades, perfect for replacing. They also have a bowed metal design and are mostly used on wood.

Pruning Folding Saws

These saws are small and are designed in a way that will enable you to cut trees along the trail or smaller branches. If you aren’t sure whether you need one, read any folding pruning saw review you can find online.

Hand Folding Saws

Hand saws have a blade on one side and a handle on the other. Although its design is different from those you may find in a garage, or some folding hand saw reviews, the uses remain the same.

Intended Use

It’s crucial to consider what you will use the saw for, before making the purchase. For example, it is essential to pick a tool made with long-lasting materials if you want to use your saw for yard work.

A pruning saw will also be suitable if you plan to go hiking and need to cut bushes along your trail. If you intend to use the tool for survival, opting for the most durable and reliable folding saw will be a good idea.

Campers may need to go for a pocket folding saw that is versatile. You should also consider the shape, density, size of what you intend to chop. And let’s not forget about the blade thickness.

All these will help you choose the right type of saw.

Durability

The materials that are used to build the saw and how sturdy they are is another factor worth paying attention to. It’s important to note that not all folding saws are built equal. Saws with stainless steel blades are the most popular due to their durability. 

The saw should also have solid development to enable it to withstand mishandling and other forms of abuse. We recommend getting a folding saw that is thick enough not to break or twist and with an edge built using strong materials.

You should also think about the frame’s design. Opt for one made of aluminum as they tend to be durable, portable, and lightweight.

Number of Teeth

This will determine the type of wood your saw can work on with ease. To find what materials your saw can handle, check the number of teeth per inch. The more teeth, the smoother the cuts.

You should also pay attention to the size of the teeth. For instance, medium teeth work well in hardwood, whereas prominent ones tend to cut faster and are great for softwood.

Comfort

The handle of your saw should be comfortable, especially if you want to use it for pruning. So, when shopping, choose a handle with well-balanced materials and superior design.

It should also be easy to grip and non-slip to ensure it doesn’t slip from your hand when working in moist conditions.

When shopping for your folding saw, hold the handle to check how comfortable it is. If you are buying online, look for reviews from previous buyers.

Locking Positions

Folding saws are equipped with many locking positions that increase the strokes’ effectiveness. Some saws have one position while others offer two. Many saws also come with more than two locking positions.

Thickness and Blade Length

While shopping, consider what you intend to use your tool for to get the best saw possible. For example, a pocket-sized saw is ideal for pruning and not cutting trees because it has a thinner blade.

On the other hand, thicker blades are more heavy-duty. However, they are harder to operate and bulky.

Weight

Naturally, when you are shopping for a camping or survival saw, you will have to check the dimensions, especially if when searching for a portable tool. There is no need to buy a bigger saw if you want something that can fit into your pocket.

Direction of Stroke

It is also important to consider your preferred stroke. Most folding saws nowadays are designed to stroke in a certain direction, which can be a backstroke or a front stroke. Therefore, ensure the tool you buy suits your dominant stroke.

Warranty

Always go for saws with a lifetime warranty to protect your tool from defects. If it doesn’t work, get a replacement. Fortunately, most manufacturers offer them, so it shouldn’t be a problem to find one.

Summary

The folding saws in our review are suitable for anyone planning on going on a trip in the wilderness. Therefore, if you are looking for folding saws for camping, hunting, or backpacking, then our selection will meet your expectations. We hope you will be able to find the best saw before embarking on your next backpacking or camping trip.