Gearing up for an outdoor adventure later this year? If you’re looking to build a campfire, saw logs into kindling, or chop down small saplings then you’ll need the right camping saw.
- OFHQ's Favorite Camping Saws
- SVEN SAW 15″ Folding Bow Saw (Overall Best Camping Saw)
- Silky Gomboy Curve Outback 240 Folding Saw (Best Folding Saw)
- Agawa Gear BOREAL21 Folding Bow Saw (Best Bow Saw)
- Nordic 25-Inch Pocket Chainsaw (Best Pocket Chainsaw)
- Camillus Camtrax Hatchet with Folding Saw (Best Combo Camping Saw)
- Best Camping Saws (Organized by Type)
- Camping Folding Saws
- 1. Silky Professional Series BIGBOY 2000 Folding Hand Saw
- 2. Silky Gomboy Curve Outback 240 Folding Saw
- 3. Silky Pocketboy 170 Outback
- 4. Bahco 396-LAP Laplander Folding Saw
- 5. SOG F10N-CP Folding Saw
- 6. EverSaw Folding Camping Saw
- 7. Corona RS 7265D Razor Tooth Folding Pruning Saw
- 8. Felco F600 Folding Saw
- Camping Bow Saws
- 9. SVEN SAW 21" Folding Bow Saw
- 10. SVEN SAW 15″ Folding Bow Saw
- 11. Agawa Gear BOREAL21 Folding Bow Saw
- 12. Gerber Freescape Folding Bow Camp Saw
- Camping Pocket Chainsaws
- Camping Sliding Saws
- Combo Camping Saws
- 16. Zippo Camping Saw Axe
- 17. Schrade 18-Inch Axe Saw Combo
- 18. Camillus Camtrax Hatchet with Folding Saw
- Things to Look for in the Best Camping Saw
- Intended Use
- Size of the Saw Blade
- Handle Material and Feel
- Blade Maintenance
- Safety
- Manufacturer's Warranty
- How to Maintain a Camping Saw
- Leave No Trace – How to Collect Firewood Ethically
- And . . . Cut!
Whether you are a novice camper, seasoned pro hiker, or family out on their first outing together – choosing the best camping saw for your needs can be daunting.
Fear not! We here at OutdoorFamily HQ have narrowed it down to our top 15 picks and provided thorough reviews of each so that you can make an informed decision about which is best suited for your specific adventures.
Read on to find out what makes these 18 models stand out from the competition & why they just might be the perfect companion on your next outdoor quest!
OFHQ’s Favorite Camping Saws
If you need a fast rec’ dang quick, here are our absolute favorite camping saws that stand as a cut above the rest (that’s a pun, y’all …)
SVEN SAW 15″ Folding Bow Saw (Overall Best Camping Saw)
It’s lightweight. It’s compact. It’s easy on the wallet. It cuts through wood like butter. It’s Swedish.
- The blade folds completely into the handle when stowed
- High visibility red color
- Super-rigid frame
- Swedish steel blade lasts 15-30 years
- Quickly cuts through logs up to 4-5" in diameter
- Lifetime Warranty
- Tends to run out of stock . . . for good reason
- Non-ergonomic handle can become uncomfortable
Silky Gomboy Curve Outback 240 Folding Saw (Best Folding Saw)
It’s popular among campers and backpackers for good reason.
- Ideal size and weight for general camping
- Excels at cutting logs 4.2" in diameter or less
- Taper-ground blade cuts on the pull stroke with minimal friction
- Blade coating reduces wear and extends blade life
- Blade easily replaceable
- Grip material remains warm to the touch even in icy weather
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
- A smidge on the pricey side
Agawa Gear BOREAL21 Folding Bow Saw (Best Bow Saw)
A Cadillac among camping saws . . . and priced like one, too.
- Quick single-action deployment without having to handle the blade directly
- Automatically tensions the blade when unfolded
- High visibility yellow handle
- The trapezium-shaped frame provides excellent clearance for larger logs
- Three styles of replaceable high carbon steel blades are available – general purpose, extremely aggressive, and bone cutting
- Lifetime Warranty
- A bit large and heavy for a camping saw
- Overpriced
Nordic 25-Inch Pocket Chainsaw (Best Pocket Chainsaw)
This thing rips through large logs like a hangry woodivorous beast. Yes, I just invented a new word.
- Crafted of top-notch materials
- Surprisingly clean cuts for a chainsaw
- Handles are grippy, even when wet
- The chain can be resharpened with a 4mm round file
- 5-Year Limited Warranty
- Aside from the effort required by this type of saw, no flies on this one.
Camillus Camtrax Hatchet with Folding Saw (Best Combo Camping Saw)
Sometimes you need to saw. Sometimes you need to chop. Sometimes you just need to hit stuff.
- Effective on limbs 4" in diameter (and perhaps larger)
- Stealthy, tactical styling
- Snug-fitting molded sheath carries well on the belt
- Excellent balance between weight, size, and function
- Bi-directional cutting teeth give more bite on the push and pull strokes
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
- The axe head could be heavier to make chopping more effective
Best Camping Saws (Organized by Type)
Most camping saws essentially fall into one of four categories: folding saws, bow saws, pocket chainsaws, and combo saws.
We’ve grouped each best camping saw in our review by these types following a brief description of the saw type and its specific benefits (and downsides).
Use the QUICK LINKS at the beginning of this post to jump to the saw type you are most interested in, or read about all of them!
Download this guide to get your kids outside and off screens.
Download The FREE Guide NowCamping Folding Saws
By far the most popular among campers (because they’ve been around the longest), folding saws are the traditional type of saw to take camping due to their remarkable ability to combine cutting power and portability.
The primary advantages of folding saws are their lightweight, compact size when folded and foldable design which makes them much easier to store than a standard saw.
Also, their ergonomic handles provide more comfort to the user, increasing cutting efficiency and the narrow blades are easier to maneuver in thick brush.
Their significant drawbacks are the thinness of the blades that make them susceptible to flexing and bending on the push stroke and binding on the pull stroke.
Also, the length of the blade tends to be shorter than bow saws allowing it to fold into the handle but sacrificing cutting efficiency and the grind of the teeth is oriented for sawing on the pull-stroke (as opposed to bow saws that cut on the pull and push-strokes).
A worthwhile folding saw, in our experience, needs (at minimum) an 8-inch blade with around 6 teeth per inch (TPI) and a simple locking mechanism (few things in life are suckier than a saw blade closing on your hand . . .).
Check out this lineup of 7 full-featured folding camping saws made by reputable companies that will serve you well.
1. Silky Professional Series BIGBOY 2000 Folding Hand Saw
- Weight: 1 lb.
- Blade Material/Length/Thickness: Premium Japanese Steel / 14.2″ / 1.4mm
- Teeth per Inch: 5.5
- Folded Dimensions: 14.2″
- Notable Features: Two-handed Rubberized cushioned handle, taper-gound blade, locking mechanism
- Large teeth cut rapidly through green and dry wood
- Efficiently cuts logs 8" in diameter or less
- Longer saw provides greater reach
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
- Pricey
- Replacement blades are expensive (three-fourths the original cost)
- A bit over-sized for a camping saw
A BIG BOY to be sure, this folding saw is a great all-around camp saw, that can easily take care of small and medium branches with ease.
Its long, 14-inch blade makes it ideal for reaching higher up limbs without having to climb a ladder, while its 5.5 teeth per inch make cutting through green or dry wood fast and clean.
The rubberized handle also provides extra comfort during long cutting sessions, and the limited lifetime warranty is a great bonus. Plus, you can get both hands on there to maximize power.
On the downside, it’s one of the pricier options and replacement blades can be expensive. Also, it isn’t as compact or lightweight as some other camping saws.
Overall an excellent option for campers who want a powerful, larger camping saw.
2. Silky Gomboy Curve Outback 240 Folding Saw
- Weight: 8.2 oz.
- Blade Material/Length: Japanese Steel / 9.4″
- Teeth per Inch: 6.8
- Folded Dimensions: 9.65″
- Notable Features: Arbor Composite grip, black taper-ground nickel/tin coated blade, locking mechanism, hard plastic case
- Ideal size and weight for general camping
- Excels at cutting logs 4.2" in diameter or less
- Taper-ground blade cuts on the pull stroke with minimal friction
- Blade coating reduces wear and extends blade life
- Blade easily replaceable
- Grip material remains warm to the touch even in icy weather
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
- A smidge on the pricey side
In our estimation, the GOMBOY by Silky achieves the perfect balance between size, weight and cutting efficiency, making it the best-of-the-best folding saws.
At 9.4 inches long and only 8.2 ounces, it’s one of the most compact folding saws you can get, but still maintains an impressive 6.8 teeth per inch for fast cutting through green or dry wood up to 4.2″ in diameter.
The blade is also taper-ground which reduces friction on the pull stroke and increases cutting efficiency. The black, nickel/tin-coated blade helps reduce wear and the replaceable blade is an added bonus.
The limited lifetime warranty is a great plus as well. However, it does come in at a higher price than many other folding saws.
3. Silky Pocketboy 170 Outback
- Weight: 8.75 oz.
- Blade Material/Length: Japanese Steel / 6.3″
- Teeth per Inch: 8.5
- Folded Dimensions: 6.7″
- Notable Features: Arbor Composite grip, black taper-ground nickel/tin coated blade, hard plastic case
- Fair price
- Excels at cutting dry wood 3" or less in diameter
- Taper-ground blade cuts on the pull stroke with minimal friction
- Blade coating reduces wear and extends blade life
- Blade easily replaceable
- Grip material remains warm to the touch even in icy weather
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
- Blade length is shorter than we'd like
- Blade teeth are smaller, reducing cutting speed
- Struggles to cut through logs over 3" in diameter
While not Silky’s most compact model, it’s as small as we feel is practical for the size of logs needing to be cut in a typical camping scenario.
The 6.3-inch high carbon steel blade is coated in black nickel/tin for increased wear resistance and has 8.5 teeth per inch, making cutting through dry wood up to 3″ diameter fast and efficient.
The taper-ground blade further reduces friction on the pull stroke, increasing efficiency even more.
With a replaceable blade, a limited lifetime warranty, and an arbor composite grip that remains warm to the touch even in cold weather, this saw is a great choice for campers looking for a fairly-efficient compact folding saw.
The price is also very reasonable.
The main downside we found with it was the shorter blade length and smaller teeth per inch, which means it may not be the best saw for cutting larger logs (over 3″ in diameter).
4. Bahco 396-LAP Laplander Folding Saw
- Weight: 7.1 oz.
- Blade Length: 7.5″
- Teeth per Inch: 7
- Folded Dimensions: 16 in.
- Notable Features: Rust-preventative blade coating, replaceable blade, safety lock (open and closed)
- Comfortable 2-component grippy handle
- Performs great on dry wood
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
- The blade is about an inch shorter than we'd like it to be
- Laplander spare blades are only sold in the UK and cost half the price of a new saw
- Does not perform well on green wood
- Plastic handle - nothing special
Honestly, I’m a bit surprised at how much popularity the Bahco Laplander 396-LAP folding saw has gained over the years. It’s a fine saw for the price; however, I just wasn’t wowed by it.
The blade length comes up a bit short of the ideal 8 inches, and its lack of performance on green wood would be the primary detractor (say, if you’re using to bushcraft a shelter).
If you’re sawing exclusively dry wood, the Laplander could be a good fit for you.
The fact that the blades are difficult to find is also a bit of a bummer, not to mention the exorbitant price of replacing them.
Overall, however, it’s still a decent folding saw for the price, and will get most light-duty campers through their weekend activities with ease.
5. SOG F10N-CP Folding Saw
- Weight: 9.2 oz.
- Blade Length/Thickness: High Carbon / 8.25″
- Teeth per Inch: Undisclosed
- Folded Dimensions: 8.5″
- Notable Features: Ballistic nylon sheath, soft TPR handle, black powder-coated blade,
- Super-low price point with a stealthy look
- Razor sharp teeth effective on limbs 1.5" in diameter or less
- Includes ballistic nylon sheath
- Replaceable blade
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
- Blade lock tends to disengage on an aggressive push stroke
- Can't cut through anything thicker than 1.5" without bending the thinner blade
In my experience, camp saws fall into the “You Get What You Pay For” category. So when I heard about the SOG F10N-CP folding saw, which has a price tag of only $25, I was skeptical.
I’m still a little skeptical; however, it depends on what you need it to do. The blade is razor sharp and the handle is quite comfortable. It works well on dry wood up to 1.5″ in diameter, but its thin profile means it will bend if you try to cut through anything thicker than that.
The blade also tends to move from the “locked open” position when sawing, potentially turning it into a bear trap for your hand on a push stroke.
So, that said, if you need a light-duty saw at a light price . . . here ya go!
Just watch that blade lock.
Wilderness Tip: Be skeptical of camping saws under $25. I’ve tried several over the years and, like any form of cutlery, the quality, longevity, and SAFETY are often (with rare exceptions) reflected in the price point.
Still, there is one exception worth mentioning . . .
6. EverSaw Folding Camping Saw
- Weight: 11.7 oz.
- Blade Material/Length: Carbon Steel / 8″
- Teeth per Inch: 9
- Folded Dimensions: 9.5″
- Notable Features: Ribbed rubber handle, blade lock, nylon sheath
- Effectively saws through limbs up to 4" in diameter
- Includes nylon sheath
- Fair quality at a low price
- No-Questions-Asked Limited Lifetime Guarantee
- Heavy for a camping saw
- The locking mechanism only locks the blade open, not closed
Like the S.O.G., it’s good, not great. But if you’re looking for an inexpensive saw that can handle thicker limbs than the S.O.G., then the EverSaw is worth a look.
The blade has 9 teeth per inch and effectively cut through limbs up to 4″ in diameter, which was quite impressive. The locking mechanism only locks open, though; however, having a blade that is both locked open and closed would be a nice safety feature.
The handle is ribbed which provides extra grip, though it’s quite heavy for a camping saw. And at $25, the EverSaw offers you decent quality at an attractive price point.
Wilderness Tip: If you need a saw to pack on a casual weekend camping trip, the EverSaw or SOG might be a great option. For those who intend to use their saw frequently, I would recommend something heavier-duty than the SOG or EverSaw.
7. Corona RS 7265D Razor Tooth Folding Pruning Saw
- Weight: 12.8 oz.
- Blade Length: 10″
- Teeth per Inch: 6
- Folded Dimensions: 10.5″
- Notable Features: Ergonomically-molded handle; chrome-plated blade with impulse-hardened teeth, blade locking mechanism
- Effective on branches up to 6" in diameter
- The ergonomic handle is exceptionally comfortable
- Taper-ground teeth minimalize friction and retain sharpness well
- Larger 6 TPI provides swift cutting on medium-sized dry logs
- Blade can get a bit flexy when heated up
I’ve used Corona’s tree-pruning saws for years around the house. It’s not a Silky; but, for the money, I can’t bark about the quality.
The RS 7265D has a chrome-plated blade with impulse-hardened teeth. I was surprised the 6 TPI held up so well when cutting through medium-sized dry logs. It’s effective on branches up to 6″ in diameter, although it can start to flex a bit when heated up from sawing larger limbs.
The ergonomic handle is exceptionally comfortable, especially when gripping with two hands. The taper-ground teeth minimize friction and retain sharpness well.
The Corona RS 7265D is a great value for those who are looking for a larger saw that can handle heavier jobs without lightening the wallet.
8. Felco F600 Folding Saw
- Weight: 5.6 oz
- Blade Length: 6.3″
- Teeth per Inch: 8
- Folded Dimensions: 8.5″
- Notable Features: Ergonomic non-slip phthalate-free handle, heat-treated and hardened blade, blade lock
- Effectively cuts through branches up to 4" in diameter
- Comfortable ergonomic handle
- Dependable blade lock
- Very lightweight and compact
- Replacement blades are almost as expensive as buying a brand-new saw
- Blade bends easily when heated from friction
- Only a 1-Year Limited Warranty
It’s hard to recommend a company that only warrants their product for a year when so many others provide a Lifetime Guarantee; however, the Felco F600 is a great value and has gained a loyal following among branch amputators.
The blade is heat-treated and hardened and can effectively saw through branches up to 4″ in diameter. The ergonomic handle has a non-slip grip, making it comfortable to use with two hands.
And the blade locks when opened and closed so you don’t have to worry about it accidentally folding up on you.
The downside? Well, the blade isn’t as sturdy as some of the other saws and bends easily when heated from friction. Also, replacement blades are almost as expensive as buying a brand-new saw.
Overall, if you’re looking for an inexpensive option that can handle light pruning, the Felco F600 is worth a look. However, if you’re looking for something more heavy-duty, then I’d recommend checking out one of the other saws on this list.
Camping Bow Saws
Without a doubt, the bow saw is by far the most efficient type of camping saw you can use.
Assuming you buy a saw from a reputable brand, the frame is sturdier and reinforces the blade. Plus, the blades are longer – guaranteeing more return for your cutting efforts.
The primary advantages of bow saws are that they are rugged, comfortable to use, and fast-cutting, thanks to their bi-directional blades that cut on both the pull and push strokes.
While bow saws don’t necessarily feature a thicker saw blade than typical folding saws, the blade is reinforced from both ends by a triangular frame allowing it to cut thicker branches without bending.
Also, recent innovations have endowed the bulky, oddly-shaped traditional bow saw with the ability to collapse or fold down when not in use.
The most significant drawback to these items is that, when deployed, the triangular frame decreases clearance, making it more difficult to maneuver between branches that are close together.
Still, the better-reinforced blade and superior cutting performance of a bow saw, in my estimation, more than makes up for this minor drawback.
Here are our 4 top picks for bow saws that will serve you well on your next camping trip:
9. SVEN SAW 21″ Folding Bow Saw
- Weight: 13.7 oz.
- Blade Material/Length/Thickness: Swedish Steel / 21″
- Folded Dimensions: 23″
- Notable Features: Red anodized aluminum handle, Swedish steel blade
- Handle doubles as blade sheath
- High visibility red color
- Super-rigid frame
- Swedish steel blade lasts 15-30 years
- Quickly cuts through logs up to 6" in diameter
- Lifetime Warranty
- Heavy and a bit too big for some
- Non-ergonomic handle can become uncomfortable
Has anything bad ever come out of Sweden?
Overall, the Sven 21″ Folding Bow Saw is an excellent choice if you need a saw that can handle bigger projects in the outdoors.
The Swedish steel blade is incredibly durable and will last for decades if cared for, while the bright red color makes it easy to spot when camping.
Plus, it comes with a lifetime warranty, so you know you’re getting a quality product from a company that believes in its product.
The only downside is that it can be a bit large and heavy for some, weighing in at just over 13 ounces.
But if you’re looking for a bow saw that will stand the test of time and cut through wet wood like butter, this is a great option.
10. SVEN SAW 15″ Folding Bow Saw
- Weight: 11.1 oz.
- Blade Material/Length: Swedish Steel / 15″
- Folded Dimensions: 17.25
- Notable Features: Red anodized aluminum handle, Swedish steel blade
- The blade folds completely into the handle when stowed
- High visibility red color
- Super-rigid frame
- Swedish steel blade lasts 15-30 years
- Quickly cuts through logs up to 4-5" in diameter
- Lifetime Warranty
- Tends to run out of stock . . . for good reason
- Non-ergonomic handle can become uncomfortable
Take 8 inches off of its bigger brother and you have the perfect saw for cuttin’ good in the woods!
The Sven 15″ Folding Bow Saw is an excellent choice for any camping, hiking, or hunting expedition. It’s lightweight and easily collapsible, allowing you to carry it just about anywhere without a problem.
Additionally, this folding saw features a Swedish steel blade that will stay sharp and rust-free for up to 30 years if taken care of properly. The handle is made from anodized aluminum, meaning it will stand up to wear and tear without any issues.
Finally, the bright red color makes it easy to spot in a pinch – a huge plus when you’re in the wilderness.
Overall, this saw offers unmatched performance and durability, making it a great choice for your next camping adventure. And don’t forget – it comes with a lifetime warranty!
11. Agawa Gear BOREAL21 Folding Bow Saw
- Weight: 18 oz.
- Blade Length: 21″
- Folded Dimensions:
- Notable Features: High-clearance anodized aluminum frame for larger logs, fiberglass reinforced nylon handle, rust protective coating, and hardened blade teeth
- Quick single-action deployment without having to handle the blade directly
- Automatically tensions the blade when unfolded
- High visibility yellow handle
- The trapezium-shaped frame provides excellent clearance for larger logs
- Three styles of replaceable high carbon steel blades are available – general purpose, extremely aggressive, and bone cutting
- Lifetime Warranty
- A bit large and heavy for a camping saw
- Overpriced
The only consideration keeping us from awarding the Boreal 21 the “Overal Best Camping Saw” is the price. At almost twice the price of the SvenSaw 15, it’s a bit steep, but you can’t deny that it is one of the best folding bow saws out there.
The Boreal 21 collapsible bow saw features an anodized aluminum frame with high clearance to accommodate larger logs and a fiberglass-reinforced nylon handle for added durability.
The rust protective coating ensures its long-lasting performance, while the hardened blade teeth make it a great saw for cutting through larger logs of up to 6″ in diameter!
All in all, if you don’t mind the hefty price tag and need an incredibly durable, reliable, and versatile bow saw for either camping or backyard work, then this is definitely an excellent choice. Plus, it comes with a lifetime warranty, so you know you’re getting top-notch quality.
Its little brother the Boreal 15 is lighter (15 oz.) with a shorter blade (15″) and boasts the same rugged rigidity; however, it’s still over-priced. Consider it an honorable mention.
12. Gerber Freescape Folding Bow Camp Saw
- Weight: 14.8 oz.
- Blade Thickness: 12″
- Folded Dimensions: 17″
- Notable Features: Rubberized plastic grip, standard steel blade, 4 pivot points to reinforce the rigidity of the blade
- Big points for style
- Single-action deployment without the need to touch the saw blade
- Accepts all standard 12" replacement blades
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
- The blade is standard carbon steel – not as robust or long-lasting as the SvenSaw or Agawa
- Not as visible as the SvenSaw or the Agawa
- Heavy for its size
- The price is almost as high as the Agawa; but, the materials are of lower quality
I’m a big Gerber fan; so, it pains me a little to not award this saw the “Overall Best Camping Saw.” Other than the style points, it just doesn’t measure up to the SvenSaw or Agawa.
Sorry, Gerber.
The Freescape is a good choice if you don’t need extreme stiffness in your blade and are willing to accept that the steel blade isn’t as strong or long-lasting as that of the other two saws.
On the other hand, when it’s time for a new blade, you can replace it with ANY 12″ saw blade at any price point and quality you want.
If you’re looking for a folding bow saw that is lightweight, compact, and stylish – then this might be the one for you. Plus, it comes with a limited lifetime warranty so you can rest assured that your purchase is backed by Gerber’s word.
Overall, if style and portability are of utmost importance and you don’t mind spending a bit more for them, then the Freescape is worth considering.
However, if you need something that can stand up to heavy-duty work, then we’d advise going with either the Agawa or SvenSaw.
Camping Pocket Chainsaws
The pocket chainsaw, as you can guess from the name, is inspired by its motorized counterpart but is powered by the user instead.
The pocket chainsaw’s primary advantage is its compact and lightweight design, making it a great option for minimalist campers and backpackers who are tight on space and weight.
These remarkably effective little tools are small enough to fit in your pocket and can easily be stowed away until needed.
Their main disadvantages are that it is a rough-cutting tool only, making it unsuitable for notch-cutting and finer bushcraft work and, if you’re not being mindful of keeping your hands apart during operation, it’s easy to lose some knuckle skin (speaking from experience here).
Also, pocket chainsaws tend to require more effort to cut effectively and typically wear out much faster.
Still, personal preference will always win the day and many out there still swear by them; so . . .
Here are our “favorite” pocket chain saws:
13. Nordic 25-Inch Pocket Chainsaw
- Weight: 4.7 oz
- Chain Material/Length/Thickness: Heat treated High carbon steel / 25.6″ or 36″
- Links with Cutter Teeth: 33 or 50
- Notable Features: Heavy-duty nylon handles, nylon carry case, high carbon steel cutting chain
- Crafted of top-notch materials
- Surprisingly clean cuts for a chainsaw
- Handles are grippy, even when wet
- The chain can be resharpened with a 4mm round file
- 5-Year Limited Warranty
- Aside from the effort required by this type of saw, no flies on this one.
If I was a fan of pocket chain saws, this would be the one for me.
The proud recipient of multiple awards from the likes of National Geographic, Scandinavian Outdoor Awards, and Ich Liebe Berge (German for “I Love Mountains”) Award the Nordic Pocket Saw is designed to tackle larger diameter logs up to 15″ in diameter.
Wow! So, theoretically, you could, with Paul Bunyun-esque musculature, fell enough timber to build a hunting lodge with this thing.
Available in both 25″ and 36″ models with either 33 or 50 cutting links of high carbon steel, it’s strong enough to slice through hardwoods and lightweight enough that you won’t even notice it in your pack.
The heavy-duty nylon handles provide a comfortable grip and the included carry case makes this an ideal chainsaw for camping, backpacking, hunting, or survival purposes.
The price is a bit higher than other pocket chainsaws – but you get what you pay for!
So, if you’re looking for a strong and tough saw that’s light enough to fit in your pocket – then the Nordic 25-Inch Pocket Chainsaw might be the one for you.
14. Sportsman Industries 36-Inch Pocket Chain Saw
- Weight: 4.94 oz.
- Chain Material/Length/Thickness: High Carbon Steel / 36″ / 65mm
- Links with Cutter Teeth: Undisclosed
- Notable Features: Heavy-duty nylon carry case,
- Can be resharpened with a 5/32 round chainsaw file
- Includes an 8mm round magnesium fire starter . . . 'cause, why not?
- Great for the casual, every-once-in-a-while camper
- Can, with patience, attack limbs 3-8" in circumference
- Lifetime Guarantee
- Cutting teeth are not as efficient or durable as the Nordic
- Will the company be around long enough to honor their Lifetime Guarantee???
Sportsman Industries is one of those vague outdoor products companies that don’t seem to specialize in any one thing and have an awkwardly-designed website that makes you go Hmmmmm . . .
But, I digress.
In point of fact, their sportsman pocket chainsaw has enjoyed some seriously glowing feedback from its Amazon customer base and, back in 2021, managed to get itself televised spots on CBS, FOX, NBC, and ABC news stations.
As their only product (at least that I can find on their site), their 36″ model is made out of high carbon steel and with an undisclosed number of cutting links.
It’s lightweight and small enough to fit into your pocket, but it’s light-duty and not as efficient or durable as the Nordic saw.
It does, however, come with a heavy-duty nylon carry case and an 8mm round magnesium fire starter – making it great for casual campers who like to cut wood and set it ablaze!
Camping Sliding Saws
The not-so-common camping sliding saw is unique in that the blade retracts into the handle much like an OTF (Out of the Front) pocket knife; however, the mechanism is manual rather than spring-assisted automatic.
This aside, the advantages and drawbacks of a sliding saw are virtually the same as a folding blade: lightweight and compact with a relatively thin blade that can bend easily and tends to be shorter than a bow saw.
We only found one sliding saw worth a gander:
15. Gerber Sliding Saw
- Weight: 5 oz.
- Blade Material/Length/Thickness: High-carbon SK5 steel / 6.5″
- Retracted Dimensions: 14.75
- Notable Features: plastic textured handle, retractable steel blade
- Big points for an innovative retractable design
- Low-profile blade makes it easy to maneuver in tight, brambly spaces
- Ultra-compact
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
- The blade length is much too small for significant work
- The blade's strength is only suitable for small branches (2" thick)
- Again with the blade . . . it bends easily when heated from friction
C’mon Gerber. Seriously?
Given your resources and experience in bladed outdoor tools, if you’re going to make a camping saw, then make one worthy of your name.
This one is a cute novelty, but that’s about it.
Combo Camping Saws
What if your adventures in wood cutting find you in a place where chopping is the order of the day?
The combo camping saw is your answer.
A combination between a bow saw, a folding blade saw, a hatchet, and a mallet, combo models are a genre-bending type of outdoor tool designed for those needing to cut, chop, and smash at any given moment.
16. Zippo Camping Saw Axe
- Weight: 2 lbs. 9.6 oz.
- Axe Head: 5″ 420 stainless steel
- Saw Blade Material/Length/Thickness: Lacquered stainless steel / 15″
- Folded Dimensions: 15″
- Notable Features: rugged polymer rubberized handle and shaft, integrated tent stake mallet, 5″ axe head, snap-down cam to tension saw blade
- The handle can store 2 saw blades (only 1 included)
- Grippy rubberized handle
- Saw blade self-tensions via the snap-down cam when deployed
- Replacement blades are inexpensive
- Only a 1-Year Limited Warranty
- Heavy for a camping saw . . . not suitable for backpacking
- Does not fold down to a compact size by nature of the design
Zippo has been making high-quality lighters since the 1930s . . . why not a camping saw-hatchet-mallet thingy?
As their only outdoor non-fire-starting gadget (aside from a multitool), Zippo managed to pull off something pretty cool here. Not only is the Camping Saw Axe formidable looking, but its features are seriously practical in a pinch and make it worth considering as an outdoor tool.
However, in an industry where a Lifetime Warranty is a norm, some questions are raised by only offering a 1-year limited warranty.
Also, it is heavier than most camping saws on the market and due to its design, cannot fold down into a tiny package.
This isn’t an ideal companion for backpacking trips, but if you’re looking for something more versatile than a traditional folding saw, the Zippo Camping Saw Axe is worth considering.
17. Schrade 18-Inch Axe Saw Combo
- Weight: 2lbs. 1.3 oz.
- Axe Head: 3.3″ 3Cr13 titanium-coated stainless steel
- Saw Blade Material/Length: Stainless steel / 12.5″
- Folded Dimensions: 18″
- Notable Features: Polyester belt sheath, glass fiber-filled thermoplastic rubber handle,
- Nice, long saw blade
- Lighter weight – which may not be a good thing when it comes to chopping
- Suitable for limbs up to 9" in diameter
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
- A bit bulkier than other models
- Saw blades make an annoying rattle in the handle when chopping
Schrade’s been in the blade business for a long time (since 1904), so you’d expect their folding saw-hatchet combo to be good. But is it?
The Schrade Axe Saw Combo certainly gets the job done. It’s got a nice long saw blade and is suitable for cutting/chopping limbs up to 9″ in diameter.
The 3Cr13 titanium-coated stainless steel axe head works well, and the glass fiber-filled thermoplastic rubber handle ensures a secure grip.
That said, the saw blade tends to make an annoying rattle in the handle when chopping which can be off-putting.
And while it’s lighter than some of its competition, it’s a bit longer than others even when folded up, making it problematic for anyone wanting to take it on the trail.
Overall, the Schrade 18-Inch Axe Saw Combo is a good model for those needing the versatility of a combo saw hatchet on the trail or at camp.
Still, Schrade’s Axe Saw Combo is a solid choice for campers who need an axe and saw in one, and its Limited Lifetime Warranty speaks to Schrade’s commitment to quality.
18. Camillus Camtrax Hatchet with Folding Saw
- Weight: 1 lb. 14.2 oz.
- Axe Head: Titanium-bonded stainless steel / 2.75″
- Saw Blade Material/Length/Thickness: 7″
- Folded Dimensions: 12″
- Notable Features: Glass-filled nylon handle, molded sheath with reversible belt clip and bottle opener (’cause why not?), integrated hammer, bi-directional cutting teeth
- Effective on limbs 4" in diameter (and perhaps larger)
- Stealthy, tactical styling
- Snug-fitting molded sheath carries well on the belt
- Excellent balance between weight, size, and function
- Bi-directional cutting teeth give more bite on the push and pull strokes
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
- The axe head could be heavier to make chopping more effective
One of the United States’ oldest knife makers, Camillus has been bladesmithing since 1876! Their latest and greatest, the Camtrax Hatchet with Folding Saw, is a great example of their innovation.
This camping saw hatchet combo packs quite a punch for its size. A titanium-bonded stainless steel axe head provides fair chopping power on branches up to 4″ in diameter (possibly more depending on the amount of elbow grease you can dish out), and the 7″ saw blade is bi-directional for added efficiency.
The glass-filled nylon handle ensures a solid, secure grip while the molded sheath with reversible belt clip ensures your tool stays close at hand when you need it most.
The integrated hammer helps to pound tent stakes, and the whole kit-and-kaboodle is protected with a Limited Lifetime Warranty.
All in all, the Camillus Camtrax Hatchet with Folding Saw is a best bet for anyone needing a portable axe-saw combo on their next camping trip. It’s light but still heavy enough to get serious work done.
Oh, and it pops the top on a cold one when the work is done. Kudos!
Things to Look for in the Best Camping Saw
While personal preference is the ultimate deciding factor, selecting the perfect camping saw for your needs will be based on a few simple considerations:
Intended Use
Well, first you need to determine what type of camping you intend to do. If you’re backpacking or backcountry camping, weight and portability are paramount.
Size of the Saw Blade
If you’re planning on cutting through logs 3″ thick or more (rarely necessary when camping), then longer blades are necessary.
However, if you’re only looking to do light-duty woodworking and trimming, then a smaller blade should do the trick.
Handle Material and Feel
Also, sturdy, durable handle material (aluminum, steel, or nylon are best) is key to longevity . . . plastic handles get brittle with time and exposure.
Comfort and Ease of use is another consideration – regardless of the ingenuity of the design, if it feels clumsy in your hands, you’ll only be frustrated.
Blade Maintenance
Also, all blades wear out eventually; so, it’s important to determine whether replacement blades are available or if the blade can be sharpened.
Safety
Finally, look for a saw with a secure locking mechanism to ensure that it stays closed when not in use as well as open when in use.
Manufacturer’s Warranty
Finally, the warranty. Anything less than a Lifetime Warranty is a deal-breaker for me. Look for a guarantee that covers any defects in materials or craftsmanship so you can have peace of mind when using your saw in the wild.
At the end of the day, there’s no single “best” camping saw as it depends on what type and how often you plan to use it. But, with the right information and knowledge of your intended use, you’ll be sure to find the perfect saw for your needs.
How to Maintain a Camping Saw
“Take care of your blade and your blade will take care of you.” Thus sayeth the Camping Saw Guru.
And thus requireth common sense.
Maintaining your camping saw isn’t difficult, but it does require some TLC and routine upkeep to ensure that your tool stays sharp and effective.
Here are a few tips:
- Clean the blade after each use with soap and water to remove sap and residue. Dry thoroughly.
- Oil the blade regularly (with machine oil or similar) to prevent corrosion and make sure to wipe off any excess oil.
- Sharpen the blade (if possible) or chain at least once a year (or as needed) to maintain its cutting edge. Keep in mind that some blades can be sharpened while others require replacement.
- Store the saw safely and securely in a dry, cool place until ready to use
Leave No Trace – How to Collect Firewood Ethically
Please, please, please practice Leave No Trace principles when collecting or cutting firewood. Cutting down even small trees is harmful (and unnecessarily wasteful).
Leaving a minimal impact on the environment is not only a necessary, ethical part of enjoying the great outdoors; but, it also ensures that the Smurfs don’t end up forming a lynch mob in your camp whilst you sleep.
Learn more about ethical, responsible firewood collecting by watching the video below.
And . . . Cut!
That’s a saw pun folks.
There you have it. Now you know how to find the best camping saw, how to maintain it, and how to collect firewood responsibly.
So go out there, get a great camping saw, use it with respect for nature, and enjoy your next camping adventure! Happy trails!
Now, get out there!
Joshua Davis
Being outdoors is freedom! Being outdoors with my wife and two boys is LIVING! Whether in my backyard or getting lost in a National Park, there’s nothing I’d rather do than explore, discover, and experience the paradise that surrounds us. Give me my family, a backpack, and a trail and my life is full!Download this guide to get your kids outside and off screens.
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