When it comes to hiking, camping, or survival, having a reliable compact folding saw is a must. Whether you’re gathering firewood, clearing trails, or building shelters, a portable saw ensures you’re prepared for the tasks ahead. In this guide, we’ll review the top 11 compact folding saws available on Amazon, each chosen based on durability, portability, and real-world performance.
- Introduction
- Top 11 Compact Folding Saws on Amazon
- Opinel No. 12 Saw
- Corona RazorTOOTH Folding Pruning Saw
- AGAWA BOREAL21 Folding Bow Saw
- Bahco 396-LAP Laplander Folding Saw
- SOG Folding Saw
- Coher Folding Pruning Saw
- Fiskars 7-Inch Folding Saw
- Rexbeti Heavy-Duty Folding Saw
- Felco 600 Folding Saw
- Kershaw Taskmaster Folding Saw
- Silky Professional BIGBOY 2000 Folding Saw
- Conclusion
Common Pitfalls of Compact Folding Saws
Choosing the wrong folding saw can lead to frustration in the field. Here are a few issues to avoid:
- Weak or Low-Quality Blades: These may bend, break, or struggle to cut through thicker wood.
- Uncomfortable Handles: Poorly designed handles can lead to hand fatigue or blisters during extended use.
- Ineffective Locking Mechanisms: A blade that doesn’t lock securely can be a safety hazard.
- Heavy or Oversized Designs: Bulky saws defeat the purpose of portability, especially for hikers and campers.
Selection Criteria
We selected these folding saws based on:
- Blade Quality: Sharpness, durability, and rust resistance.
- Portability: Weight, folded dimensions, and ease of carrying.
- Handle Design: Ergonomics for a comfortable grip.
- Locking Mechanism: Secure blade locks for safety and stability.
- User Feedback: Real-world reviews from customers regarding performance.
Top 11 Compact Folding Saws on Amazon
1. Opinel No. 12 Saw
The Opinel No. 12 combines traditional craftsmanship with modern efficiency, offering a compact folding saw perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Blade Quality: 7-inch carbon steel blade with precision-ground teeth.
- Portability: Folds to 8.5 inches and weighs just 4.2 ounces.
- Handle Design: Wooden handle with a classic, ergonomic design.
- Locking Mechanism: Virobloc safety ring for secure blade locking.
Pros:
- Lightweight and elegantly designed.
- Excellent for light to medium tasks.
- Highly portable and easy to carry.
Cons:
- Blade may struggle with thicker wood.
- Wooden handle less durable than synthetic materials.
2. Corona RazorTOOTH Folding Pruning Saw
Designed for efficient pruning and cutting, this saw is lightweight and easy to handle, with a 10-inch curved blade.
- Blade Quality: High-carbon steel blade with triple-ground teeth for smooth, quick cuts.
- Portability: Lightweight at 0.8 pounds; folds compactly for storage.
- Handle Design: Co-molded, ergonomic handle for comfort during prolonged use.
- Locking Mechanism: Secure locking for safety.
Pros:
- Affordable and effective.
- Lightweight and portable.
- Ideal for cutting branches up to 6 inches in diameter.
Cons:
- Blade may dull with heavy use.
- Not suitable for larger logs.
3. AGAWA BOREAL21 Folding Bow Saw
This folding bow saw combines the cutting power of a full-sized saw with a portable, foldable design.
- Blade Quality: 21-inch blade for large cutting tasks.
- Portability: Weighs 1.2 pounds; folds to 21 inches for easy storage.
- Handle Design: High-visibility ergonomic handle.
- Locking Mechanism: Automatic blade tensioning when unfolded.
Pros:
- Great for heavy-duty cutting.
- Durable and built to last.
- Easy setup and takedown.
Cons:
- Larger and bulkier than standard folding saws.
- Higher cost.
4. Bahco 396-LAP Laplander Folding Saw
This versatile saw handles wood, plastic, and even bone, making it a popular choice for hunters and survivalists.
- Blade Quality: 7.5-inch stainless steel blade with anti-rust coating.
- Portability: Lightweight at 0.5 pounds; folds to 9 inches.
- Handle Design: Two-component plastic handle for a secure grip.
- Locking Mechanism: Locks securely in open and closed positions.
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact.
- Multi-purpose blade for various materials.
- Rust-resistant coating.
Cons:
- Shorter blade limits its use for large tasks.
- Handle may be too small for large hands.
5. SOG Folding Saw
This lightweight folding saw is perfect for smaller cutting tasks during hiking or camping trips.
- Blade Quality: 8.25-inch high-carbon steel blade with aggressive teeth.
- Portability: Weighs just 5.9 ounces; folds neatly for carrying.
- Handle Design: Soft, TPR rubber handle for a secure grip.
- Locking Mechanism: Reliable blade locking for safe use.
Pros:
- Lightweight and highly portable.
- Budget-friendly.
- Great for cutting smaller branches and kindling.
Cons:
- Limited cutting power for thicker wood.
- Blade durability is average.
6. Coher Folding Pruning Saw
This budget-friendly folding saw is great for basic pruning and light cutting tasks.
- Blade Quality: 8-inch stainless steel blade with triple-cut teeth.
- Portability: Lightweight at just 6.5 ounces.
- Handle Design: Anti-slip plastic handle for added safety.
- Locking Mechanism: Blade locks securely during use.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to use.
- Affordable for beginners.
- Effective for small branches.
Cons:
- Blade may struggle with thicker wood.
- Less durable than premium models.
7. Fiskars 7-Inch Folding Saw
The Fiskars 7-Inch Folding Saw is a compact and affordable option for campers and hikers who need a simple yet effective tool for light cutting tasks.
- Blade Quality: 7-inch precision-ground blade designed for smooth, easy cuts.
- Portability: Lightweight and folds neatly for easy transport.
- Handle Design: Ergonomic, non-slip handle for a secure grip.
- Locking Mechanism: Lock engages in both open and closed positions for added safety.
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact design.
- Affordable and easy to use.
- Excellent for small branches and kindling.
Cons:
- Blade length limits cutting capabilities.
- Not ideal for heavy-duty tasks.
8. Rexbeti Heavy-Duty Folding Saw
The Rexbeti Folding Saw is a high-performance tool for heavy-duty outdoor tasks, with a durable blade and comfortable grip.
- Blade Quality: 11-inch SK5 steel blade with triple-cut teeth for aggressive cuts.
- Portability: Folds to 12 inches; weighs slightly over 1 pound.
- Handle Design: Rubber-coated handle for improved comfort and control.
- Locking Mechanism: Secure locking mechanism for safe operation.
Pros:
- Aggressive cutting power for thick branches.
- Durable blade construction.
- Excellent grip for extended use.
Cons:
- Heavier than other compact options.
- Blade may require sharpening after extensive use.
9. Felco 600 Folding Saw
The Felco 600 is a premium pruning saw designed for precision and durability, suitable for gardeners and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
- Blade Quality: 6.3-inch chrome-plated steel blade with pull-stroke cutting.
- Portability: Folds to just 7.5 inches, weighing 5.6 ounces.
- Handle Design: Ergonomic handle with anti-slip grip.
- Locking Mechanism: Blade locks securely during use.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design.
- Superior cutting precision.
- High-quality, durable materials.
Cons:
- Higher price for its size.
- Not ideal for heavy-duty tasks.
10. Kershaw Taskmaster Folding Saw
The Kershaw Taskmaster offers a versatile folding saw suitable for outdoor and survival applications, with a focus on durability and ease of use.
- Blade Quality: 7-inch high-carbon steel blade with corrosion-resistant coating.
- Portability: Lightweight at 9 ounces; folds compactly.
- Handle Design: Glass-filled nylon handle for superior durability and grip.
- Locking Mechanism: Secure blade lock for reliable operation.
Pros:
- Durable and corrosion-resistant blade.
- Comfortable and sturdy handle.
- Lightweight and compact.
Cons:
- Blade length limits cutting range.
- Slightly higher price for its size.
11. Silky Professional BIGBOY 2000 Folding Saw
The Silky BIGBOY 2000 is a professional-grade saw, perfect for heavy-duty tasks like cutting large branches and logs.
- Blade Quality: 14.2-inch high-carbon steel blade with impulse-hardened teeth for efficient cuts.
- Portability: Folds to 15 inches and weighs 1.25 pounds.
- Handle Design: Rubberized, non-slip grip for superior control.
- Locking Mechanism: Secure locking ensures safety during use.
Pros:
- Long blade for tackling large tasks.
- Extremely durable and sharp.
- Ideal for both green and dry wood.
Cons:
- Heavier than other compact models.
- Premium price.
Conclusion
Having a reliable compact folding saw is essential for outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists. From lightweight options like the SOG Folding Saw to heavy-duty performers like the Silky BIGBOY 2000, this list offers something for every need.
When choosing a folding saw, prioritize durability, blade quality, and portability to ensure optimal performance in the field. By investing in the right tool, you can tackle outdoor challenges with confidence and efficiency.
Explore the Top Folding Saws on Amazon to find the perfect addition to your survival or camping gear. Stay prepared and ready for anything nature throws your way!
Survival QA 