Camp Saws

Recent Camp Saw Reviews

Silky BigBoy

The most versatile of the Silky lineup, the Bigboy can do just about any job a backpacker could ask of a saw. After using Silky's Katanaboy on a trail maintenance gig, I knew I needed one of my own. I mean, the hatchet is useful and all, and a solid piece of trail maintenance kit; but those things are heavy, not really backpacking material. So I treated myself to an early birthday present—right before the pandemic hit. D'oh! Fast forward six months, and I finally got to put my saw to use. And… Full review

Bahco Laplander Folding Saw

This little saw works when both pushing and pulling, which requires less effort, in my opinion, and was the main reason I chose this saw. It is affordable for most budgets, and has held up well in the two months I've been using it. This folding saw does just what I needed it to do, which is to cut up some downed limbs or very small dead trees for campfire purposes. It won't take down anything that big, but I would be leaving those for cavity-nesting birds anyway. I think it's more efficient than… Full review

Opinel No.12 Stainless Steel Folding Saw

A handy, no-fuss pruning saw ideal for small arboreal tasks at a very reasonable price. The classic and simple design has remained unchanged. Functional, affordable with a lovely feel compared to saws with a plastic handle. I have used a Bahco Laplander and an Opinel folding pruning saw and I was interested to compare the two. For me, the Opinel is the superior saw. Unlike the Laplander which failed after a short amount of time, the Opinel has proven to be dependable and durable in cutting through… Full review

Silky BigBoy

I've found nothing more effective for clearing trail. Every hiker should carry one. I stumbled onto one of these at REI a couple of years ago. I had been trying to use a Sven Saw off and on with marginal results, and could saw nothing larger than about 8" in diameter. When I discovered the "Big Boy", and learned it utilized the Japanese cutting orientation of the teeth, I went for it. It seemed expensive at the time but now after two years, it's clearly a bargain. I've likely cut well over 100 trees… Full review

Silky Katanaboy 500

In the family of folding saws, Silky plays the role of the teched-up young prodigal son—and the Katanaboy is his hulking, gym-rat persona. After seeing a few recent reviews of other Silky blades, I thought I should toss in my experience with something a little more sizable. I was working on a trail crew in the PNW and the crew leader brought along his personal blade, along with all the tools supplied by the volunteer organization. I was tasked with building some new steps in a particularly eroded… Full review

Agawa Canyon Boreal 21

Compact cutter. I picked one up having tried one on a bushcraft course. Cuts through soft and hardwood very efficiently. Safe and easy to carry around camp. Full review

Agawa Canyon Boreal 21

This is a really cleverly designed saw. It is compact, efficient, cuts well, and sets up easily. This is a really cleverly designed saw. It folds up to far more compact (if a little long) than other bucksaws/bowsaws, and the way it folds protects the teeth and other gear in my pack. The best part, however, is the way it tensions: as the saw unfolds, the one part of the handle hinges onto itself, creating a lever which keeps the blade tensions really high (and can be adjusted). I have found this… Full review

Silky Pocketboy

I feel compelled to do trail work whenever I am out for a hike. If I don't do it, when will be the next time a trail crew gets to it? I needed a handsaw to replace another I had lost. Grabbed this SILKY at a local gear store. So happy with how it performs. It's small yet big. I do a lot of different types of trail work for mountain bikes, ski glades, hiking trails. It's a must-have in my pack.  Full review

Silky BigBoy

This saw is razor sharp. I use it in the winter while sledding and the rest of the year for building, hiking, and camping. It is light enough that I always have it with me on my day pack or multi-day pack. Basically you won't find me in the mountains/bush without it! Ease of Use: You must let the saw do the work. If forcing this saw you will snap the blade! This goes for all the Silky saws I have used. I am a woodworker and faller/arborist. I have multiple Silky products and they last if cared for. Full review