Last Updated on 3rd January 2021
If you’re looking to buy the best folding saw this year, you should first stop to consider exactly what you want to use it for.
There’s a wide range of very good folding saws available, from pruning saws, to Laplander and general survival folding saws that are great for camping and buschcraft.
Because of this we have gone against the grain with this article and broken up our review table and sections into two – The best folding saw for pruning and landscaping, followed by the best folding saw for camping and survival.
And if the in depth reviews don’t help you in your decision making, we’ve also covered the kind of things you should consider when buying one of these convenient tools.
The Best Folding Saw for Pruning & Landscaping
| PRODUCT | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|
Best Overall | 1. GomBoy Folding Landscaping Saw
| Get It Today! |
Best Value | 2. Corona RS 7265D Razor Tooth Folding Pruning Saw
| Get It Today! |
  | 3. Fiskars PowerTooth Folding Pruning Saw
| Get It Today! |
The Best Folding Saw for Survival & Camping
| PRODUCT | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|
Best Overall | 1. Bahco Laplander Folding Saw
| Get It Today! |
Best Value | 2. EverSaw Folding Hand Saw
| Get It Today! |
  | 3. SOG F10N-CP Folding Saw
| Get It Today! |
Image Credit: Youtube.com/User: Garrett WadeA close look at the foldable pruning saw
As a keen gardener, your pruning saw will be an integral part of your tool kit. The fact you have found this page means you on the lookout for something a little more compact than a fixed blade pruning saw.
The safety and convenience of a folding hand saw is a big plus. It can be tucked neatly against the body when not in use, and the sharp edges are kept away from other surfaces such as your flesh or the skin and bark of the plants and tree.
Using a folding pruning saw
Your pruning saw will generally be used to cut through branches from between 1/2 inch wide up to about 5 inches. Anything larger and you will want a chainsaw to do the work for you.
The great convenience of the folding pruning saw is the fact you are able to get into tight working areas with relative ease.
When working within the matrix of a tree or shrub you will be able to saw in narrow gaps to remove a branch without damaging the others around it.
Blade type and material
When buying a folding pruning saw , it is important to think of the types of branches you aim to be cutting. The saws are designed with either a curved or a straight blade, and the common consensus is that curved blades are better for smaller branches while straight blades make easier work of thicker branches.
User comfort and the handle
The type of work you will be doing means it is important to consider user comfort.
This generally comes from buying a tool that is well-balanced and has a superior designed handle that is easy to grip.
It is important to consider the size of your hand in accordance with the size of the saw. When buying online, where you will not necessarily have had the chance to hold the saw for yourself, search around for user opinion. Previous buyers will often comment if a saw is uncomfortable to use.
Lefty or righty
The problem of left-handedness is common when it comes to garden hand tools. Folding saws can be susceptible to this due to the fact many will have an operable lock. Depending on the design, the operation of this may be inconvenient for left-handed uses.
A control fitted on the top of the saw is generally the best option as this should be convenient for all operators.
You should also consider the fact that you may be wearing garden gloves when using the folding saw. Comfort and overall grip may be impaired as a result, although thin rubber gloves can mitigate any issues.
Our Top 3 Folding Pruning Saws Reviewed
1. TOP PICK: GomBoy Folding Landscaping Saw
Silky saws are already a byword among anyone who finds themselves working with brush, from professional landscapers to backpackers out in the woods. This saw makes it easy to see why. A combination of quality materials and the best Japanese engineering combine to make a lightweight, reliable tool for all manner of pruning work.
Gomboy remains a pioneer in the field of impulse hardening for saw blades, treating the teeth of the blade with high-frequency radiation that causes the metal to heat rapidly and then harden just as fast. Saw teeth treated in this manner can gain up to three times the useful lifespan of untreated products, while the rest of the blade retains its original weight and flexibility.
Although any saw with a Japanese handle should have a non skid coating, it is clear that this model’s handle has been designed with some extra care. An extra texturing has been added to ensure a firm grip, and a layer of padding protects the user’s hand from friction and vibrations. A spring-lock hinge serves to open the blade easily and hold it firmly in position while you cut.
Naturally, you won’t have this saw out around the clock, so a protective case with a hinged top and belt clip is helpfully included to let you store and carry the saw in a convenient manner. The whole thing is 210mm unfolded and has a blade thickness of 1.3mm, with 30 teeth per inch to give a fast and smooth cut through live wood and dry lumber alike.
What we loved about the GomBoy Folding Landscaping Saw
- Comfortable and secure grip
- Powerful spring assists opening
- Impulse hardened blade
- Included carry case
- Useful for dry and fresh wood alike
The not so good points
- No handguard
- Replacement blades are expensive
Bottom Line
Despite the costs of the blades, this saw remains an impressive addition to the GOMBOY line. The same quality of materials and the innovation of impulse hardening set this saw a cut above the competition, lasting far longer and cutting well no matter what kind of wood you need to trim.
Our number 1 pick for a reason, you will not be disappointed.
2. Corona RS 7265D Razor Tooth Folding Pruning Saw, 10″ Curved Blade
The Corona folding pruning saw is another bestseller that ticks many of the boxes when it comes to buying a quality folding saw for the garden.
The blade is extremely sharp and the curved shape is well designed for efficient cutting. Although the saw only cuts on the pull action, (which helps prevent undue blade damage and friction), the curve shape does make it easier track the cut from base to tip.
The manufacturers also boast that each tooth on the blade is individually whetstone-ground and sharpened at 3 angles. This increases the performance, making the tool extremely effective on all types of wood; from green to hard, or even dead and frozen limbs.
The handle has a nice and comfortable contoured shape using hard plastic where it meets the palm of your hand and a durable polymer plastic grip for your fingers to wrap around. Even after extended pruning blisters will not be a problem.
The handle is big too, so users with large hands or using gloves will still be able to use the tool with ease. Furthermore, the blade release is on the back of the handle so you can easily press it with either hand.
What we loved about the Corona folding pruning saw
- Extremely sharp cutting action, with minimum friction and efficient curved blade action
- Well designed handle that feels very comfortable
- Easy to reach blade release mechanism
- The bright red color makes the tool easy to pick out should it get waylaid in the hedgerows or tree branches
- Very affordable
The not so good points
- A few users have complained that the nut holding the hinge mechanism in place can frequently loosen. Loctite has been mentioned as a quick way to solve the problem.
- The tool does not come with a sheath or case.
- There is only one locking position for sawing, (where as the Silky has 2).
Bottom Line
An affordable, ultra sharp folding pruning saw that gets the job done. This is a no nonsense affair and if the minor flaws do not put you off, it is very much a worthwhile purchase. Highly recommended.
3. Fiskars 7 Inch PowerTooth Folding Pruning Saw
At the time of writing, the Fiskars folding pruning saw is the lowest cost option in our best folding saw list. It also features the shortest blade with a length of 7 inches.
However, this does not stop the Fiskars from performing well and being a good pruning folder for those on a budget.
The company have utilised a patented PowerTooth blade manufacturing process, and beyond the marketing buzzword there’s no denying that the triple ground teeth do make short work of most wood types the average gardener is likely to come across.
The non-slip grip handle does exactly what you would expect and is sufficiently comfortable to hold.
The hinge and lock mechanism are also well built and will give you the confidence that the tool will last you a few years, despite the budget price.
Overall, the compact design makes the tool easy to stash in your belt or pocket, making this a great go to pruning tool for home gardeners and professional alike.
What we loved about the Fiskars folding pruning saw
- Competitive price
- Small and convenient to use and store
- Ultra sharp triple ground blade teeth
- A reliable go to foldable pruning saw
The not so good points
- The blade although very sharp, can feel slightly flimsy
- Some users have experienced the handle actually snapping after aggressive use.
Bottom Line
A low budget, yet sharp and comfortable folding pruning saw. There have been some issues with the overall build quality for a small minority of owners, however to a degree this should be expected with such a low priced tool. If your budget is limited then the Fiskars is worth a look.
A close look at the foldable Laplander / survival / bushcraft saw
Many of the variables involved when choosing the best folding pruning saw, apply here too.
When buying a folding saw for camping, survival or bushcraft you will want a tool that is light, reliable and highly portable.
To a certain degree, build quality is even more important. You need a saw that can withstand the abuses of being out in the field, and thrown around in the kit bag.
Comfort is clearly important, and again you will want a saw that is well balanced with a superior designed handle. The fact you will likely be using the saw in wet and slippery conditions at times, means a good strong grip is paramount.
Blade and tooth selection
Blade and tooth selection are an important consideration when buying a camping saw.
Because you may be miles from anywhere, and very dependent on the quality of your blade you will want your folding saw to perform well every time. Sharp and reliable edge retention, (that comes from quality blade materials) is a must.
If possible, consider the type of wood you will be working on. It is generally accepted that the harder and drier the wood, the finer the teeth needed to produce a smooth working cut and stroke.
It is often best to purchase a tool that is as versatile as possible. Many survival experts recommend a medium-toothed saw (8-9 teeth per inch), because it fits so many applications well – i.e perfect for the outdoorsman.
For survival and camping, shelter materials will often consist of softer willow/cottonwood type trees. These can be tackled with a large toothed blade.
However, if you live in an area where hardwood is prominent, a fine toothed saw may be the best folding saw for you.
Finally, the size of the blade will impact performance. Coarser teeth on a longer blade will work well because of the leverage and stroke that the length provides.
When using a smaller the blade, the teeth need to be finer in order to produce a smooth stroke on very dry or hard woods.
Overall, folding camping saws with medium teeth blades are the top recommendation for survivalist and outdoorsman.
Best Folding Saw for Survival and Bushcraft Reviewed
1. TOP PICK – Bahco Laplander Folding Saw, 9-Inch Blade
The Bahco Laplander folding saw is a clear winner in the market, and we have no hesitation declaring this tool our number 1 pick.
The Laplander is perfect for bushcraft and survival use. It is everything you want such a tool to be and then some – tough, reliable, light and compact, and quick and easy to use. It is also extremely affordable.
The Bahco Laplander Folding Saw comes in at only 9 inches (23 cm) long when folded and weighs just 6.67 ounces (190 grams). The guys over Bahco state that through the entire design stages of the tool, they had the true outdoorsman in mind.
An excellent feature on the Bahco is the unique XT toothing. This has been developed as a fine and extremely sharp manufacturing design that enables ultra fast and efficient cutting.
Blade quality and strength ticks all the right boxes too. Heavy gauge stainless steel has been used on the saw, giving the tool stability and superior anti-corrosive properties.
The teeth have also been hardened for extra durability, while the anti-rust coating helps reduce friction. The blade folds and locks inside the handle in a way that is very satisfying indeed. Everything is so snug and well made, you will be using this folding saw for many years to come.
For this particular review we have broken down the main selling points of the Bahco to give you as in depth an appraisal of the saw as possible.
Performance
Being a folding saw designed for the outdoorsman, the Laplander is capable of cutting through a range of materials, including plastic and bone. On our tests, as well consistent user reviews, the Bahco folding saw made short work of both.
The XT toothing is big factor in this. The blade actually cuts in both directions. So both pushing and pulling will see you work though the material you are cutting.
Furthermore, the blade coating and design ensures that it very rarely sticks. Efficiency is the name of the game here. The ratio of work put in to results is actually quite extraordinary.
Build Quality
As we have already covered, the build quality is exceptional on the Bahco folding saw.
Although the tool is light, it still feels solidly built. The way everything folds into place is extremely well made too.
The handle is comfortable and designed to accommodate both large and smaller hands. The material used is shatterproof and high-density plastic. In short, the Laplander can take a beating and still keep on rolling.
For wet conditions, the rubber coating provides a good grip and is comfortable during extended use too.
A belt and wrist leather lanyard are supplied for carrying the Bahco folding Laplander saw. These are in keeping with the rest of the tool in being well made and pleasing to use. They really do add an extra level of convenience and are yet another reason this folding saw stands head and shoulders above the competition.
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Maintenance
The fact the blade teeth are hardened on the Bahco folding saw means they cannot be sharpened with normal tools.
However, the blades on the Bahco can be replaced when the time comes. This is by far the best option when it comes to maintaining your tool.
Fortunately the process is very easy to do. Just loosen a screw, pull out the blade, replace with the new one and screw back in.
Bottom Line
The Bahco folding Laplander saw really is the best on the market right now. From build quality, to efficiency and ease of use it cannot be beaten.
If you are in the market for an affordable folding saw for survival, camping and bushcraft you need look no further than this.
2. EverSaw 8 inch – Folding Hand Saw
It could be that you are after a folding saw that is more of a general purpose tool. Suitable for a bit of backyard pruning, while at the same time can join you into the woods for some bushcraft.
If that is the case, the Eversaw 8 inch folding hand saw may well be the tool for you. It may not have the finesse of the Bahco offerings reviewed here, but it doesn’t stop the Eversaw from being a really good option.
Let’s take a look…
First off the durable carbon steel blade really is up to the job. The triple-cut, medium razor teeth have been hardened for longevity and provide ultra smooth and sharp sawing.
The saw features a 9 TPI (teeth per inch) design making it an excellent utility saw. Multipurpose really is the go here.
Again, multiple tests with the Eversaw folding hand saw, prove that the tool can cut through wood, bone and plastic with consistent ease.
The overall size is good, with the extended full length coming in at 17″ (closed length is 9½”).
This gives the tool a nice sized handle that is both comfortable and good for both left and right-handed uses. The lock in blade is very easy to operate and is designed to so that no inadvertent collapsing will occur while work is in progress.
For maintenance, an adjustable bolt can be loosened to release the blade when it comes time to renew.
To top it all off, the Eversaw folding hand saw comes with a complete lifetime warranty. That’s how confident the company is about the quality of their product.
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What we loved about the Eversaw folding handsaw
- Excellent multipurpose tool that works equally as well in the garden or out in the field.
- Well designed blade with medium razor teeth that cuts through plastic, wood and bone with ease
- Superior build and materials for the price
- The lifetime guarantee
The not so good points
- Friction can be a problem on the blade, meaning some materials require more effort than others
- The blade, although strong and sharp is designed to flex slightly – if you try to saw larger branches with the tool you may find yourself snapping the blade. Not good when out in the field and the saw is the only one in your pack.
Bottom Line
As an all rounder the Eversaw 8 inch is a fantastic folding hand saw. It really will get the job done in a full range of conditions. However, if you know that all you want to be doing is bushcraft and survival work, the Bahco Laplander is still the folding saw to go for.
3. SOG Specialty Knives & Tools F10N-CP Folding Saw
The SOG folding saw is a rather handsome beast. The Compact tool has been designed with camping, backpacking and hiking in mind and stands up to the tests well.
The 8.25-inch high carbon steel blade with a black powder coat finish is one of the reasons the SOG looks so good. This attention to detail and black finish extends to the handle, which is also made from high carbon steel. As we say, the tool looks very sleek indeed.
But what about performance? Overall there are few complaints. (Hence the SOG making our top 3 list).
The tempered steel teeth work on hardwood and green wood, and the average sized blade makes this a great tool for out in the field.
Keeping with that black theme, the company also provides a well made black sheath that features a snap closure and belt loop attachment for easy mounting and storage.
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What we loved about the SOG folding saw
- Compact, lightweight and sharp out of the box – exactly what you want from a folding saw out in the field
- The tempered steel teeth make short work out of a range of wood types
- The black harness is a nice touch
- The tool is aesthetically very well put together
The not so good points
- Edge retention can be pretty bad on the SOG – many users have complained of this. This can be issue if you are caught short as an outdoorsman
- The locking mechanism is poorly designed and has a tendency to get stuck
- When compared to the excellent Bahco, the SOG just doesn’t make the mark.
Bottom Line
The SOG folding saw is good looking tool but doesn’t quite get everything right to be the must have folding saw for the outdoorsman. The Bahco gets that distinction. Should you buy the SOG it will probably perform well enough for you. However, some of the lacklustre elements about this tool make it far from an essential purchase.
So Why Prune in the first place?
Pruning helps improve the health of the plant
Pruning can help remove diesed and dying areas of the plant before the decay is able to spread. Pruning trees will help promote better air circulation and sunlight,
Pruning helps control the appearance and size of a plant
From an aesthetic perspective, pruning can control the size of the plant so it better fits the landscape of your garden. Practically speaking it can also prevent roots from getting to large and cause issue, or the tops of trees interfering with lines or rooftops.
Pruning can endorse fruit and flower growth
Very often fruit trees and flowers need to be pruned in order to promote earlier and more vibrant vegetative growth. It can also help to grow larger fruits as the resources of the plant are concentrated in specific areas.
Pruning helps promote the growth of young plants
Similar to the impact that pruning has on vegetation, cutting back young plants makes it easier to control their growth patterns, and gives you a tool with which to successfully landscape your plants.
Gives new life to old trees and plants
Finally, correct pruning can restore health and growth into old plants that may be struggling.
How To Prune
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Now you know the importance of pruning, and we have given you the information above to buy the best pruning saw for your needs, it is time to get out into the garden.
(Note: this guide does not cover how to use a foldable saw for survival and bushcraft. Watch this space for an article on that in the very near future)
Pruning with a saw – a step by step guide
Step 1 – Safety First
Ensure your safety is the number one priority (especially a s a newbie). You should wear work gloves and safety goggles if you are reaching into particularly thick foliage. Where the correct clothing too, shorts and t-shirt are a bad idea if you’re pruning rose bushes for instance.
Step 2 – Check the wood you wish to preserve
The beauty of a foldable saw is that you can get into tight work areas. This means you should be fully aware of what you want to cut before you begin. Pruning saws can very easily slip and damage areas of the plants that you did not intent. Take your time, to select the correct areas.
Step 3 – Prune comfortably
By taking your time, you should be able to assume a comfortable position in order to cut precisely and at the correct angle.
If you are stretching to prune a hard to reach spot, stand back and adjust your position accordingly; even if this means stopping to fetch a short stool or ladder. Awkward pruning leads to unsatisfactory work or possible injury.
Step 4 – Be aware of the branch weight
Beginner pruners will very often go straight to the point where the branch meets the main trunk of the plant. You cut here, and the branch is too heavy you may well have an accident on your hands as the branch falls on your head.
Furthermore, the resulting split will tear the plant causing lots of undue damage.
Prune back areas of heavy branches first, and then prune the branch off completely. That way you keep in control and your plant stays intact.
Step 5 – Making the cut
Okay, so we’ve covered safety procedures and other tips, however exactly how do you go about making the cut?
First you should make a starting groove. These saw action creates the angle at which you will continue to cut. Work inside this groove as you saw, ensuring that your strokes are slow and steady.
The cut actually happens on the pull stroke, so ensure this is done carefully and with precision.
Step 6 – Finishing the perfect cut
Keeping sawing until the branch comes cleanly away from the plant. If a splinter or rough woo remains, use the saw to carefully shave it away, with a light stroke of your blade pressed flat against the area you have pruned.
And there you have it, all the information you need to get out in the yard and start pruning. Have fun and happy gardening.
Further reading: Best Bow Saw Reviews For 2023
Image Credits: Industry Supply Denver, more than just surviving, Youtube.com/Users: Patriot36, Garrett Wade, BlackScoutSurvival, Stillman’s Family – Work and Play, Fiskars.com
