When it comes to survival, having the right gear can mean the difference between life and death. A reliable survival saw is one of the most essential tools you can have in your arsenal. With it, you can build shelter, gather firewood, and navigate through the wilderness with ease.
As a seasoned off-grid tiny house expert, I’ve learned firsthand the importance of self-sufficiency. I’ve lived off-grid for over a decade, and I’ve developed a passion for the simplicity and freedom that comes with it. When it comes to survival saws, I’ve tried and tested many options to find the best ones.
To help you make the right choice, I’ve curated a list of top picks based on expert feedback and my own experience. I’ve narrowed down the options to give you the most reliable and effective survival saws on the market. Whether you’re a seasoned prepper or just starting out, you’ll want to have one of these saws in your survival kit.
Whether you’re camping, hiking, or preparing for emergencies, having a reliable survival saw can be a game-changer. It’s not just about having a tool; it’s about having the confidence and peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re prepared for whatever life throws your way.
So, what are you waiting for? Take the first step in building your survival kit with the right saw.
Top Considerations for Choosing a Survival Saw
Let’s talk about choosing the best survival saw. From blade type to handle comfort, and even replacement ease, these top considerations ensure you pick a reliable, efficient tool for your off-grid adventures.
Blade Type: The Right Cut for the Job
First, consider the type of blade you need. Do you prefer a folding saw for compactness, a fixed blade for stability, or a bow saw for heavy-duty tasks? Each type has its own strengths and weaknesses, so think about your specific needs.
When it comes to survival tools, the blade is a critical component that can make or break your experience. Choosing the right type of blade can greatly enhance your ability to cut through larger pieces of wood and other materials.
For instance, an aggressive blade is designed to handle demanding tasks, making it perfect for survival situations. Bow saw blades, with their 21 inches in diameter, are ideal for cutting through thicker logs and branches efficiently.
Blade Length: Size Matters
Next, think about the length of the blade. Longer blades (around 12 inches) are great for cutting through thick branches and logs, while shorter blades (6-8 inches) are more maneuverable in tight spaces.
For those who prefer compact options, a folding saw blade with a 7-inch blade is both portable and effective. Curved blades offer better control and more precise cuts, especially when dealing with branches and smaller pieces of wood.
Straight blades, on the other hand, provide cleaner cuts and are easier to sharpen over a period of time. Many survival saws also come with replaceable blades, allowing you to switch out a dull blade for a spare blade quickly, ensuring your tool remains effective.
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Material: Durability is Key
High-carbon steel blades are the way to go for durability and rust resistance. They can withstand the rigors of outdoor use and keep their edge. In addition to the main blade, it’s wise to carry an extra blade for unforeseen circumstances. Thicker blades are more robust and can withstand heavy use, while spare blades ensure you’re never caught off guard.
Weight: Lighten Your Load
A lightweight saw is easier to carry, making it perfect for backpackers and preppers on the go. Look for saws with durable, lightweight materials.
Handle Comfort: Reduce Hand Fatigue
An ergonomic handle with a textured grip is essential for comfort and control. This reduces hand fatigue and prevents slippage, even in wet or cold conditions.
Ease of Replacement: No Hassle, No Fuss
Easily replaceable blades are a must-have for any survival saw. This feature saves you time and hassle, and ensures you’re always ready for the next challenge.
Multi-functionality: More Bang for Your Buck
Some survival saws come with additional tools or features, such as a knife, fire starter, or whistle. These multi-functional saws can be a game-changer in a survival situation.
Price: Balancing Quality and Budget
Lastly, consider the price. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that a high-quality survival saw is an investment in your safety. Balance quality and budget to find the perfect saw for your needs.
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Top Brands in Survival Saws
Survival situations require the right tools, and a reliable survival saw can make all the difference in a life-threatening scenario. These are your top brands to go:
Corona RazorTOOTH Folding Pruning Saw
Known for their durable, high-performance saws, Corona offers a range of folding and fixed blade options for preppers.
I’ve had the pleasure of using the Corona RazorTOOTH saw in my off-grid life, and I can attest to its excellent cutting action. The 3-sided razor teeth offer a precise cut, and the impulse-hardened teeth ensure durability. The chrome-plated blade results in smooth cuts with minimal friction, making it a reliable tool for survival situations.
The ergonomic design of the handle is comfortable to grip, allowing for easy maneuvering during cutting. The compact shape makes it easy to store in your bug-out bag for emergencies.
Plus, the curvature of the blade provides more control over the cut, ensuring precision and efficiency in various cutting tasks.
In my experience, the Corona RazorTOOTH saw has been a reliable tool for building shelter, gathering firewood, and navigating through the wilderness. Its compact design and durable construction make it a top choice for preppers and survivalists.
Silky Gomboy Folding Hand Saw
Japanese brand Silky is renowned for their razor-sharp blades and precision cutting. Their folding saws are a favorite among outdoors enthusiasts.
The Silky Gomboy Folding Hand Saw is another top pick for survival saws. Its chrome-plated blade is durable and resistant to corrosion, making it perfect for withstanding tough cutting tasks. The blade is designed for smooth and precise cuts, allowing you to work efficiently and effectively.
In my experience, the Silky Gomboy saw has been a reliable tool for various cutting needs in survival and camping scenarios. The finish of the saw ensures a clean cut, and the compact design makes it easy to carry. Whether you’re cutting through branches or logs, the Silky Gomboy saw is a trusted companion.
The Silky Gomboy saw is also easy to maintain and clean, making it a low-maintenance tool for survival situations. The ergonomic design of the handle ensures a comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue during extended use.
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Sportsman Pocket Chainsaw
The Sportsman Pocket Chainsaw is a top choice for survival saws due to its compact design and portable nylon bag. It’s easy to carry and store in your bug-out bag, making it perfect for on-the-go use in emergency situations.
The carbon steel teeth of the Sportsman Pocket Chainsaw are durable and strong, ensuring a reliable cutting performance. I’ve used this saw to cut through branches and logs, and it’s performed flawlessly. The compact design also makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
The Sportsman Pocket Chainsaw is also an affordable option for survival saws, making it a great choice for preppers and survivalists on a budget. Despite its affordability, the saw is built to last, with durable materials and a reliable construction.
AGAWA – BOREAL21 Folding Bow Saw
Canadian company Agawa offers innovative, lightweight saws that are easy to carry and use in any situation.
The AGAWA – BOREAL21 Folding Bow Saw is a top pick for survival saws due to its solid durability and reliability. The hardened steel blades, anodized aluminum frame, and stainless steel hardware make it one of the most reliable folding bow saws on the market.
In my experience, the AGAWA Saw has been a reliable tool for building shelter, gathering firewood, and navigating through the wilderness. Its compact design and durable construction make it a top choice for preppers and survivalists.
The AGAWA Saw is also easy to maintain and clean, making it a low-maintenance tool for survival situations. The ergonomic design of the handle ensures a comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue during extended use.
Bahco 396-LAP Laplander
Swedish brand Bahco has been producing top-quality saws for over 150 years, and their survival saws are no exception.
The Bahco 396-LAP Laplander is another top pick for survival saws. Its chrome-plated blade is durable and resistant to corrosion, making it perfect for withstanding tough cutting tasks. The blade is designed for smooth and precise cuts, allowing you to work efficiently and effectively.
In my experience, the Bahco Laplander has been a reliable tool for various cutting needs in survival and camping scenarios. The finish of the saw ensures a clean cut, and the compact design makes it easy to carry. Whether you’re cutting through branches or logs, the Bahco is a trusted companion.
The Bahco Laplander is also easy to maintain and clean, making it a low-maintenance tool for survival situations. The ergonomic design of the handle ensures a comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue during extended use.
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Silky Zubat Hand Saw
The Silky Zubat is a top pick for survival saws due to its high-quality blade and durable construction. The blade is made from premium materials and is known for its durability and sharpness.
In my experience, the Silky Zubat has been a reliable tool for building shelter, gathering firewood, and navigating through the wilderness. Its compact design and durable construction make it a top choice for preppers and survivalists.
The Silky Zubat is also easy to maintain and clean, making it a low-maintenance tool for survival situations. The ergonomic design of the handle ensures a comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue during extended use.
Gerber Freescape Camp Saw
The Gerber Freescape Camp Saw is a top choice for survival saws due to its compact design and high-carbon steel blade. The blade is durable and strong, ensuring a reliable cutting performance.
In my experience, the Gerber saw has been a reliable tool for building shelter, gathering firewood, and navigating through the wilderness. Its compact design and durable construction make it a top choice for preppers and survivalists.
The Gerber saw is also easy to maintain and clean, making it a low-maintenance tool for survival situations. The ergonomic design of the handle ensures a comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue during extended use.
Factors for Performance Evaluation
To ensure you’re getting the best possible performance from your survival saw, there are a few key factors to consider:
Teeth per Inch (TPI)
The number of teeth per inch on your saw blade will determine the smoothness and speed of your cuts. Higher TPI (around 14) is best for precise cuts on smaller branches, while lower TPI (around 6) is better for fast, aggressive cuts on thicker wood.
Aggressive Teeth
Look for a saw with aggressive, razor-sharp teeth that can bite into wood easily. Some saws feature specially designed teeth that cut on both the push and pull strokes for maximum efficiency.
Ergonomic Handle
An ergonomic handle design will reduce fatigue and improve control during prolonged use. Look for a saw with a handle that fits comfortably in your hand and provides a secure grip.
Sturdy Construction
Your survival saw should be built to last, with a sturdy frame and durable components that can withstand heavy use in tough conditions. Look for reinforced joints and high-quality materials that won’t bend or break under pressure.
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Types of Survival Saws
There are several types of survival saws to choose from, each with its own strengths and weaknesses:
Folding Saws
Compact and portable, folding saws are a popular choice for preppers. They typically feature a locking blade that folds into the handle for easy storage and transport.
Bow Saws
Bow saws have a distinctive arched frame that holds the blade in tension, allowing for fast, aggressive cuts on larger branches and logs. They’re a bit bulkier than folding saws but offer more cutting power.
Pocket Chainsaws
These compact saws consist of a chain with teeth that you can wrap around a branch and use to cut through with a back-and-forth motion. They’re lightweight and easy to carry but require more effort to use than traditional saws.
Wire Saws
Similar to pocket chainsaws, wire saws are thin, flexible wires with teeth that you can use to cut through wood or bone. They’re not as efficient as other types of saws but can be a useful backup option in a pinch.
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Best Survival Saws for Different Situations
Depending on your specific needs and the situations you anticipate encountering, some survival saws may be better suited than others:
Bushcraft and Camping
For general bushcraft and camping tasks like building shelters and processing firewood, a high-quality folding saw like the Silky Gomboy or Bahco Laplander is a great choice.
Emergency Preparedness Kits
When space is at a premium, a compact folding saw or pocket chainsaw is a good option for your emergency kit. Look for a saw that’s lightweight and easy to store, like the Corona RazorTOOTH or the Coghlans Pocket Chainsaw.
Outdoor Exploration and Hiking
If you’re planning on doing a lot of hiking and exploring in the backcountry, a lightweight folding saw like the Agawa Canyon Boreal21 or the Silky Pocketboy is a good choice. These saws are easy to carry and can handle most cutting tasks you’ll encounter on the trail.
Hunting and Fishing
For hunters and anglers who need to process game or cut through bone, a bow saw like the Bahco 10-24-23 or a heavy-duty folding saw like the Gerber Freescape Camp Saw is a good option.
When it comes to choosing the best survival saw for your prepping needs, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Consider the type of cutting you’ll be doing most often, the situations you anticipate encountering, and your personal preferences when it comes to size, weight, and portability.
Investing in a high-quality saw from a reputable brand like Silky, Bahco, or Agawa is always a good idea, as these companies have a proven track record of producing durable, reliable tools that can stand up to the rigors of outdoor use.
Remember to practice using your saw in a variety of situations and conditions so that you’re prepared to handle whatever challenges come your way in a real survival scenario. With the right tool and the skills to use it effectively, you’ll be well-equipped to thrive in the wilderness.
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In the end,
Picking the right survival saw is key for any prepper or survivalist aiming to be well-prepared for emergencies. The top picks mentioned here offer a good mix of durability, efficiency, and portability. From compact folding saws to pocket chainsaws, each one has been chosen for its proven reliability in survival scenarios.
Having the right saw means you’re equipped to handle various tasks, whether you’re building shelter, gathering firewood, or navigating tricky terrain. Investing in a quality survival saw ensures you have a vital tool at your disposal, ready to help you tackle challenges and stay safe in both outdoor and urban environments.