The Best Folding Saw for Camping: Make Your Trip Easier

Published on: March 7, 2022
Written by Camila Avery / Fact-checked by David Rowan

Whether you need a regular camping saw, we should say the trendy hand saws if saws combine both. We agree the camping axes work like hatchets in terms of size, weight, and carrying capacity, but such folding saws combine all with neat required cutting capacity.

Even compared to axes or hatchets, folding saws for camping are becoming alternatives at present. More than that, some have twice sturdy blade integration, like curvy and straight blades in one folding case with a sturdy 2-angle lock system, which is damn awesome. Doubles as a handy toolkit, with more control.

Our crew members, as potential customers, have already tried and experimented with it numerous times. As a result, we have better compatibility. Have you tried? Not yet? Assuming will never provide better stuff. Below are potential users, and respected professionals who referred folding saws for camping saws you can simply add to your fab gear list.

Things to Consider While Choosing

We are not lying. Well, far from civilization, people often love to journey to experience adventures. So, not for all, folding saws or pocket saws are not compulsory at all. But yes, relying on bushcraft skills, an adventure lover can take it as a rule for camping by considering the shopping pinpoints below.

Safety

Safety first, even if it is a small cutter, right? Whether checking razor sharpness, operating times, or storing folding saws for camping purposes, you have to ensure safety from unnecessary awkward situations. Only because of the sharp teeth, which may often expose all itself or some outside while carrying or for flimsy lock mechanisms. Be aware of these, and these must be checked before shopping. 

In that case, I always prefer steel-made locks. Also, be aware of the closing length capacity inside the case. The weather case is plastic instead of aluminum chassis or heavy materials, ignore it. Else, you can look for a sheather for neat storage or hiding blades.  

Durability

Like portability, durability is never ignorable while shopping for a folding saw for camping. During your outdoor pursuits, if the construction material does not let your further and longtime utilization become a waste of bucks and time too. Durability we always consider the construction materials. Whether lightweight does not mean the tear-off in the shortest time, heavy-duty ones lead to overload deals. 

In that case, those mentioned above and preferred folding saws from authentic experiences are all lightweight, yet powerful even with their extensive lengths. However, with greater flexibility, for instance, Hooyman produced folding saws with 2-angle locks of steel made.  

Compact

If a folding saw, especially for camping purposes, becomes very tricky for applications, it intends to dull work deliveries. Except for this, compact designed ones are very lightweight with durable HCS, Aluminum, S.S., and more compatibility on offer. However, shorter lengths, featuring 12” lesser blades we have experienced well enough for carrying to the distance, as well as short-diameter materials. On the opposite, the higher blades for higher ranging diameters.

All these remain in compact patent and all for survival skills that you need in hiking and camping type exciting journeys. Also, you can consider one’s non-slippery handles. For example, Gonick Professional Folding Saw has found something better. 

What Materials is It Made of and How Durable is It

Folding saws for camping are typically made from durable materials such as high-carbon steel or stainless steel for the blade, and plastic or rubber for the handle. The high-carbon steel or stainless steel blades are durable and resistant to rust and corrosion. They can withstand heavy use and maintain their sharpness for a long time.

The plastic or rubber handles are also durable and can withstand exposure to the elements, such as rain and humidity. They are also comfortable to hold and provide a good grip for the user.

The durability of a folding saw for camping depends on the quality of materials and construction used in the saw. A well-made saw with high-quality materials will be more durable and last longer than a cheaply made saw. Additionally, proper care and maintenance, such as keeping the blade sharp and clean, can also prolong the life of the saw.

View Recommended Top 11 Folding Saws for Camping-

Are you all set in a backpack for hiking, camping, and adventurous journeys, yet have only bushcraft skill saws? Below ideal folding saws for camping will lead not to breaking you down while operating lumber or small branches.

1. Gonicc Professional Folding Saw for Camping

• Weight: 14.4 ounces
• 9.4 Inch Curved SK-5 Blade

Popular as a portable folding saw from the famous brand Gonick. It is a Gonicc Professional folding saw for camping, which means anywhere you can carry it in your backpack or small pouch. You may ask why to introduce it first.

Undoubtedly, it carries the largest rip capacity, whether concerning the depth reaching of any materials or carrying capacity. Unlike other enlisted models at this price-to-weight ratio, which you will see later, it has enough closing space after folding the blade inside. 

Speaking of its heavy-duty construction, 1.4 mm thick SK4 high-carbon steel is noticeable yet lightweight, fantastic right? Also, its impulse-hardening technology is unlike other models, though the tech is common for every pocket saw. We have experienced the finest, even unmatched cutting experience, whether through smooth surfaces or narrow materials. Tell us, could we rather find something better and enlist in first footing? 

What we liked 

• Higher flexibility to bend;
• Affordable;
• Sturdy high-carbon steel construction;
• Long-time service provider;
• No teeth get exposed.

Disliked 

• Found nothing. 

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2. Home Planet Gear Folding Saw for Camping

• Blade length: 9.5”;
• Extended Length: 17″.

Following the previous quality footsteps, we have searched and found not the best, but a well-enough folding saw for camping, positioned as the second one. Well, the most noticeable thing is the perfect SK5 Carbon Steel Blade; neither fast breaks down nor denies flexibility. 

Though the quality, compared to our fab one, stepped away from more. Whether about cutting capacity in diameter and the blade length and extended length, it could not beat the previous one. Another foremost thing is the triple-cut medium razor teeth, installed with thick rubber for 6-times faster delivery.

Apart from that rip capacity, in terms of carrying, the size increases tuck compatibility. Snaps counterparts into position by an integrated faulty pop-button lock, however, this safety hazard has attracted us more. 

What we liked 

• Superior-length blade;
• Anti-slippery thermoplastic rubberized handle;
• Gear style lock;
• Sturdy HCS construction, yet lightweight;
• triple-cut medium razor teeth.

Disliked

• Nothing noticeable.

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3. Corona RS16150 Folding Hand Saw for Camping

• Blade length: 10”;
• Rip capacity in diameter: 5”-6”;

From the Corona series RS16150, a folding saw for camping is very generous with a good cutting diameter capacity. However, it is fab instead of its ergonomic, co-molded handle, and comfy providing while doing such depth-reaching operations through wood or meat.

Sufficient for regular pocket keeping for the regular purpose also. Speaking of the comfortable grip, during extended usage, common degrees of arm strains intend to cause. In particular, it is easy to latch to avoid snappy issues.

6TPI helps achieve the metal and wood cutting range; in that case, you can take advantage of its triple-sided razor teeth. You can take it for every single small-to-medium pruning and ideal if these are 5-6 inches in diameter for making camp shades.  

However, the sharp ends can always get opened, not good enough. 

What we liked 

• Impulse-hardened teeth;
• Easy to latch; 
• Ergonomic handle;
• Medium-length razor-sharp blades;
• Smooth finishing curved and tapered shape.  

Disliked

• Teeth remain exposed after closing.

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4. Felco F-600 Camping Folding Saw

• Blade length: 6”;
• Extended Length: 14”.

Jumping to the next folding saw for camping, manufactured by Felco. This F-600 is ideal for multiple occasions, for instance, off-trail, canoeing, tree clearing, and hunting, among other applications. Including those, teeth geometry eliminates clogging as if sap build-up for efficient performance. But what attracted us most? Unlike other models, its heat and rust resistance have chromed blades.  

Though a 6” blade is on offer, relatively lesser rip capacity we could have noticed. Accompanying the user guide, you will check safety hazards before shopping. However, by cutting off poor diameters, the delivery system is safer and good for longer time pruning.

What we liked 

• Allows for durable pull-stroke pruning;
• Good to open and assemble;
• Thinner top and thicker bottom shaped blade;
• Rust-resistant and heat-proof;
• Reduces vibration.

Disliked

• Poor rip capacity; 
• Expensive.

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5. Flora Guard Folding Saw for Camping

• Blade length: 7.7”;
• Material: ABS,TPR,Carbon steel.

Comes with a rugged 7.7” blade with versatility in construction, like is popular with the ultimate ones, for instance, ABS, TPR, and Carbon steel. However, we have experienced such an unpopular branded folding or backpacking saw, only because it is perfect for excelling.

We did not expect much from its hardened teeth that the actual listing dimension would have helped us, though the materials are heat and rust-resistant for in-line but cross-cut. But respected users sometimes complained about this handy little saw. They experienced such a rescue blade, by force, they had to push its thin end and again open with the huge force for further applications. 

Also, the +2 locking position, though both have an opening at a leverage of 45 degrees, is tough to use except for one set. That took for light limb trimming around our camp yard, whether compared to camping hatchets, we felt for an overall good purchase.  

What we liked 

• For small to mid-sized jobs;
• Affordable;
• Both straight and cross-cut capability;
• Razor-sharp sturdy teeth.

Disliked

• Flimsy locking mechanism.

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6. Wicked 51025 Camping Folding Saw

• Blade length: 7”;
• Closed length: 8.25”;
• Materials: Cast Aluminum, HCS, steel locks.

Easy-lock and easy-open, neither any better identical pinpoint we have to introduce. Many useful features in its configuration have been noticed, but this locking mechanism is damn awesome and fab rather to other compact models. If efficiency-minded hikers dream of such easy and compact designed folding saws for their camping, this has been designed to make those true. 

How about the black-grip rubberized handle, inserted with anodized aluminum is a breeze in the present hiking situation? More than that, durability and transportation are very easy due to its High Carbon Steel in blade construction. Yet being over-molded, our experience denies a comfy grip.

What we liked 

• Ideal for hunting, hiking;
• Easy steel locking mechanism;
• Non-wearing out blade;
• Rugged Aluminum handle.

Disliked

• Hefty-priced;
• Slippery grip. 

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7. Hooyman Extendable Folding Saw for Camping

• Weight: 2.3 pounds;
• Blade length: 14-inches;
• Extended length: 60-inches;
• TPI: 4.

The smart choice for hunters is whether it is rechargeable, even for backpackers who do regular camping and hiking. Also, we want to introduce it as the largest and heaviest one in this category we have enlisted for. However, the extension we have measured and mentioned in its toolbox manual is around 60-inches like a woodworker’s axe. 

Though the actual steel HCS combining SK5 steel with impulse-hardened tech in construction with a regular aluminum chassis, sturdy, leads to unmatched long-time cutting operations. However, the blade MegaBite XP design, including 4TPI, takes it all by itself to the next level. 

We have felt locking mechanisms as more critical because of previous, not well-enough experience. Well, like the previous one, this is cool. In brief, a positive 2-angled system provides both center and cross-cutting stability, whether it is at full extension.  

What we liked 

• Easy to lock back;
• 4-edge impulse-hardened tooth;
• I-beam aluminum construction;
• In-line and cross-cutting stability.  

Disliked

• Expensive;
• Heavier and for heavy-duty jobs.

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8. Mossy Folding Saw for Backpacking and Camping

• Weight: .57 pounds;
• Blade length: wood-7.5inch, plastic-8inch, metal-7.5inch; 
• TPI: 5,11, 18.

It is a 3-in-1 razor-sharp folding saw for backpackers from Mossy. Although most of the previous ones offered multi-functionalities, this model has separate blades for plastic, metal, and wood cutting-off reasons. However, each has individual TPI, in general, 5, 11, and 18 for smooth shapes. As well, each top is thin, and the bottom is the opposite, so you can hold the extended length for far-cutting applications by unfolding. 

As well as the patent holds 3 sharp blades in one frame, so some prospective users may get worried about the effortless unfolding. Need not fret at all. Well, both steel locks have both folding and unfolding options at 2-different angles. We were worried about whether that could get flimsy within a few times. Thanks to its sturdy construction materials, preventing those issues also allows clear sawing with less effort. 

What we liked 

• 2-angle locking mechanism;
• 3 types of sturdy blades;
• Reach to expected depth;
• Provides precise and smooth sawing.

Disliked

• Only for heavy-duty jobs;
• Slippery handle. 

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9. Coher Folding Hand Saw for Camping

• Blade length: 7.9”;
• TPI: 7 TPI;
• Handle Length: 9.5”;
• Sawtooth Thickness: 0.07”.

Originally made to provide primary cuts on the pull strokes, yet intended to accomplish backyard jobs. So, one of our crew members has planned to use it in the mentioned tasks. But for other camping purposes, it would have performed more than we expected. Rather take place in our fab listing.

We have tried through bones while hiking, and yes, an alternative to household saws is for camping like slicing butter. So far, so good, you will apprehend after your first usage. However, having fewer proper materials in construction, it tore off its 5th time applied. But both 2-angle locking systems have conquered our purchasing mode. 

Instead of zipping through 2 or 3 inches thick branches with one pull, concentrate on its closed position if it is definite in your pouch or not. Else, with non-clogging, the most stagnant issues zip through you can do with ease. 

What we liked 

• 2-angle closed position;
• No exposed teeth;
• Inexpensive;
• Lightweight and comfortable;
• Anti-slippery grip.

Disliked

• Not durable. 

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10. Silky Folding Saw for Camping

• Weight: .01 pounds;
• Blade length: 9.5”;
• TPI: 6.4.

Again introducing Silky’s folding saw for camping. Designed with an average length of teeth, but is not ignorable for its fixed-blade cousins with 6.4 teeth an inch. Yes, talking about the awesome configured teeth. By far, the curvy blades of 9.5” combine both speed and efficiency. 

However, the great advantage and the combination that we have taken while having legendary cutting capacities are small and mid-sized pruning, meat, and wood cutting for survival purposes. It’s in-built strong, yet less weighing Aluminum chassis can consider advantageous by combining an easy-grip operating rubberized handle.

Including such a curvy slicer, a well-enough straight version is also available for expected camping jobs.  

What we liked 

• Both curved and straight blades;
• Large teeth configuration;
• Thick rubber handle;
• Strong Aluminum chassis.

Disliked

• Very thin and flexible.

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11. Coghlan’s Sierra Saw for Camping

• Weight: 1.6 pounds;
• Blade length: 21-inches.

The last folding saw for camping, manufactured by Coghlan, but not featuring the least. Even with another longest blade, around 21”, we cannot consider it the least one, though some lacks exist out of the factory.

However, our experienced higher cutting capacity as long as this sierra saw, obliged our determination to include it in this list, though we did not know about its full-sized one. Even you can replace any branded standard saber saw blades or reciprocal ones after its longtime usage effect wears out, though it did not seem to tear off at ease. 

According to its rugged anodized aluminum frame, you can rely upon it. Capable of dwelt spare blades, though as per your drive to cut-off meat or metal for camping purposes, is unsuitable for each job. Never disturb it while tucking it underneath a camp bag or necessary toolkit pouch. Even suits in tiny pockets. 

What we liked 

• Creates longer cutting length;
• Aluminum frame;
• Customizable;
• Foldable design.

Disliked

• Hefty priced;
• Need tremendous efforts in reaching length;
• Plastic hinge. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do You Need a Straight or Curved Blade?

While it is a matter of cutting stability, prospective users vote for folding saws. As it sores some of its total weight, being strong and convenient to carry either in the bush or in the trail. For splitting woods, with thicker width, in particular, the shorter straight blades ridiculously fit. 

Though you cannot ignore the versatile activities that a curved blade holding folding saw has on offer, such as pruning, and cutting small branches by reducing efforts, except for metal cutting sometimes. So, in curved vs. straight blades conflict, better to go ahead as per your needs. 

How to Cut Woods with Folding Saw for Camping?

Certain techniques during hiking and camping, folding saws are kind of rules to follow. For example, sawing with Silky manufactured straight-blade versions never quits. Also, the curved ones too became powerful for our campers’ numerous lumber cutting or splitting firewood in late winter camping. 

Whether with this version, either curved, you need some undercuts before jumping to the center cuts. This strategy prevented stuck issues and enabled us to relieve a little pressure for perfect accomplishment. 

Can Folding Saws Last Longer?

Of course, yes. We have no strong argument for this case. Well, numerous folding saws for camping and backpacking we have experienced, yet only the ones mentioned above intend to be convenient. Sawing with attached curved and straight blades is easy, though a few maintenance rules and TLC can lead to lasting even after heavy-duty jobs.  

For your concern, with material making, do not leave camping saw blades without cleaning and later drying. The filthy leaves can rust within a short time, and even wear out at ease though it combines a sturdy production. 

Is the Saw Easy to Use and Set Up?

Folding saws are relatively easy to use and set up. They typically have a simple design, with a handle that can be folded to make the saw more compact and easy to transport. To set up a folding saw, you typically just need to unfold it and then lock it into place. Some folding saws may require you to adjust the blade tension or make other small adjustments, but this should be straightforward and easy to do with the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Overall, folding saws are a convenient and easy-to-use tool for cutting wood, branches, and other materials.

Final Thoughts

Aiming for simple folding saws, relying on your traditional bushcraft skills? Either has been skilled enough in camping for over half a dozen years? Well, let yourself search, if not in that mood, explore such experienced blades’ length, and featuring compact packages along with the buyer’s guide underneath.

However, top-notch portability and compatibility should be priorities. 

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