How do I choose the right backpacking saw for my needs?
How to choose the right backpacking saw for your needs
When you are deciding which backpacking saw to purchase, there are a few things to take into account. The type of blade that the saw has, the size of the blade, how easy it is to use, and the price are all important factors to consider.
The most important factor when purchasing a backpacking saw is the type of blade it has. A standard straight-blade saw is best for cutting wood, but will not be as effective for cutting through tougher materials like bamboo or hard plastic. For tougher materials, a chain saw with a ripping chain is necessary.
When choosing a size of blade, it is important to take into account the width of your cuts and the material you are using. For example, if you plan on using your backpacking saw mainly for cutting wood, then a smaller sized blade will be more effective than a larger one. However, if you plan on using your backpacking saw to cut through tougher materials like bamboo or plastic, then a larger sized blade will be better.
Another important consideration when purchasing a backpacking saw is how easy it is to use. Some backpacking saws have several different settings that allow for more versatility in cutting different types of materials. Others have one setting that is more versatile but can be more difficult to use. It is worth spending extra money on a backpacking saw that is easier to use so that you don’t have to waste time trying to figure out how to use it properly.
Finally, another factor that should be taken into consideration when purchasing a backpacking saw is the price. Not all backpacking Saws are created equal and some may cost more than others. It’s worth investing in something that will last longer and give you better performance than something cheaper option.
Different types of backpacking saws
When it comes to backpacking saws, there are a few different types that are available on the market. Each type has its own unique features and benefits that can make them a better choice for specific purposes.
The most common type of backpacking saw is the manual saw. These saws typically consist of a blade that you swing using your hand, and they are usually small and lightweight enough to be carried on your backpack. They are useful for general cutting tasks, such as chopping wood or clearing away vegetation, but they can be less powerful than some other types of saws, so they may not be ideal for tougher cuts or tasks.
Manual saws also tend to be less ergonomic than other types of backpacking saws, because they require you to use your whole body to operate them. Some models have grips that allow you to use one hand to hold the blade while the other hand operates the handle, making them more comfortable to use. But regardless of how well-designed a manual saw may be, ultimately it is still a tool that requires some degree of user dexterity in order to use it effectively.
One alternative to manual saws is the electric backpacking saw. These saws typically consist of a battery pack and an electric motor (or motors) located inside the handle, which allows you to cut through wood with much greater ease than with a manual saw. They also tend to be more powerful than manual saws and are thus better suited for tougher cuts and tasks. However, electric backpacking saws can be more expensive than manual versions, and they can also be difficult to carry due to their size and weight.
Another type of backpackingsaw is the bow Saw. This type ofsaw uses an attached bowstring instead of your hand as the cutting mechanism, which makes it particularly suitable for precision cuts in tough materials like wood or bone. Bow Saws tendtobemoreexpensivethanmanualandelectricsawsonlytheupperendofthepricerangebuttheycanbefindverycomfortabletotakecareofthemuchaspossibleandtheyusuallyhavemorepowersawbladesavailablethanthemanualversionsothatyoucancutthroughmoretoughmaterialsandgetbetterresults.(Bennett)
Backpacking saws come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and features, so it is important to choose the one that is best suited for your specific needs. If you are just starting out hiking or backpacking, it is probably a good idea to start with a manual saw. But if you are experienced hiker who wants the convenience and power of an electric saw, then that may be the type of saw that is best for you. Ultimately, it is important to figure out what kind of saw will work best for the tasks that you plan on performing while hiking or backpacking.
TherearealsoseveraltypesofchainSawsavailableontheworldwidetoolshedthatincludeachainsawbladeattachedtocollapsiblebarwhichcanbereusedforthechainSawsinsteadofthesinglebladechainsaw.(ChainSaws)
Overallthenumbersofdifferenttypesoffootbackpackingsawsvaryingfrommanufacturertothemarketplaceandalsovaryingintermsofpowerandsimplicityofuse.(Bennett)
Soalthoughthereisnodoubtthathavingacomprehensiveselectionfordiskrentbackpackingsawisimportantinthesametypesthattheuserispurchasingoneitisimportanttounderstandthevarioustypesoffootbackpackingsawsavailableintheworldandchooseagoodmodelthatwillfityourspecificneedsandusagepattern.(Bennett)
Considerations when choosing a backpacking saw
When choosing a backpacking saw, there are a few things to consider. The type of blade the saw has, how easy it is to use, and how durable it is. Below are some of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a backpacking saw:
Blade Type
There are three main blade types for backpacking saws: fixed-blade, folding-blade, and multi-purpose.
Fixed-blade blades are the simplest option and have one main blade that does not fold or unfold. They can be more durable than folding-blade or multi-purpose blades, but they can also be more difficult to use. They are best for general purpose cutting tasks, such as cutting cordage or branches.
Folding-blade saws have two blades - one fixed and one that folds out into a Sawzall like shape. This makes them easier to use than fixed-blade saws because you only need one hand to hold the handle and cut with the other hand. However, folding-blade saws can be less durable than fixed-blade saws because the folding mechanism can break.
Multi-purpose blades have two or more blades that can be used for different tasks, such as cutting wood, rope, and plastic. They are the most versatile option and are the best choice for general purpose cutting. Multi-purpose blades can be less durable than fixed-blade or folding-blade saws, but they are easier to use and usually less expensive than specialty saws designed for specific tasks.
Blade Ease of Use
Backpacking saws come in two types - manual and automatic. Manual backpacking saws require you to manually fold the blade out of the handle before each use. Automatic backpacking saws have a built in mechanism that folds the blade out of the handle automatically.
Manual backpacking saws are easier to use than automatic backpacking saws
Multi-purpose blades have several different functions - such as cutting wood, metal, plastic, or rope - so they are ideal for multiple tasks. They can be more difficult to use than either fixed-blade or folding-blade saws because they require more coordination between your hands and arms in order to cut effectively. However, multi-purpose blades tend to be more durable than either type of blade because they are designed to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
Mike Fleming
Mike Fleming is an expert in industrial engineering and a recent graduate of Dartmouth. He now lives in Boston with his wife and 1 child. In his free time, he enjoys running and hiking. Mike has worked as an engineer for over 10 years, and has experience in a variety of industries.