[Backpack Boss]

Let me introduce you to my favorite folding saws for camping, complete with some quick reviews. I’ll also guide you through what to keep in mind when shopping for one that suits your style. I’m curious to know what folding saw you prefer and why!

Top 3 Folding Saws for Camping

• Bahco 396-LAP Laplander Folding Saw
• SOG Folding Saw (F10N-CP)
• Gerber Freescape Camp Saw

[Backpack Boss]

Bahco 396-LAP Laplander Folding Saw

When it comes to camping, I love finding gear that strikes the perfect balance between being lightweight and dependable, and the Bahco Laplander Folding Saw hits all the right marks. If you’re anything like me and you enjoy venturing off the beaten path, this folding saw will quickly become one of your go-to tools for campfire prep, shelter-building, or even clearing trails.

What I appreciate most about the Bahco Laplander is its 7.5-inch blade with a rust-resistant coating. The sharpness is impressive, thanks to its XT toothing that’s capable of cutting through both green wood and dry branches without much effort. I’ve found that it glides through wood with minimal resistance, which is ideal when you’re trying to gather firewood quickly. And let me tell you, when you’re racing the sunset to get a fire going, this saw comes through.

The folding mechanism is also a big win in my book. It’s a push-button lock system, which feels secure and reassuring when you’re in the middle of some serious sawing action. I’ve had folding saws before that felt wobbly or a bit flimsy, but with the Bahco, you get a sense of sturdiness that puts your mind at ease. Plus, the compact size when folded means it’s super easy to stow in my backpack or even slip into a pocket on my cargo pants. No more awkwardly strapping large saws to my pack!

One of the best features, in my opinion, is the ergonomic handle with a leather strap. I’ve spent a fair amount of time sawing with this, and the handle never causes hand fatigue. Even when I’ve had to cut through some thicker branches for a cooking fire, it stayed comfortable the whole time. For anyone who’s planning to use a saw for more than just a couple of small tasks, that handle makes all the difference.

As for durability, I’ve been impressed. I’ve used the Bahco Laplander in different conditions, from humid forests to dry mountain trails, and it has held up without any signs of wear or degradation. It’s clear this saw is built to last and doesn’t compromise on quality—perfect for frequent campers like me who demand longevity from their tools.

While I love nearly everything about this saw, I will say the leather strap could be a bit longer, especially if you like to loop it around your wrist while working. It’s a minor gripe, but if I’m being picky, it’s something I’d mention.

For anyone in the market for the best folding saws for camping, I can’t recommend the Bahco Laplander enough. It’s compact, lightweight, sharp, and dependable—exactly what I look for in a camping saw. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or someone just looking to be more self-sufficient on your next trip, this folding saw is an absolute must-have. I personally won’t go camping without it now.

[Backpack Boss]

SOG Folding Saw (F10N-CP)

When it comes to outdoor tools, especially ones I rely on for camping, I always look for something that offers both reliability and ease of use. The SOG Folding Saw (F10N-CP) turned out to be one of those pleasant surprises. At first glance, it didn’t look like much compared to some bulkier saws I’ve used, but after a few outings, it’s become one of my favorite pieces of camping gear.

Right off the bat, the thing that struck me was the blade length. At 8.25 inches, it’s the perfect size for most camping tasks like clearing small branches, cutting firewood, or trimming back trails. The high carbon steel blade is sharp right out of the box, and it really holds its edge well. I’ve taken it through both green wood and dry wood, and it bites through like a champ, which is great when you need to gather wood fast for a campfire.

One of my favorite things about the SOG Folding Saw is the triple ground teeth. It’s a design feature I didn’t expect to notice, but it really makes a difference in how cleanly it cuts. There’s no getting stuck halfway through a branch—this saw just keeps going with smooth, consistent strokes. For me, that’s crucial, especially when I’m out camping and don’t want to waste time or energy with clunky tools.

The handle design is another highlight. I’m big on comfort, especially when a tool requires repetitive motions like sawing. The soft grip on this saw is fantastic. It gives a solid, non-slip hold even when my hands were wet or sweaty, which, let’s be honest, happens a lot when you’re outdoors. I’ve used other saws where the grip was either too small or just not comfortable, but the SOG Folding Saw gets it just right. Even after 20-30 minutes of sawing, I wasn’t dealing with hand fatigue or blisters.

Another thing worth mentioning is the compactness. When folded, this saw is extremely portable, and it fits nicely in my backpack without taking up too much space. I’ve even clipped it to my belt for easy access while hiking. It weighs 5.9 ounces, so it’s not going to weigh you down either. For anyone who’s into minimalist camping gear, the SOG Folding Saw is definitely worth considering.

On the downside, I will say that the locking mechanism could be a little more robust. While it’s functional, there’s a bit of give that doesn’t feel as secure as some of the other folding saws I’ve used. That said, it hasn’t failed me yet, so maybe it’s just something that comes with regular use.

Overall, if you’re on the hunt for one of the best folding saws for camping, I’d definitely recommend giving the SOG Folding Saw a try. It’s durable, efficient, and packs down small, which makes it ideal for anyone who likes to keep their gear simple but effective. Whether you’re cutting firewood for a long night around the campfire or clearing a path for your tent, this saw will get the job done with minimal effort. Plus, it’s affordable, which is always a win in my book!

[Backpack Boss]

Gerber Freescape Camp Saw

The Gerber Freescape Camp Saw is one of those tools that really stands out in the camping gear lineup, and I’ve got to say, it’s become one of my go-to options for serious campfire prep. Unlike many compact folding saws, the Gerber Freescape feels like a full-sized saw when in use but offers the convenience of folding down into a compact, packable size. That’s a win in my book when you’re trying to save space but don’t want to compromise on performance.

The first thing I noticed about the Freescape Camp Saw is its unique folding design. Unlike traditional folding saws that fold the blade into the handle, this one breaks down in a way that allows the entire saw to collapse flat, while the blade remains tensioned inside the frame. I remember thinking it looked a bit complex at first glance, but once I gave it a try, I was impressed by how quickly I could set it up and take it down. It’s a no-fuss mechanism that saves time—exactly what you want when you’re out camping and need to get a fire going fast.

Now, let’s talk about performance. The saw’s 12-inch blade has no trouble cutting through larger logs or branches. I’ve used it to slice through some pretty thick wood, and it never seemed to struggle or bind. What I appreciate most is that it feels like a full-sized bow saw, which means you can tackle much bigger tasks than you’d expect from something that folds away so neatly. It’s perfect for those camping trips where you’re staying a few days and need to gather a significant amount of firewood.

The ergonomic handle is another big selling point for me. Gerber nailed it with the rubberized, textured grip that feels secure in hand, even when my hands were cold or wet. I’ve used plenty of saws that left my hands aching after a while, but with the Freescape, I’ve been able to use it for extended periods without discomfort. It just feels solid, and I appreciate that during long days in the wilderness when I have multiple tasks to take care of.

One of my personal favorite features of the Gerber Freescape Camp Saw is how compact it gets. When folded, it’s just over 14 inches long and lays completely flat, which makes packing it away in my gear easy. It doesn’t take up much room in my backpack, and it’s lightweight enough that I barely notice it. If you’re like me and enjoy camping or backpacking without a ton of bulky gear, this saw is a dream.

As far as durability goes, the stainless steel blade and frame construction have held up to all sorts of tough conditions—rain, snow, and the usual wear and tear from being out in the wild. The overall build feels really tough, which makes me confident this saw will last for many seasons of camping.

If I had to nitpick, the blade replacement process could be a bit smoother. While it’s not overly complicated, it does require a bit of practice to swap out blades efficiently. But honestly, given how durable the blade is, I haven’t had to replace it often enough for this to be a major issue.

In conclusion, the Gerber Freescape Camp Saw is hands down one of the best folding saws for camping. It combines the strength of a full-sized saw with the convenience of a folding design, making it ideal for anyone who wants to tackle more serious woodcutting tasks without lugging around heavy gear. Whether you’re setting up camp, building a shelter, or just prepping for a big bonfire, this saw can handle it all. If you’re looking for something reliable, durable, and easy to pack, I’d highly recommend the Gerber Freescape—it’s earned a permanent spot in my camping kit!

[Backpack Boss]

Best Folding Saws for Camping: A Buyer’s Guide

When you’re out camping, a reliable folding saw can be a lifesaver, whether you’re gathering firewood, clearing trails, or working on some bushcraft skills. But with so many options, it can be tough to know where to start. Let me walk you through some of the key things to consider when choosing the best folding saw for your camping adventures.

Price
Let’s start with the obvious—how much are you willing to spend? Folding saws come in a wide price range, from budget-friendly options to premium models. I’ve found that spending a little more can often get you a saw that cuts faster and lasts longer, but if you’re only camping occasionally, a lower-priced option could work just fine. Look for something that balances quality and affordability. I’d recommend aiming for the middle—$20 to $50 is a sweet spot for many good-quality folding saws.

How Will You Use It?
Before you even pick a saw, think about what you’ll actually be using it for. Are you trimming small branches, or do you plan to tackle larger logs for firewood? If it’s for small tasks, you won’t need anything heavy-duty. However, if you want to be prepared for chopping down some decent-sized branches or even building a camp structure, you’ll need something that can handle thicker wood.

Size and Weight
When you’re out hiking or camping, every ounce matters. You don’t want to lug around a heavy saw that’s overkill for your needs. Most folding saws are pretty lightweight, but some models with longer blades or sturdier handles can get a little bulky. Go for something that feels sturdy but still fits comfortably in your pack. For camping, a blade length of 7 to 10 inches usually strikes a good balance between portability and functionality.

Blade Material
The blade material is a big deal because it affects both the saw’s durability and performance. Stainless steel is a popular choice since it’s rust-resistant and easy to maintain—perfect for the outdoors where moisture can be an issue. Some premium folding saws come with high-carbon steel blades, which are super sharp and hold an edge longer, but they do require more maintenance to prevent rust. Think about where you’ll be using the saw and how much care you’re willing to put into keeping it in good shape.

Curved or Straight Blade
Now, this might seem like a minor detail, but the blade shape can make a difference in how you use the saw. Curved blades are great for cutting larger branches because they naturally follow the curve of the wood, making it easier to get a smooth cut. On the other hand, straight blades are more versatile and work better for cutting small branches or precise jobs. I tend to prefer a curved blade for camping because it makes quick work of firewood, but straight blades are great if you want a multi-purpose tool.

Teeth Per Inch
This one’s all about how fast and smooth your cuts will be. The more teeth per inch (TPI), the smoother the cut, but it will also be slower. Fewer teeth mean faster cuts but potentially rougher edges. I like to go with a medium TPI for camping—something in the range of 7 to 10 TPI. That way, I can get through wood quickly, but it’s still a manageable and clean cut.

Push or Pull Cutting
Did you know folding saws can cut on either the push or pull stroke, or even both? Saws that cut on the pull stroke tend to be more efficient and easier to use, especially if you’re not used to sawing wood. They’re also safer, as there’s less risk of the saw binding or kicking back. On the other hand, push saws can feel a bit more aggressive. Most camping folding saws are pull-cut, which I personally find more intuitive, especially when I’m working with different types of wood.

Locking Mechanism
Safety first! You definitely want a folding saw with a solid locking mechanism to keep the blade securely open while you’re cutting. Most saws have a simple locking feature, but some are sturdier than others. You don’t want the blade folding in on your hand while you’re sawing—that’s a quick way to ruin a camping trip. Make sure the lock is easy to engage and doesn’t feel flimsy. Some models even lock in both the open and closed positions for added safety.

Replacement Blades
I’ll admit, I like a tool that lasts. If you’re going to be using your saw a lot, make sure the manufacturer offers replacement blades. That way, you can easily swap out a dull or damaged blade without having to buy a whole new saw. Some brands offer easy-to-find replacements, while others don’t, so check before you buy. Plus, it’s just more sustainable to replace a blade rather than toss the whole thing!

Additional Considerations
Handle Comfort: A good ergonomic handle makes all the difference during long cuts. Look for one that’s grippy and comfortable, especially if you’ll be using it in wet conditions.
Blade Coating: Some blades come with a coating to reduce friction and prevent rust. It’s a nice bonus if you plan to use your saw in damp or rainy conditions.

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