6:10 - The depth gauges (on the cutters of the chainsaw-type chain) regulate the amount of material each cutter bites into as they pass through on each stroke. That is why they are in front: leading ahead of the cutters' cutting edges for each of the passes, rather than follow behind the cutting action. So: setting the depth ahead of the cutting action = hence depth gauge. They function primarily - rather than to remove - to prevent chewing too much at once in the first place.
A great show, and I love your saw that you made it's wonderful. And I know Andy loves his I seen him use it a million times. Thank you for all the wonderful work you do. I've enjoyed watching your shows and you and Andy's.
Good info in the video, have been looking at various hand held chainsaws over the last few weeks, nice to see someone out using them rather than an armchair expert spouting off. Thanks again, off to check out some of your other videos.
Cheers Trev, glad you liked the video - those handheld chainsaws are really good, exceeded expectations! The black handled one has earned a permanent place in my kit. Atb, Simon.
I have used handheld chain saws on several outings. I think they work great. I have also used the wire saw on day trips. When I use a wire saw I make a bow saw with it. I also made a buck saw with a wire saw. It worked okey, but it had a lot of bounce in it.
Cheers Carl, I was surprised and impressed with how well they worked! The wire saws were originally designed to be used as a bow saw blade that can be concealed in the hem of clothing - for special forces troops in case they got captured.
Glad I stumbled across this! I have that same Bahco and the same "chain saw' in my pack. Like you found, I like them both. For a non-fixed woodstock, the chain-saw is harder to use. But, once properly braced, it's a great option. As you found, it doesn't leave a furniture quality saw line. But, for turning a trunk into firewood, it's good. I think about 3-4" is also the max I'd do on the bahco. Beyond that, each cutting stroke would be frustratingly short. I'd like to find a bahco type saw that has a longer blade/stroke. That's what I like about your buck saw. much more range; though nominally, you're limited in diameter to the distance between the blade and the fulcrum bar of the buck. Technically, twice that, as you can saw from each side before rubbing up aginst the fulcrum bar. Realistically, we're not cutting trees that massive for shelter building or firewood. About the sillkies, I don't have personal experience, but personal friends have confirmed what I see a lot in reviews...it's the better saw, but, is more "brittle" for lack of a better word. The blades are more likely to snap. I'm a bit of a hack with my tools, so the odds I'd overstress a blade are pretty good. I'd probably be a blade-snapper. I don't mean that as a criticism of Silkies. Just that I think Bahco's are more robust, or perhaps "forgiving" is the better term. An extremely well disciplined woodsman could probably use a Silky. No disrepect to them, but, I'll stick with Bahco. ("Dear Silky...it's not you. It's me.") The commando saw looks more like an assassin's weapon than wood tool. I would say though that after notching in the 1" or so you got through, turning 90* and working around the perimeter (while following the existing cut) would mean you're forcing through a thinner material, since it's one-inch narrower than when you began. Go in another inch, then shift around 90* and continue. Notching in 1-inch on four sides means the center segment attaching the block to the stock is signfcantly smaller than when you started. Probably would make short work of it from there. Of course, I'd have grabbed my Bahco to finish it WAY before then.... :-) Thanks for the great review. All the best!
Hey Simon! Another good video. I've had the exact same experience and opinion with the saws mentioned above. I love my Bacho, it's what i use most of the time, but only because I don't have a buck saw like yours. Bacho comes everywhere with me!
I've been using cheap (about 5€) folding saws from Lidl for over 15 years now and the first I got still serves in the garden. Making a folding hacksaw like yours but smaller has been as much of a pleasure as using it...
I've got the one with red handles - I was pleasantly surprised with it too. I am going to have to make myself a buck saw. I'll have to revisit the video you've done on it. Thanks for another great production!
Thanks, yes, good little saws! The buck saw is fairly straight forward to make, and much easier if you have access to a few tools - a table saw in particular, but it is possible without. 👍 cheers and Atb, Simon.
Great video as always. Was pleased to see it's not just me having trouble cutting anything with those wire saws :) Glad you liked the chain saw, I was surprised by how well they work too. It's worth mentioning that a lot of the ones you can buy only have blades on every third chain, I've never tried one of those but I imagine they're still pretty effective.
Cheers Euan! The wire saw was definitely better as a bowsaw but still hard work! I really like the chain saws - they work amazingly well, I thought the black handled one might be too coarse and be difficult to pull through the wood, but not at all, cuts and clears the kerf well! Thanks again mate! Atb, Simon.
I just got a Woods brand pocket chainsaw it has a 22 inch chain with a blade & raker on each link which is IMHO: important Saw is 36” incl. straps which is too short so I used a loop of paracord to attach wood handles that are at 90 degrees to the blade so with 2 x ½ foot each extensions for a total new length 48 inches which is minimal for sawing comfort. This is the only portable saw I ever liked now I am secure about being able to process wood. Whoopee!
I made a frame like yours for the chainsaw blade it was fun making it but a waste of time the rakers & teeth jam so the actual chainsaw blades are not suitable for frames but the other 2 blades are fine with frames.
My youngest son was a Commando in our Army. I once asked him about the Commando saws and if he was issued with any of them. He looked at me strangely and said "Commandos dont light fires." Which reminded me of my time in the infantry, we didn't do fires either. I think the chain type saws would be a PINA on loose bits of wood. I keep meaning to make a bow saw, but my brain slips into neutral everytime I'm at the hardware store. D'Oh! Good video, thanks.
Hi Simon, Great informative vid in a cosy relaxed way, any thoughts on doing a vid on tree reccogntion and which wood is best for what purpose, making things and or different cooking methods. Cheers Steve
Hi Simon. I'm now going to sound like a silky bore. I've seen a few of the other comments on silkys and agree that they are fantastic blades. I've been a gardener and arborist for over twenty years and have used many different saws but always come back to the Japanese saws. Thanks for the video I've always been curious about the handheld chainsaws and after your demo I think I might have to get one. Cheers. Sean.
Cheers Sean, I’m thinking I might need to get one soon based on all the positive reviews and comments. I’m a big fan of Japanese pull saws for carpentry and joinery (my line of work), so I think I’d naturally take to the Silky. Atb, Simon.
Great saws the silky ..use a zubat 330 myself ...but have used bulldog brand pull saws and they are very good value for money at around £15 for 300mm fixed blade similar I. Style to the gomboy blade
That was a great comparison. I have the chain saw with the black straps. I keep it in my EDC bag. For backpacking I have a Silky Katanaboy 650. It's excellent saw for processing 4 to 10 inch logs. Though I would recommend finding a low tree notch to place the logs in to help hold it in place while you cut it. For smaller stuff for my bush crafting, I have the same Laplander saw that you have. I like the 650 because I can cut for the most part, all the wood I'll need for that night and the next morning, in about 20 minutes. Less time if i"m just doing a Swedish torch.
I myself have a Silky and love it, but from what I've seen of the Laplander I don't have a convincing argument for someone who already has a Laplander to upgrade. Sure the Silky is faster at cutting, but the Laplander is arguably more durable, and incredibly good value, if you already own one and are happy with it there's no reason to switch. Don't fix what ain't broke.
I tried a silky earlier in the year and didn’t get in with it - I use Japanese pull saws all the time at work, but just didn’t like the silky - I think it was the Gomboy model - Laplander or bucksaw for me. 😁👍
@@simonablokeinthewoods *gasp* not liking a silky?! crucify this man! im kidding, but I'd recommend trying the gomboy professional model (240mm) with the curved blade. I have one myself and the curve makes cutting through larger logs a piece of cake since you dont need to apply much downward pressure or dance around the log cutting at the peaks. You can also choose ones with smaller teeth since the laplander has really fine teeth that allows for crafting and smooth cuts, and that's what youre probably used to. I chose one with big teeth, and that mightve been a mistake since the silky blade is so flexible and it takes lots of strength and precision to stop it from binding, of which i have neither :p.
I always wondered about those handheld chainsaw thingys, i must admit to being a bit surprised by their performance. For the time being at least, I'll Stay with my folding Bucksaw and i always keep a Bacho Laplander in my butt pack as well. Reckon springs getting a bit of a slow start this year....thanks Simon...woods
Thanks Woods! Yes, the cold is lingering a bit this year! I think I’ll keep one of the chainsaws in my kit to use on bigger logs, but, like you, I’ll always choose the buck-saw! Cheers buddy, Simon.
good idea for a video mate, I have some wire saws but never actually used one as I could guess how 'useful' they are haha, always thought those chain saws looked interesting, might have to get one at some point.. thanks for showing ATB - Andy
Cheers Andy! Yes, they were a surprise to me - work remarkably well! I’m going to keep one in my possibles pouch as a reserve I think. They don’t cost much either! 😁 Atb, Simon.
@ Andy & Simon, on the wire saw. Only ever owned one (it was in a Rambo knife that my dad bought for me at 14. Folded pulled it out snapped on the spot lol) but I think a good vid would be use a wire saw until it dies. If ppl are going to keep it as a backup, be nice to see how much back up you get in reality. Maybe even a collab upload, a competition see who makes a better bow style of cutting etc effecting how long cable lasts
Great video Simon, Thanks for putting it together. I've never used one of the chainsaw blade type and have wondered how they'd perform. Watching your video I realized something that I think we sometimes forget. Cutting wood quickly is important but I think the versatility of a saw is also important. I think it would be difficult to use a chainsaw-type when cutting on a sawhorse or for making semi-accurate cuts to notch etc for woodcraft. What do you think? Can you get accurate cuts with the chainsaw-type? (Btw, also... for some time I've been setting up with autofocus and then switching to manual for the actual shot so the camera doesn't switch its focus point on me. Its helped me get a higher percentage of in focus shots. Takes a bit longer to set up and a bit of practice but its working for me.)
Thanks Jason, you are quite right, they are great for cutting firewood etc, but as they are, they are a bit crude for precise work. I’m interested to see how they’d perform when used with a frame - as a bow-saw. Thanks for the tip about switching to manual focus for the shot! I tend to use manual focus if I’m behind the camera for scenery shots etc, when I’m not in frame, but have been using autofocus for the bits with me in - it’s frustrating as the focus keeps wandering off to trees etc in the back ground!! I’ll try your tip next time! What camera are you using at the moment? Your shots are always nice and sharp! Atb, Simon.
Handsome buck saw.. Nice finish. Like the efficiency of the hand chain saws. It appears you could use in the yard too...One of your RUclips peers northernwoodsman Martin had a interesting portable mill thingy. It's all interesting. One of my goals is to get back into canoeing and camping more self sufficient sewing knitting etc... Thanks for your thoughts ...
I love my bucksaw, makes short work of processing a big pile of logs and there is just something very nice about a wooden saw! Love the idea of a completely self sufficient lifestyle, making and recycling all that you need! 😁👍
The overmont has got to be the best of that bunch, because like a chainsaw, it can be sharpened. Added bonus, you can attach long lines to the ends and chuck it up high over a limb ( to remove high deadwood for the fire 🔥 ).
Thx 4 sharing Simon! I'm new to bushcrafting so i'm wondering if u can rank them based on the effort and time that they cut that tree. Thank you very much!
One of the advantages of the chain/cable type saw is that the cut they make when wrapped around a piece of wood is much longer than the cut you would make with a straight blade type saw. If you use a traditional saw, you're making a 2-4" cut at the most in a 4" diameter piece. With the cable/chains, you would be cutting along at least 5-7" I would think. That's partly where the efficiency comes from.
Super old comment, but that would actually go against it. Working on a larger surface with a cutting tool is slower than working on a small area at a time. The reason is that the pressure you're putting on the blade is distributed on a larger surface so the teeth simply don't dig as deep, and you end up displacing less wood overall on each stroke. You're better off angling your cut so that you don't cut on the longest line (but of course this won't yield such a nice clean cut) I think the efficiency rather comes from the fact that you can put much more pressure on the cut and you can use the bigger back muscles. I actually expected the 2nd chain saw to cut slower because it's so thick, but I guess the teeth are better on it. It would cut better if it was thinner though.
I Learned a lot and you gave each saw a fair shake. I would love to get a pattern for your homemade buck saw. A signature Simon Model would be a cool collectable saw to use & own. Thanks for the tutorial and as always, God bless & safe travels 🙏🏼⛺️😎
Awesome Simon. Thanks for the comparison. Along with my homemade buck saw and Bahco, I have a Sawvivor that I love as well. Unfortunately it is my understanding that the Sawvivor is no longer made.
Thank you! Sounds like have shared good taste in saws! I’ve not heard of a Sawvivor, I’ll have to take a look, shame it’s no longer in production. Cheers and Atb, Simon.
Another great video interesting to see those saws in action. Not sure if anyone has mentioned but the curved teeth on the chainsaw type are depth gauges to stop the cutting edges biting to deep.
Just a suggestion, when using your chain saws, if you was to cut the short links of a stick about 1 in by 6 inch, stick them through your Loop on the handle, it will be much easier to hold and maybe make it easier for you to cut wood.
That bucksaw is a piece of work I must make one of those! So impressed with all the 'gadgets' that pack away to nothing like the Honey Stove, reminds me a bit of the old Hexamine stove. Crikey, that Laplander is impressive! I'm planning to live off grid and build a cabin on my land. But until I have built the cabin Im basically living in a tree without a chain saw or tools I will need to buy over time! I have made 'nettle tea in the past' but never Pine needle? Another great video thanks. PS would lie to see this 'Silky' saw some time please?
Simon, you are a good teacher. I have not used the hand held chains and wire saws because I didn’t trust them. Your demonstration was sensible and appreciated. I will follow your advice on the saws. Think I’ll stick with Earl Grey and a drop or two of honey for my tea though, heh, heh... I hope your heart is doing okay. Still thinking about just what kind of canoe to get for central Texas rivers and lakes. I wish you well. Texas
Simon, a bloke in the woods Thanks, I will look at the Swift Canoe reviews. I trust your advice. So, if I can afford such a canoe maybe I’ll have one soon. Texas
nice vid Simon, you have put a bit of confidence in me with those chainsaw style units, ive never really wanted to look at them but they are actually quite impressive👍👍
The problem with pine needles is that the outside is waxy, which prevents the flavour from getting out. If you chop the needles finer, or give then a little crush, it'll bring out nore flavour. That said, it's still generally underwhelming. :/ Honestly, I've never found a stick that I could cut with a wire saw that I couldn't just snap with my hands or hack with a fixed-blade knife better. Some people said you can use them for snares, but given how inflexible and brittle they are, I doubt their efficacy. The one use I have found for them, however, is cutting oddly shaped breads and cakes! They don't need any real grit, and the flexibility is certainly more than a bread knife! XD
I too, thought of the idea of putting a pocket chainsaw in a wooden frame. Have you tested this idea? nowhere on youtube have I found a test of this idea. I like the compactness of the pocket chainsaw, but the structure of a bow saw. I havent purchased the pocket chainsaw because I dont know that it will work in a frame (tough I cant see why it wouldn't)
Ahoi Simon. I am using a Silky Gomboy and recentyl i bought a Agawa Canyon BOREAL21 folding saw. I am very excited to test it. I like that the blades are very cheap compared to the Silky. Greetings from Germany. Azze
Cheers Azze! I think I’m going to set a Silky when my Laplander finally gives up. How is the Boreal 21? I see a few people using them, they look like they work well and collapse nice and small. My Buck-saw uses the same blade - a 21” bowsaw blade - the ones made by Bahco are very good. Thanks mate, Atb from a still chilly England! Simon.
At the moment the Boreal stands brand new beside my axes beside my gear closet. I haven´t tested it yet but i am very excited about that. Bahco? Okay, i will check it if i can get them here in Germany. Azze
Great video. I have one of those thin black pocket chainsaws with the two teeth on one link and a Varco commando wire saw. I did my second video on both. The Varco saw isn’t just braided, it has small barbs on it which does better in cutting small branches. I’ll be trying to make some kind of bucksaw with the pocket chainsaw to see if it will work. Thanks for sharing.
I've seen other manual chain saws that come with extension cords so that you can cut overhead branches. Perhaps more of a gardening tool, though! I think that I might also convert my metal bow saw (which hardly gets used) into a buck saw like yours - looks like a fun project.
Pine needle tea. . That's a new one on me. . Must give it a try. Thanks for the heads up Simon. Hope you've got yourself warm by now. Talk about suffering for your art !
If you do make pine tea, I recommend fine cutting the needles, or crushing them a little to bring out the flavour. It's not the best flavour in the world, though, but it's rich in vitamins A and C. Just be sure to use the right needles, since things like Yew and I think Larch needles can be toxic. White pines are fine, though.
I like the Laplander and the bucksaw.The little saw blades on my Swiss Army Knife work good to for finger size branches.I am wandering when your going to restock your Etsy store,would love to buy one of your bucksaws and a patch?Thanks for making videos,very much enjpy them.
Nice demonstration, I’ve wondered how well those chainsaws work. I guess they’re more efficient because you’re using the power of both arms to cut instead of just one...💪
excellent info ,very handy to know , think i will get some of these and keep in my truck and pack. Thank you Simon you may be a life saver and not know it......
What would you recommend between the folding and handheld chain saws for an off-road motorcycle rider that will use the saw to clear path when they have been obstructed by fallen tree?
Nice vid, Simon. I haven't used the handheld chainsaw, think I'll get one and try it out. Don't like those wire saws, I've had the same experience as you, with them breaking. Thanks for sharing, mate. Take care.
Cheers Andy. The chainsaws are surprisingly good- I was quite impressed, lightweight, compact, very efficient and cheap! I’ve learned a bit about the wire saw since doing this video - they were designed for the armed forces as an escape and evasion tool that can be concealed in clothing - hems, zips, boots etc and were never designed to be used with handles (as they are often sold!) but rather as a bowsaw like in the video. I was inadvertently using it correctly!! Lol! Atb mate, Simon.
I have seen hundreds of videos and nobody ever said a thing about the commando wire saw. that is a military tool that was mainly found (I don't know today if it is still supplied) inside the survival mitts for the pilots of the aircraft. (together with the knife) back to us ... the commando can easily be hidden in clothing along with micro compasses and silk cartographic maps. in case of capture or need it is mainly a weapon. I tried it around the neck of a wild boar that I had hunted and believe me despite the resistant hair and the rind with a strong and quick pull it went deep into the muscles cutting veins and meat. we also consider that in the periods in which the pilots were really in danger of being killed the wars were stationed in Vietnam, Korea ... I don't know if it can go back to IIWW, I have always seen it in the kits of the 60s - 70s so the staff worked in the jungle where the hardest vegetation is bamboo, and it cuts it perfectly without breaking ... I follow your channel with pleasure, greetings from Italy
i was once stranded on a beach with no firewood so we cannibalised 2 wooden kayak blades the rest of the kayaking party looked on enviously as they only had on them plastic blades!! we dried our kit out got warm n toasty enough then we both used our emergency plastic deck blades to get back home again!! we made 2 more sets of blades each as replacements at a workshop using laminates that were ace never gave up my wooden paddles again after that day valued them more than any carbon fibre or plastic kevlar blades etc as has multiple purposes if in the sthuckk!!
What is yellow flowered shrub that you were eating the flowers of in March? Bahco are ok, but I prefer Fanno and Silky having pruned apple trees and worked in urban forestry. Many of the cheaper folding saws would only last one week in an orchard..
If you haven't already, might want to look into the silky saws. They eat like crazy! Recently used my gomboy to cut through a 14in Fallen Eastern red cedar. Took some doing, but They definitely punch above their weight class.
@@simonablokeinthewoods I basically have the shorter one with the plastic handles. I soaked it in some CLP the first time I used it and it helped loosen it up. I got this because I wanted something where I could cut a piece of log and make a Swedish fire torch if I wanted to, but still have a saw under 6oz.
Great video Simon. I'm like you with my Browning Folding saw. It's been going strong for well over 14 years now with me using the heck of of it and it always comes back for more. Now for a buck saw, I have a run of the mill tubular deal that works well, but I might make a folding buck saw like yours sometime in the near future. As for the chainsaws, I have never tried one, but I am open to the idea. Thanks again buddy.
Cheers! Sounds like your Browning has stood the test of time! I’ve not used one of those steel bucksaws, but my folding one is great - perfect for lots of processing! I was pretty impressed by the chainsaw jobbies - good backup saws! Atb, Simon
I got the steel bucksaw just for trail maintenance on the property so I can keep my trail wide enough to run my garden tractor on for getting woods or other things out. I also just had an idea for the commando saw. Like you said it would be decent for making spoons and such. Also the way it is made since it is more of a round blade, I would thing it might work well for a bushcraft coping saw of sorts. The way those are made makes me thing you might be able to cut in a curve and not just a straight line.
I always assumed they were gimmicks, but they seem to work way better than expected, I too made a bowsaw very similar to yours, I think my blade is 600mm.
Hi Simon I have a silky saw, it’s a recent purchase and it’s a great saw, works on the pull action rather then cutting on the push pull...still use my Laplander and yes it’s a fantastic little saw it’s my go to for day hikes etc. I’ve also got one of the chain saw chain type saws and I was surprised by its ease of use. On a different note what sealskins gloves are they and would the be any good for canoeing??
Cheers Martin, I think I’m going to invest in a silky, I use Japanese pull saws a lot in my work, so I think I’ll like them! I think the gloves are called the Outdoors gloves, leather palm, fabric back, tough gloves. I’ve used them for canoeing and are ideal - the leather provides good grip. Atb, Simon.
New to the channel, watching through older videos. Those chainsaw type saws would make a great mod for your own-made saw, would not have to carry the quite big blade with you. Impressive performance, did not believe those at first.
Lovey video Simon and very well explained,that wire saw i reckon would be better as a rabbit snare than saw lol, and as always mate well done and im off to tap a silver birch now ATB and see you soon 👍😃🌱🌳🌳🌿🥀🌻
Cheers Jim! I think you are right, it would make a decent snare! They were originally issued to soldiers to be used as part of their escape and evasion kit, intended to be sewn into hems of clothing or concealed in boots. So for that purpose - emergency use - they do the job, but I wouldn’t want to cut up firewood with one! Good luck with Birch sap mate - a good spring tonic! Atb, Simon.
Ive carried one of those pocket chainsaw saws with the actual chainsaw teeth for a few years and like it very much. The best part is if it does get dull you just use the proper size chainsaw file and bingo, back in action!
good job on the cdo saw nice bow frame for it!! what i find with these they only last 2 or 3 cuts and teeth are worn down or out! they can also break quite easily for last ditch stuff not as a main unfortunately chainsaw blade was effective if somebody elses is carrying it!! :)
Just came across your video, ya a little late to the party. I just wanted to comment that you commented on using the the pocket chain saws with the conversion that you gave the commando saw. I would rather see you use them in your folding buck saw. That would be very interesting. I love you folding saw I will be attempting to make one. Especially after watching your other video on how to make one.
There's an aspect of these pocket chainsaws that a lot of reviewers miss. And that's using one to cut a high branch by attaching rope to the ends and tossing it over. The thinner saw here with the red handles seems to me could be problematic because you'd have to make sure it's oriented properly in order to do the cut-- it's so thin that I'd think you might have a problem keeping it upright when attached to a length of rope. The other saw with the bi-directional classic chainsaw teeth seems like it'd work better for that, and of course, none of the hand saws would work because the point is, you're trying to saw a branch that's 12' up in the air, too high to reach otherwise...
Just tried out one of the chain saws on a really hard dead piece of apple. I gave up. Because I couldn’t cut exactly square it kept jamming up and in the tough Apple it really jammed! It worked really well on some green wood about 3in thick that I could get square to though. The only ones I could find had a cutting tooth every three links, maybe that was the problem.
I just got a Woods brand pocket chainsaw it has a 22 inch chain with a blade & raker on each link which is IMHO: important Saw is 36” incl. straps which is too short so I used a loop of paracord to attach wood handles that are at 90 degrees to the blade so with 2 x ½ foot each extensions for a total new length 48 inches which is minimal for sawing comfort. This is the only portable saw I ever liked now I am secure about being able to process wood. Whoopee!
![TESTING The Cheapest Chainsaw on Amazon [OFFICIAL VIDEO]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/v4vJDKL_k1M/mqdefault.jpg)
So glad I "saw" this, "cutting edge" stuff.
Hahaha! Very good!! 😂 cheers! Simon.
Get out now lol
You're a real "punny" guy.
Bahahahha
I live for these kinds of puns, thank you 😂
The subtle flavour of pine needles! It has the fine and decent taste of ... water.
Thanks for testing, because I'm also very interested in those saws.
Hahaha - Yes, I think I should have crushed up the needles a bit to get some flavour out!! Atb, Simon
I didn't expect that the chainsaw whent trough there that fast! Thats very impressive.
6:10 - The depth gauges (on the cutters of the chainsaw-type chain) regulate the amount of material each cutter bites into as they pass through on each stroke. That is why they are in front: leading ahead of the cutters' cutting edges for each of the passes, rather than follow behind the cutting action.
So: setting the depth ahead of the cutting action = hence depth gauge. They function primarily - rather than to remove - to prevent chewing too much at once in the first place.
very helpful info I was told they were there to rake away & it kinda made sense. now I know their function I may saw differently.
@@Occupuyourspine when needed forest workers files those down too, along with the cutting parts.
ta, fer da good info 🤠
A great show, and I love your saw that you made it's wonderful. And I know Andy loves his I seen him use it a million times. Thank you for all the wonderful work you do. I've enjoyed watching your shows and you and Andy's.
A useful talk there. I am gathering eqpt to wild camp and now I will ignore the lighter wire saw. Keep these coming.
Enjoyed this. Like ur no nonsence manner. First time lady viewer here. Takes all sorts! I grew up on a farm. Now 76. I miss the natural way of life.
Good info in the video, have been looking at various hand held chainsaws over the last few weeks, nice to see someone out using them rather than an armchair expert spouting off. Thanks again, off to check out some of your other videos.
Cheers Trev, glad you liked the video - those handheld chainsaws are really good, exceeded expectations! The black handled one has earned a permanent place in my kit. Atb, Simon.
As divers we have used the chain hand saws underwater very effective great vid again cheers
Cheers Jeff! I hadn’t thought about them being used underwater - I suppose it’s easier/more efficient to use than a conventional saw? Atb, Simon
Thanks for taking the time to make the saw and cases Simon, I’m IN keep up the great work 👍😁
Wow! Thank you for the review. I learned a ton and made my choice for which cutting tools I'll carry with me.
Thanks for this, I'm looking around for efficient and low-cost equipment and this video is the exact thing I was looking for.
I have used handheld chain saws on several outings. I think they work great. I have also used the wire saw on day trips. When I use a wire saw I make a bow saw with it. I also made a buck saw with a wire saw. It worked okey, but it had a lot of bounce in it.
Cheers Carl, I was surprised and impressed with how well they worked! The wire saws were originally designed to be used as a bow saw blade that can be concealed in the hem of clothing - for special forces troops in case they got captured.
You'd stay warm using the 3rd one😜
Glad I stumbled across this! I have that same Bahco and the same "chain saw' in my pack. Like you found, I like them both. For a non-fixed woodstock, the chain-saw is harder to use. But, once properly braced, it's a great option. As you found, it doesn't leave a furniture quality saw line. But, for turning a trunk into firewood, it's good. I think about 3-4" is also the max I'd do on the bahco. Beyond that, each cutting stroke would be frustratingly short. I'd like to find a bahco type saw that has a longer blade/stroke. That's what I like about your buck saw. much more range; though nominally, you're limited in diameter to the distance between the blade and the fulcrum bar of the buck. Technically, twice that, as you can saw from each side before rubbing up aginst the fulcrum bar. Realistically, we're not cutting trees that massive for shelter building or firewood. About the sillkies, I don't have personal experience, but personal friends have confirmed what I see a lot in reviews...it's the better saw, but, is more "brittle" for lack of a better word. The blades are more likely to snap. I'm a bit of a hack with my tools, so the odds I'd overstress a blade are pretty good. I'd probably be a blade-snapper. I don't mean that as a criticism of Silkies. Just that I think Bahco's are more robust, or perhaps "forgiving" is the better term. An extremely well disciplined woodsman could probably use a Silky. No disrepect to them, but, I'll stick with Bahco. ("Dear Silky...it's not you. It's me.") The commando saw looks more like an assassin's weapon than wood tool. I would say though that after notching in the 1" or so you got through, turning 90* and working around the perimeter (while following the existing cut) would mean you're forcing through a thinner material, since it's one-inch narrower than when you began. Go in another inch, then shift around 90* and continue. Notching in 1-inch on four sides means the center segment attaching the block to the stock is signfcantly smaller than when you started. Probably would make short work of it from there. Of course, I'd have grabbed my Bahco to finish it WAY before then.... :-) Thanks for the great review. All the best!
Very well explained and informative. As you said for the saws "Yeah, I'm quite impressed, really!" So am I with this video!
The chain saws were impressive, but they sure do take a lot of effort.
Thanks for sharing.
The fact that you just grabbed bits of burning wood to put it jn your stove without even an "ouch" is amazing. Respect
Thank you for doing this; you've confirmed my suspicions. Great idea of making a bow for the chainsaw-type.
Thank you! All have their merits, even the little commando saw, which is perfectly suited for what it was designed for. 👍
It's good to see you again Simon! I like your videos.
Hi Linda, thank you! I’m really glad you do! Atb, Simon.
Great video mate, something I might have a look at doing if I come across some hazel, be good to see your finished stick.
Hey Simon! Another good video. I've had the exact same experience and opinion with the saws mentioned above. I love my Bacho, it's what i use most of the time, but only because I don't have a buck saw like yours.
Bacho comes everywhere with me!
Cheers Matt, me too, my Laplander is my everyday saw - nice and compact and can handle most tasks. 👍 Atb, Simon.
I've been using cheap (about 5€) folding saws from Lidl for over 15 years now and the first I got still serves in the garden. Making a folding hacksaw like yours but smaller has been as much of a pleasure as using it...
I've got the one with red handles - I was pleasantly surprised with it too. I am going to have to make myself a buck saw. I'll have to revisit the video you've done on it.
Thanks for another great production!
Thanks, yes, good little saws! The buck saw is fairly straight forward to make, and much easier if you have access to a few tools - a table saw in particular, but it is possible without. 👍 cheers and Atb, Simon.
Where did you buy the saw with the red handles??
Great video as always. Was pleased to see it's not just me having trouble cutting anything with those wire saws :) Glad you liked the chain saw, I was surprised by how well they work too. It's worth mentioning that a lot of the ones you can buy only have blades on every third chain, I've never tried one of those but I imagine they're still pretty effective.
Cheers Euan! The wire saw was definitely better as a bowsaw but still hard work! I really like the chain saws - they work amazingly well, I thought the black handled one might be too coarse and be difficult to pull through the wood, but not at all, cuts and clears the kerf well! Thanks again mate! Atb, Simon.
I just got a Woods brand pocket chainsaw it has a 22 inch chain with a blade & raker on each link which is IMHO: important
Saw is 36” incl. straps which is too short so I used a loop of paracord to attach wood handles that are at 90 degrees to the blade so with 2 x ½ foot each extensions for a total new length 48 inches which is minimal for sawing comfort. This is the only portable saw I ever liked now I am secure about being able to process wood. Whoopee!
I made a frame like yours for the chainsaw blade it was fun making it but a waste of time the rakers & teeth jam so the actual chainsaw blades are not suitable for frames
but the other 2 blades are fine with frames.
Simon, Very good! Thank you very much
My youngest son was a Commando in our Army. I once asked him about the Commando saws and if he was issued with any of them. He looked at me strangely and said "Commandos dont light fires."
Which reminded me of my time in the infantry, we didn't do fires either.
I think the chain type saws would be a PINA on loose bits of wood.
I keep meaning to make a bow saw, but my brain slips into neutral everytime I'm at the hardware store. D'Oh!
Good video, thanks.
Hi Simon, Great informative vid in a cosy relaxed way, any thoughts on doing a vid on tree reccogntion and which wood is best for what purpose, making things and or different cooking methods. Cheers Steve
Cheers! That’s a nice idea - a big topic, but I’ll give some thought to it. Atb, Simon.
yes cozy and soothing somehow. it didnt really seem plausible that you were in the cold
Hi Simon. I'm now going to sound like a silky bore. I've seen a few of the other comments on silkys and agree that they are fantastic blades. I've been a gardener and arborist for over twenty years and have used many different saws but always come back to the Japanese saws. Thanks for the video I've always been curious about the handheld chainsaws and after your demo I think I might have to get one. Cheers. Sean.
Cheers Sean, I’m thinking I might need to get one soon based on all the positive reviews and comments. I’m a big fan of Japanese pull saws for carpentry and joinery (my line of work), so I think I’d naturally take to the Silky. Atb, Simon.
Great saws the silky ..use a zubat 330 myself ...but have used bulldog brand pull saws and they are very good value for money at around £15 for 300mm fixed blade similar I. Style to the gomboy blade
Freeman Alba Woodtink - Cheers, that is useful to know, thank you! Atb, Simon.
Have a Wyoming saw, used it for years, great tool.
Very useful Simon have a great one. Cheers
i have watched 6 reviews on camping saws , this one is the best , fair and thruo . and i learned about pine needel tea !
Thank you! 👍
That was a great comparison. I have the chain saw with the black straps. I keep it in my EDC bag. For backpacking I have a Silky Katanaboy 650. It's excellent saw for processing 4 to 10 inch logs. Though I would recommend finding a low tree notch to place the logs in to help hold it in place while you cut it. For smaller stuff for my bush crafting, I have the same Laplander saw that you have. I like the 650 because I can cut for the most part, all the wood I'll need for that night and the next morning, in about 20 minutes. Less time if i"m just doing a Swedish torch.
I myself have a Silky and love it, but from what I've seen of the Laplander I don't have a convincing argument for someone who already has a Laplander to upgrade.
Sure the Silky is faster at cutting, but the Laplander is arguably more durable, and incredibly good value, if you already own one and are happy with it there's no reason to switch.
Don't fix what ain't broke.
I tried a silky earlier in the year and didn’t get in with it - I use Japanese pull saws all the time at work, but just didn’t like the silky - I think it was the Gomboy model - Laplander or bucksaw for me. 😁👍
@@simonablokeinthewoods *gasp* not liking a silky?! crucify this man! im kidding, but I'd recommend trying the gomboy professional model (240mm) with the curved blade. I have one myself and the curve makes cutting through larger logs a piece of cake since you dont need to apply much downward pressure or dance around the log cutting at the peaks. You can also choose ones with smaller teeth since the laplander has really fine teeth that allows for crafting and smooth cuts, and that's what youre probably used to. I chose one with big teeth, and that mightve been a mistake since the silky blade is so flexible and it takes lots of strength and precision to stop it from binding, of which i have neither :p.
The problem with silky is you cant sharpen them
I always wondered about those handheld chainsaw thingys, i must admit to being a bit surprised by their performance.
For the time being at least, I'll Stay with my folding Bucksaw and i always keep a Bacho Laplander in my butt pack as well.
Reckon springs getting a bit of a slow start this year....thanks Simon...woods
Thanks Woods! Yes, the cold is lingering a bit this year! I think I’ll keep one of the chainsaws in my kit to use on bigger logs, but, like you, I’ll always choose the buck-saw! Cheers buddy, Simon.
Hi Simon, I am not sure if you have tried it, but the weak pine needle tea can be strengthened by chopping the needles first.
Thanks, I didn’t do that, I’ll try it next time and see if it improves the flavour! It would be nice if it tasted like pine smells! Atb, Simon.
.... but you will have to filter the bits out or just take small sips.
fyi, the part of the chainsaw link your talking about is called a depth gauge, its purpose is to controll how deep a cut the tooth behind it takes
this is helpful info I have not seen a lot of saws, yuk.
I will modify my technique using less pressure now that I know their function.
@@Occupuyourspine also if you want it to cut more agressively you can file them down a bit, as long as you keep them even
good idea for a video mate, I have some wire saws but never actually used one as I could guess how 'useful' they are haha, always thought those chain saws looked interesting, might have to get one at some point.. thanks for showing ATB - Andy
Cheers Andy! Yes, they were a surprise to me - work remarkably well! I’m going to keep one in my possibles pouch as a reserve I think. They don’t cost much either! 😁 Atb, Simon.
@ Andy & Simon, on the wire saw. Only ever owned one (it was in a Rambo knife that my dad bought for me at 14. Folded pulled it out snapped on the spot lol) but I think a good vid would be use a wire saw until it dies. If ppl are going to keep it as a backup, be nice to see how much back up you get in reality. Maybe even a collab upload, a competition see who makes a better bow style of cutting etc effecting how long cable lasts
Interesting and imformative little comparison test. Thanks.
Yes found it useful as always. Good video quality and music.
I
I've got a saw similar to the last one, it's great, fits in my pocket and does the job well, it's awesome
great looking chain saw,always wonder how it does the job
Cheers Steve! Surprisingly good! And lightweight too. Atb, Simon.
Great video Simon, Thanks for putting it together.
I've never used one of the chainsaw blade type and have wondered how they'd perform. Watching your video I realized something that I think we sometimes forget. Cutting wood quickly is important but I think the versatility of a saw is also important. I think it would be difficult to use a chainsaw-type when cutting on a sawhorse or for making semi-accurate cuts to notch etc for woodcraft.
What do you think? Can you get accurate cuts with the chainsaw-type?
(Btw, also... for some time I've been setting up with autofocus and then switching to manual for the actual shot so the camera doesn't switch its focus point on me. Its helped me get a higher percentage of in focus shots. Takes a bit longer to set up and a bit of practice but its working for me.)
Thanks Jason, you are quite right, they are great for cutting firewood etc, but as they are, they are a bit crude for precise work. I’m interested to see how they’d perform when used with a frame - as a bow-saw.
Thanks for the tip about switching to manual focus for the shot! I tend to use manual focus if I’m behind the camera for scenery shots etc, when I’m not in frame, but have been using autofocus for the bits with me in - it’s frustrating as the focus keeps wandering off to trees etc in the back ground!! I’ll try your tip next time! What camera are you using at the moment? Your shots are always nice and sharp! Atb, Simon.
Handsome buck saw.. Nice finish. Like the efficiency of the hand chain saws. It appears you could use in the yard too...One of your RUclips peers northernwoodsman Martin had a interesting portable mill thingy. It's all interesting. One of my goals is to get back into canoeing and camping more self sufficient sewing knitting etc... Thanks for your thoughts ...
I love my bucksaw, makes short work of processing a big pile of logs and there is just something very nice about a wooden saw! Love the idea of a completely self sufficient lifestyle, making and recycling all that you need! 😁👍
The overmont has got to be the best of that bunch, because like a chainsaw, it can be sharpened. Added bonus, you can attach long lines to the ends and chuck it up high over a limb ( to remove high deadwood for the fire 🔥 ).
Nice video, the commando saw will cut other material, like metal or plastic better, but it was nice to see that you knew how to use it correctly.
Thx 4 sharing Simon! I'm new to bushcrafting so i'm wondering if u can rank them based on the effort and time that they cut that tree. Thank you very much!
One of the advantages of the chain/cable type saw is that the cut they make when wrapped around a piece of wood is much longer than the cut you would make with a straight blade type saw. If you use a traditional saw, you're making a 2-4" cut at the most in a 4" diameter piece. With the cable/chains, you would be cutting along at least 5-7" I would think. That's partly where the efficiency comes from.
Super old comment, but that would actually go against it. Working on a larger surface with a cutting tool is slower than working on a small area at a time. The reason is that the pressure you're putting on the blade is distributed on a larger surface so the teeth simply don't dig as deep, and you end up displacing less wood overall on each stroke. You're better off angling your cut so that you don't cut on the longest line (but of course this won't yield such a nice clean cut) I think the efficiency rather comes from the fact that you can put much more pressure on the cut and you can use the bigger back muscles. I actually expected the 2nd chain saw to cut slower because it's so thick, but I guess the teeth are better on it. It would cut better if it was thinner though.
@@mrkiky I think the efficiency comes from the length of the stroke.
I Learned a lot and you gave each saw a fair shake. I would love to get a pattern for your homemade buck saw. A signature Simon Model would be a cool collectable saw to use & own. Thanks for the tutorial and as always, God bless & safe travels 🙏🏼⛺️😎
Thanks mate - I’ll let you know when I go into production! 😁
Awesome Simon. Thanks for the comparison. Along with my homemade buck saw and Bahco, I have a Sawvivor that I love as well. Unfortunately it is my understanding that the Sawvivor is no longer made.
Thank you! Sounds like have shared good taste in saws! I’ve not heard of a Sawvivor, I’ll have to take a look, shame it’s no longer in production. Cheers and Atb, Simon.
Another great video interesting to see those saws in action. Not sure if anyone has mentioned but the curved teeth on the chainsaw type are depth gauges to stop the cutting edges biting to deep.
Cheers David! Ah! That makes sense - I didn’t realise that, just assumed they were clearance/raker teeth. Thanks for the info! 👍 Atb, Simon.
I like your style. Thank you.
I'll stick with the good old bucksaw - great video!!!!
Cheers! My number one too! Atb, Simon.
Just a suggestion, when using your chain saws, if you was to cut the short links of a stick about 1 in by 6 inch, stick them through your Loop on the handle, it will be much easier to hold and maybe make it easier for you to cut wood.
That is a good idea! I’ll try that out - thank you! Atb, Simon.
That bucksaw is a piece of work I must make one of those! So impressed with all the 'gadgets' that pack away to nothing like the Honey Stove, reminds me a bit of the old Hexamine stove. Crikey, that Laplander is impressive! I'm planning to live off grid and build a cabin on my land. But until I have built the cabin Im basically living in a tree without a chain saw or tools I will need to buy over time! I have made 'nettle tea in the past' but never Pine needle? Another great video thanks.
PS would lie to see this 'Silky' saw some time please?
I’ve not used a Silky, but they are well regarded!
Good luck with the cabin build - exciting stuff! 👍
Simon, you are a good teacher. I have not used the hand held chains and wire saws because I didn’t trust them. Your demonstration was sensible and appreciated. I will follow your advice on the saws. Think I’ll stick with Earl Grey and a drop or two of honey for my tea though, heh, heh... I hope your heart is doing okay. Still thinking about just what kind of canoe to get for central Texas rivers and lakes. I wish you well. Texas
Thanks mate! If I lived on your side of the pond I’d be after a Swift canoe - we can’t get them here, but super light (and pricey!) 😁
Simon, a bloke in the woods Thanks, I will look at the Swift Canoe reviews. I trust your advice. So, if I can afford such a canoe maybe I’ll have one soon. Texas
nice vid Simon, you have put a bit of confidence in me with those chainsaw style units, ive never really wanted to look at them but they are actually quite impressive👍👍
Cheers! Yes, they are surprisingly good - and compact - and cheap! Win,win,win! Atb, Simon.
Thanks for the demonstrations.
The problem with pine needles is that the outside is waxy, which prevents the flavour from getting out. If you chop the needles finer, or give then a little crush, it'll bring out nore flavour. That said, it's still generally underwhelming. :/
Honestly, I've never found a stick that I could cut with a wire saw that I couldn't just snap with my hands or hack with a fixed-blade knife better. Some people said you can use them for snares, but given how inflexible and brittle they are, I doubt their efficacy.
The one use I have found for them, however, is cutting oddly shaped breads and cakes! They don't need any real grit, and the flexibility is certainly more than a bread knife! XD
I too, thought of the idea of putting a pocket chainsaw in a wooden frame. Have you tested this idea? nowhere on youtube have I found a test of this idea. I like the compactness of the pocket chainsaw, but the structure of a bow saw. I havent purchased the pocket chainsaw because I dont know that it will work in a frame (tough I cant see why it wouldn't)
I’m sure it would work very well - I just haven’t put it to the test yet. 👍
Ahoi Simon. I am using a Silky Gomboy and recentyl i bought a Agawa Canyon BOREAL21 folding saw. I am very excited to test it. I like that the blades are very cheap compared to the Silky. Greetings from Germany. Azze
Cheers Azze! I think I’m going to set a Silky when my Laplander finally gives up. How is the Boreal 21? I see a few people using them, they look like they work well and collapse nice and small. My Buck-saw uses the same blade - a 21” bowsaw blade - the ones made by Bahco are very good. Thanks mate, Atb from a still chilly England! Simon.
At the moment the Boreal stands brand new beside my axes beside my gear closet. I haven´t tested it yet but i am very excited about that. Bahco? Okay, i will check it if i can get them here in Germany. Azze
Of course they are available ... i have checked it. Thanks for this tip.
this was a well put together video thanks simon!! :)
Thanks mate, Atb.
Great video. I have one of those thin black pocket chainsaws with the two teeth on one link and a Varco commando wire saw. I did my second video on both. The Varco saw isn’t just braided, it has small barbs on it which does better in cutting small branches. I’ll be trying to make some kind of bucksaw with the pocket chainsaw to see if it will work. Thanks for sharing.
Great information video on your Saws like the brilliant video like the information on the Saws.
Thank you Andrew! Atb, Simon.
Hey Simon who made your jacket & trousers thank great video
I've seen other manual chain saws that come with extension cords so that you can cut overhead branches. Perhaps more of a gardening tool, though!
I think that I might also convert my metal bow saw (which hardly gets used) into a buck saw like yours - looks like a fun project.
I do like your bucksaw 😁
Pine needle tea. . That's a new one on me. . Must give it a try.
Thanks for the heads up Simon.
Hope you've got yourself warm by now. Talk about suffering for your art !
If you do make pine tea, I recommend fine cutting the needles, or crushing them a little to bring out the flavour. It's not the best flavour in the world, though, but it's rich in vitamins A and C. Just be sure to use the right needles, since things like Yew and I think Larch needles can be toxic. White pines are fine, though.
@@SwordGuardian . . Thank you for the tip. I will try it.
I like the Laplander and the bucksaw.The little saw blades on my Swiss Army Knife work good to for finger size branches.I am wandering when your going to restock your Etsy store,would love to buy one of your bucksaws and a patch?Thanks for making videos,very much enjpy them.
I’ll keep you posted on the bucksaws. 👍
Nice demonstration, I’ve wondered how well those chainsaws work. I guess they’re more efficient because you’re using the power of both arms to cut instead of just one...💪
Thanks for telling about some saws very helpful
excellent info ,very handy to know , think i will get some of these and keep in my truck and pack. Thank you Simon you may be a life saver and not know it......
What would you recommend between the folding and handheld chain saws for an off-road motorcycle rider that will use the saw to clear path when they have been obstructed by fallen tree?
Nice vid, Simon. I haven't used the handheld chainsaw, think I'll get one and try it out. Don't like those wire saws, I've had the same experience as you, with them breaking. Thanks for sharing, mate. Take care.
Cheers Andy. The chainsaws are surprisingly good- I was quite impressed, lightweight, compact, very efficient and cheap! I’ve learned a bit about the wire saw since doing this video - they were designed for the armed forces as an escape and evasion tool that can be concealed in clothing - hems, zips, boots etc and were never designed to be used with handles (as they are often sold!) but rather as a bowsaw like in the video. I was inadvertently using it correctly!! Lol! Atb mate, Simon.
I have seen hundreds of videos and nobody ever said a thing about the commando wire saw. that is a military tool that was mainly found (I don't know today if it is still supplied) inside the survival mitts for the pilots of the aircraft. (together with the knife) back to us ... the commando can easily be hidden in clothing along with micro compasses and silk cartographic maps. in case of capture or need it is mainly a weapon. I tried it around the neck of a wild boar that I had hunted and believe me despite the resistant hair and the rind with a strong and quick pull it went deep into the muscles cutting veins and meat. we also consider that in the periods in which the pilots were really in danger of being killed the wars were stationed in Vietnam, Korea ... I don't know if it can go back to IIWW, I have always seen it in the kits of the 60s - 70s so the staff worked in the jungle where the hardest vegetation is bamboo, and it cuts it perfectly without breaking ... I follow your channel with pleasure, greetings from Italy
How soft was the tree..? It has that hollow punky sound.
i was once stranded on a beach with no firewood so we cannibalised 2 wooden kayak blades the rest of the kayaking party looked on enviously as they only had on them plastic blades!!
we dried our kit out got warm n toasty
enough then we both used our emergency plastic deck blades to get back home again!!
we made 2 more sets of blades each as replacements at a workshop using laminates that were ace
never gave up my wooden paddles again after that day
valued them
more than any carbon fibre or plastic kevlar blades
etc
as has multiple purposes if in the sthuckk!!
True multi-purpose! When needs must.
Very nice saw you made.
Thanks Jonathan. 👍
What is yellow flowered shrub that you were eating the flowers of in March? Bahco are ok, but I prefer Fanno and Silky having pruned apple trees and worked in urban forestry. Many of the cheaper folding saws would only last one week in an orchard..
Thanks Lewis, they are gorse flowers, one of the few edible flowers available year round.
If you haven't already, might want to look into the silky saws. They eat like crazy! Recently used my gomboy to cut through a 14in Fallen Eastern red cedar. Took some doing, but They definitely punch above their weight class.
Have you done a video of the plastic handled chainsaw made into a bow saw? Im pretty curious as to how well it would work.
Not yet - I’ll try it one day. 👍
@@simonablokeinthewoods I basically have the shorter one with the plastic handles. I soaked it in some CLP the first time I used it and it helped loosen it up. I got this because I wanted something where I could cut a piece of log and make a Swedish fire torch if I wanted to, but still have a saw under 6oz.
Great video Simon. I'm like you with my Browning Folding saw. It's been going strong for well over 14 years now with me using the heck of of it and it always comes back for more. Now for a buck saw, I have a run of the mill tubular deal that works well, but I might make a folding buck saw like yours sometime in the near future. As for the chainsaws, I have never tried one, but I am open to the idea. Thanks again buddy.
Cheers! Sounds like your Browning has stood the test of time! I’ve not used one of those steel bucksaws, but my folding one is great - perfect for lots of processing! I was pretty impressed by the chainsaw jobbies - good backup saws! Atb, Simon
I got the steel bucksaw just for trail maintenance on the property so I can keep my trail wide enough to run my garden tractor on for getting woods or other things out. I also just had an idea for the commando saw. Like you said it would be decent for making spoons and such. Also the way it is made since it is more of a round blade, I would thing it might work well for a bushcraft coping saw of sorts. The way those are made makes me thing you might be able to cut in a curve and not just a straight line.
I’m sure they would work well as a coping saw - I’ll have to give it a try! Nice idea!
I always assumed they were gimmicks, but they seem to work way better than expected, I too made a bowsaw very similar to yours, I think my blade is 600mm.
Cheers Shelley, yes, a nice surprise! They are inexpensive for what they are, compact and efficient! The buck-saw wins though (just) Atb, Simon.
Hi Simon I have a silky saw, it’s a recent purchase and it’s a great saw, works on the pull action rather then cutting on the push pull...still use my Laplander and yes it’s a fantastic little saw it’s my go to for day hikes etc. I’ve also got one of the chain saw chain type saws and I was surprised by its ease of use.
On a different note what sealskins gloves are they and would the be any good for canoeing??
Cheers Martin, I think I’m going to invest in a silky, I use Japanese pull saws a lot in my work, so I think I’ll like them! I think the gloves are called the Outdoors gloves, leather palm, fabric back, tough gloves. I’ve used them for canoeing and are ideal - the leather provides good grip. Atb, Simon.
New to the channel, watching through older videos. Those chainsaw type saws would make a great mod for your own-made saw, would not have to carry the quite big blade with you. Impressive performance, did not believe those at first.
Lovey video Simon and very well explained,that wire saw i reckon would be better as a rabbit snare than saw lol, and as always mate well done and im off to tap a silver birch now ATB and see you soon 👍😃🌱🌳🌳🌿🥀🌻
Cheers Jim! I think you are right, it would make a decent snare! They were originally issued to soldiers to be used as part of their escape and evasion kit, intended to be sewn into hems of clothing or concealed in boots. So for that purpose - emergency use - they do the job, but I wouldn’t want to cut up firewood with one! Good luck with Birch sap mate - a good spring tonic! Atb, Simon.
Ive carried one of those pocket chainsaw saws with the actual chainsaw teeth for a few years and like it very much. The best part is if it does get dull you just use the proper size chainsaw file and bingo, back in action!
They are really good, this was the first time I’d used one and I was impressed, it’s earned a permanent place in my kit. Cheers, Simon.
Interesting. I like the 'chain saw' as it looks like it could be sharpened.
good job on the cdo saw nice bow frame for it!!
what i find with these they only last 2 or 3 cuts and teeth are worn down or out!
they can also break quite easily
for last ditch stuff not as a main unfortunately
chainsaw blade was effective
if somebody elses is carrying it!!
:)
Yes, that is my experience of them too, snappy, inefficient and cheap! But, it is improved by a frame - a bit!
another nice video THANKS
Thanks for the video and you help me make my decision on a saw,
The green one
Lol, forgot the name of it , getting old !
That’s the Laplander, by Bahco. Good, solid saws! 👍
Simon, a bloke in the woods
Ok Simon , thanks ,
For getting back with me on the saw, Appreciate it .
Just came across your video, ya a little late to the party. I just wanted to comment that you commented on using the the pocket chain saws with the conversion that you gave the commando saw. I would rather see you use them in your folding buck saw. That would be very interesting. I love you folding saw I will be attempting to make one. Especially after watching your other video on how to make one.
Thank you! Yes, that would be interesting to try. The buck saw in my opinion is the very best saw for back country use. Cheers Simon
There's an aspect of these pocket chainsaws that a lot of reviewers miss. And that's using one to cut a high branch by attaching rope to the ends and tossing it over. The thinner saw here with the red handles seems to me could be problematic because you'd have to make sure it's oriented properly in order to do the cut-- it's so thin that I'd think you might have a problem keeping it upright when attached to a length of rope. The other saw with the bi-directional classic chainsaw teeth seems like it'd work better for that, and of course, none of the hand saws would work because the point is, you're trying to saw a branch that's 12' up in the air, too high to reach otherwise...
Very good point. 👍
good idea few would have thought of getting high up branches, ta
I've seen some that are double sided, so it cuts regardless of which way it lands.
Thanks for that video was very handy excellent again thanks a lot!
Cheers Robert! 😁
What, no SVEN?! I'm stunned! I've had one for about 35 years and it never fails!
I was wondering where I might pick up a buck saw case like the one use for your buck saw?
Hi Richard, the case is homemade, as is the saw - I have a video on it if you fancy having a go at making one! 😁
Informative , thanks Simon.
Just tried out one of the chain saws on a really hard dead piece of apple. I gave up. Because I couldn’t cut exactly square it kept jamming up and in the tough Apple it really jammed! It worked really well on some green wood about 3in thick that I could get square to though. The only ones I could find had a cutting tooth every three links, maybe that was the problem.
I just got a Woods brand pocket chainsaw it has a 22 inch chain with a blade & raker on each link which is IMHO: important
Saw is 36” incl. straps which is too short so I used a loop of paracord to attach wood handles that are at 90 degrees to the blade so with 2 x ½ foot each extensions for a total new length 48 inches which is minimal for sawing comfort. This is the only portable saw I ever liked now I am secure about being able to process wood. Whoopee!
Great team.