7 Best Handsaws for Cutting Trees

Are you looking for the best handsaws for cutting trees? There are a lot of different types of handsaws available.

A good-quality handsaw is an investment that can save you time and money in the long run. Here is a list of all the best ones on the market, the pros, the cons, and how to use them correctly!

Our Best Handsaws For Cutting Trees

Before getting into a detailed discussion of each handsaw for cutting trees, let’s first take a look at the top models.

Now, let’s discuss each model of handsaw for cutting trees in greater detail.

1. Corona 10-Inch RazorTOOTH Folding Handsaw

Technical specifications

• Blade Material: Chrome-plated steel
• Blade length: 10 In (25 cm)
• Teeth: 6 TPI (teeth per inch)
• Length (unfolded): 18 In (46 cm)
• Length (folded): 10 In (25 cm)
• Weight: 0.8 lb (400 g)

The Corona 10-Inch RazorTOOTH folding handsaw is the best and earns our top pick. It has many great features that will allow you to do the job quickly and efficiently.

It is ergonomically comfortable and lightweight so that you can work for extended periods. The curved, soft handle gives you a comfortable and safe grip. It also features a three-sided razor-sharp blade that will cut easier and faster through small to medium branches.

The curved blade of this hand saw is made of hardened steel. The length of the blade can be chosen from 7, 8, and 10 Inches (18, 20, and 25 cm). 

The 10-inch blade is ideal for cutting up 6-inch (15 cm) thick branches or trunks. It’s also equipped with six teeth per inch, which makes the cut smoother and faster.

Its compact, lightweight, and portable design makes it easy to carry around and use anywhere you go.

In conclusion, this is an excellent tool for pruning branches of trees and shrubs. It is recommended for beginners and experienced gardeners alike.

If you’re looking for a tool to help you get the job done efficiently, then you can’t go wrong with the Corona 10-inch RazorTOOTH Folding Handsaw.

Pros

• The handle provides a good grip.
• Lightweight material allows better maneuverability.
• 3 different blade sizes – 7, 8, and 10 inches (18, 20, and 25 cm).
• Great for pruning branches or trunks up to 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter.
• Smooth and efficient cuts through wood with 6 teeth per inch blade.

Cons

• Part of the blade is slightly exposed when folded.

2. Bahco 396-LAP Laplander Folding Saw

Technical specifications

• Blade Material: Stainless Steel
• Blade length: 7.5 In (19 cm)
• Teeth: 7 TPI (teeth per inch)
• Length (unfolded): 16 In (41 cm)
• Length (folded): 9 In (23 cm)
• Weight: 0.4 lb (200 g)

The Bahco 396-LAP Laplander Folding Saw is a versatile general-purpose folding saw. It’s an excellent tool for anyone who needs to cut wood, plastic, bone, and other materials.

It is a compact, lightweight saw with a comfortable handle and a sturdy plastic body. It comprises a 2-component plastic handle, a safety lock, and a 7.5-inch (19 cm) blade with 7 TPI, ideal for trimming or cutting green and dry wood, plastic, and bone.

Blades are specially coated with rust protection and low-friction material.

Another great feature is that the saw is equipped with a safety lock. This lock is for both lock-in and lock-out. It’s also equipped with a safety stop to prevent the blade from slipping out of position.

Overall, the Bahco 396-LAP Laplander folding saw is a perfect folding saw that will save you a lot of time and effort. It is a must-have tool for anyone who does gardening or any other type of outdoor activity.

Pros

• A sharp blade can cut through green and dry wood, plastic, or bone.
• Two-component plastic handle for perfect grip, with a leather strap.
• Blade specially coated for rust protection and low friction.
• Safety lock, also locked when folded.

Cons

•  The blade is thin compared to similar folding saws
•  The handle scratches easily

3. Rexbeti Folding Handsaw

Technical specifications

• Blade Material: SK-5 steel
• Blade length: 11 In (28 cm)
• Teeth: 7 TPI (teeth per inch)
• Length (unfolded): 22 In (56 cm)
• Length (folded): 11 In (28 cm)
• Weight: 0.9 lb (410 g)

Rexbeti Folding Handsaw is a simple yet effective handsaw that will help you effortlessly cut down trees, shrubs, and small logs.

This handsaw features an ergonomic, comfortable rubber handle that gives you a firm grip.

It has a durable SK-5 strong and sturdy steel blade that is ideal for cutting down medium to large-sized branches. The saw’s blade is long enough to get through thick trees and branches but short enough to make it easy to use.

The sturdy, heavy-duty blade can be bought in two sizes, 8 In (20 cm) and 11 In (28 cm) long. The 11-inch (28 cm) will help you quickly power through thicker branches.

The outstanding feature is that this folding saw has aggressively positioned 7 TPI (teeth per inch) blade teeth, allowing smooth and fast sawing.

Overall, it is an excellent handsaw for gardeners, campers, and survivalists. It will give you maximum efficiency when pruning smaller branches. If you want a durable and reliable folding saw, the RexBeti is definitely a good choice.

Pros

• A full rubber handle provides an excellent grip.
• Lightweight material gives good maneuverability.
• 2 different blade sizes – 8 In (20 cm) and 11 In (28 cm).
• Suitable for pruning branches or trunks up to 7 In (18 cm) in diameter.
• Easily cuts through wood with 7 teeth per inch blade.

Cons

• Some of the teeth are still visible when the blade is closed.

4. Eversaw 8.0, Home Planet Gear Folding Handsaw

Technical specifications

• Blade Material: Sturdy Carbon Steel
• Blade length: 8 In (20 cm)
• Teeth: 9 TPI (teeth per inch)
• Length (unfolded): 17 In (43 cm)
• Length (folded): 9 In (23 cm)
• Weight: ‎0.62 lb (285 g)

Home Planet Gear Folding Handsaw is a good choice for people who need a versatile tool for their home, camping, travel, or backyard projects. 

The 8-inch blade is made of sturdy carbon steel, making it durable enough to withstand years of use. It has a triple-cut pattern that easily cuts through different materials such as wood, bone, or plastic. 

The saw has a slip-resistant handle, making it easy to hold and comfortable to use. Its gear-style lock allows it to be used safely, and the ergonomic design helps reduce the pressure on the user’s hand and wrist.

In conclusion, this saw is an excellent handsaw for people who want to have an affordable yet reliable tool in their gardening arsenal.

Pros

• Durable carbon steel blade construction.
• A sharp triple-cut blade that can cut through wood, bone, or plastic.
• It can be used for a variety of applications

Cons

• It is heavier than others.

5. Mossy Oak Folding Handsaw

Technical specifications

• Blade Material: High Carbon Steel
• Blade length: ‎7.5 In (19 cm)
• Teeth: Wood blade 5 TPI, Plastic blade: 11 TPI, Metal blade: 18 TPI
• Length (unfolded): 17.5 In (44 cm)
• Length (folded): 10 In (25 cm)
• Weight: ‎0.57 lb (259 g) ‎

The Mossy Oak Folding Handsaw is an excellent tool for many home uses. It features an ergonomic design that makes it comfortable to hold and operate. This hand saw also has a sharp, versatile blade that can cut through almost anything.

An amazing feature of this handsaw is that it comes with three types of blades. These different blades are designed to provide the best possible application for cutting materials like wood, bone, and plastic. Three blades can be changed, allowing you to choose the best type of blade for the job at hand:

1. Blade for wood: 5 TPI, 65 Mn, length 7.5 In (190 mm),
2. Blade for plastic: 11 TPI, 65 Mn, length 7.5 In (190 mm),
3. Blade for metal: 18 TPI, 58 CrV, length 7.5 In (190 mm).

This handsaw is a perfect multipurpose tool to have around. It is handy when cutting materials for home, camping, and backyard projects.

The saw is light, and the comfortable rubber grip handle makes it easy to hold.

Overall, this is a convenient tool for gardeners, backpackers, and campers as it will help to cut different materials easily. Due to its versatility, you will enjoy using this blade. It’s a must-have for anyone who loves outdoor life and will definitely make your adventures a little more exciting.

Pros

• A hand saw comes with three types of blades. Each blade optimally cuts the material it is designed to cut.
• The rugged razor tooth blade remains stable during strong pulls resulting in accurate cuts.
• Slip-resistant comfort grip handle with TPR rubber coated.

Cons

• Blade changing could be time consuming

6. Bahco 30-Inch Ergo Bowsaw

Technical specifications

• Blade Material: High-quality steel
• Blade length: 30 In (76 cm)
• Teeth: 2.5 TPI (teeth per inch)
• Length (unfolded): 35 In (88.5 cm)
• Length (folded): N/A
• Weight: 1.9 lb ‎(865 g)

Bahco 30-inch (76 cm) Ergo Bowsaw is a great handsaw for those who want to cut down trees or branches. It is a heavy-duty bowsaw for all-around use.

It is one of the best choices for homeowners who don’t need a foldable saw and don’t mind having a larger handsaw in their toolset. 

This hand saw is suitable for cutting all types of wood on both push and pull stroke motions and has been designed keeping in mind the user’s safety. 

This saw is specifically designed to cut wood efficiently and accurately. It has a tubular steel frame and a rubberized knuckle guard. It is best used for cutting through softwoods like pine, cedar, and fir. But it will also cut through hardwoods like oak, maple, and ash, just a bit slower.

The blade is sharp and will not get stuck in the wood. It also makes short work of pruning thick branches.

The handle is ergonomic and comfortable, with a tremendous tensioning mechanism. 

Overall, it is a highly efficient tool and is considered the best handsaw for taking down all types of trees.

Pros

• The blade does not get stuck in the wood during cutting
• The plastic handle provides a good grip
• Blade cuts through softwood and hardwood
• Easy blade replacements
• Good tensioning mechanism

Cons

• The knuckle protector is average durability
• The blade protector is made out of plastic

7. Seesii 4-Inch Cordless Electric Pruning Chainsaw

Technical specifications

• Chain Material: Steel
• Chain length: 4 In (10 cm)
• Teeth: Chain
• Length: 13.4 In (34 cm)
• Weight: 2.49 lb (1.13 kg)

If you’re looking for an electric alternative to a manual handsaw. You can’t go wrong with the Seesii 4-inch (10 cm) Cordless Electric Pruning Chainsaw. It features a high-powered motor that will ensure you do the job in no time.

It is the ideal power tool for your backyard. This small chainsaw is perfect for pruning branches, trimming smaller trees, and cutting through the thicker parts of the wood. It is ideally suited for all types of work involved in gardening and landscaping.

The battery lasts longer than expected, up to 30 minutes. This tool comes with 2 batteries, making it great for pruning trees in the garden without downtime.

Another great thing about the Seesii is that it’s ergonomic. The handles are comfortable, and the design makes it easier to maneuver around the trees. The trigger button is also well-placed and very easy to operate.

Overall, if you want a power tool to take the strain out of work in your garden, in that case, the Seesii 4-inch (10 cm) Cordless Electric Pruning Chainsaw is an excellent alternative to a traditional handsaw. It is easy to operate and requires no complicated adjustments.

It is perfect for Dads, Friends, Husbands, or any DIYers.

Pros

• It makes cutting and trimming much more effortless than manual saws.
• Comes with 2 large-capacity batteries.
• Compact, lightweight, and easy-to-use chainsaw.
• Suitable for right-handed and left-handed people.

Cons

• More expensive than manual handsaws.
• Slightly heavier than manual handsaws.

Our Top Picks For Best Hand Saw For Cutting Trees

Why Get A Handsaw For Cutting Trees

A handsaw is an excellent alternative to a power tool. It has functions similar to the power tools, but without a doubt, you will have to put more effort and sweat when working with a handsaw.

A handsaw is one of the most valuable tools you can have in your toolbox. It’s useful for many things, such as cutting branches from trees, trimming shrubs, pruning fruit trees, or cutting firewood. But that’s not all:

1. Affordable

Hand saws are very affordable. Much more affordable than any power tool. And it is not just an initial cost. This also takes the upkeep into consideration.

If you choose a handsaw, you will not have to pay for petrol, oil or electricity. 

2. Lightweight

A handsaw is a lightweight tool. You can carry it around easily. It is an ideal tool for those who like to travel light. So, a handsaw to cut trees is perfect if you want something portable.

3. Versatile

Handsaws are versatile. You can easily reach places difficult for power tools to get to. Cut at angles that power tools have difficulty cutting.

Handsaws do not require electricity. You can use them where no electricity is available.

4. Durable

Quality handsaws are durable. They get scraped but will not get significant damage quickly, even after years of use. It will keep giving you value for money, and you will continue using it.

5. Easy to Operate 

Handsaws are easy to operate. All you need to do is place the blade in the wood, push the handle and start sawing. The blade can be sharpened with ease.

Almost anyone can use these saws. You don’t have to be an expert to use a handsaw. All you need is a little practice to get the hang of it.

Still, as easy as it is, do not forget to protect your eyes from wood splintering or dust blown by the wind. Wear protective glasses.

6. Easy to Store

Clean it and place it into the toolbox or drawer. That’s it! Simple! 

What to Look for When Buying Handsaw for Cutting Trees

When buying a handsaw, you must consider several factors. These are:

1. TPI (Teeth Per Inch)
2. Straight or curved blade
3. Blade Quality
4. Blade Length
5. Size and Weight
6. Teeth Sharpness
7. Ergonomic Design

1. TPI (Teeth Per Inch)

The general rule of thumb about TPI (Teeth Per Inch) is that the more TPI there is on the blade, the smoother but slower the cut is. On the other hand, less TPI allows for a rougher but faster cut. 

For example, most gardeners prefer having less TPI. They need to be able to cut trees or branches fast.

2. Straight Or Curved Blade

You can choose between a straight-edge saw, or a curved-edge saw. 

A straight-edge saw has a flat cutting surface. This type of design tends to be slower but more precise and easier to control the cuts.

A curved edge saw has a curved cutting surface. This type of design tends to be faster but less precise, and harder to control the cuts.

Speed wins most of the choices in the garden, especially with a neverending pruning or trimming. So, the curved-edge saw is the way to go unless you need high-precision cuts.

3. Blade Quality

You need a durable saw that will last for a long time. So, make sure that the blade is made of high-quality steel. These blades are strong and durable and will last much longer. They can withstand heavy use. Also, they will not feel flimsy and will be easy to maintain. 

Low-quality blades tend to wear out and can eventually bend or even break. 

The saw should withstand the weather elements regardless of the harsh weather. It should be resistant to rust. The saw should not be affected by moisture, heat, or cold.

4. Blade Length

The handsaw blade length is a critical factor. The longer the blade, the more material it will cut at a time. So, the longer the blade, the bigger and faster the cut will be.

However, long blades can be heavy and more challenging to handle. 

If you are not using the handsaw regularly, shorter blades will be ok. But get a longer blade if you intend to use the handsaw often.

5. Size And Weight

You should also look at its size and weight. It is much easier to carry and use a small and lite saw than a big and heavy one.

However, bigger and heavier handsaws will not require as much power to cut wood. The heavier the saw, the more stable and accurate the cuts will be. In other words, blade size will determine how much force you need to apply when using the saw. 

You can select the size of the saw according to the size of the trees or branches you intend to cut in your garden or anywhere else outdoors.

For example, if you want to cut smaller-sized trees or branches, you need a smaller handsaw. If you’re going to cut larger ones, then you will need a larger handsaw. 

6. Teeth Sharpness

Sharp teeth allow the saw to penetrate the wood quickly and make straight cuts with less effort. If the teeth are dull, sawing will be more time-consuming and ineffective.

I know, I know! It is obvious, but I had to include it as it is essential 🙂

7. Ergonomic Design

When using a handsaw to cut your trees, you must select one that is as comfortable as possible. If the saw is uncomfortable to use, you will not be able to use it for a long time. It is surprising how a simple handle of the handsaw can affect your performance. 

So, choose an ergonomic handle with a good grip material that you can hold comfortably with a firm grip without any strain.

The more comfortable your hand saw is, the easier it will be to use it. 

Electric Vs. Manual

When deciding between electric or manual handsaws, there are a few key factors to consider. Though both types have benefits and drawbacks that affect their performance, manual hand saws will require more physical work than electric ones.

Electric handsaws are highly efficient pieces of equipment that will take a lot of the backbreaking work out of the equation. However, these models are much bulkier and more expensive than their manual counterparts.

The battery charge of electric models is limited, making them impractical for longer jobs or days when you have it all planned out and forget to charge the battery. You know them days! We all had them…

On the other hand, manual saws are a lot lighter, less expensive, and can be used anywhere. If you are working in remote locations or just prefer to do some manual labor (workout 🙂 ), manual saws are the best choice for you.

Tips On Cutting With A Hand Saw

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Best Handsaw For Cutting Trees?

The Corona 10-Inch RazorTOOTH folding handsaw is the best manual handsaw and earns our top pick.

The best electric handsaw is the Seesii 4-inch (10 cm) Cordless Electric Pruning Chainsaw.

Types Of Handsaws That Are Best For Cutting Trees

There are four types of handsaws that are best for cutting trees.

1. Pruning Saw
2. Bow Saws
3. Pole Saws
4. Rope Chain Saw

So, let us discuss each in more detail.

1. Pruning Saw

Pruning saws are compact, lightweight, and easy to operate. They are easy to carry anywhere you go. The pruning saw is very useful in a backyard garden or any outdoor trip. 

Pruning saws are made to cut through the smaller branches. The branch size that the pruning saw can cut depends on the length of the blade itself.

To know the approximate blade size, multiply the largest branch size you need to cut by approximately 2. For example, if you buy a pruning saw that has 8 inches (20 cm) blade, you can comfortably cut through 4 inches (10 cm) branch. 

You will still be able to cut anything bigger, but you will need more turns and twists to go through.

2. Bow Saws

These saws look like oversized bows with a long flat blade. It is a traditional saw commonly used to cut branches and small trees. But it is much bigger and heavier than a pruning saw.

Bow saws are versatile as they can be used for small and large tree limbs, softwood, and hardwood. They’re also a great option if you need a saw for your workshop or garage. 

The best thing about bowsaws is that their blades are cheap and can be easily changed.

3. Pole Saws

Pole saws usually consist of an iron or steel pole with a saw blade attached to one side and a handle attached to the other.

These types of saws have a more extended reach and are great for cutting through branches that are high up. However, depending on the length of the pole, the saw can be really heavy and hard to use. 

There are many types of pole saws available on the market. Some are manual, while others are electric. Pole saws are perfect if you want to cut branches you cannot reach with standard saws.

4. Rope Chain Saw

A rope chain saw (wire saw) consists of two parts: the loose chain and handles. These saws are incredibly light and very easy to use.

When it comes to performance, they’re better than all other types of saws, especially if you need to cut a tree trunk. Good quality rope chain saws are powerful and robust.

The only drawback is that you need to have reasonable access with both hands to a tree or branch you are about to cut. And as we all know, this is rarely the case.

These types of saws are most popular in the survival community. 

What Is The Best Tool To Cut Tree Trunks?

A pruning saw, or rope chain saw (wire saws) are the best to cut three trunks, but only if you have a few tree trunks to cut. These saws are very affordable, and there are no upkeep costs. So, if you are willing to do a bit of manual labor in exchange for a piece of bulky and expensive equipment, a pruning or a rope chain saw are your best choices. 

But, if you have quite a few trees to cut down or need to do it fast, there is nothing better than a chainsaw. It will save you a lot of time by slicing through tree trunks like butter. However, these are much more expensive equipment compared to handheld saws.

The cost to run a chainsaw is also higher. Depending on the model, you will require oil and petrol… or electric battery charging.

Can You Use A Handsaw To Cut A Tree?

The short answer is YES. You can use a hand saw to cut a tree. However, the handsaw blade should be made of good quality steel and larger than the diameter of a tree trunk that needs cutting. Otherwise, it will be challenging.

How To Sharpen A Handsaw

1. First of all, use sandpaper to take the rust from the saw’s blade.
2. Then clamp the saw tightly in a vise.
3. Check each tooth individually. If crooked, use pliers to adjust them to the correct position.
4. Use a file to sharpen each individual tooth.

Not a quick job, but handsaw sharpening will ease up and speed up the cutting process. So, it is worth doing.

What To Do Next

You don’t need any heavy machinery to cut down trees. All you need is a good handsaw. So get your handsaw today and cut your trees down with ease… Well, with a bit of sweat and exercise 😉

Hopefully, you got the answer to the best handsaw for cutting trees. If you enjoyed reading our article, check out other similar articles in our “Garden Tools” section.

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