While chainsaws are certainly effective in bringing down trees and cutting wood with ease, you can’t always carry heavy and bulky tools around.
When going on an outdoor adventure, you might feel the need to take the best chainsaw with you. There might be a fallen tree on your mountain bike trail or on the road while you are going camping.
What if there was a compact and practical tool that could easily fit in your backpack or pocket? That’s exactly what I am bringing you today.
As an experienced survivalist and adventurer, I have put together a list of the 10 best pocket chainsaws that I have selected after rigorous testing and analysis.
These lightweight, efficient, and practical tools can fit inside your pocket and won’t weigh you down during your adventure.
So, without any further ado, let’s dive into the details that will help you select the ideal pocket chainsaw for your next hiking, camping, or mountain biking adventure.
Top 10 Best Pocket Chainsaws for Camping and Survival Tested
1. SKYOCEAN Pocket Chainsaw
Total Length: 36 Inches | Number of Teeth: 16 | Blades Direction: Unidirectional | Handle Type: Paracord Handle | Carrying Case Included: Yes
Being an adventurer, I have always been on the lookout for high-quality gear that can help me in any situation. I must tell you I was surprised to see the exceptional capabilities of the SKYOCEAN pocket chainsaw.
Keeping it in my backpack from now onwards, as it is one of the best pocket chainsaws in 2024.
First of all, the portability of this chainsaw is indisputable. You can easily fold down the 36-inch chain into just 6 inches, which will easily fit inside your pocket.
No, it won’t damage your pocket as it comes with its own pack, small enough for your pocket.
Adding to this, this portable saw is equipped with a Paracord handle that is made from high-quality military-grade material that can be extended up to 275 inches.
So, you will be able to easily reach higher branches in case of emergency. Perfect for camping, hiking, and other outdoor adventures that can bring unexpected circumstances.
The tool is equipped with 11 sharp cutting blades that can cut through anything from small branches to thick trunks. You can even cut through overhead branches with ease.
Moreover, the flexible and durable saw chain can create bi-directional motion even with uni-directional blades.
One of the reasons I have placed this product on the top is because of the incredible durability and toughness of the chain. It is made from industrial-grade heat-treated steel that provides unmatchable rigidity.
On the downside, less cutting teeth means slow cutting speed on thicker wood. You will have to put in some extra effort when going against thick branches, but that’s expected from such an affordable and compact cutting tool.
What We Like
- Portable and Lightweight
- High-Quality Paracord Handle
- Efficient Cutting
- Durable and Tough
- Compact Pouch Included
- Extended Reach
What We Don't Like
- Fewer Teeth Means Slow Cutting Speed
- Teeth Can Become Dull Over Time
Why Consider SKYOCEAN Pocket Chainsaw?
I highly recommend the SKYOCEAN pocket saw to all outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable tool for their adventures and emergencies.
2. Nordic Pocket Saw
Total Length: 25.6 Inches | Number of Teeth: 33 | Blades Direction: Unidirectional | Handle Type: Nylon Handles | Carrying Case Included: Yes
If you are looking for an efficient pocket saw that comes with bidirectional teeth, then you don’t need to look further than a Nordic pocket saw.
The only reason this product didn’t make it to the top of my list is the price point. It is highly efficient but also comes with a hefty price tag.
A lightweight and compact tool that you can use with you on all kinds of adventures. With 25.6 inch size and 33 teeth, you can cut through the toughest of woods with ease.
The double-cutting teeth on every major link ensure an effortless cutting experience in both directions. The tool is equipped with heavy-duty nylon handles and is extremely durable.
The nylon handles come with reinforced stitching which ensures a comfortable and safe grip.
Adding to this, the best pocket saw for survival is made from high-quality heat-treated carbon steel, that won’t bend easily and will remain resilient even in harsh conditions.
What really sets this particular tool apart from the rest is its laboratory-tested strength. A study conducted at Karlstad University Sweden shows that this tool can handle force 20 times stronger than a human is capable of achieving.
So, you don’t have to worry about the reliability or durability of the tool. You can get peace of mind knowing that this tool has won many awards including the Outdoor Industry Award 2018 and the Scandinavian Outdoor Awards 2018.
What We Like
- Compact and Portable
- Lightweight
- Double Cutting Teeth
- Heavy Duty Nylon Handles
- Heat Treated High Carbon Steel Construction
- Laboratory Strength
- Award-Winning Product
What We Don't Like
- Higher Price Point compared to other products
- No Accessories Included
Why Consider Nordic Pocket Saw?
Overall, this pocket chainsaw is the best bang for the buck that is tested and approved by experts in the industry. A good investment for any adventurer.
3. Kutir 48 Inch Rope Chainsaw
Total Length: 48 Inch | Number of Teeth: 64 Teeth | Blades Direction: Bidirectional | Handle Type: Rope Handles | Carrying Case Included: Yes (2 Included)
Kutir 48-inch rope chainsaw is one of the longest pocket saws on the list that is designed for cutting down thick trees and logs with ease.
One of the biggest advantages of this saw is that it won’t get stuck in the tree. While other compact saws might get caught in trees, branches, or limbs. The high-quality chain and rope prevent it from getting stuck.
So, this feature alone makes it perfect for anyone who’s looking to purchase a reliable tool for cutting through trees during their outdoor endeavors.
What I liked about this product is that it comes as a complete set. All the previous products I mentioned only included a carrying bag, while this one comes with a sharpener, ropes, a throwing weight pouch, and extra handles.
The throwing weight pouches are a real help when you want to have extended reach without having to climb the tree.
Adding to this, the bidirectional teeth on the best rope saw mean you don’t have to worry about which direction the chain will land. So, you will be able to cut through branches with ease.
On the downside, the blade can become dull after extended use. But, that is a general problem and luckily this saw chain comes with its own sharpener. So, you can sharpen your teeth easily whenever you want.
What We Like
- Won’t Get Stuck in Trees
- Comes as a Complete Set
- Bidirectional Blades
- Faster Cutting Performance
- Can Cut Bigger Branches
- Included Throwing Weight Pouches
- Included Sharpener
What We Don't Like
- Blades May Become Dull After Extended Use
- Carrying pouch not included
Why Consider Kutir 48-inch Rope Chainsaw?
In short, the Kutir rope chainsaw is a valuable tool that helps you cut down tall branches and thick trees with ease. You will have to put in minimum effort. Worth the price.
4. SUMPRI Pocket Chainsaw
Total Length: 36 Inch | Number of Teeth: 16 | Blades Direction: Unidirectional | Handle Type: Nylon Handles | Carrying Case Included: Yes
One of the cost-effective and budget-friendly tools that proved their worth in my adventures is the SUMPRI pocket saw, which is the perfect survival solution for all situations.
One of the standout features that I really loved in this tool is the included fire starter. Yes, it comes with a fire starter kit that works in all weather conditions.
As for the saw itself, it comes in an efficient design and provides faster cutting performance making it one of the best manual saws on the list
The saw is designed to cut through the toughest of woods with ease. The high-quality construction ensures that you have to put in less effort to get the job done.
A good quality pocket saw that comes with its own pouch and will fit easily in your pocket. The all-weather fire starter is really a bonus in the kit.
On the downside, the saw is slightly heavier as compared to other pocket chainsaws on the list. So, you might feel a bit of weight in your pocket, but trust me, this best manual chainsaw won’t slow you down.
What We Like
- 2-in-1 Solution for Adventurers
- Faster Cutting Time
- Heavy Duty Storage Pouch
- Durable Design
- Easy to Carry
What We Don't Like
- Slightly Heavy
- Doesn’t Come with a Sharpener
Why Consider SUMPRI Pocket Chainsaw?
A great survival kit when you are heading out into the wild. The added fire-starter kit is really handy and can help you in difficult situations.
5. Roadfare Pocket Chainsaw
Total Length: 36 Inch | Number of Teeth: 48 | Blades Direction: Bidirectional | Handle Type: Nylon Straps | Carrying Case Included: Yes
Next, we have another bidirectional blade on the list that can cut through thick trees like cutting through butter. This 36 inches long pocket saw has a super-sharp tooth on every link, counting to 48 in total.
The Roadfare pocket saw can cut 3x faster than other unidirectional manual chainsaws. Even in compact form, this tool is very efficient and handy.
What I love most about bidirectional teeth on a chain is less binding or sticking in the wood. The high-quality steel teeth will not get stuck in the tree and increase the cutting speed. So, you will have to put in less effort while working.
Adding to this, the chain comes with two comfortable handles that are made of nylon. The handles are designed in Hi-Vis orange color, which is easy to find even if the pocket saw fell during your trip, making it the best pocket saw for beginners.
Moreover, the tool comes in a lightweight design which is easier to carry around. You won’t even feel its weight in your pocket or backpack.
Never feel handicapped again when you don’t have your chainsaw with you. This compact and handy tool can easily fit in your backpack or pocket and will provide high cutting efficiency.
What We Like
- Bidirectional Teeth
- High Cutting Speed
- Reinforced Nylon Handles
- High Vis Orange Color
- High-Quality Steel Construction
- Won’t Get Stuck in Trees
What We Don't Like
- No Rope or Weight Pouches
- No Fire-Starter Kit
Why Consider Roadfare Pocket Chainsaw?
A simple, efficient, and compact tool that can cut through trees like slicing through butter. With minimum effort, you will be able to cut through thick wood and branches.
6. Sportsman Pocket Chainsaw
Total Length: 36 Inch| Number of Teeth: 16 | Blades Direction: Unidirectional | Handle Type: Nylon Straps | Carrying Case Included: Yes
Next on the list, we have another compact tool that is simple, affordable, and designed to provide efficient cutting speed.
If you are a survivalist and love to go on adventures then this is a must-have tool for you. You can use it to cut branches, limbs, and even trees.
The cross-stitched handles are reliable and comfortable and are made with attention to detail. So, you won’t have to worry about them breaking off.
What makes this tool ideal for survivalists is the included fire-starter kit that is handy in starting fires easily in any weather condition.
Adding to this, the tool also comes with a rugged carrying case which allows you to easily carry it inside your pocket or backpack without damaging other items.
You can also add a rope to extend your reach and cut higher branches. A perfect tool for all kinds of situations.
On the downside, no rope or weighted pouches are included with the kit itself. So, you will have to purchase them separately.
What We Like
- Good for Thicker Limbs
- High Carbon Thick Chain
- Rugged Cross Stitched Handles
- Includes Fire Starter
- Good Quality Pouch
What We Don't Like
- Blades can dull quickly when used on hardwood
- The rope is not included
Why Consider Sportsman Pocket Chainsaw?
Overall, I can confidently say that the Sportsman pocket saw is a versatile and reliable tool for outdoor enthusiasts. The included fire starter is really handy in emergencies.
7. PANZHENG 48 Inch Pocket Chainsaw
Total Length: 48 Inch | Number of Teeth: 62 | Blades Direction: Bidirectional | Handle Type: Riveted Handles (Rope, Nylon, Spring Buckles)| Carrying Case Included: Yes
Next in line, I want to share with you one of the most affordable pocket saw kits I found in the market. PANZHENG pocket chainsaw is perfectly suited for all kinds of cutting applications.
It won’t limit you to the thickness of the wood and will cut through anything with ease. The bidirectional blades ensure a faster cutting pace with minimum effort.
What sets this tool really apart from the rest is the unique patented design. The cutting links cut in opposite directions on both sides, allowing the chain to cut through wood with ease.
The longer chain also means more teeth and extended reach. So, you can cut down higher limbs smoothly without having to climb up to the top of the tree.
I really loved the accessories in the bag that provide you with everything you need for your adventurous camping or survival tour.
The package includes two 23-foot-long emergency ropes, two sturdy nylon handles, four stainless steel spring buckles, one big aluminum snap hook, and a throwing weight pouch.
You won’t need anything else to get the job done. The buckles, rope, and hook really make climbing easier, while you can also use throwing weight to throw the chain over high branches.
On the downside, the whole package is a bit bulky compared to the pocket saws we have discussed so far. So, it will be difficult to carry it in your pocket. I would recommend using a backpack or a fanny pack.
What We Like
- Unique Patent Design
- High Strength Manganese Steel
- Complete Survival Kit Included
- Faster Cutting Speed
- Minimum Effort Required for Cutting
What We Don't Like
- A bit bulky for pocket
- Includes only 1 throwing weight pouch
Why Consider PANZHENG 48-inch Pocket Chainsaw?
Overall, I don’t think you can find a better survival kit at such a low price. Not only have you got the good stuff, but also the one that is made with good quality materials.
8. Homyall Pocket Chain Rope Saw
Total Length: 24 Inch | Number of Teeth: 33 | Blades Direction: Unidirectional | Handle Type: Premium Nylon Band | Carrying Case Included: Yes
If you’re anything like me, you value convenience and efficiency in all aspects of your life – including when you’re out in nature.
That’s why I am finishing my list with a simple pocket chainsaw that comes with premium handles and does the job it is supposed to do.
First of all, the saw has 3x more teeth compared to traditional pocket chainsaws of the same length. So, you will have a faster cutting pace while putting in less effort.
Adding to this, the tool has an improved design which really enhances the ease of use and allows you to cut through the toughest of woods without putting in much effort.
The compact tool is easily inside your pocket and comes in a lightweight design. So, you can easily carry it around in your pocket without feeling any weight.
Moreover, the handles on the tool are premium and enhanced; they won’t rip off. So, you will have a safe and comfortable experience while using this tool.
That being said, there is a bit of a downside. I didn’t like the carrying pouch, because, in my opinion, it is too flimsy. They could have made it sturdier, but you can’t expect anything more at a price this low. So, I would say it’s satisfactory.
What We Like
- 3x More Teeth
- Premium Enhanced Handles
- Faster Cutting Speed
- Lightweight and Easy to Carry
- Enhanced Design
What We Don't Like
- Not the best carrying-pouch
- No accessories included
Why Consider a Homyall Pocket Chainsaw?
All in all, I would say it’s a good quality tool for adventurers, campers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. It can help you cut through wood with ease and comes in an efficient design.
9. Kutir 36 Inch Pocket Chainsaw
Total Length: 36 Inches| Number of Teeth: 30 | Blades Direction: Unidirectional | Handle Type: Nylon Handles | Carrying Case Included: Yes
While our above product was definitely a top-notch choice, the less number of teeth often made it a bit slower in cutting hardwood and large tree trunks.
So, I was tempted to try out something with a similar size but more teeth, and a saw from Kutir perfectly fits the description.
This particular saw comes with versatile functionality and is suitable for a wide range of cutting applications. Due to more teeth, it is ideal for cutting through wood faster.
So, cutting down trees, branches, and limbs has never been easier with the best pocket saw for the money.
I can personally attest to the fact that it cuts faster and with less effort compared to other pocket saws.
You can easily cut wood up to 16 inches in diameter and branches that are up to 40 feet high.
The heat-treated blade has teeth on every junction, ensuring 3x faster cutting speed and ease of use.
However, there is a bit of a downside when compared to the above product. This particular pocket chainsaw doesn’t come with Paracord handles which are much more efficient than general nylon handles.
What We Like
- Versatile Cutting Application
- 3x Faster Cutting Speed
- Heat Treated Blade
- Extended Reach
- Perfect for DIY work
What We Don't Like
- The chain can become tangled if not used correctly
- No Paracord Handles
Why Consider Kutir 36 Inch Pocket Chainsaw?
Overall, Kutir 36-inch manual chainsaw is very effective in cutting through wood with ease. A perfect tool that would easily fit inside your pocket and can be taken anywhere with you.
10. SKEMIX Stainless Steel Chainsaw
Total Length: 23.2 Inch | Number of Teeth: Braided Wired Blade | Blades Direction: Braided & Textured | Handle Type: 2 Steel Rings | Carrying Case Included: No
Running a bit low on money when going camping? We have got you covered. You can buy a good quality pocket saw for just under 10 dollars.
The SKEMIX stainless steel pocket chainsaw is perfect for outdoor adventures and camping trips. The best part is, they come as a pair, making them the best budget pocket saws on the list.
So, even if one gets dull you can use the other one. I really liked the durability of this tool. The high-quality steel construction ensures that the cutting wire is both rigid and long-lasting.
Instead of cutting blades, there are 4 strands of steel wire winded together. So, you don’t have to worry about the blade direction while cutting. It’s a 360-degree rotational band.
This tool is more compact and can easily fit inside your pocket or backpack. You won’t even feel the weight inside your pocket.
On the downside, the tool can only cut wood up to 3 inches thick. So, while you can use it for cutting branches for making a fire, you won’t be able to cut thick trees or branches.
I did try to cut a thicker branch of 10 inches, but it used up both the wires, made them dull, and also took a lot of energy. So, I won’t recommend doing that.
What We Like
- Durable Construction
- Rope Winding
- Faster Cutting
- Compact and Lightweight
- Safe for Hands and Clothes
- Versatile
What We Don't Like
- Not Suitable for Larger or Thicker Branches
- Can only cut up to 3 inches in thickness
Why Consider SKEMIX Stainless Steel Chainsaw?
An economical tool to keep in your backpack for quickly cutting small branches to build a fire beside your camp. Perfect for delicate cutting tasks.
Buying Guide: Choosing a Durable and Reliable Pocket Chainsaw
A pocket chainsaw is one of the most essential tools for campers, hikers, and adventurers. It has a compact and lightweight design, and as the name suggests, it can fit inside your pocket.
However, with so many options available on the market, selecting one above the rest can be a difficult choice.
So, to help you out, I will be sharing some important tips that can help you select the best pocket chainsaw.
Let’s begin:
Blade Length
First of all, you have to decide on the length. It will really narrow down your options. If you are just a hiker and occasionally need to cut some branches for a fire, then you can settle for the smallest one available.
However, campers and adventurers, who often take down big branches or want an efficient manual chainsaw, need the best length they can get.
So, for them, a larger length would be more suitable. But, you don’t want the length to be too large. Remember it won’t be called a pocket saw if you can’t fit it inside your pocket.
So, 24 to 36 inches long would be a good choice. However, for those who want to go after the thickest woods or try taking down trees, I would suggest going with a 48-inch length.
Explore: Best Chainsaw Bars Tested by Patrick!
Blade Quality
No compromise can be made on the blade quality. You must select a sturdy blade that is made from high-quality stainless steel. The carbon coating would be a plus.
A low-quality blade, no matter how sharp, would dull very quickly. Not only this but if not used carefully it might also get tangled, bent, or broken.
So, I would suggest investing in a good quality tool that ensures a reliable and durable cutting experience.
Number of Teeth
One of the features you will find most variations in is the number of teeth on the saw chain. To keep it simple. The number of teeth determines how fast a saw can cut.
So, you can go with the higher number of teeth for faster cutting performance. But remember, the quality and sharpness of teeth also matter.
Also, keep in mind that more teeth will mean you will have to sharpen them individually. While fewer teeth might be a bit slow and may take a bit more time, they are quickly sharpened.
But the choice, in the end, depends on your usage.
Read More: How to Replace Piston Rings on Chainsaw?
Handle Design
There are generally three types of handle designs you can go with. Nylon handles are the most common ones and are widely used.
Just make sure that the nylon handles are properly stitched and reinforced so that they don’t break while cutting wood.
Paracord handles are preferred by outdoor enthusiasts as they are more reliable and easier to hold while cutting.
Ropes or rope handles are more suitable for thicker branches and extended reach. Even if your saw doesn’t come with rope handles, you can purchase ropes. Just make sure the rivets are properly designed to support them.
Related: Pros and Cons of Pocket Chainsaws
Accessories
While things like a fire starter or flashlight aren’t necessary as accessories, there are some other things that you must include in your manual chainsaw kit.
First of all, even the best manual chainsaw can get dull after extended use. So, you must always keep a chain sharpener with you. A manual file is portable, compact, and can be easily stored. You can also utilize a chainsaw chain breaker in case you want to make adjustments to the chain of the saw.
The rope is another handy accessory that must be included in your kit. Throwing weight pouches can come in really handy when you are trying to reach the high branches.
Carrying Pouch
I cannot emphasize the importance of a carrying pouch enough. The blades on the pocket chainsaw are very sharp. So, you cannot directly store it inside your pocket or backpack without the risk of damaging other things, or yourself.
Carrying the saw inside your pocket directly will not only damage the pocket but can also damage your legs while you walk, and severely too.
So, a sturdy case is a must-have with the tool. If the saw doesn’t come with one, then you should purchase one immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose a pocket chainsaw?
You have to take several factors into account but it mainly depends on your usage. If you are going to cut thicker branches and tree trunks, then you will need a larger saw length with more teeth and vice versa.
Are pocket chainsaws any good?
Yes, these manual chainsaws are quite good and do the job efficiently. You can cut through thick tree branches and even take down trees if you use them properly. Yes, the low-quality ones get stuck every now and then, and also they get dull really quickly.
What is the use of a pocket chainsaw?
A pocket chainsaw is like a manual chainsaw that is used for cutting wood. You put the chain on the wood and then pull the two handles using the to and fro motion. They are very efficient and can cut through even thick branches.
Is a 12-inch pocket chainsaw too small?
That depends on the thickness of the wood you are going after. If you are going after only think branches, then it is quite good. However, you won’t be able to cut thicker wood with a 12-inch tool because it won’t even fit the circumference.
What is the most useful pocket saw to own?
There is no one saw that can be called better than the rest if you don’t specify what you will be using it for. That is why I have shared 10 of the best available options with you in my above guide and also shared some tips that can help you pick the best one.
Final Takeaways:
Whether you are a seasoned backpacker or an outdoor enthusiast or a survivalist, having the right gear in your backpack can make all the difference.
With the 10 best pocket chainsaws that we have discussed above, you have a variety of options to choose from and also some of my personal tips to help you make the right choice.
If I were to recommend one, I would definitely ask you to go with my top choice, SKYOCEAN Pocket Chainsaw which is really unique with its Paracord handles and offers an efficient cutting performance.
However, if you are going after thicker woods or thinking about taking down trees, then perhaps a larger saw set would be better suited to your needs. You should take a look at the PANZHENG 48 Inch Pocket Chainsaw or Kutir 48 Inch Rope Saw.
Just need a compact and budget-friendly tool to cut some branches, then you should consider the SKEMIX Stainless Steel Chainsaw, which is quick and efficient for thinner branches.
In the end, the choice will depend on your usage and preferences. You will surely find the one that suits your needs in our guide above. Good Luck!
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