A handsaw is an ideal tool to have if you do a lot of gardening, pruning, and much more. Everyone from individuals to professionals can use the best hand saws for cutting trees. It will allow you to get the job done without waking up your entire neighborhood.
Furthermore, gardening is a healthy and satisfying hobby, but keeping a good-looking garden comes with hard work. Without proper care, your plants and trees may lose their beauty or die.
This selection of the seven best hand saws for cutting trees will make your gardening experience pleasant and help restore or elevate the beauty of your garden.
Of course, you must know what options are available before selecting one. Read on to find out everything you need to know about picking the perfect hand saws for cutting trees.
My Top Pick:
My top pick is the BLACK+DECKER Electric Hand Saw, as it offers the highest value for money, particularly if you are looking for a powered handsaw that works around the home (for indoor use or pruning).
What Type of Hand Saw Is Best For Cutting Tree Branches?
A hand saw is not just one item you can easily pick from a store. Instead, there are different types of hand saws that give you unique usage. Here are the most common types of hand saw for cutting tree branches:
1- Pruning Saw
A pruning saw is ideal for cutting or trimming branches and can cut up to 8 inches (20 cm) thick, depending on the length and blade quality. It generally has a curved blade that can either be fixed or foldable and a blade length of 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm).
You can use a pruning saw to prune the trees in your home. However, these are typically much lesser than other hand saws available in the market. That is because the blade length can vary between 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm).
These saws are easy to access, and they stay low to the branches towards the ground. The short blade length guarantees that you can do fine work like cutting the branches precisely. These will usually be more expensive than a foldable hand saw.
2- Rope Chain Saw
A rope chain saw has a chain with ropes on both its ends. You power it as it does not have any horsepower. You throw the chain around the branch and then pull the rope.
When you do this, the chain will easily saw through the branch until it is completely cut. It will easily get to hard to reach branches and will easily saw thick and hard branches. So, no matter how thick the branch is, the rope chain saw will cut through.
3- Pole Saw
Pole saws are similar to pruning saws but have a long pole attached, making them easy to reach high or hard branches. Generally, pole saws can be manual, battery-powered, or electric.
If you have seen a pruning saw, then you can think of the pole saw as the taller and longer cousin of the pole saw. There is a long telescopic pole that mounts the saw that will allow you to extend your saw’s reach into areas that are difficult to reach. Some of the pole saws come in typical and fixed lengths, while others vary in length.
Remember that you use the pole saw in the same way that you use the pruning saw. However, the pole saws are big in length, which is why you must take proper safety measures before you decide to use this hand saw. Once you do, you will easily control the branch and cut the tree branches without a hassle.
See also: 4 Useful Gardening Sleeves (And why you get one of these!)
4- Bow Saw
A bow saw is typically efficient and works fast but is not recommended in tight spaces as it might not be convenient.
A bow saw is perfect for trimming, pruning, and cutting trees, but it requires a pull and pushes movement to cut trees.
5- Crosscut Saw
Similar to a bow saw a crosscut saw also requires to pull and push motion to cut trees. However, a crosscut saw is much stronger and sturdier than bow saws.
Crosscut saw is perfect for cutting bigger trees and branches.
What To Look For Choosing The Perfect Hand Saw For Cutting Trees?
To choose the perfect hand saw for cutting trees, you must understand your needs. Even though it might seem simple, selecting a hand saw for cutting trees can be overwhelming if you don’t know what to look for. Here are the most important factors to consider when choosing a hand saw for cutting trees.
1- Material
If you are looking for a high-quality hand saw, choose the ones made of high carbon steel as it offers more durability.
Without proper care, carbon steel can gather rust, particularly when exposed to moisture, but you can add chrome plating to prevent rust.
2- Length
Before buying a hand saw for cutting trees, ensure you have a general idea of the kind of work you are planning to do with it.
- If you plan to cut trunks and logs, choose sharp-edged blades with at least 20 inches (51 cm).
- For trimming, choose a 16 inches (41 cm) long blade.
In general, the shorter blades of the hand saw, the lower the cost.
3- Handle
There are numerous varieties of handles available on the market, including rubber, reinforced plastic, and even wooden handles.
Some hand saws for cutting trees are ergonomically made with space for finger rest, making cutting easier on the hand. In addition, ensure you choose a non-slip grip.
4- Teeth Placement
Cutting direction and angle are essential for a clean and fast cut. Depending on the placement of cutting teeth, a hand saw for cutting trees will cut only on the push stroke, pull stroke, or in both directions.
Before making your final buying decision, double-check the Teeth Per Inch (also referred to as the TPI) to confirm how far the teeth are positioned, which will affect the cutting efficiency.
5- Choosing Between Straight or Curved Blade
Deciding between a straight or curved blade depends on how you plan to use your saw.
- A curved blade might better fit you if you generally keep your saw above the head or below waist level.
- If you generally operate your saw between the shoulders and waist, go with a straight blade.
- Curved blade saws let you cut by hooking into the wood, while a straight blade saw helps make better contact with the branch.
Best Ways To Use A Hand Saw?
It is essential to learn to use the hand saw correctly for optimal results. Here is how to properly use a hand saw:
- Start by marking the parts of the tree you want to cut and the parts you don’t
- Kneel or stand in a comfortable and safe position.
- Choose a good angle where your saw will not slip from your hands.
- Start sawing while maintaining the blade straight and making firm movements.
7 Best Hand Saws For Cutting Trees
The top types of the best hand saws for cutting trees vary with use. So, if you want to invest in the best hand saws, here are the best hand saws for cutting trees:
1- WilFiks 16″ Pro Hand Saw
Are you looking for a hand saw that can serve various purposes apart from cutting trees? If you are, then the WilFiks 16″ Pro Hand Saw is the ideal choice. It will require fine control from your side, but it will be ideal for many jobs, except cutting big trees. You can use it for cutting PVC pipes, and many other things.
However, it might prove to be a hassle with some small branches. The key is to control the saw and then make precise cuts for the best results in no time.
Specifications:
- 16-inch blade length
- Non-slip handles
- Chip removal groove design
| Pros | Cons |
| – It is light and portable for you to take it anywhere. – The handles are ergonomic for maximum comfort. – It will offer you the best value for money – The blade is flexible. – The handle is also anti-slip to protect you. | – If you use it for a heavy purpose, the blade might flex dangerously. |
2- Fujiwara Folding Pruning Saw
If you want a Japanese-style pull saw, then this is the perfect choice for your needs. That is because it can fold back into its handle, reduce the length profile, and also serve as an emergency blade. Besides that, Fujiwara folding pruning saw will also enable you to get everything done during landscaping at home, camping, and much more.
The excellent aspect about this hand saw is that it will not close while sawing, and it will not swing open when it is closed. Of course, this adds to the functionality and safety, which is why many people invest in this hand saw for their landscaping needs.
Specifications:
- 10-inch blade length
- Six teeth
- One spare blade for replacement
| Pros | Cons |
| – It can easily handle small bushes and trees – The saw is portable because of its small profile – It offers easy handling because of the ergonomic grip – The blade will not swing open when you close it – The blade will not close when you saw | – It might not be suitable for cutting up thick branches |
3- Milliard Extendable Tree Pruner/Pole Saw
If you want to reach the crown of trees in your garden, the Milliard Extendable Tree Pruner is ideal. The saw also has shears so that you can easily clip branches in no time. Besides that, the Milliard Extendable Tree Pruner/Pole Saw also has a double pulley system that will enable you to cut through any tree branches with ease.
Remember that this is an expensive saw, which is why you must consider the cost before purchasing. Once you do, you will decide based on the budget.
Specifications:
- 16-feet high pole extension
- The blade length is fourteen inches
- 14-inch long saw blade
| Pros | Cons |
| – The hand saw is incredibly lightweight – It is easy to use – The pole extension will allow you to reach high areas without any ladder – It includes built-in clippers – The blade is safe to use | – The telescopic pole extension may bend |
4- Home Planet Gear Folding Saw
Unlike other saws that may bend or break easily, the Eversaw Folding hand saw is designed with premium materials. It is a pull-cut saw with an 8-inch (20 cm) and SK 5 carbon steel blade.
With the Eversaw Folding hand saw, you can cut through branches and tree stems up to 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter. The Eversaw folding saw also comes with a gear lock that firmly maintains the blade. You can take it safely because the teeth are not exposed when closed.
Eversaw Folding hand saw also is 17 inches in length (fully extended) and 9 ½ inches (24 cm) (when closed).
| Pros | Cons |
| – It comes with a lifetime warranty – It doesn’t require regular sharpening – It is also perfect for outdoor activities, including hiking or camping trips. | – It might make you feel tired after using it for a long period |
5- Corona RazorTOOTH Folding Hand Saw
The Corona RazorTOOTH Folding Hand Saw is one of the best hand saws for cutting trees. It comes with a range of unique features that will make cutting trees effortless. In addition, the corona RazorTOOTH folding hand saw is available in 3 various blade lengths, including 10 inches, 8 inches, or 7 inches.
The 10-inch blade is perfect for cutting small to medium trees with a diameter between 5 to 6 inches.
The corona RazorTOOTH folding saw also features about six teeth per inch along its curved blade, allowing you to do fast and efficient cutting. It also comes with a replaceable blade if it is to become damaged or dull over time.
| Pros | Cons |
| – It comes in multiple heavy-duty steel blade sizes to choose from. – It is perfect for cutting branches or trunks between 5 to 6 inches in diameter. – Highly effective with sharp teeth which cut effortlessly – Comfortable with ergonomic handle and suitable for extended use | A portion of the blade might stay exposed when folded due to its length. |
6- BLACK+DECKER Electric Hand Saw
If you prefer using an electric instead of a manual hand saw, then the BLACK+DECKER Electric Hand Saw is for you.
Thanks to its high-powered design (about 4,600 strokes per minute), the BLACK+DECKER electric hand saw will help you speed up your work.
In addition, BLACK+DECKER has an excellent brand reputation, giving you added peace of mind. A helpful feature of this electric hand saw is its versatility, lightweight, and compactness.
| Pros | Cons |
| – It is high-powered, making your cutting and trimming experience pleasant and effortless. – It is versatile as you can it outdoor and indoor use – It is lightweight | – It is relatively expensive compared to the other manual hand saws |
7- MOSSY OAK Folding Saw/Pruning Hand Saw
The Mossy Oak Folding Hand Saw is made of SK-5 carbon steel, which means it will last for years to come.
In addition, the Mossy Oak Folding Hand Saw is about 8 inches (20 cm) in length, making it perfect for cutting branches or smaller tree trunks of 4 inches in diameter.
More importantly, this hand saw comes with a safety lock, which helps to keep the blade locked in place and will not snap open or close unexpectedly.
| Pros | Cons |
| – It comes with three blades to choose from, depending on your needs. – It comes with a pouch, making it portable. – It is ergonomic, making it comfortable to hold and use – It is incredibly sharp and versatile and can cut through several materials. | – The lock release features might cause a safety issue |
Final Words
Overall, a hand saw for cutting trees is worth it as it will make doing housework, pruning, trimming, and taking care of your garden a pleasant experience. Choose your hand saw, depending on what you want and what your budget is. Once you do, the hand saw will offer you excellent use for a long time to come and remain sturdy.
Remember whenever looking for a hand saw for cutting ensure you look:
- What material is the blade
- Length of the hand saw
- Handle: is it comfortable for extended use?
- And teeth Placement
