Let’s Dive into Coghlans Folding Saw
The Coghlans Folding Saw is a compact and lightweight cutting tool designed for outdoor enthusiasts. Coghlan’s is a brand known for producing affordable and practical camping and survival gear, and this folding saw aims to provide a reliable cutting solution in a portable package.
I needed a compact saw for clearing brush around hunting blinds and for processing small firewood while camping. I wanted something lighter and more packable than a hatchet or a larger bow saw.
Upon unboxing, the Coghlans Folding Saw felt surprisingly sturdy for its weight. The anodized aluminum frame looked durable, and the folding mechanism seemed solid enough to withstand moderate use. The saw’s compact design was immediately appealing.
I considered a few other folding saws, including the Bahco Laplander and the Sven Saw. I chose the Coghlans Folding Saw primarily because of its price point and the promise of interchangeable blades.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. While the saw didn’t scream high-end quality, it appeared to be a functional and affordable tool that could meet my needs.
Real-World Testing: Putting Coghlans Folding Saw to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Coghlans Folding Saw during a weekend camping trip in the Allegheny National Forest. I used it to clear small branches and twigs from around my campsite and to cut some small logs for a campfire. The saw performed adequately, though it required a bit more effort than I anticipated to cut through larger branches.
The saw worked fine in dry conditions, but I did notice a bit of slipping when cutting damp wood. The handle became a little slick.
The saw was easy to use right out of the package; the folding mechanism was intuitive and locked securely. No time was needed to become familiar with its use.
The only initial issue was the blade’s tendency to bind slightly in thicker pieces of wood. This required me to apply more pressure and occasionally reposition the saw.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Coghlans Folding Saw has held up reasonably well. I’ve used it on several more camping trips and a few hunting excursions.
There are some minor scratches on the aluminum frame and some wear on the blade, but overall, the saw remains functional. The folding mechanism still locks securely, but I have noticed a little bit of play developing.
The saw is relatively easy to clean; I usually wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use and occasionally apply a bit of oil to the blade. I would not consider it a low maintenance tool.
Compared to using a hatchet for similar tasks, the Coghlans Folding Saw is less efficient for splitting wood. However, it is much lighter and easier to pack, making it a worthwhile trade-off for backpacking or situations where weight is a concern.
Breaking Down the Features of Coghlans Folding Saw
Specifications
The Coghlans Folding Saw features a rugged anodized aluminum frame, providing a balance of strength and weight. It weighs only 16 ozs, making it easy to carry in a backpack or gear bag.
The saw measures a standard 21 inches (53.3 cm) in length when open. This provides sufficient leverage for cutting through small to medium-sized branches.
It is designed to hold extra blades within the frame, increasing its versatility in the field. This is especially beneficial for those planning extended trips or anticipating various cutting needs.
The saw boasts interchangeable blades, allowing users to swap between wood, meat, or bone-cutting blades depending on the task at hand. This feature makes it a multi-purpose tool for camping, hunting, and survival situations.
Its safe and compact design minimizes the risk of accidental cuts during transport and storage. This also allows for easy packability.
These specifications are important because they contribute to the saw’s portability, versatility, and safety. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry, the interchangeable blades allow it to handle various tasks, and the compact size ensures it won’t take up too much space in a pack.
Performance & Functionality
The Coghlans Folding Saw performs adequately for its intended purpose of cutting small to medium-sized branches and firewood. It’s not a powerhouse, but it gets the job done.
Its strengths lie in its portability and ease of use. Its weaknesses are that it struggles with thicker pieces of wood and can bind if not used carefully.
The saw meets my expectations for a budget-friendly, lightweight folding saw. It’s not the best saw on the market, but it’s a decent value for the price.
Design & Ergonomics
The Coghlans Folding Saw has a simple, functional design. The aluminum frame is sturdy and lightweight, and the folding mechanism is easy to operate.
The handle is comfortable enough for short periods of use. However, it could benefit from some texturing to improve grip, especially in wet conditions.
The saw has a very minimal learning curve. It is very intuitive for anyone with any type of sawing experience.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Coghlans Folding Saw should last for several years of occasional use. It’s not designed for heavy-duty applications, but it can handle typical camping and outdoor tasks.
Maintenance is simple. Just keep the blade clean and lightly oiled to prevent rust. The folding mechanism may require occasional lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Coghlans Folding Saw does not come with many accessories. The main selling point is the ability to hold extra blades.
The saw is compatible with standard-sized replacement blades, allowing users to customize it for specific tasks. The ability to swap blades for wood, meat, or bone cutting greatly enhances its utility.
Pros and Cons of Coghlans Folding Saw
Pros
- Affordable price point. Makes it accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
- Lightweight and compact design. Makes it easy to pack and carry.
- Interchangeable blade system. Provides versatility for various cutting tasks.
- Rugged aluminum frame. Offers decent durability for its weight.
- Simple and intuitive operation. Requires no special skills or training.
Cons
- Blade can bind in thicker wood. This can make cutting more difficult.
- Handle lacks texturing. Making it slippery when wet.
- Folding mechanism has slight play. This can develop over time.
Who Should Buy Coghlans Folding Saw?
The Coghlans Folding Saw is perfect for casual campers, hikers, and hunters who need a lightweight and portable cutting tool for occasional use. It’s also a good option for survivalists looking to add a compact saw to their bug-out bag.
Those who regularly need to cut large amounts of wood or work with thick branches should skip this product. They are better off investing in a heavier-duty saw or axe.
A must-have accessory would be a spare set of blades, including a wood-cutting blade and a meat-cutting blade, to maximize the saw’s versatility. Also, consider adding some grip tape to the handle for improved grip in wet conditions.
Conclusion on Coghlans Folding Saw
The Coghlans Folding Saw is a decent budget-friendly option for those seeking a lightweight and portable cutting tool. It’s not the most powerful or durable saw on the market.
The price is justified by its portability and versatility. The ability to swap blades makes it a useful tool for a variety of outdoor tasks.
I would recommend the Coghlans Folding Saw to anyone looking for an affordable and compact saw for occasional use. If you need a reliable tool for clearing campsites, processing small firewood, or adding to a survival kit, this saw is worth considering. Pick one up, throw it in your pack, and be prepared for whatever the trail throws your way!