Let’s Dive into Coghlans Sportsmans Saw 704
The Coghlans Sportsmans Saw 704 is a compact, lightweight hand saw designed for cutting through wood, metal, plastic, and bone. At a mere $6.99, it promises versatility in a portable package, making it an attractive option for outdoor enthusiasts and emergency kits. Its 20-inch length aims to strike a balance between cutting power and packability, hinting at a useful tool for a variety of tasks.
I needed a reliable, compact saw for occasional trail maintenance and emergency shelter building during my backcountry hiking trips. I was tired of relying on a large, heavy hatchet for small cutting tasks, and I wanted something that wouldn’t add significant weight to my pack. The Coghlans Sportsmans Saw 704 seemed like a budget-friendly solution worth exploring.
Upon unboxing (or rather, removing from its minimal packaging), the first impression was…minimal. The saw is lightweight, almost disconcertingly so. The build quality appears basic, but acceptable for the price point; the blade is secured within a simple metal frame.
I considered several other options, including folding saws from reputable brands like Gerber and Bahco. However, these options were significantly more expensive. I opted for the Coghlans Sportsmans Saw 704 because I wanted to test its claim of multi-material cutting ability without investing heavily.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was surprised by how light it was. But I also wondered if that lightness translated to a lack of durability and cutting power. Only real-world testing would reveal its true capabilities.
Real-World Testing: Putting Coghlans Sportsmans Saw 704 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Coghlans Sportsmans Saw 704 during a weekend backpacking trip in the Cascade Mountains. I primarily used it to clear small fallen branches from the trail and to gather firewood for our evening campfire. The conditions were mostly dry, with some dampness in the underbrush.
The saw performed adequately on small, dry branches (less than 2 inches in diameter). However, cutting larger branches or damp wood required significantly more effort and time. The thin blade tended to bind in the cut, requiring frequent adjustments.
Using the saw was straightforward, although the lack of a comfortable handle made prolonged use tiring. The back-and-forth motion was effective, but the lightweight frame lacked the leverage of a larger saw. I didn’t need much time to get used to it, but I found I preferred using a chopping motion, pushing the blade downwards through the wood.
After the first use, I noticed some slight bending in the frame near the blade attachment points. I was surprised and concerned about the long-term durability. I also found that the blade dulled quickly after cutting through a particularly knotty piece of wood.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Coghlans Sportsmans Saw 704 has held up reasonably well, considering its low price. The frame is now noticeably bent in a couple of places, but it still functions. The blade has dulled further, and requires more effort to make cuts.
The durability is questionable. I’ve been careful not to overstress the saw, but the lightweight construction is clearly its weakness. I anticipate that it will eventually fail under heavier use. The blade has taken a set, making straight cuts difficult.
Maintenance is minimal. I wipe the blade clean after each use and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust. Sharpening the blade would be difficult due to its small size and tooth pattern. I have tried using a small file, but this has not had great results.
Compared to my previous experiences with higher-quality saws, the Coghlans Sportsmans Saw 704 is a clear downgrade. It’s lighter and more compact, but it lacks the cutting power, durability, and comfort of a more robust tool. This is to be expected, given the price point. It is useful for very light work, but I would recommend a larger saw if heavier use is expected.
Breaking Down the Features of Coghlans Sportsmans Saw 704
Specifications
- Material Cutting: Wood, metal, plastic, and bone. This is the product’s primary claim.
- Length: 20 inches overall. This determines its cutting stroke and packability.
- Price: $6.99. This makes it one of the most affordable saws on the market.
- Construction: Simple metal frame with a thin, replaceable blade. This affects its durability and weight.
These specifications are important because they define the Coghlans Sportsmans Saw 704 as a lightweight, affordable tool for basic cutting tasks. Its versatility is limited by its size and construction, but its low price makes it an accessible option for beginners or emergency kits. The minimal construction makes this saw very light, but can also cause bending.
Performance & Functionality
The Coghlans Sportsmans Saw 704 performs adequately on small, soft wood branches. It struggles with larger or harder materials. Its cutting speed is slow compared to larger saws or axes.
Its strengths are its light weight and affordability. The main weakness is its lack of cutting power and durability. It is a budget option, and users should not expect high performance.
The Coghlans Sportsmans Saw 704 meets expectations for a $6.99 saw. It is not a high-performance tool, but it provides a basic cutting capability in a compact package. Those looking for a saw to handle heavier tasks will be disappointed.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is basic, but functional. The materials are lightweight and inexpensive. The saw feels flimsy in hand, especially when cutting tougher materials.
It is user-friendly, with no learning curve. However, the lack of a comfortable handle makes prolonged use uncomfortable. The thin frame provides minimal leverage.
Durability & Maintenance
The Coghlans Sportsmans Saw 704 is not designed for long-term durability. The thin frame and blade are prone to bending and dulling. It is easy to maintain with basic cleaning and oiling.
Repairing the saw would be difficult. Replacing the blade might be possible, but finding a compatible replacement could be challenging. The frame is not easily repairable.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Coghlans Sportsmans Saw 704 comes with no accessories. There are no customization options. Finding a compatible replacement blade is the only likely possibility for modification.
It is unlikely to be compatible with accessories from other brands due to its unique blade attachment system. The lack of any customization severely limits the saw.
Pros and Cons of Coghlans Sportsmans Saw 704
Pros
- Extremely Affordable: At $6.99, it’s one of the cheapest saws available.
- Lightweight & Compact: Easy to pack and carry on hiking or camping trips.
- Versatile: Claims to cut through wood, metal, plastic, and bone.
- Simple to Use: No complicated mechanisms or assembly required.
- Replaceable Blade: While finding replacements may be difficult, it’s possible.
Cons
- Low Durability: The frame is prone to bending, and the blade dulls quickly.
- Limited Cutting Power: Struggles with larger or harder materials.
- Uncomfortable Handle: Prolonged use can be tiring.
Who Should Buy Coghlans Sportsmans Saw 704?
The Coghlans Sportsmans Saw 704 is perfect for:
- Casual campers needing a basic saw for small firewood collection.
- Backpackers looking for an ultra-lightweight cutting tool for emergency situations.
- Individuals assembling budget-friendly survival kits.
- Anyone who needs to cut small sticks for roasting marshmallows.
Who should skip this product?
- Experienced outdoorsmen who require a durable and reliable saw for demanding tasks.
- Anyone who plans to cut large quantities of wood or other tough materials.
- Professionals who rely on their tools for daily use.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- A comfortable handle grip to improve ergonomics.
- A high-quality replacement blade for improved cutting performance.
- A small sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge.
Conclusion on Coghlans Sportsmans Saw 704
The Coghlans Sportsmans Saw 704 is a budget-friendly option for basic cutting tasks. Its low price and lightweight design make it appealing for casual users and emergency kits. However, its limited durability and cutting power make it unsuitable for demanding applications.
The price is justified for what it offers, but buyers should be aware of its limitations. It’s a “get what you pay for” situation. I would cautiously recommend it for users with limited budgets and minimal cutting needs.
Ultimately, the Coghlans Sportsmans Saw 704 is a testament to the idea that even the most basic tool can be useful in the right circumstances. Just don’t expect it to perform miracles. If you need a cheap and light saw, buy the Coghlans Sportsmans Saw 704; otherwise, save up for a more durable product.