Let’s Dive into Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Zip Saw
The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Zip Saw is a compact and lightweight folding saw designed for outdoor enthusiasts and hunters. Manufactured by Outdoor Edge, this saw boasts a 4.5-inch blade with triple-diamond ground teeth, a rubberized aluminum handle, and a convenient pocket clip. Having spent years processing game in the field, I’m always on the lookout for tools that are both effective and easy to carry.
For years, I struggled with larger, heavier saws that often felt cumbersome and unnecessary for smaller tasks. The promise of a lightweight, packable saw that could still tackle bone and wood was intriguing. My initial thought was to compare it with my existing Gerber folding saw and a small hatchet I often carried.
Upon unboxing, the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Zip Saw immediately impressed me with its slim profile and feather-light weight. The rubberized aluminum handle felt secure and comfortable in my hand, and the blade locked firmly into place. I was immediately excited to put it to the test.
This saw felt vastly different than my heavier Gerber saw; the Gerber is certainly stronger, but nowhere near as convenient. It also seemed safer than using my hatchet for delicate work. I picked the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Zip Saw for its promise of portability and precision, hoping it would strike the right balance for processing game in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Zip Saw to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Zip Saw on a recent whitetail deer hunt in the Pennsylvania mountains. The weather was cold and damp, with light rain falling throughout the day. My primary use was to split the deer’s rib cage for easier gutting, as well as for processing some smaller limbs for a fire that night.
The saw performed admirably in the wet conditions, with the rubberized handle providing a secure grip even with damp hands. Cutting through the rib cage required minimal effort, and the saw’s compact size allowed for precise cuts without damaging surrounding tissue. I was also impressed by how little effort it took to saw through a few fallen branches for firewood.
The saw needed no getting used to at all; the blade locks into position easily, and the handle is comfortable to hold. I was initially concerned about the blade’s thinness, but it proved to be surprisingly strong and resilient.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Zip Saw continues to be a reliable companion on my outdoor adventures. I have used it on multiple hunting trips, camping excursions, and even for some light yard work. It has held up remarkably well.
While the blade shows some minor scratches from cutting bone and wood, it remains sharp and functional. I haven’t noticed any significant wear or tear on the handle or locking mechanism. The saw is easy to clean with soap and water, and a light coating of oil on the blade helps prevent rust.
Compared to other saws I’ve used, the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Zip Saw excels in portability and ease of use. It may not be as robust as a larger, heavier saw, but its compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for carrying in a backpack or hunting pack. It definitely beats using a knife or hatchet for many cutting tasks.
Breaking Down the Features of Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Zip Saw
Specifications
The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Zip Saw features a 3.2-inch blade and an overall length of 7-3/8 inches. The blade is made of 65Mn steel with a chrome coat. The handle is constructed from 6061-T6 aircraft aluminum with a nonslip rubberized coating.
The saw weighs only 2.5 ounces (70 grams). The blade is 4.4 inches (11.2 cm). The saw has an overall length of 9.4 inches (23.8 cm).
These specifications matter because they directly impact the saw’s portability, cutting ability, and durability. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry on long treks, while the sharp blade efficiently cuts through bone and wood. The rubberized handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Zip Saw performs exceptionally well for its size and weight. It excels at cutting through bone, wood, and other materials encountered in the field. While it may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks like felling large trees, it’s perfect for processing game, trimming branches, and other smaller cutting jobs.
The saw’s strengths lie in its portability, ease of use, and sharp cutting ability. The blade’s thinness, however, can lead to some wobble during cutting, especially with denser materials. Overall, the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Zip Saw meets my expectations for a lightweight folding saw designed for outdoor use.
Design & Ergonomics
The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Zip Saw features a slim and ergonomic design. The aluminum handle is lightweight yet sturdy, and the rubberized coating provides a secure and comfortable grip. The saw feels well-balanced in the hand, and the folding mechanism is smooth and easy to operate.
The saw’s design is intuitive, requiring no learning curve. The blade locks securely into place, preventing accidental closures during use. The pocket clip is a nice touch, allowing for easy carry without the need for a sheath.
Durability & Maintenance
The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Zip Saw appears to be built to last. The blade’s steel construction and chrome coating provide good resistance to rust and corrosion. The aluminum handle is durable and can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
Maintaining the saw is simple; cleaning after use and occasional oiling of the blade should keep it in good working condition for years. The saw’s simple design also makes it easy to disassemble and clean if necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Zip Saw comes with a pocket clip for sheath-free carry. There are no readily available customization options for this particular model. As a simple, functional tool, it is not designed for extensive modification.
While there may not be aftermarket accessories specifically designed for the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Zip Saw, its compact size makes it compatible with a variety of generic knife sheaths and pouches.
Pros and Cons of Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Zip Saw
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight and compact: Easy to carry in a backpack or pocket.
- Sharp and efficient blade: Cuts through bone and wood with minimal effort.
- Rubberized aluminum handle: Provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
- Pocket clip: Allows for convenient sheath-free carry.
- Affordable price: Offers excellent value for the money.
Cons
- Blade can wobble when cutting dense materials.
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks like felling large trees.
Who Should Buy Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Zip Saw?
The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Zip Saw is perfect for hunters, hikers, campers, and survivalists who need a lightweight and portable saw for processing game, trimming branches, and other small cutting tasks. It’s an excellent addition to any outdoor gear kit.
Those who need a heavy-duty saw for felling trees or performing other demanding tasks should skip this product and opt for a larger, more robust option. A sharpening stone or small file would be a must-have accessory to maintain the blade’s edge.
Conclusion on Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Zip Saw
The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Zip Saw is a surprisingly capable tool that excels in portability and ease of use. Its lightweight design and sharp blade make it ideal for processing game and performing other small cutting tasks in the field. While it may not be suitable for heavy-duty work, it’s an excellent addition to any outdoor gear kit.
At a price of $31.04, the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Zip Saw offers exceptional value for the money. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a lightweight and affordable folding saw. Pick one up today and experience the convenience and versatility of the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Zip Saw for yourself!