Let’s Dive into Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw
The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw isn’t just another folding saw; it’s a purpose-built tool designed to tackle tough cutting tasks in the field. Manufactured by Outdoor Edge Cutlery, this compact saw boasts a unique T-shaped handle and a triple-ground diamond cut blade, promising efficient cutting through bone and wood. Is it a game-changer for hunters, survivalists, and outdoor enthusiasts, or just another piece of kit destined to collect dust?
I needed a reliable, packable saw for clearing shooting lanes while bowhunting and processing game in the backcountry. I was tired of flimsy folding saws that buckled under pressure or dull quickly, and I was seeking something that could handle both small branches and bone with equal ease. The Griz-Saw’s reputation for aggressive cutting and its compact size caught my attention.
Upon unboxing, the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw felt surprisingly lightweight yet sturdy. The rubberized TPR handle provided a comfortable and secure grip, and the Zytel sheath with its swivel-clip attachment seemed practical for carrying on a belt or pack. The blade looked menacing with its aggressive teeth, but I questioned its durability based on its relatively thin profile.
I considered the Gerber Freescape Camp Saw and the Silky Bigboy 2000 as alternatives, but the Griz-Saw’s compact size and bone-cutting capability gave it the edge for my specific needs. The Gerber, while robust, was bulkier, and the Silky, though renowned for its sharpness, seemed more suited for woodworking than heavy-duty field tasks. The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw’s price point was also significantly lower.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was excited to put the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw’s aggressive blade to the test, but I remained skeptical about its long-term durability, especially considering its lightweight construction.
Real-World Testing: Putting Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw to the Test
First Use Experience
I field-tested the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw during a bowhunting trip in the Wisconsin woods. The primary tasks were clearing small branches obstructing shooting lanes and processing a harvested whitetail deer. The weather was cool and damp, with occasional light rain.
The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw performed admirably in both tasks. The T-shaped handle allowed for a comfortable and controlled grip, even with wet hands. The aggressive blade zipped through 1-2 inch diameter branches with minimal effort, and it made quick work of sectioning the deer’s rib cage and pelvis.
There were no immediate issues, but I noticed that the blade seemed to flex slightly when cutting through thicker bone. This raised concerns about potential bending or breakage under prolonged heavy use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple hunting trips and some backyard pruning, the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw has held up surprisingly well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the handle or sheath. The blade, while still sharp, has lost a bit of its initial bite and requires slightly more effort to cut through dense material.
Cleaning the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw is straightforward; I simply rinse it with water and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust. Sharpening the blade will eventually be necessary, but I haven’t reached that point yet.
Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper folding saws, the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw outperforms them in terms of cutting efficiency, handle comfort, and overall durability. However, it doesn’t quite match the cutting power of a larger, dedicated bone saw.
Breaking Down the Features of Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw
Specifications
The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw features an 8.0-inch (20.3 cm) blade made of 65Mn steel with a chrome coat. The overall length is 11.25 inches (28.6 cm), and it weighs only 5.4 oz (155 g). The handle is made of rubberized TPR for a secure grip.
These specifications translate to a highly portable and lightweight saw with a reasonably sized blade for tackling various tasks. The 65Mn steel offers a good balance of hardness and toughness, while the chrome coat provides some corrosion resistance. The rubberized handle ensures a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw excels at quickly cutting through small to medium-sized branches, as well as bone and cartilage. The triple-ground diamond cut blade is exceptionally aggressive, allowing for efficient cutting with minimal effort. However, the blade’s thin profile can cause it to flex when cutting through thicker or harder materials.
The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw’s strengths lie in its portability, cutting speed, and comfortable grip. Its primary weakness is its limited cutting capacity due to the blade’s thinness. Overall, it meets expectations for a compact, lightweight saw designed for field use.
Design & Ergonomics
The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw’s build quality is decent for its price point. The materials are functional and durable enough for the intended use. The weight is impressively low, making it easy to carry in a pack or on a belt.
The T-shaped handle is ergonomically designed and provides a comfortable and secure grip, even with gloves. There is virtually no learning curve; the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw is intuitive and easy to use right out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw is expected to last for several years with proper care and maintenance. The chrome-coated blade should resist rust and corrosion, and the rubberized handle is unlikely to crack or degrade under normal use.
The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw is easy to maintain; simply clean and oil the blade after each use. Sharpening the blade will eventually be necessary, but with proper care, it should hold its edge for a reasonable amount of time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw comes with a quick-release Zytel sheath with a swivel-clip attachment for easy carrying. There are no readily available aftermarket accessories or customization options for this particular saw. It is not compatible with accessories from other brands.
Pros and Cons of Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw
Pros
- Lightweight and compact design for easy portability.
- Aggressive triple-ground diamond cut blade for efficient cutting.
- Comfortable and secure rubberized TPR handle.
- Durable Zytel sheath with swivel-clip attachment.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Blade can flex when cutting through thicker materials.
- Blade may lose its initial sharpness over time.
Who Should Buy Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw?
The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw is perfect for hunters, backpackers, and survivalists who need a lightweight and packable saw for clearing brush, processing game, or building shelters. It’s also a great option for casual campers and hikers who want a versatile tool for various cutting tasks.
Those who need a heavy-duty saw for felling trees or cutting thick branches should skip this product and opt for a larger, more robust option. A dedicated bone saw might also be preferable for those who primarily process game.
A sharpening stone would be a must-have accessory to maintain the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw’s blade sharpness over time.
Conclusion on Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw
The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw is a solid performer in the realm of compact, lightweight saws. Its aggressive blade, comfortable handle, and convenient sheath make it a valuable tool for a variety of outdoor activities. While not without its limitations, the Griz-Saw’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.
The price is definitely justified; it’s a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a reliable and portable cutting tool.
I would personally recommend the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Griz-Saw to anyone looking for a compact and efficient saw for field use. It’s a versatile tool that has earned a permanent place in my hunting pack. Get yours today and experience the difference!