Let’s Dive into Wicked Tough Folding Hand Saw
The Wicked Tough Folding Hand Saw from Wicked Tree Gear promises to be a reliable companion for anyone tackling outdoor cutting tasks. With its focus on durability and ergonomic design, this folding saw aims to make short work of branches, limbs, and other obstacles encountered in the wilderness or backyard. Is it truly as “wicked tough” as the name suggests? Let’s find out.
As an avid outdoorsman with over a decade of experience in tactical gear and wilderness skills, I’ve faced my fair share of cutting challenges. Frustration with flimsy saws that dulled quickly or broke under pressure led me on a quest for a dependable folding hand saw. I needed something compact, robust, and capable of handling everything from clearing shooting lanes to preparing firewood.
Upon unboxing the Wicked Tough Folding Hand Saw, I was immediately struck by its solid feel. The rugged silver cast aluminum handle felt substantial in my hand, and the rubberized overmold provided a secure grip. The blade, tucked neatly into the handle, exuded an air of sharpness and purpose.
Compared to other folding saws I’ve used – including models from Gerber and Bahco – the Wicked Tough Folding Hand Saw immediately felt more robust. I chose this saw over others because of its emphasis on using no plastic parts, which often become the failure point in other folding saws. My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Wicked Tough Folding Hand Saw seemed promising, but only real-world testing would reveal its true capabilities.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wicked Tough Folding Hand Saw to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Wicked Tough Folding Hand Saw came during a weekend clearing shooting lanes at my family’s property. This involved cutting through a variety of materials, including small saplings, thick brush, and fallen branches. The saw performed admirably, slicing through the wood with surprising ease.
Despite a light rain, the rubberized handle maintained a firm grip. The saw required minimal getting used to; the ergonomic design felt natural and intuitive. One initial surprise was the effectiveness of the blade – it chewed through surprisingly thick pieces of wood with minimal effort.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Wicked Tough Folding Hand Saw has proven to be a reliable tool. The high-carbon steel blade has retained its sharpness, even after repeated use on hardwoods. There are some minor scratches on the aluminum handle, but no signs of structural damage.
Cleaning the saw after use is a breeze; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Compared to other folding saws I’ve owned, the Wicked Tough Folding Hand Saw has far exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and performance. It has become a staple in my gear bag.
Breaking Down the Features of Wicked Tough Folding Hand Saw
Specifications
- The Wicked Tough Folding Hand Saw boasts a 6 3/8-inch Wicked Sharp Impulse hardened high carbon steel blade. This taper ground, heavy gauge blade resists bending and breaking.
- It features a rugged silver cast aluminum handle with partial black non-slip rubberized overmold. This provides a comfortable and secure grip.
- The saw has an 8.25-inch handle length and a closed length of 8.125 inches. The overall dimensions are 10 inches in length and 5 inches in width.
- Other notable specifications include its intended use for Gardening and Hunting, and a Nylon sheath material
- The Fail Safe Blade Lock Design features a hardened steel lock-pin and hardware. This eliminates plastic components that are prone to breakage.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the saw’s performance and durability. The high carbon steel blade ensures long-lasting sharpness, while the aluminum handle provides a robust and comfortable grip. The Fail Safe Blade Lock Design gives users the confidence it wont fail.
Performance & Functionality
The Wicked Tough Folding Hand Saw excels at its primary task: cutting wood. The impulse-hardened blade slices through branches with impressive speed and efficiency. It has proven reliable in various conditions, from dry timber to damp undergrowth.
Its strengths lie in its sharpness, durability, and ergonomic design. A minor weakness is the absence of aggressive teeth for ripping through fibrous materials. Overall, the Wicked Tough Folding Hand Saw meets and often exceeds expectations for a folding hand saw in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The saw’s design prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The aluminum handle feels solid and well-balanced in the hand. The rubberized overmold provides a secure grip, even when wet.
The Wicked Tough Folding Hand Saw is exceptionally user-friendly. Opening and closing the blade is smooth and intuitive, thanks to the reliable locking mechanism. There’s virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Wicked Tough Folding Hand Saw is built to last. The high-quality materials and robust construction suggest it can withstand years of use. Maintenance is straightforward: keeping the blade clean and lightly oiled will ensure optimal performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Wicked Tough Folding Hand Saw comes with a standard nylon sheath. There are no readily available customization options for the handle or blade. However, the saw’s universal design should be compatible with aftermarket sheaths if desired.
Pros and Cons of Wicked Tough Folding Hand Saw
Pros
- Exceptional Blade Sharpness: The impulse-hardened blade effortlessly cuts through wood.
- Durable Construction: The aluminum handle and steel blade are built to withstand rigorous use.
- Ergonomic Design: The comfortable handle provides a secure grip in all conditions.
- Fail Safe Blade Lock: Hardened Steel, No Plastic.
- Excellent Value: Priced under $20, it offers outstanding performance for the cost.
Cons
- Slightly Shorter Blade Compared to other Models.
- Lacks a dedicated storage compartment in the handle.
Who Should Buy Wicked Tough Folding Hand Saw?
The Wicked Tough Folding Hand Saw is perfect for: outdoorsmen, hunters, campers, hikers, preppers, homeowners maintaining their property, and anyone who needs a reliable and portable cutting tool. Its compact size and durable construction make it an ideal addition to any gear bag or emergency kit.
This product might not be the best choice for professional arborists or those who require a saw for heavy-duty, daily use. They might need to consider larger, more specialized saws. A must-have accessory is a small sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge over time.
Conclusion on Wicked Tough Folding Hand Saw
The Wicked Tough Folding Hand Saw is a well-designed, durable, and highly functional tool that offers exceptional value. At a price point under $20, it delivers performance that rivals more expensive saws. The emphasis on rugged construction and ergonomic design makes it a pleasure to use.
The price is absolutely justified given its performance and durability. I wholeheartedly recommend the Wicked Tough Folding Hand Saw to anyone in need of a reliable and portable cutting tool. Add this to your kit today. You won’t regret it.