It has been more than 100 years since Silky was founded, but back in 1919, it was called Tamakitsune. The brand’s name may have changed; however, the quality and smoothness of their blades have stayed the same.

The name “Silky” was officially used in 1983 and became the new name for the same saws the Japanese manufacturer has always made. Known for their traditional and innovative manufacturing process, Silky makes some of the most durable and compact folding saws on the market, offering effortless cutting performance without the hefty price tag.

Silky Folding Saws

Pocketboy

The Pocketboy is exactly what its name suggests, a small saw with a blade length anywhere between 5.1 and 6.7 inches. This makes it useful for backpacking, pruning or doing an ultra-light hike. Despite being quite small, the Pocketboy is one of the most versatile folding Silky saws, as you can use it for everything from cutting tent stakes and small branches to preparing dry firewood at your campsite.

Bigboy

The exact opposite of the Pocketboy is the Bigboy, which is made for landscaping and heavy-duty clearing, as it can work its way through thicker wood. The Bigboy’s blade length sits at 14.1 inches. This is the largest folding saw Silky offers that can handle the workload of a small chainsaw.

Gomboy

When it comes to trail clearing, bushcraft activities and camping, a folding saw with blade lengths of 8.2, 9.4 and 11.8 inches is what one needs. The Gomboy offers exactly that, making it a great all-rounder with a good balance of cutting performance and portability.

Katanaboy

If you need a manual alternative to a chainsaw, you should consider Silky’s Katanaboy. This folding saw is capable of trail building and manual felling, thanks to its large 19.6-, 25.5-, or 39.4-inch blade. Because of its size, the Katanaboy is essentially a two-handed folding saw.

What Matters in a Folding Saw

Blade Length

One of the most important components of a folding saw, apart from its folding mechanism, is the blade. The size of the blade affects the portability and capabilities of the saw. The larger the blade, the more capable the saw, but the less compact it is and vice versa.

Blade Curve

When it comes to the blade, you can either go for a curved or a straight one. With the former, you’re able to cut wood much faster, especially when it comes to pruning. However, when it comes to precision cutting, a folding saw with a straight blade is superior.

Blade Material

While most folding saws are made of steel since it’s quite durable and rust-resistant, there are different types. What you need to remember is that high-carbon steel and stainless steel are your best options, as both offer excellent strength. Stainless steel is generally better suited to wet environments, while high-carbon steel tends to stay sharper for longer.

Safety Lock Mechanism

While not all folding saws have it, a safety lock mechanism lets you lock the blade in place. This way, you can prevent it from swinging in or out, making it much safer than a saw without it.

Tooth Pattern

The pattern or design of the teeth affects what you can cut and the cuts you can make. For instance, a folding saw with coarse teeth delivers faster cuts but works best on thinner or softer material and is not designed for precise work. Fine teeth, on the other hand, provide greater precision but cut at a much slower rate.

Handle Design

The design of the handle can make a big difference in ease of use. Therefore, it’s important to choose an ergonomically shaped handle made of rubber and with contoured grip lines that help prevent the saw from slipping. With such a handle, your hands won’t get fatigued that easily.

Benefits of a Folding Saw

Portability

One of the most prominent features of a folding saw is its portability, and that is no different with Silky saws. The folding mechanism is responsible for this; however, whether or not you can keep the saw in your pocket, tactical backpack or the back of your truck all depends on the size of the blade.

Safety

Another reason why you should get a folding saw instead of a regular saw is the reduced chance of an accident. Because it can be folded in when not in use, it is safer to carry since the blade stays covered. If you go for one with a safety lock, you’ll have an even safer solution.

Precision

Being small doesn’t mean being incapable, as folding Silky saws can be quite precise when making even the most demanding cuts. As long as you go for one with the right blade length and tooth pattern, you’ll be able to make the most intricate cuts with ease.

Efficiency

The form factor and clever design of folding saws make them highly efficient, since they require minimal storage space and do not demand significant physical strength to use. With the right cutting technique, you’ll make a cut in any piece of wood feel like a walk in the park.