An ax, or better yet, a chainsaw, is ideal for felling a tree or dicing up a log. Both tools are impractical, though, for clearing a fallen tree along a mountain-biking trail or cutting up a log for firewood during a backwoods camping trip. For these situations, one needs a pocket chainsaw. This handy survival tool consists of chainsaw blades up to 36 inches in length with two large nylon handles that allow the operator to cut through branches and medium-size trees. Unlike their much heavier battery– and gas-powered cousins, a pocket chainsaw weighs less than half a pound and fits in a small case that can easily be transported in a pack or on a belt.
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Table of Contents
Best Pocket Chainsaws 2023
| Pocket Chainsaw | Photo | Length | Weight | More Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sportsman Pocket Chainsaw 36 Inch Long Chain |  | 36 Inches | 4.9 Ounces | CLICK HERE |
| Pocket Chainsaw with Paracord Handle |  | 36 Inches | 5.6 Ounces | CLICK HERE |
| Sportsman 26 Inch Camping Pocket Chainsaw |  | 26 Inches | 9.6 Ounces | CLICK HERE |
Check out our Top 3 Pocket Chainsaws:
Sportsman Pocket Chainsaw 36 Inch Long Chain
Long, portable, and with formidable cutting power, this pocket chainsaw from Sportsman Industries is one of the best means of cutting firewood in the backwoods. It has a 36-inch chain that provides a significant step in cutting power over a shorter 24-inch chain, even if it is a little bulkier to carry. High-carbon heat-treated steel, with a 65 rating on the Rockwell hardness scale, makes for sharp teeth that hold their edges.
The teeth also saw both ways, which reduces the time and effort it takes to cut wood in half because it cuts on both strokes instead of just one. The handles, made from thick nylon, are wide enough to wrap comfortably around the wrists, enabling the user to maintain a sturdy stance while leaning back to apply tension to the chain. The chainsaw, which weighs just 5 ounces, fits into a nylon storage pouch that closes with a snap front and features a convenient belt loop.
Salient Features-
- Self-cleaning, bi-directional cutting teeth
- Lightweight
Pocket Chainsaw with Paracord Handle
Skyocean’s innovative chainsaw eschews the nylon handle that most pocket chainsaws have. Instead, it has a paracord handle that doubles as an emergency rope. The drab green handles are stylish and comfortable to hold, making this one of the more versatile pocket chainsaws on the market. What makes this product unique is that the handle can be untied and unraveled into a 23-foot emergency rope that is strong enough to hold up to 220 pounds.
This pocket chainsaw has 36 inches of cutting length and 16 heat-treated steel cutting links that cut in both directions. A nylon carrying case keeps the tool secure during transport. At just over 5 ounces, this lightweight chainsaw is easily stowed in a backpack or even in a cargo pocket.
Salient Features-
- Portable chain saw with a multipurpose paracord handle
- Faster-cutting speed & saving much effort:
- Most durable & toughest wild survival gear
- The perfect gift with multiple uses
Sportsman 26 Inch Camping Pocket Chainsaw
This Liv Wild camping chainsaw is what you have been looking for. First, it’s lightweight and compact. So it won’t be a pain taking it with you on your camping trip. Second, it will easily cut firewood logs in a matter of seconds. It is a must-have for camping, hiking, emergencies, and even basic yard work back at home. And if you are looking for something durable, you have found it.
You see, the teeth are strong. I am talking about the industrial-grade, heat-treated carbon steel teeth. There is a blade on every link, three times more blades than most pocket chainsaws have. So it’s more effective. The links are flexible, which gives you the steady, flexible bi-directional motion that enables you to quickly and easily cut through the branches of trees for firewood.
Salient Features-
- Flexible, bi-directional, self-cleaning cutting teeth
- Heavy-duty nylon handles
- Industrial grade, heat-treated carbon steel teeth
- Bonus Mylar emergency blanket
Pocket Chainsaw Buying Guide
Before you opt to purchase a particular model, there are some things you need to pay attention to. Even though buying a pocket chainsaw may seem pretty easy, many people make some common mistakes that can cost them quite a bit after a while. Now, that doesn’t mean you will lose a lot of money in the process, especially because of the affordability of these tools. But that also doesn’t mean you should buy the first model you stumble upon because you may end up with a worthless piece of serrated chain. Take a moment and check this article out; it should help you make the right decision and make an optimal purchase.
Chain length
The first thing you should pay attention to is the chain length. Bear in mind that many manufacturers declare the overall length of the whole model instead of just the chain. For example, even though a particular model is advertised as a 30-inch one, the chain length may only be 20 inches. The remaining ten inches are usually the handles or extra laces, buckles, and so on.
The length of the chain is a fundamental factor in performance efficiency. In other words, the lengthier the chain is – the better.
Ergonomics and Design
Because you are the power source for a pocket chainsaw, paying attention to design and ergonomics would be a good idea. The more comfortable unit you find, the easier it will be to tackle some more demanding tasks. When it comes to the most important factor, it’s usually the shape, weight, and materials used in the production of hand grips. While we would recommend getting plastic hand grips, there’s nothing wrong with conventional sewn ones. In the end, it all comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you’re a devoted camper, the sewn hand grips are a better option due to convenient storage and transport. Also, most of those come with a pouch included, while plastic ones usually don’t.
The price
The vast majority of available models on the market are quite affordable. Now, one cannot say it’s a cheap piece of equipment, but it’s accessible, even for people on a tight budget. However, you shouldn’t buy the cheapest or the most expensive one. The reason behind this is pretty simple – the price doesn’t determine the overall quality of the unit. In other words, even if a chainsaw is significantly more expensive than an average one, that doesn’t mean it offers proportionally more or better features. The more expensive models usually have a hefty price due to branding and other factors instead of better quality.
Safety
While most people don’t think about safety factors due to the absence of a relevant power source, it’s still an issue you should address. In simpler terms, even though these chainsaws don’t look as intimidating and dangerous as, for example, gas-powered ones, that doesn’t mean they can’t cause severe injuries. The less attention you focus on safety, the more chance you have for injury.
Therefore, always use safety equipment such as protective goggles, gloves, and thick clothing. While pocket chainsaws may not seem as dangerous, you can rest assured that they can cause severe injuries. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Conclusion
If you want to impress your friends, as I did with how fast you can cut wood next time you go hiking, do yourself a big favor and buy a pocket chainsaw. Check out the excellent pocket saws I have reviewed in this article, and choose the one you like best with the help of our buying guide.