For years, I relied solely on my camping axe for processing wood. It’s a classic tool, but it’s not always the most efficient or safest option, especially for smaller branches and kindling. I wanted something that was lighter and more controlled for my camp chores. That’s where the BAHCO Laplander folding saw came into the picture. It’s a well-known name in the outdoor community, and its compact design promised to make short work of firewood without the bulk of an axe. I was keen to put it to the test on a recent trip to see if it lived up to its reputation.
The good
- Cuts green and dry wood well
- Very sharp XT hardpoint blade
- Extremely lightweight at 192g
- Comfortable ergonomic handle
- Secure safety lock when folded
The not-so-good
- No carry pouch included
- Not for large logs
- Blade can bind on push stroke
What You’re Getting
A versatile and lightweight folding saw for cutting green and dry wood, bone, and plastic. Features a high-carbon steel blade with XT hardpoint teeth and a secure safety lock.
Quick Specs
If you’re ready to dive into the details, here are the key specs for this product. The table below gives you a clear and quick overview of everything you need to know.
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | BAHCO |
| Material | High-Carbon Steel Blade, Plastic Handle |
| Blade Length | 190mm |
| Length (Unfolded) | 405mm |
| Length (Folded) | 230mm |
| Weight | 192g |
| Color | Black |
| Features | Folding design, safety lock, rust protection |
| Use Case | Camping, hiking, hunting, bushcraft |
First impressions
The moment I picked up the BAHCO Laplander, it felt like a purpose-built tool. The black two-component handle has a slightly rubberised feel that gives you a confident grip, and the overall construction feels solid. The blade is locked securely in the closed position by a button on the side of the handle, so you don’t have to worry about it accidentally opening in your pack.
When I unfolded the blade, it snapped into place with a satisfying click, and the lock engaged to hold it open. The blade has a very clean, black finish, which I know from the product info is designed to reduce friction. While it doesn’t come with a dedicated carry pouch, the included leather strap for hanging it up is a nice touch. I was keen to get it into the field and see how it performed on some real wood.
Materials & Build Quality
The heart of the Laplander is its high-carbon steel blade. This material is known for holding a sharp edge and being very durable. The blade features XT hardpoint teeth, which are designed to be extremely sharp and aggressive for efficient cutting. The blade is also specially coated to provide both rust protection and low friction, which helps it glide through wood. This is a crucial detail, especially when you’re cutting green wood.
The handle is made from a two-component plastic, which feels comfortable and provides a non-slip grip, even when my hands were wet. The locking mechanism is simple but very effective, holding the blade firmly in place in both the open and closed positions. The overall build quality feels robust. I also appreciate that spare blades are available, which means I won’t have to buy a whole new saw if the blade ever gets worn out.
Ergonomics & Weight
The BAHCO Laplander is an incredibly light tool. At just 192g, it’s a lightweight alternative to an axe and a great addition to any camping or hiking kit. The folding design is also a huge plus for portability. It folds down to a compact 230mm, which is easy to slide into the side pocket of a backpack or a small gear bag. This makes it an ideal tool to have on hand for quick jobs without taking up a lot of space.
When unfolded to 405mm, the saw provides a good amount of reach and leverage. The handle fits comfortably in my hand, and the grip feels secure, which is important for safety. The weight is well-balanced, and it feels natural to use. It’s also very easy to clean after use; a quick wipe-down with a cloth is all it takes to remove any sawdust or sap.
Performance & Features
The Laplander truly shines when it comes to performance. The aggressive XT hardpoint teeth make quick work of both green and dry wood. I took it out and tried cutting through a thick 5cm branch, and it sliced through without any issues whatsoever. The saw works on both the push and pull stroke, but I found the pull stroke to be the most efficient. The special coating on the blade really does reduce friction, so it doesn’t bind or get stuck in the wood as easily as some other saws do.
The saw’s versatility is a big bonus. It’s designed for wood, but it can also handle plastic and bone, making it a handy tool for various outdoor tasks. The safety lock is a great feature, as it gives you peace of mind that the blade is secure while in use and won’t accidentally fold back on your fingers. This saw is a fantastic tool for cutting kindling and small to medium-sized branches.
Gear That Complements Your Camping Setup
Having a saw for camp chores is a huge benefit, but for a complete fire kit, there are other items you should consider. Be sure to check out our reviews on other Tactical Gear or durable camping knives to level up your on-the-go Camp Kitchen.
The BAHCO Laplander folding saw is a brilliant piece of camp gear.
Its lightweight and compact design make it an excellent alternative to a heavier axe, and its cutting performance is top-notch. It glides through wood with ease, and its secure locking mechanism provides great peace of mind. While it doesn't come with a sheath, its durable construction and ability to cut through a variety of materials make it a must-have for anyone who needs to process wood for a campfire or other projects.
This saw is best for campers, hikers, and bushcrafters who need a compact and efficient tool for cutting small to medium-sized wood. It’s a great choice for processing kindling and branches for a campfire without the bulk and weight of a full-sized axe.
Yes, absolutely. The BAHCO Laplander is a premium tool that offers exceptional performance and durability for its price. Given how much easier and safer it is to use than a knife or a heavier axe for small jobs, it is a very worthwhile investment.
