Herbert Miller
If you work with wood at home or professionally, you need a suitable Bow Saw. With a lot of brands making the tool, you have numerous choices. But there are plenty of designs, and they serve different purposes. So, before buying any design, collecting a few ideas can be very helpful. Here, you will get to know about some popular bow saws that receive plenty of positive feedback and high ratings from enthusiasts and users. You will surely be able to select the right tool from the list mentioned below. You can compare the main aspects and pick the ideal design for your needs.
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Best Overall
BAHCO 24-Inch Ergo Bow Saw
- Efficient
- Precise tensioning
- Lightweight
- Versatile
- Comfortable handle
- Easy to use
Premium Choice
Agawa Canyon BOREAL21
- Foldable design
- Sturdy
- Constructed with excellent quality aluminum frame and stainless steel
- Multipurpose
- Automatic blade tensioning
Best Budget
Truper 30255 Bow Saw
- Corrosion-resistant
- 21-inch blade for cutting big size wood
- Affordable
- Easy to change blades
- High-quality blade tension system
1. BAHCO 24-Inch Ergo Bow Saw
The BAHCO Bow Saw takes the first spot on this list due to several reasons. It is efficient, easy to handle, and high-quality, and reasonably priced. If you need a bow saw, which you can use comfortably for various purposes, it is an excellent piece of tool.
Steel tubing is the construction material, and it weighs 0.77 kilos, which is very light. The tool has an ergonomic handle, which provides safety and comfort when you use it. The frame is lightweight but heavy-duty. It has quick-release changes and precise tensioning for more efficiency. You can also get replacement blades for cutting different types of wood.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Efficient
- Precise tensioning
- Ergonomic handle for comfortable use
- Can get replacement blades
- Ease of use
Cons
- May be hard to install
2. Agawa Canyon BOREAL21
The BOREAL21 from Agawa Canyon is the premium choice on this list. It is a high-end tool that is also efficient. It is also one of the most uniquely designed devices in the market today. The construction materials of this tool are stainless steel and aluminum. The blade length is 21 inches and weighs 1.1 pounds.
As mentioned above, the frame design is unique in the shape of a trapezium. Hence, it allows users to cut large size wood easily. You can also fold down the bow saw when not in use. Its other positive feature is the automatic blade tensioning.
The 21-inch blade will make sure that you can cut different types of wood. The shape of the bow saw is such that you can work with it comfortably.
Pros
- Automatic blade tensioning
- Top-grade aluminum frame and stainless steel construction
- Fold-down design
- Comfortable to use
- Can perform multiple functions
- Sturdy
Cons
- Pricey
3. Truper 30255 Bow Saw
30255 Truper Bow Saw is the budget choice on this list simply because it is efficient and cheaper than many other models. It also has a 21-inch blade length, and construction materials are steel and plastic. It weighs about 1.3 pounds, so it is comfortable to use.
The cam-lever tension system makes sure that the blade stays tight while you cut the materials. The quick-release system will enable you to change your blades quickly too. The sturdy steel frame is painted to prevent rusting.
You can use the blade to cut small branches and large branches with ease.
The negative aspect of the 30255 Bow Saw from Truper is the rivets, which can be frail and may not work properly after some time.
Pros
- Durable and does not rust
- The 21-inch blade allows cutting large branches
- The top-grade blade tension system
- Can change blade easily due to the quick-release system
- Affordable
Cons
- The rivets can be weak and cause some problems
4. Pro-Grade 31913 Multipurpose Bow Saw
The 31913 from Pro-Grade is a tool that can transform into a hacksaw or a bow saw according to needs and preferences. The construction material is Steel, and it weighs 1.2 pounds. The blade length is just 12 inches, though. But since you can perform multiple tasks, it is a great option.
The 31913 comes with two blades; one hacksaw blade and one bow saw blade. Hence, when you need to work with wood, you can install the bow saw blade; and the hacksaw blade for cutting metal and plastics.
The steel construction makes it quite robust and durable at the same time. You can complete your projects efficiently with this tool.
However, the blade is short, and so you cannot cut large-sized materials. Besides, the tool has minimal blade options for replacement.
Pros
- Can be used as bow saw and hacksaw
- Comes with two blades
- Affordable
- Steel constructions ensure durability
Cons
- Blade replacement is limited
- Cuts only small sizes
5. BAHCO Bow Saw #9 All Purpose
This all-purpose bow saw from BAHCO is also one of the most popular tools available in the market. It is also a multipurpose saw that you can use to cut dry wood and green wood. It is 2.1 pounds in weight, so it is quite sturdy.
You can use it for logging purposes or light garden activities or even take it camping according to necessity. The Bow Saw #9 has several great features, and so it can be an ideal choice for people who perform different cutting tasks.
It has a comfortable handle that will prevent blisters and cramps. The blade is pre-sharpened. Hence you do not have to waste time sharpening it. You can also arrange the blade comfortably according to your requirements for high-efficiency. The tension system is such that it allows you to do that without any problem.
Pros
- Multipurpose bow saw
- Knuckle protector and added grip for comfortable use
- Lightweight
- Ensures safety for the user as it has a blade protector
Cons
- Made for cutting dry and green wood but is less suitable for green wood
6. BAHCO 332-21-51 21 Inch Pointed Nose Bow Saw
It is yet another tool from BAHCO. It is on the list because of its versatility and efficiency. It is one of the most popular designs too. It weighs just 0.3 kilograms and so it is quite light.
The Pointed Nose Bow Saw is a small but convenient tool for a variety of uses. The pointed nose makes it easy to use in tight spots where you cannot move much. It has an ergonomic handle. Hence, you can use it comfortably.
It is a multipurpose tool but is most suitable for roofing projects and pruning. You can use it for cutting branches, too, just by changing the blade meant for green wood.
Pros
- Has an ergonomic handle
- Suitable for tight spaces
- Most ideal for roofing projects and pruning
- Can cut dry wood very well but need to change blades for green wood
- Lightweight
Cons
- The design on arrival seems a bit different than advertised
7. COGHLAN’S Folding Saw
This Folding Saw from Coghlan’s is also a useful tool for outdoor activity. The device has a rugged anodized aluminum frame and weighs only 16 ounces. It can also hold extra blades, so it is quite efficient. You can cut not only wood but also meat and metal if necessary.
The blade’s length is 21 inches, and you can completely fold it when not in use. Hence, you can keep it even in a small space or carry it without any trouble.
As with other tools, this design also has some flaws. The saw might damage if you excessive force. Its handle is also not as good as expected. So, you might not feel very comfortable using it for long periods.
Pros
- Foldable saw
- Convenient
- Useful for different purposes
- Affordable
Cons
- Handle is not so good
- Putting excess force can damage the tool
8. Gerber Freescape 31-002820 Bow Saw
The 31-002820 from Gerber Freescape is also a good bow saw for various purposes but lighter projects. It has a 12-inch blade and weighs 0.9 pounds. Hence, it is a lightweight tool. If you are looking for a light but efficient tool for outdoor purposes, this is a great choice.
For construction, the brand used Steel and rubber. The bow saw is foldable and hence portable and compact. You can carry it easily and take little storage space. The rubber overmold grip also ensures comfort and ease.
You can take the tool during camping, outdoor activities in the garden, or cut small branches and bushes. While the device is quite efficient, the downside is its price.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Foldable design
- Easy to carry and store
- Efficient for light outdoor activities
- Comfortable handle
Cons
- Expensive
9. GreatNeck BB24 Bow Saw
The BB24 from GreatNeck is a good tool for wet wood or green wood. Hence, if you do a lot of outdoor activities, this bow saw will work really well. The construction materials of this saw are extra hard Steel and chrome alloy. The blade length is 24 inches, and so it is suitable for large diameter wood.
The tubular steel frame is for added durability. Another positive feature about this tool is that you can change dull blades for new ones quickly.
The tool also comes with a limited lifetime warranty. Hence, you can use the bow saw for a very long time. The frame also ensures that you can cut the wood materials with comfort and ease.
Pros
- Long blade at 24 inches enables cutting large size wood
- Metal construction ensures durability
- Vibrant color allows quick location in case it is misplaced
- Easy to change blades
Cons
- Some customers received dull blades on arrival
10. Task Tools T22301 21-Inch Bow Saw
This is the last bow saw on the list but definitely not the least in quality or performance. The T22301 from Task Tools is ideal for wet or fresh wood. Hence, you will surely like this bow saw if you cut a lot of trees and bushes.
The hardened and tempered steel construction will help you cut the fresh wood quickly. Besides, the saw lasts long and is a top-quality product. Its blade is 21 inches, and it weighs 1.2 pounds. Hence, while it is robust, it is not heavy. So, you can perform your tasks without any difficulty.
You can cut the branches and trees with ease as it has a comfortable rubber handle. It also offers a firm grip so the saw will not wobble while you cut the wood. There is also no chance of your hand contacting the blade as a knuckle-protecting hand guard stands in the way.
This saw is one of the most affordable items on the market. Hence, most people can buy it and use it for various purposes. One problem with the tool is the design is not efficient in cutting large size wood.
Pros
- Ideal for fresh wood
- Tempered and hardened steel for durability
- Knuckle-protecting handguard keeps the hands safe
- Affordable
Cons
- Not suitable to cut large size wood
Woodworking Bow Saws Buyer’s Guide
Whether you work with dry wood or wet/fresh wood, you need an ideal bow saw for completing your tasks quickly and efficiently. The ten models on the list are good in many ways with few flaws. You may therefore pick a design after considering all the vital aspects. Since you will use the saw many times and for a long time, something can work a long time.
Durability is one of the aspects that everybody should consider when they buy a bow saw. If you pick a flimsy model, it can break down fast even in the middle of a project.
You also need to consider efficiency when it comes to bow saws. If you purchase a saw that is cumbersome to use, you might never finish your projects. It is best to buy a versatile saw that you can use to cut different sizes and types of wood if possible.
Finally, the cost is an important aspect as well. Don’t buy a product based on its price only. Choose something affordable but durable and efficient. If you choose an expensive design, make sure that the tool is worth every cent and justifies the price.
The BAHCO Bow Saw is the overall choice on the list. It is a multipurpose saw, and so it is a suitable model. BOREAL21 from Agawa Canyon is the premium choice for its many positive features and also the price. It is a top-grade product and indeed an essential tool to have. 30255 Truper Bow Saw from Truper is the budget choice because it is affordable and efficient. Some are cheaper than this design, but they are not efficient and durable.
Conclusion
Almost all the saws are reasonably priced except for a few. But the efficiency and features vary from one to the other. So, you can use one of each model to perform all your tasks without any hindrance. However, if your budget is limited, choose the ideal one which is most versatile and durable.
