A couple of years ago I was introduced to Silky Saws and ever since they’ve been my go-to pocket and limb hand saw. A Japanese company, Silky uses high-end materials, unique tooth patterns, and ergonomic shapes to allow its line of saws to be used for long periods of time without fatigue. Additionally, their modern designs minimize the force needed to complete most cutting tasks. These features are what makes them the number one choice in hand saw by arborists throughout the world, but for 2017 they are looking to impress another market of customer. Silky is branching out with a line of products geared to the great outdoors and her many participants.
Here’s a brief run down of what’s in store for us, although I think it’s important to note that this is just a small sampling of Silky’s complete line – which is larger than any competitors.
Silky POCKETBOY 130mm, Medium Tooth – $48.95
I’ve personally used this saw many times. In fact, this is the pocket saw that started it all for me. The POCKETBOY is lightweight, compact, and features a 5” blade with 8.5 teeth per inch. It comes in a clear, plastic carrying case – complete with belt clip – and has a total overall tool weight of .35lbs. The POCKETBOY is ideal for setting up camp, exploring in the woods, trail maintenance, and general pruning. If you’re going to get into Silky – start here.
Silky Professional Series F180, 180mm Folding Saw, Large Tooth – $44.95
If there ever was a saw that showcased what the future of saw tooth patterns should be, it’s the F180. Featuring a 7” blade that has 6.4 teeth per inch, the F180 utilizes Silky’s MIRAI-ME (Smooth Cutting) technology. Where most pocket saws feature 1-2 angles of teeth, the F180 feature 4 different angles of precision ground, razor sharp teeth which slides through even the sappiest of limbs. For anyone doing serious trail and camp maintenance, the F180 might be the right choice for you as not only does it operate smoothly, but features an ergonomic handle designed for hours of use without fatigue.
Silky GOMBOY Curve Professional Series Saw, 210mm – $63.95
With an 8” curved blade that has 6.8 teeth per inch the GOMBOY’s design allows for quick work on green or dry trees and limbs, and excels in ergonomics as well as ease of use. With its shape and size, you can expect to take town tree limb, or trunk with fewer strokes – which means you’re exerting less energy and spending less time per piece. The ergonomic, rubberized handle increases the experience even more and allows you to work fast, and efficiently, without cramping in the hands or forearms.
Silky BigBoy 2000 Multipurpose Saw, XL Teeth – $93.95
This is the second saw I ever used from Silky, and the one that made me a lifelong customer. The BigBoy 2000 features a 14” low angle curved blade with 5.5 aggressive teeth per inch which allows it to get around bigger trees and make quick and easy work of them – no matter the type of wood or if it’s green or not. In my experience with this saw, I took down 4 Christmas trees, all of which took less than 4 pull-strokes each to fell. A saw this size can usually be cumbersome, but you’ll find that the BigBoy 2000 is exceptionally balanced and lightweight. In fact, all in – it only weighs 1 lb.
Silky Ono Chopper – 148.95
Breaking the mold of hand saws is Silky’s Ono Chopper which is a lightweight camp hatchet coming in at 13” in total length with a 4.7” blade edge. Built from a solid piece of steel, and featuring a textured handle, the Ono is only a quarter inch thick which allows it to double as a bushwhacking tool, when not being used to prep camp wood and clear limbs. Look for the Silky Ono Chopper as part of our “Best of” hatchet review set coming later this year.
I’m tough on gear and tools, and not just because I need to be to review them, but because I’m like a bull in a china shop. I throw my stuff around, work my tools hard, and sometimes I use them for unintended purposes. In short, I’m a real bastard to the stuff I use because I know it can generally take it. Silky is built to last. Their products are designed to be abused in a professional setting, which are levels above anything the average outdoor enthusiast can throw at it. You’ll pay for that quality of course, but chances are you’ll never have to buy another saw again – unless you’re expanding your collection.
For years, Silky was only sold through a couple of distributors in the United States – most exclusively of which being SHERRILLtree who specializes in “tree gear for tree people.” Though their site is an outdoor enthusiasts dream come true, it’s unlikely that many people outside of the arborist profession have shopped there. That NEEDS to change as you’re missing out and I recommend you head over there as soon as you can and indulge yourself. For 2017, in line with the creation of this new outdoor line, Silky is branching out and can be found in more outdoor-oriented stores like Cabela’s, L.L. Bean, and REI. If you’re looking for a high-quality, effective, portable saw for your outdoor adventures, look no further than Silky.
