Smallest, Best, Wire Saw

[Gypsy]

Dose anyone have suggestions on what the smallest yet practical wire saw is and where it may be purchase? This would be used in a small survival kit.

Thanks --- Gypsy

 

[tarsier]

Equipped.com has a discussion of this topic:

http://www.equipped.com/devices24.htm#ToothedSharps

One concern that comes to mind with these products is that they seem to require two hands to use. If one arm is injured, this could be a problem. You might also consider the lightweight folding saws if you carry a knapsack when you go hiking.

 

[V Shrake]

tarsier, you can easily use a green branch in addition to the wire saw and make a field-expedient bowsaw. Of course, that might also be impossible if your arm's really bad off.

At any rate, it's a great modification for when things aren't so dire. I've never been able to really use a wiresaw well using just the finger rings; stretching the saw on a branch makes it easy to use.

 

[Sesoku]

Gypsy,
I have settled on the BCB commando saw. They are available online many places, the cheapest I found one was like $8 at fatigues surplus. I took a close look at the coghlans model, and it looks like they do not fasten the loops on the end as securely as the BCB. Plus when you take the handles off, the saw can be coiled very small, about two inches in diameter. Perfect for a altoids kit. Good luck.

 

[tarsier]

V Shrake, that's a great tip. I'll have to give it a try. I've never had much success with the wire saws, but I could see that working. I have a folding saw, but it's too bulky obviously for a small emergency kit.