Silky Saw Blade Teeth Type

Ross – I went with the large teeth on the Silky 170 blade to go with the handle Jan made.  It works really well and cuts quickly.  I’ve used the saw on two trips so far for some limited cuts.  I’ve noticed that after about 5 minutes of rather continuous use my hand begins to cramp a bit.

Maybe Mike Moore will chime in (I know he’s used it for winter wood while out) with his experiences.  It’s so light that I’ll continue carry it now, but it will primarily be used for ad hoc trail maintenance.  Last year (pre-Jan saw) we hit a downed tree on a narrow trail cut into a steep slope.  It took quite a bit of effort to go up and around the tree (it was only about 3″ in diameter where it hit the trail) but it was the top of the tree and there were lots of branches.  If I had had my saw with me then I would have simply cut it to make it easier for us and others to pass.

I’d say that the fine-toothed blade is only for very specific use, for very hard, dry wood or when clean cut is preferred over efficiency. I’ll avoid it if there’s a chance of cutting green wood, it would clog much more than a coarser saw.

I’m using the 8 teeth per inch blade, here it’s sold as “coarse” but it’s actually “medium” at Silky, and I’m happy with it. It’s a good all-round choice, and a good match to the length of the blade.

(I’m thinking about getting a fine 130 mm blade for woodworking at home, but that’s something different.)

I use Silky saws most days for work. Sometimes all day long as my primary tool. (Orchard and arb.)

As Jan says, I’m of the opinion that the fine teeth blade would not be appropriate for the work the OP describes.

It will be more tiring/awkward to use and more likely to bind. And, if anything like their fine toothed blades on the Gomtaro model, will be less durably sharp if abused, thinner metal and easier to bend if not careful.

I’m in agreement with the others- go medium or large teeth. They rip through wood much more efficiently. I love my Silky Saw.