I like the concept of carrying just the folding saw and a sturdy knife. lighter then an axe and more versatile. Never thought about the splitting technique, it works good, I'll have to remember that.
I've seen the Ray Mears video and it is a handy technique to know, but it's not as much fun as chopping and, frankly, sawing seems more tiring to me. Maybe you need to be a guy to find sawing to be have those sawing muscles already conditioned...
Before splitting logs, you may need to break the wood down to smaller sizes. Instead of wasting energy by sawing them, find a sturdy tree with two limbs diverging, like 2 fingers making the peace sign. Place the wood in the space between the 2 "fingers." Pull the soon to be log against one limb, preferably with a partner, & let physics do the rest. SNAP! Be sure to have good footing when doing this. Saws are my preference. Only use quality saws, cheap ones are dangerous & break after a few cuts.
I see your point about the danger of using an axe vs using a folding saw. The axe is inherently more dangerous yet they can be fun to use in a non survival situation. I've got a tomohawk that I love but I'm not skilled with it and I think a folding saw would be a safer choice for a survival kit or even camping.
how much does that folder weigh? i use a 17 oz collapsible buck saw. that and my recon scout or rat 7 to baton logs works great for any survival situation. saws are safer, less strenuous, easier to use a night, require less dexterity, and are way lighter! personally i would never split logs like he does id just baton but good to know. thanks for all your vids sean!
Sean, thanks for showing this trick! I honestly never knew about it and I am an Eagle Scout (we used contact chopping with the axe). As per people wanting a point to argue: well, go play Rambo in the woods. It'll ge the job done, but at a much higher risk to oneself. In a bug out, camping, or even a nature walk people have got to remember that they are AWAY from civilization. Time to reactivate primative man safety laws and assume nothing. - thank you Sean
Understanding a knife has it's place and value....One sharp saw is worth a hundred sharp knives (or how ever many teeth the saw has). I agree with the saw, as I use an arborist pruning saw quite often. If people are interested, there are many affordable, quality folding and non-folding saws available through arborist supply stores as compared to the cheap, low quality department store offerings.
you talk about the simple motions of the saw if your fatiqued and how much safer it is than the saw,but then you swing the log like an axe using up similar calories and energy.
@tanaoi Agreed but I havent got a 1kg sharpened axe head to content with. I still like this method but a year on and now with my SFK I prefer to use my knife. Still its a handy technique to show. Maybe I'll have to remake some videos.
@seanmulhall sean for me everyday is a school day and thanks to you i can continue to learn from home when work and family chew up my dirt time outside,i
understand that that vid is a year old, it's just that i intend on watching all your videos as i love your views and your eagerness to share your knowledge,have nearly viewed them all at this stage so please keep them coming!!!
Nice vid Sean don't know how I missed this one. Very handy for me as one of my kids is too young ( or small ) to be wielding an axe. After watching this I'm going to buy him a folding saw and show him this method of splitting wood.
are u serious ?really he used less effort with that saw ?i would down that tree in 2 swings with a good sharp axe and well placed hits or less i mean for real one hit and u could use your foot to snap the rest
or cold, or rushing getting fire and shelter built, or not paying attention.or inexperienced. Saws are safer than an axe in that regard. 1 hit ? :) post it. I live in Canada and used to pack an axe for a while, gave it up for a decent saw for the reasons in the vid. each to their own i suppose... my axe stays in the truck. Great vid, well done!
@juice420eco i agree i mean this is a cool tip but still an axe is better, i mean i could chop that tree in 3 or 4 swings with a ka bar knife which takes almost no effort, to me an axe is way less offort, i can split logs with an axe longer than i can cut through logs with a saw.
@juice420eco well placed is the key!!! tired = stupid choices = danger. for a bug out kit he is right. a saw can do fine work that an ax can't. I like axes because that is what I was taught ... I'm a convert with this vid
sorry an axe and a pocket chainsaw in my pack ill be relaxing and eating by the time ur done messing with that even though its 2 pounds more its worth its weight in gold
Damn, I'm sold. I like a hatchet (you'd call it a small axe, I guess) but I'm like you and I always travel light. I can't stand to carry too much junk with me. With this trick you have shown us, I can't think of any situations in which I would likely find myself in which an axe would be better than a folding saw and a decent knife.
I carry a 19' Wetterlings, a small mora, and a kershaw folding saw. each tool has its own uses. if i had to get rid of one, the axe would prob go, although i have skinned a rabbit with my axe
There is a third choice. I take a hatchit.. I've split wood this way and you'll get a "zinger" in your hands the same way a baseball batter does when he breaks a bat. OUCH!
An axe is much better for cutting larger branches and is a lot more versatile. A saw can only be used in limited situations I think. It also takes a lot more muscle power and sweat to use a small saw like the one you have.
holy fuck this is a great idea, my brother carries and ax, and i a saw, and i tell him its to much weigh, he always said you cant split wood with a saw, AND YOU CAN!!
Well Yes, I would. Once you have your fire going good, green wood, like oak, burns slow and hot. It is best with out the bark. and it is best to burn it in a stove. I may not be a silver fox, but I did grow up with smart old people. In the mountains of KY.
Yes you want very dry wood to start, but green will burn slow and hot all night. Check out the book, FOX FIRE..You will see..
Green wood is dangerous for use in a stove as it leads to rapid creosote build up and flue fires. You should only burn seasoned wood in a stove used inside a dwelling.
Great Video. I will have to get myself a new saw that folds, since my last one got stolen along with my ax. I always held the saw tightly so i will have to try it your way now.I get out of breath easily so hopefully your way will help, Thanks.
But there is always a saw in my pack-basket. often the axe gets left out. I just let my seven year old cut down a pine of about 8" diameter that I need to clear. With very loose supervised.
I would not let him do that with and axe!
He will be excited to learn your wood splitting method.
yea, but can you carve with a saw? I saw is more safe than a axe, if you don't know how to use a axe. I would take both... but still, puting a sharp axe in you're leg is not fun...
sorry sean but my bahco laplander has cut a 4 inch branch in less than 7 seconds. if you have the energy grip with two hand and grind, i know it aint the right way (my dads a joiner) but it gets it done alot faster but great idea with the splitting 5* :D
A nicely done video. Remember that saws from the garden supply tend to cost less than those designed for survival--at least that has been my experience. You don't have to pay a lot.
try a dry wall saw, they don't fold, but I got one at k-mart a few years ago for 2.00 it cuts great, plus you can cut in a u shape or square if you want.
I love this vid. I put away my axe a year ago. I just use a sawvivor now or a kershaw saw. I like it much better. everyhing processes much quicker and a lot safer. especially when I get to camp and I'm tired. all i carry in the woods anymore is a sawvivor and a rc6. yours and nutnfancy's vid converted me.
i agree , an axe for carving can be really useful for removing the waste in the early stages,
plus , obviously if you dont know how to use an axe you can hurt yourself, but saw also can jump easily and my experience of folders is that the blades snap easily if they get snagged and used at an angle etc,
you have to be very careful with any tool. I don't hike any more, as my legs are not what they use to be, but I was never with out both, a saw and my scout axe plus, I still don't go any were with out my two, knifes.
an axe has more uses, and can even be used in place of a knife although a saw is a better tool for cutting wood to lengths. i still prefer my axe though personally, its good for carving as well as splitting, etc, and is also good for using as a 'priest' when catching fish
u can put a big log standing vertical and cut and cut until say half of it is split turn it around and cut the other side vuala there u go splitting a big log with a saw
I'm sorry, but if you prefer that instead of an ax...well I can't express it with words!
A sharp axe is by far a superior tool!
First of all, if you know how to handle an axe, and with time you will, you'll also understand how you can split a BIG log with only a couple of hits. And most important: You don't waste a lot of energy!
Though, perhaps if you're without an axe, your technique would be useful.
I wouldn't say swinging an axe is hard when cold/ tired.
The problem comes when you have to hit the same spot again and again to chop a branch. Or to hit squarely on a log to split it. Both motions if messed up will either have the axe hitting a different spot. Or missing or glancing off swinging back at you.
Well, this was a very good video about using a small folding saw. But honestly, I think that saws have so many limitations. For example, even a very small axe can cut up very large pieces of wood (albeit more wastefully than with a saw) but the length of the saw blade limits the diameter of the log you can use. But a good video nonetheless 5/5
I generally agree with all you had to share. Defintely a saw is safer and a lot less woresome when minding other people like children. The only place I prefer a small ax is making decent kindling albeit a large knike with a thick back will do the trick nicely.
that takes so long though. I would rather use a saw to get the lengths of wood and just split with an ax. Besides, if your tired, I think the fact that you have to bash the log against something will take just as much energy as an axe.
Totally agree. I actually use both. THe saw is 100 time easier to use when cutting the right lengths for your fire and it takes less effort. I keep the axe to split hte lengths if the wood has been wet or it's been raining heavily. But definately saw saves on the energy.
YOu can also cut striaght down the middle of the log with the saw. as if you were going to saw the whole thing down the middle. Cut in about 3" and then put a wedge in made from another piece of wood and hit that wedge w/ a large stick/rock.
Love you videos, they are fantastic. Big ups from Canada! Josh
ooh thats actually pretty neat, see i have been whining for a gransfors wildlife hatchet for god knows how long and watching this vid, eeh. but wildlife hatchets only weight 750g so i might be able to afford the weight
great tips for hikers, i enjoy the videos. something you may or may not want to try is something i am currently working on. take a chainsaw chain (low kickback .325 pitch) punch it in half so its not a circle anymore, and punch out 1 pin off of the end links on each side. take 2 nylon straps and pop rivet the nylon onto the ends. the chain only cuts one direction and only on one side. not sure if it will work but it might be worth a shot.
finished the saw i made from a chain saw chain i was telling you about, it works great you should definatly give it a shot. use leather instead of nylon and it'll be easier to make. just make sure the chain is sharp and the depth gauges on the chain are at the proper height
I have to say I've never seen a log split like this; it's always nice to learn new ways of doing such tasks. At the same time, I still prefer the hand axe (Gerber Back Paxe) for use as a hammer and as a splitting wedge for large logs. I do still carry a folding saw for smaller and more precise tasks; but weight isn't a big issue to me.
BCB is a very good quality saw and can be bought for around £16 ($23)
a stihl folding saw costs around the same.
like i said i think your video is a good educational video, alot of people including myself didn't know how or even if it was possible to split a lof with a folding saw. plus just using a folding saw is great if you havn't got the money to buy an axe and chain saw, after all if the chainsaw breaks your going to need a replacement. but i don't think that will happen for a while
i wouldn't have beleived that if someone told me. that technique is really cool and probably a great way to get the hearth piece for a bow drill set. very nice sean
I agree the saw is better for short stays out in the bush but long term i think a axe is way better because that saw blade isn't going to last as long as that axe. Class A video again Sean! ;)
What brand saw is this and how would it compare to a gerber 6 inch sliding pruning saw? I learned alot about technique from your video...Thank you! Warmly, Laurie
My saw is made by Stihl. The chainsaw manufacturers. I do not know about other makes of saws sorry. I guess they would be fine. You are not putting a lot of stress through the saw.
Re watch the video and you will see that I am talking about two different scenarios. The video was about what I would choose to take and why. I get your point but swinging an axe when in that condition is far more dangerous. Also I was explaining that using a saw is alot easier and uses less energy. I would only saw smaller logs in that condition and would not be attemting to split larger logs.
I just tried it, and as usual I should hav tried before i asked. For our fire at home we only have eucalyptus, and it is very hard to split with an axe, and this method works wonders. Thanks so much!
To be honest they're both as dangerous as each other. use a hand saw like the BCB Un-Believeable hand chain saw and a small gransfors forest axe is more efficient on time and energy. fair enough the two together weigh a couple of extra pounds, but you use less energy overall. you wasted energy sawing the wood to get your log, then sawing half way. and then even more energy by banging the wood. if you use the hand chain saw and axe it is so much faster and uses less energy
you use the chain saw to get your log, so much faster with very little effort using two hands on the saw and feet to keep the log steady, then use the wood axe to tap into the end of the log. then it only takes a a bang or 2 to split the log cleanly. you can prepare more split logs this way, using less energy overall. you don't have to swing the axe as you say, because the wood will grip the "bit" of the axe.. i'm not critisising the video, it's a good video and good to know that you can
i'm going to use a laplander folding saw as an example and it weighs 175g.
fair enough you're carrying an extra 925g but go and pick up 2 tins of beans or something which weighs a similar amount and tell me you couldn't manage that in a rucksack for a couple of days, minimum amount of effort, and then splitting the wood you use a lot less effort compared to the folding saw
it's a lot faster too, and if like you say you're dehydrated. then you will want sterilised water asap, if your cold warm water will help. so the faster you get your fire going the faster you get warm and hydrated, and able to cook food. the choice is peoples to make but i know which i'd rather choose. as long as you don't go swinging the axe like a mad man then it's a safe tool too have, and it lasts longer. youtube a hand saw and see how little effort goes into cutting a log, and how fast too.
A very comprehnesive reply. Thank you. I agree with what you are saying but I still believe its easier to use a hand saw than a hand chain saw. Also in my expereince those hand chain saws or wire saws do not last very long. They go blunt or the rings come of the end. I have not used the BCB one though.
i bought a similar saw by wilkinson sword. its for pruning stuff in the garden, i got it from B+Q. the blade is about 12" long slides into the handle and is locked pretty securely by a finger/wing nut in the open and closed position. i have used it quite heavily and the blade has lasted a good while. it's suprisingly lightweight and i always take it with me when i go camping. i used to struggle with the splitting of the wood though so thanks for the tip. nice vids sean keep postin :)
Good technique.. I would still take both axe and saw however.. Travelling light is one thing but the amount of uses it has makes it well worth the extra weight..
You can resharpen axes and carve with them and are great for shelters.. Did I mention how easy it is to chop your chin with them too..?
Tha saw I have is made by Stihl the chainsaw manufactures. The most popular is the Balco Laplander. Like most of my stuff I try and use other makes rather than the leading brands if possible to be different. I must admit I have not tried others but go for teeth that will cut both green and dry wood. There is a difference. Saw length - you want around 12", any less and you will sruggle with larger logs.
Can a folding saw replace a knife? I know an axe can depending on your skill level
kibbles306 5 days ago
i suggest 70 strokes per minute with a saw as that will stop your arm tiring, matches (more or less) your heart beat and means the full blade is used
serridgeas 1 month ago in playlist More videos from seanmulhall
so much more energy to saw all your firewood!
BravoAlphaLimaJR 1 month ago in playlist More videos from seanmulhall
Good vid but I also have to disagree ,
You say you like to travel light, yet you have the intension of processing wood for a fire or shelter on your travels .
If there is a need to do this then carry appropriate tools food clothing ect
Get a good small hatchet .
I swear by them
robmochdre 1 month ago
That is fantastic. I have never heard of this or seen it. Would someone have told me, I wouldn't have believed them.
nashntth 3 months ago
This has been flagged as spam show
Doesn't matter. It will still burn! Just use the upside down fire!
matt4270 5 months ago
I like the concept of carrying just the folding saw and a sturdy knife. lighter then an axe and more versatile. Never thought about the splitting technique, it works good, I'll have to remember that.
donteverlietome 7 months ago
This guy is a idiot he just recycles more knolagable bushmens info he should just leave links to the vidios he watched
Twacool 7 months ago
@Twacool Where do you think those bushmen got their knowledge from? Knowledge cycles around.
Junriah 4 months ago
i learned this from ray mears
graffiticandy 8 months ago
Gunshot at 6:38?
ucaroy 8 months ago
@seanmulhall
i saw you were at the pathfinder spring gathering this year. do you have contact with dave canterbury?
iwalkedinawall 8 months ago
@iwalkedinawall
Yes.
seanmulhall 8 months ago
are you a fan of ray mears?
iwalkedinawall 8 months ago
@iwalkedinawall
It was Ray that go me into Bushcraft many years ago. I remember watching him in awe when he first came on to the TV.
seanmulhall 8 months ago
I've seen the Ray Mears video and it is a handy technique to know, but it's not as much fun as chopping and, frankly, sawing seems more tiring to me. Maybe you need to be a guy to find sawing to be have those sawing muscles already conditioned...
CanItAlready 11 months ago
It would be great if you could show us how to make a torch! please do.
skuller496 11 months ago
Nice trick sean, always good to know!!!
patje0109 1 year ago
Before splitting logs, you may need to break the wood down to smaller sizes. Instead of wasting energy by sawing them, find a sturdy tree with two limbs diverging, like 2 fingers making the peace sign. Place the wood in the space between the 2 "fingers." Pull the soon to be log against one limb, preferably with a partner, & let physics do the rest. SNAP! Be sure to have good footing when doing this. Saws are my preference. Only use quality saws, cheap ones are dangerous & break after a few cuts.
evrithnguneed 1 year ago
How can he compare axe with an saw? There is no comperisment. Two different tools.
nitroflesh 1 year ago
I see your point about the danger of using an axe vs using a folding saw. The axe is inherently more dangerous yet they can be fun to use in a non survival situation. I've got a tomohawk that I love but I'm not skilled with it and I think a folding saw would be a safer choice for a survival kit or even camping.
nextexhale 1 year ago
i love this technique.. unfortunately everytime i've tried it i just snap the log in two :(
blinkvirus 1 year ago
@blinkvirus
Turn the log over 90 degress and it should split the log.
seanmulhall 1 year ago
this is a very good technique. thank's for sharing sean.
m3tZg0r3 1 year ago
how much does that folder weigh? i use a 17 oz collapsible buck saw. that and my recon scout or rat 7 to baton logs works great for any survival situation. saws are safer, less strenuous, easier to use a night, require less dexterity, and are way lighter! personally i would never split logs like he does id just baton but good to know. thanks for all your vids sean!
satyratron 1 year ago
hi sean what brand of saw are you using cheers keep up the good work
MrWalloping 1 year ago
@MrWalloping
Its made by Sthil
seanmulhall 1 year ago
And your gonna be burning the wood. So it doesn't need to look pretty.
sabaths1fan 1 year ago
how do you bash the log where is the cut when you do this is it on the bottom or top
jamielangley4ever 1 year ago
man who ever said that you couldn't split a log with a folding saw got proved wrong striaght up
lamaj2110 1 year ago
Sean, thanks for showing this trick! I honestly never knew about it and I am an Eagle Scout (we used contact chopping with the axe). As per people wanting a point to argue: well, go play Rambo in the woods. It'll ge the job done, but at a much higher risk to oneself. In a bug out, camping, or even a nature walk people have got to remember that they are AWAY from civilization. Time to reactivate primative man safety laws and assume nothing. - thank you Sean
TheMistapig 1 year ago
my God your a wimp, all we hear about is how safe the saw is... life goes on man.
bZberetta 1 year ago
@bZberetta your looking at this all wrong
sabaths1fan 1 year ago
Congrats, you remade the ray mears video at 5 times the length.
aseglkj 1 year ago
@aseglkj give the guy a break these are clear and informative clips.
misternylon 1 year ago
@aseglkj - nope, he gives further info, like the advantages of a folding saw over an axe.
Gokunama 1 year ago
well done
ImAwoodsman 1 year ago
Understanding a knife has it's place and value....One sharp saw is worth a hundred sharp knives (or how ever many teeth the saw has). I agree with the saw, as I use an arborist pruning saw quite often. If people are interested, there are many affordable, quality folding and non-folding saws available through arborist supply stores as compared to the cheap, low quality department store offerings.
TheLimbReaper 1 year ago
I would hate to try and cut up a cord of firewood for the winter this way, LOL.
cheers
teb0atoz 1 year ago
what is the best folding saw in your mind i was thinking of a sog folding camp saw
what you think
painfull94 1 year ago
What about a 12" bladed Golok compared to the saw?
And what size knife would you carry along with your folding saw?
Great video....thanks!
ayokay123 1 year ago
i'd have called it a chiz wozzer
TalentscoutJosh 1 year ago
Very nice little trick. I was worried you were going to baton with the saw.
bewarethegreyghost 1 year ago
@bewarethegreyghost I thought he was gonna baton with it too! I definitely learned something about splitting, though. Fascinating.
ayokay123 1 year ago
you talk about the simple motions of the saw if your fatiqued and how much safer it is than the saw,but then you swing the log like an axe using up similar calories and energy.
tanaoi 1 year ago
@tanaoi Agreed but I havent got a 1kg sharpened axe head to content with. I still like this method but a year on and now with my SFK I prefer to use my knife. Still its a handy technique to show. Maybe I'll have to remake some videos.
seanmulhall 1 year ago
@seanmulhall sean for me everyday is a school day and thanks to you i can continue to learn from home when work and family chew up my dirt time outside,i
understand that that vid is a year old, it's just that i intend on watching all your videos as i love your views and your eagerness to share your knowledge,have nearly viewed them all at this stage so please keep them coming!!!
tanaoi 1 year ago
Nice vid Sean don't know how I missed this one. Very handy for me as one of my kids is too young ( or small ) to be wielding an axe. After watching this I'm going to buy him a folding saw and show him this method of splitting wood.
Cheers Bud
kobudo4 1 year ago
I have never seen that before. I like that. safer than an axe for the inexperienced camoer/bushcraft people. Thanks Sean.
epetrie 1 year ago
Thanks for the demo. Being able to split with the saw could make fire wood from the only wood available.
InTheSticks1881 1 year ago
The egg came before the chicken. Chickens come from eggs and most other birds, including what the chicken was before, lays eggs.
bumrushjoe 1 year ago
are u serious ?really he used less effort with that saw ?i would down that tree in 2 swings with a good sharp axe and well placed hits or less i mean for real one hit and u could use your foot to snap the rest
juice420eco 2 years ago
If you were tired then a saw is far less dangerous.
seanmulhall 2 years ago 2
or cold, or rushing getting fire and shelter built, or not paying attention.or inexperienced. Saws are safer than an axe in that regard. 1 hit ? :) post it. I live in Canada and used to pack an axe for a while, gave it up for a decent saw for the reasons in the vid. each to their own i suppose... my axe stays in the truck. Great vid, well done!
DangerDad29 1 year ago
@juice420eco i agree i mean this is a cool tip but still an axe is better, i mean i could chop that tree in 3 or 4 swings with a ka bar knife which takes almost no effort, to me an axe is way less offort, i can split logs with an axe longer than i can cut through logs with a saw.
slapoutz 1 year ago
@juice420eco I agree with Sean... a saw is far less dangerous.
enjoythewildUSA 1 year ago
@juice420eco well placed is the key!!! tired = stupid choices = danger. for a bug out kit he is right. a saw can do fine work that an ax can't. I like axes because that is what I was taught ... I'm a convert with this vid
bxxj 1 year ago
well done! who did it first? you or ray? its like the age old question what came first the chicken or the egg....
TheMaliciousMonkey 2 years ago
Ray.
seanmulhall 2 years ago
Well even if Ray did do it first, you make it look better! :o)
TheMaliciousMonkey 2 years ago
That splitting wood trick is pretty sweet. I wish I had known that when I was back in Scouts. Good job!
panachevitz 2 years ago
not a bad idea for the serious light weight traveler. would that work well on most types of woods?
OldDogsCanLearn 2 years ago
that's for children.
for the bigger trunk, you're looking old with the saw.
jonahsepp 2 years ago
sorry an axe and a pocket chainsaw in my pack ill be relaxing and eating by the time ur done messing with that even though its 2 pounds more its worth its weight in gold
doggtowncowboy 2 years ago
axe wins
FatsoJetson 2 years ago
Thank you Sean. As always, very useful and practical information!
Cheers man!
samson98 2 years ago
I like your series of videos Sean. I don't always agree with your methods, but it all boils down to what works for each individual.
I reckon I'll stick with a hatchet for wood splitting, but I do also carry a small folding saw. Each have their own uses. Keep the videos coming!
wtfover234567891 2 years ago
Damn, I'm sold. I like a hatchet (you'd call it a small axe, I guess) but I'm like you and I always travel light. I can't stand to carry too much junk with me. With this trick you have shown us, I can't think of any situations in which I would likely find myself in which an axe would be better than a folding saw and a decent knife.
Balefulmoon 2 years ago 2
Good tips, I like to refine what I carry and lighten the load also. I have an axe but, don't use it often. I prefer a folding saw in the bush.
Ghostkamo 2 years ago
I carry a 19' Wetterlings, a small mora, and a kershaw folding saw. each tool has its own uses. if i had to get rid of one, the axe would prob go, although i have skinned a rabbit with my axe
dreamthinker79 2 years ago
id rather batton it with a knife
bushcraftourway 2 years ago
There is a third choice. I take a hatchit.. I've split wood this way and you'll get a "zinger" in your hands the same way a baseball batter does when he breaks a bat. OUCH!
NDulge1 2 years ago
Great trick Sean!
enjoythewildUSA 2 years ago
An axe is much better for cutting larger branches and is a lot more versatile. A saw can only be used in limited situations I think. It also takes a lot more muscle power and sweat to use a small saw like the one you have.
ivankinsman 2 years ago
holy fuck this is a great idea, my brother carries and ax, and i a saw, and i tell him its to much weigh, he always said you cant split wood with a saw, AND YOU CAN!!
thanks man!
Frostdme 2 years ago
good show mate, but can you do that with green wood???
davideli7879 2 years ago
would you wnat to burn green wood?
bushcraftourway 2 years ago
Well Yes, I would. Once you have your fire going good, green wood, like oak, burns slow and hot. It is best with out the bark. and it is best to burn it in a stove. I may not be a silver fox, but I did grow up with smart old people. In the mountains of KY.
Yes you want very dry wood to start, but green will burn slow and hot all night. Check out the book, FOX FIRE..You will see..
davideli7879 2 years ago
Comment removed
wtfover234567891 2 years ago
Green wood is dangerous for use in a stove as it leads to rapid creosote build up and flue fires. You should only burn seasoned wood in a stove used inside a dwelling.
wtfover234567891 2 years ago
@wtfover Wile true, I think this is more geared toward camping/survival. No creosote buildup issues with a campfire.
shawnferd 2 years ago
Great Video. I will have to get myself a new saw that folds, since my last one got stolen along with my ax. I always held the saw tightly so i will have to try it your way now.I get out of breath easily so hopefully your way will help, Thanks.
kevporteretna1 2 years ago
Nice!
I love axes.
But there is always a saw in my pack-basket. often the axe gets left out. I just let my seven year old cut down a pine of about 8" diameter that I need to clear. With very loose supervised.
I would not let him do that with and axe!
He will be excited to learn your wood splitting method.
Take care
Wanna BEE farmer
WannaBEEfarmer 2 years ago
yea, but can you carve with a saw? I saw is more safe than a axe, if you don't know how to use a axe. I would take both... but still, puting a sharp axe in you're leg is not fun...
AlbinMyren 2 years ago
no it would be no fun at all. Still you can fall on a saw and hurt your self. I carrie a saw and a axe, I am careful with each.
davideli7879 2 years ago
sorry sean but my bahco laplander has cut a 4 inch branch in less than 7 seconds. if you have the energy grip with two hand and grind, i know it aint the right way (my dads a joiner) but it gets it done alot faster but great idea with the splitting 5* :D
Spaceman7o 2 years ago
A nicely done video. Remember that saws from the garden supply tend to cost less than those designed for survival--at least that has been my experience. You don't have to pay a lot.
royce2u 2 years ago
try a dry wall saw, they don't fold, but I got one at k-mart a few years ago for 2.00 it cuts great, plus you can cut in a u shape or square if you want.
davideli7879 2 years ago
That is a fine idea. It's economical and effective. Thanks for a great suggestion!
royce2u 2 years ago 2
I love this vid. I put away my axe a year ago. I just use a sawvivor now or a kershaw saw. I like it much better. everyhing processes much quicker and a lot safer. especially when I get to camp and I'm tired. all i carry in the woods anymore is a sawvivor and a rc6. yours and nutnfancy's vid converted me.
orcaluv 2 years ago
if you use an axe in the correct way is not a dangerous tool
BARTUCQUAKE 2 years ago
i agree , an axe for carving can be really useful for removing the waste in the early stages,
plus , obviously if you dont know how to use an axe you can hurt yourself, but saw also can jump easily and my experience of folders is that the blades snap easily if they get snagged and used at an angle etc,
i personally would take both ,
useful tip for splitting without an axe though ,
ps , nice hat, i think robin hood would aprove
farleydb 2 years ago
you have to be very careful with any tool. I don't hike any more, as my legs are not what they use to be, but I was never with out both, a saw and my scout axe plus, I still don't go any were with out my two, knifes.
davideli7879 2 years ago
an axe has more uses, and can even be used in place of a knife although a saw is a better tool for cutting wood to lengths. i still prefer my axe though personally, its good for carving as well as splitting, etc, and is also good for using as a 'priest' when catching fish
craftsman1989 2 years ago
u can put a big log standing vertical and cut and cut until say half of it is split turn it around and cut the other side vuala there u go splitting a big log with a saw
zamuriaz 2 years ago
I'm sorry, but if you prefer that instead of an ax...well I can't express it with words!
A sharp axe is by far a superior tool!
First of all, if you know how to handle an axe, and with time you will, you'll also understand how you can split a BIG log with only a couple of hits. And most important: You don't waste a lot of energy!
Though, perhaps if you're without an axe, your technique would be useful.
No disrespect!
Harryolo 2 years ago
I wouldn't say swinging an axe is hard when cold/ tired.
The problem comes when you have to hit the same spot again and again to chop a branch. Or to hit squarely on a log to split it. Both motions if messed up will either have the axe hitting a different spot. Or missing or glancing off swinging back at you.
nicknnac 2 years ago
I just love this video and I was wondering if you think a pocket chainsaw or a folding saw is more efficient?
LoveRise 2 years ago
Well, this was a very good video about using a small folding saw. But honestly, I think that saws have so many limitations. For example, even a very small axe can cut up very large pieces of wood (albeit more wastefully than with a saw) but the length of the saw blade limits the diameter of the log you can use. But a good video nonetheless 5/5
karlsefni01 2 years ago
I generally agree with all you had to share. Defintely a saw is safer and a lot less woresome when minding other people like children. The only place I prefer a small ax is making decent kindling albeit a large knike with a thick back will do the trick nicely.
grinninggnome 2 years ago
I heard Nnfancy watches your vids for tips?
highmountainclouds 2 years ago
Ippidy, pippidy, dippidy, dop. This duck is not too young to fly.
highmountainclouds 2 years ago
Drunk typing or just bored?? LOL
karlsefni01 2 years ago 2
Life is good, life is earnest. If your cold, turn up the furnace.
highmountainclouds 2 years ago
Eeny, meeny, miny, moe. Use an use an axe, knife, saw or mall or use them all. Personal preference is the call.
highmountainclouds 2 years ago
handy to know but i wouldn't retire an axe for it
wolfbrother2501 2 years ago
This guy reminds me of Lord of the Rings. One of the Elf people.
clap5 2 years ago 2
Now that is a good tip, however i do not buy your argument that an axe is unsafe or to heavy.
that would of use much more energy than Axe would, even the carrying of the axe would be compensated for by speed and efficiency.
651bobby 2 years ago
that takes so long though. I would rather use a saw to get the lengths of wood and just split with an ax. Besides, if your tired, I think the fact that you have to bash the log against something will take just as much energy as an axe.
TheV0iceOfReas0n 2 years ago 2
Totally agree. I actually use both. THe saw is 100 time easier to use when cutting the right lengths for your fire and it takes less effort. I keep the axe to split hte lengths if the wood has been wet or it's been raining heavily. But definately saw saves on the energy.
sean3470 2 years ago
Sean,
YOu can also cut striaght down the middle of the log with the saw. as if you were going to saw the whole thing down the middle. Cut in about 3" and then put a wedge in made from another piece of wood and hit that wedge w/ a large stick/rock.
Love you videos, they are fantastic. Big ups from Canada! Josh
belak13 2 years ago
that is a nice trick
H1tMaster 3 years ago
can't understand you. please speak more slowly next vid!
dannisahne 3 years ago
Excellent!
tanerofies 3 years ago
ooh thats actually pretty neat, see i have been whining for a gransfors wildlife hatchet for god knows how long and watching this vid, eeh. but wildlife hatchets only weight 750g so i might be able to afford the weight
corpsemunger 3 years ago
:P yeah it is lighter but swinging an axe is alot funner
iscay666 3 years ago
yea and a saw takes too much energy and time
magicster123 2 years ago
AMAIZING. GOOD TO KNOW
HIQUALITYSHIT 3 years ago
Brilliant. 500 cool points.
thanson77 3 years ago
great tips for hikers, i enjoy the videos. something you may or may not want to try is something i am currently working on. take a chainsaw chain (low kickback .325 pitch) punch it in half so its not a circle anymore, and punch out 1 pin off of the end links on each side. take 2 nylon straps and pop rivet the nylon onto the ends. the chain only cuts one direction and only on one side. not sure if it will work but it might be worth a shot.
jarrodm2002 3 years ago
I'd be interested in your results as I have a few tree surgeon frinds and could probably get my hands on an old chain.
seanmulhall 3 years ago
finished the saw i made from a chain saw chain i was telling you about, it works great you should definatly give it a shot. use leather instead of nylon and it'll be easier to make. just make sure the chain is sharp and the depth gauges on the chain are at the proper height
jarrodm2002 3 years ago
I'd like to see that. Either photos or video.
seanmulhall 3 years ago
thanks for the tip! never used this technique before, but I will certainly try adding it to the repertoire.
Excellent videos btw, you're a savvy bushcrafter. This video made me subscribe.
blamshiza 3 years ago
Thank you for your comment.
seanmulhall 3 years ago
I have to say I've never seen a log split like this; it's always nice to learn new ways of doing such tasks. At the same time, I still prefer the hand axe (Gerber Back Paxe) for use as a hammer and as a splitting wedge for large logs. I do still carry a folding saw for smaller and more precise tasks; but weight isn't a big issue to me.
AaronAlso 3 years ago
P.S :)
But I still carry and axe most off the time when i'm out, just because I like to use axe.
madcow1001NL 3 years ago
I use this my self too. But if the wood has a lot off knots, its impossible or very hard.
but still very useful
madcow1001NL 3 years ago
thanks dude for your helpful tips...going light with bugout bag
gasdorf 3 years ago
fuck the saw and the axe its all about tomohawks
quearbitch 3 years ago
BCB is a very good quality saw and can be bought for around £16 ($23)
a stihl folding saw costs around the same.
like i said i think your video is a good educational video, alot of people including myself didn't know how or even if it was possible to split a lof with a folding saw. plus just using a folding saw is great if you havn't got the money to buy an axe and chain saw, after all if the chainsaw breaks your going to need a replacement. but i don't think that will happen for a while
NMTBisElite 3 years ago
does this work with most woods, or only those of a certain type of grain?
spb884 3 years ago
In my experience it works with all woods. If they are too rotten they just snap in half.
seanmulhall 3 years ago
i wouldn't have beleived that if someone told me. that technique is really cool and probably a great way to get the hearth piece for a bow drill set. very nice sean
steve
spb884 3 years ago
I agree the saw is better for short stays out in the bush but long term i think a axe is way better because that saw blade isn't going to last as long as that axe. Class A video again Sean! ;)
ThaNorthFace 3 years ago
What brand saw is this and how would it compare to a gerber 6 inch sliding pruning saw? I learned alot about technique from your video...Thank you! Warmly, Laurie
LoveRise 3 years ago
My saw is made by Stihl. The chainsaw manufacturers. I do not know about other makes of saws sorry. I guess they would be fine. You are not putting a lot of stress through the saw.
seanmulhall 3 years ago
5 stars
vxAREKxv 3 years ago
I have just one question.
What is the difference between the beeting of the long, and the swinging of the axe when your dehydrated or hypothermic??
climberslacker 3 years ago
Re watch the video and you will see that I am talking about two different scenarios. The video was about what I would choose to take and why. I get your point but swinging an axe when in that condition is far more dangerous. Also I was explaining that using a saw is alot easier and uses less energy. I would only saw smaller logs in that condition and would not be attemting to split larger logs.
seanmulhall 3 years ago
I just tried it, and as usual I should hav tried before i asked. For our fire at home we only have eucalyptus, and it is very hard to split with an axe, and this method works wonders. Thanks so much!
climberslacker 3 years ago
To be honest they're both as dangerous as each other. use a hand saw like the BCB Un-Believeable hand chain saw and a small gransfors forest axe is more efficient on time and energy. fair enough the two together weigh a couple of extra pounds, but you use less energy overall. you wasted energy sawing the wood to get your log, then sawing half way. and then even more energy by banging the wood. if you use the hand chain saw and axe it is so much faster and uses less energy
NMTBisElite 3 years ago
you use the chain saw to get your log, so much faster with very little effort using two hands on the saw and feet to keep the log steady, then use the wood axe to tap into the end of the log. then it only takes a a bang or 2 to split the log cleanly. you can prepare more split logs this way, using less energy overall. you don't have to swing the axe as you say, because the wood will grip the "bit" of the axe.. i'm not critisising the video, it's a good video and good to know that you can
NMTBisElite 3 years ago
split a log with a folding saw.
BCB unbelieveable chain saw only weighs 100g
small forest axe weighs 1000g
i'm going to use a laplander folding saw as an example and it weighs 175g.
fair enough you're carrying an extra 925g but go and pick up 2 tins of beans or something which weighs a similar amount and tell me you couldn't manage that in a rucksack for a couple of days, minimum amount of effort, and then splitting the wood you use a lot less effort compared to the folding saw
NMTBisElite 3 years ago
it's a lot faster too, and if like you say you're dehydrated. then you will want sterilised water asap, if your cold warm water will help. so the faster you get your fire going the faster you get warm and hydrated, and able to cook food. the choice is peoples to make but i know which i'd rather choose. as long as you don't go swinging the axe like a mad man then it's a safe tool too have, and it lasts longer. youtube a hand saw and see how little effort goes into cutting a log, and how fast too.
NMTBisElite 3 years ago
A very comprehnesive reply. Thank you. I agree with what you are saying but I still believe its easier to use a hand saw than a hand chain saw. Also in my expereince those hand chain saws or wire saws do not last very long. They go blunt or the rings come of the end. I have not used the BCB one though.
seanmulhall 3 years ago
i have hear about it before, but i have never done it that way, really good video,, thanks,5/5
hobbexp 3 years ago
as shown on Ray Mears xD great vid thou ^^ keep them comming mate ;)
Pikknick 3 years ago
Great idea! Thank you for this skill :)
MichelleJonesPhotog 3 years ago
Thank you to everyone for your kind comments. I'll keep making and posting my videos for as long as people keep watching them.
Sean the Silver Fox
seanmulhall 3 years ago
I've never thought of splitting a log this way. Will have to try it now. Good video Shaun. 5/5
AdirondackBushcraft 3 years ago
i bought a similar saw by wilkinson sword. its for pruning stuff in the garden, i got it from B+Q. the blade is about 12" long slides into the handle and is locked pretty securely by a finger/wing nut in the open and closed position. i have used it quite heavily and the blade has lasted a good while. it's suprisingly lightweight and i always take it with me when i go camping. i used to struggle with the splitting of the wood though so thanks for the tip. nice vids sean keep postin :)
CreamPie9uy 3 years ago
Great video. I haven't seen those techniques before, and the tips on correct sawing are very good too!
raindog951 3 years ago
"lifetime Carbide"
i saw it at a local hardware store
Jimmmyj730 3 years ago
Wow, Awesome Sean!! Never seen that done before. Gotta try it next time I'm out. Thanks again for the great video. Ed
wildlifeed 3 years ago
Sean TSF always produces great videos... thanks for your hard work. i always look forward to seeing them... thanks.
Hard2HandleRandall 3 years ago
Thank you
seanmulhall 3 years ago
The saw is not good to split further to small kindling too.
maxpullara1 3 years ago
I agree but I always carry a knife. And my knife plus a folding saw still weighs alot less than an axe.
seanmulhall 3 years ago
Good technique.. I would still take both axe and saw however.. Travelling light is one thing but the amount of uses it has makes it well worth the extra weight..
You can resharpen axes and carve with them and are great for shelters.. Did I mention how easy it is to chop your chin with them too..?
Good video
maxpullara1 3 years ago
Chop your chin? What were you doing?
seanmulhall 3 years ago
What do you mean?>
maxpullara1 3 years ago
You said its easy to chop your chin. Chop your fingers maybe but not your chin. How are you swinging your axe?
seanmulhall 3 years ago
Sean, that is an incredible technique.
Thanks for the lesson.
FriarTuck1961 3 years ago
great method sean really good
johnjayrambo11111 3 years ago
very nice!
0boneyou0 3 years ago
very nice great video
kakashininja650 3 years ago
do you have a preference towards total saw length? what about the size of the teeth?
Jimmmyj730 3 years ago
Tha saw I have is made by Stihl the chainsaw manufactures. The most popular is the Balco Laplander. Like most of my stuff I try and use other makes rather than the leading brands if possible to be different. I must admit I have not tried others but go for teeth that will cut both green and dry wood. There is a difference. Saw length - you want around 12", any less and you will sruggle with larger logs.
seanmulhall 3 years ago
thank you for the information. have you heard of carbide tipped tooth saws? carbide tungsten shaves metal, so i was curious how it would work
Jimmmyj730 3 years ago
No I havent. Any idea who makes them?
seanmulhall 3 years ago
great method of splitting the logs down Sean.
wizzla111 3 years ago