The 10 Best Handsaws

The Silky Professional Series Sugoi (around $94) is a long landscaping tool that comes with a handy sheath. When holstered, it can attach to your leg, allowing you to maintain your mobility in the wilderness — or in your backyard. It also ensures quick access at all times.

The Gyokucho Ryoba Double Edge Razor (appx. $24) is a Japanese option that provides an unexpected amount of versatility. Both sides of its blade boast a sharp and powerful set of teeth, allowing you to change your cutting style with a flick of the wrist.

If you require a tool with a combination of excellent cutting power and a great degree of portability, the Silky Folding PocketBoy (about $38) is sure to please. Its 6.75-inch blade folds comfortably into a sturdy red handle, so you can safely carry it everywhere.

The Silky Professional Series BigBoy (around $71) is designed to tackle the most serious obstacles in your yard that don't quite call for a chainsaw. Its length and effectiveness make it useful in other areas, as well, including the workshop.

If you're looking for a classic design that can perform to the most modern specifications, check out the Stanley SharpTooth (about $17). It's as simple and effective as you'd want a cutting tool to be, with parts that are welded together for superior steadiness.

The 23-inch Vaughan BS250D Bear (appx. $27) may be modeled after time-tested Japanese saws — the company does actually make this in Japan — but it thoughtfully eschews the braided handle of traditional instruments for a rubberized grip.

The Stanley Fat Max 20-045 (about $16) is one of the most commonly relied upon tools among both amateur and professional woodworkers. It's exceedingly comfortable to operate, thanks, in large, part to its robust, ergonomically designed handle.

The Irwin Tools Universal (appx. $15) is a well-made option boasting triple-ground teeth, which means it can cut faster due to the fact that it's slightly sharper than much of the competition. That being said, the edge in performance will level off over time.

If all you need is a tool that can give you basic cuts with a little time and a fair amount of elbow grease, the simplicity of the GreatNeck N2610 (appx. $21) will serve you well. Its hardwood handle is a bit old-fashioned, though, and can cause discomfort with extended use.

The Crown 187 Gents (appx. $22) sports an old-school design, complete with a carved wood handle that's easy to grip. Its high carbon steel blade can be sharpened, though you'll likely notice it can withstand plenty of use before becoming dull.