UST SaberCut Chain Saw Review (2026)

Rather than a rigid blade, the SaberCut uses a flexible 24-inch chain-style cutting element strung between two wrist-strap handles, closer in concept to a wire saw than a folding saw. The bidirectional, self-cleaning teeth cut on both the push and pull strokes, and the whole thing packs down into a pouch small enough to disappear into a first-aid kit or emergency pocket.

Check price at Amazon →

$18 retail

7.8

/10

TrailCraft Score

What Works

At 4.3oz, the lightest and most packable option on this list by a wide margin
Bi-directional teeth cut on both push and pull strokes like a real chainsaw chain
Extremely low cost makes it easy to justify as a backup or emergency-kit saw

Limitations

Noticeably slower and more physically tiring than a rigid-frame saw of similar cut capacity
Best suited as a backup tool, not a primary saw for regular firewood processing

Specifications

Blade Length24" bi-directional chain blade

Weight4.3 oz

HandlesNylon wrist straps

StorageIncluded carrying pouch

SharpeningStandard 1/8" saw blade sharpener

Score Breakdown

Weight/Pack Size

9.6

Cutting Speed

6.8

Durability

7.0

Value

8.4

What Sets It Apart

The tradeoff for that packability is control and speed — a flexible chain blade requires more careful technique and generally more effort per cut than a rigid-frame saw, which is why it's best thought of as a backup or emergency tool rather than a primary camp saw.

A pocket-sized chain-style blade that packs to almost nothing for emergency use

Who This Is For

The SaberCut Chain Saw is right for: ultralight backpackers who want an emergency backup saw that adds almost no weight, emergency-kit and bug-out-bag builders, and anyone who wants a compact backup in case their primary saw is lost or damaged.

A note on pricing and links: Prices are current as of July 2026. Some links are affiliate links.

How It Compares

See the full comparison

All 15 best camp saws in this category ranked side by side.

View Full Comparison →

Common Questions

Is the UST SaberCut a good primary camp saw?

Not really — its flexible chain design is slower and takes more effort per cut than a rigid-frame folding saw, so it's best used as a lightweight emergency backup rather than a main tool for regular firewood processing.

How do you extend the reach of the SaberCut?

Extra cordage can be tied to each handle to extend the effective reach for cutting branches at height or from a distance, a trick commonly used by survival-kit users.

Can the SaberCut chain be sharpened?

Yes, it can be maintained with a standard 1/8-inch saw blade sharpener, and the self-cleaning tooth design requires minimal maintenance under normal use.