Gerber was one of the first American companies to produce multi-tools. Throughout the years, these multi-tools have proven to be functional tools. It's no coincidence that Gerber multi-tools have gained their undisputed place in the toolkits of technicians, handymen and carpenters. For years, the United States Army has been equipping its troops with Gerber multi-tools. It says a lot about the quality and innovation that Gerber adds to the market. With a Gerber multi-tool, you're ready for anything.

Gerber multitools

## Work with surgical precision


With a Tsurugi saw you work with surgical precision in the most densely vegetated corners, without damaging surrounding branches. These saws are also perfect for removing problematic branches such as intersecting branches. The saws have razor-sharp teeth that leave you with a smooth cut. There are straight and curved versions of these saws.


## About Silky


Silky saws have been produced by Um Kogyo Inc. in Japan ever since 1919. There is a perfect Silky saw for almost any purpose. From arborist to carpenter or bushcrafter. After all, different purposes sometimes ask for a different approach. Fresh and soft wood is cut with coarse serrations, while for dry and hard wood it is best to use fine serrations.

Silky Tsurugi

## Why choose LYRA? 
LYRA products are designed for those who work with their hands on a daily basis. Think of plumbers, carpenters, mechanics and installers who need clear markings on any surface. The pencils and markers are comfortable to hold, write smoothly and leave clear lines – whether it's wet, dusty or slippery. With smart details such as automatic filling, colour coding for hot and cold water, and sustainable refill options, you can work faster and more economical. LYRA is for anyone who wants to mark professionally, without any hassle. 

## LYRA product types 

### LYRA marking pencils 
LYRA's marking pencils are designed for versatile use. They write effortlessly on wood, metal, plastic, glass or ceramics. The sturdy housing with automatic filling makes them ideal for daily work on the construction LYRA's marking pencils are designed for versatile use. They write effortlessly on wood, metal, plastic, glass or ceramics. The sturdy housing with automatic filling makes them ideal for daily work on the construction 

### LYRA permanent markers 
For markings that need to be permanent, LYRA offers permanent markers with quick-drying, light-resistant ink. They write on almost any surface and contain no harmful solvents. Perfect for metal, plastic, wood and leather – or simply anything that should not be erased. 

### LYRA double-coloured pencils 
LYRA's two-colour pencils combine two practical shades in one. Perfect for installers who want to distinguish between hot and cold water, but also useful at home or in the office if you want to keep track of your markings or notes. 

### LYRA marking crayons 
For temporary markings on rough surfaces, LYRA offers marking chalk in various colours. The chalk leaves clearly visible lines, even on stone, concrete or wood, and is easy to remove – ideal for short-term work or quick notes. 
 

### LYRA refills and accessories 
LYRA offers various refills for its marking pencils, available in graphite and various colours. This allows you to work sustainably and means you never have to replace your favourite pencil. The refills are securely packaged, easy to change and resistant to breakage. 

## History of LYRA 

LYRA was founded in 1806 by Johann Froescheis in Nuremberg, Germany. What began as a small pencil factory grew into a brand known worldwide for its quality and craftsmanship. More than two centuries later, LYRA continues to manufacture tools that enable professionals to work accurately and efficiently. The philosophy is simple: marking must be reliable, practical and durable. Today, LYRA is part of F.I.L.A. Group, but the core remains unchanged: quality products for professionals who take their work seriously.

LYRA

Japanese Um Kogyo Inc has been making Silky saws since 1919. There’s a suitable Silky saw for pretty much everyone. From gardeners to carpenters or people who love bushcrafting. You can use these saws in many different places, so you do have to keep in mind you need a somewhat different approach per situation. With wet and soft wood you need coarse serrations, while dry and hard wood requires a fine serration.

Silky

## Why choose Roselli? 

Roselli knives are made from the type of steel that the founder, Heimo Roselli, invented himself, namely UHC steel. UHC stands for Ultra High Carbon. This steel thus has unprecedented hardness thanks to its high carbon content, allowing Roselli knives to stay sharp for a very long time. What you should bear in mind is that harder steel is often more difficult to sharpen. Fortunately, Roselli has thought about this too, which is why this company also offers a free sharpening service. You will need to cover the shipping costs to and from the Roselli factory in Finland yourself. 

 

## Roselli product types 

Roselli is mostly known for their razor-sharp hunting knives, carpenter's knives and all-round outdoor knives. In addition to this, Roselli also produces knivesaxes. Like the knives, these axes are known for their unparallelled hardness. Usually, a high hardness means that a steel is more brittle, but Roselli has found the perfect mix between hardening and tempering. 

 

## History of the Roselli knives 

The story behind Roselli started in Finland. Heimo Roselli was born and raised on the countryside, and spent a lot of time outside fishing and hunting. Growing up, he really hated bad knives. That is why he started producing his own knives, to find the best balance between hardness and flexibility. He spent dozens of years looking and experimenting, and became a master at metal work and metallurgy. This is clear when you look at the Roselli products! They are known for their sustainability and very hard and sharp steel. 

 

### Warranty on Roselli knives 

Roselli believes in their products. It is why the first owner of their products receives a lifelong warranty. This warranty also covers material and production flaws. Only for the knife, not the sheath. Damage to the tip and edge are not a part of warranty, unless it was clear that this damage was caused as a result of a material flaw. Damage caused by misuse or improper use are not covered by the warranty.

Roselli knives

## Reasons to choose Noyer 

Choose Noyer if you are looking for something unique. Noyer cutting boards and knife magnets are handmade from natural materials. That is why no two products are the same. 

 

When you receive your Noyer product, you'll notice from the packaging how much attention is paid to each tiny detail. The nice packaging makes it feel like you're receiving a gift. 

 

Noyer pays a lot of attention to the balance between form and function. It has to look sleek, but looks alone won't get you anywhere. These products need to be functional too. The great thing about Noyer is that they strike that perfect balance. 

 

 

## Noyer product types 

### Noyer knife magnets 

Are you looking to show off your kitchen knives in style? Choose one of Noyer's stylish knife magnets! Noyer offers knife magnets in different sizes. From 25 cm to 80 cm: Noyer has the right size knife magnet for you. 

 

### Noyer cutting boards 

Noyer's cutting boards are truly something special. Why should a cutting board be a perfect rectangle? Noyer designed their own distinctive cutting boards, consisting of nice angles and sleek lines. Available with or without juice grooves. 

 
 

## About Noyer 

The man behind Noyer is Janus Larsen, who, with his background as a carpenter develops and creates all products in his workshop in Valby, Copenhagen. Together with his friend and trained carpenter Nikolai Hviid, he makes make products such as: cutting boards, knife magnets and even large conference tables and other types of furniture. They make everything by hand. That is why every product is unique! Fans of these high-quality wooden products have been able to find their favourite products at Knivesandtools since 2019.

Noyer

## Features of a Higonokami pocket knife

The construction of a traditional Higonokami is really simple. The handle is made from one piece of usually brass or stainless steel. This has been folded over, which forms the grip scales. This simple but effective construction keeps the price of a Higonokami quite low.

Typically, these knives are not fitted with a lock. The thumb rest (chikiri), and the friction of the hinge screw and handle ensure that the knife stays in the opened position during use. The friction of the handle scales also ensures that the knife does not open when it shouldn't. This type of knife is called a 'friction folder'. The reversed-tanto style blade, with its pointed tip, is another typical feature.

## How to choose the best Higonokami

### Choose your preferred brand

The first step in choosing a Higonokami is to select the brand. At Knivesandtools, you will find Higonokami knives from 3 renowned brands:

**Higonokami**: the only original brand officially allowed to use the name. The knives are entirely handmade, by one maker: Mr. Motosuke Nagao.

**Ohta**: this brand produces beautiful handmade knives with the same attention to detail and quality as the original Higonokami.

**Böker**: these modern interpretations lack the traditional chikiri (lever), giving them a sleeker and contemporary look.

### Steel types

Choose a knife based on steel type:

**SK-carbon steel**: tough and easy to sharpen.

**Aogami (Blue Paper carbon steel)**: a premium steel with excellent cutting properties.

**Stainless steel**: low-maintenance and corrosion-resistant, ideal for those who value convenience.

## The history of Higonokami knives

The origins of the Higonokami are intertwined with Japanese history. Towards the end of the samurai era, the samurai lost many of their privileges. Including carrying a sword in public spaces. As a result, many blacksmiths lost their biggest customers and started mass-producing knives. Many of these blacksmiths settled around Miki, a region with many rivers and iron ore sands, and the historic birthplace of the Higonokami.

The name Higonokami is a contraction of 'Higo no Kami'. This means 'lord of Higo' in Japanese; an honorary title for samurai from the Higo region in Japan. In 1899, a knife makers' guild was established in Miki, which established the name 'Higonokami' as a trademark in 1907\. Only members of the guild had the right to produce a Higonokami. At its peak, the guild counted as many as 50 blacksmiths. From carpenters to schoolchildren, everyone in Japan used to carry a Higonokami pocket knife.

The Higonokami has grown into one of the most famous knife designs ever. And it's deeply rooted in knife history. Today, the guild has all but disappeared. There's only one original creator who still produces them: Mr. Motosuke Nagao. You'll recognize his knives by their blue and gold cardboard boxes. According to tradition, he is the only one who is allowed to use the term Higonokami. Nevertheless, there are many other brands using this name. Such as the Japanese brand Ohta. They are just as distinctive!

Higonokami

## Reasons to choose Gerber 

Gerber Gear is located in Portland, Oregon. All products are locally designed. Production takes place both in the USA and China. Gerber is known for their knives and multi-tools, with millions of products being sold worldwide. Knives that have been handed down from father to son for generations. 

With such a long and rich history, Gerber has built quite the name for itself. Especially after many fruitful collaborations and knives that have become American icons. For example, the knives designed by Colonel Rex Applegate, Bear Grylls and Rick Hinderer. These pocket knives and fixed knives are still immensely popular. 

 

## Gerber series 

### Gerber Strongarm 
The Gerber Strongarm is a robust fixed knife. The Strongarm is made in the USA for people who need to be able to rely on their knives. 

### Gerber Armbar 
The [Gerber Armbar](kato://category/gerberarmbar) is a collection of compact multi-tools. With the Armbar collection, Gerber is entering the world of slim multi-tools. 

### Gerber Paraframe 
The [Gerber Paraframe](kato://category/gerberparaframe) is a true classic. It has a distinct open frame construction. As a result, the Gerber Paraframe is lightweight. It's a real EDC knife. 

### Gerber Fishing Gear 
[Gerber Fishing Gear](kato://category/gerberfishinggear) includes everything you can possibly need as a fisherman. From knives to scissors. 

### Gerber Gator 
The [Gerber Gator products](kato://category/gerbergator) all have one thing in common: the famous Gator-Grip handle with the looks and feel of alligator skin. Optimal grip guaranteed, come rain or come shine. 

### Gerber Suspension 
The [Gerber Suspension](kato://category/gerbersuspension) is a cool and complete multi-tool with all tools you need on a daily basis. The Gerber Suspension NXT is an EDC-friendlier version of the famous Gerber Suspension. 

### Gerber Center Drive 
The [Gerber Center Drive](kato://category/gerbercenterdrive) is a full-fledged multi-tool. Its tools include an innovative, centred screwdriver that ensures maximum rotational power. 

### Gerber Vital 
The [Gerber Vital collection](kato://category/gerbervital) includes all knives and accessories a hunter could need. The striking orange colour and excellent value for money are hallmarks of this knife. 

### Gerber Bear Grylls 
The Gerber Bear Grylls series was designed in cooperation with Bear Grylls, the famous survival expert. These products are no longer available, but alternatives are still available such as the [Ultimate Survival Knife](kato://product/GE30-001830). 

 

## Gerber product types 

### Gerber pocket knives 
Pocket knives represent the largest category in Gerber's range. This brand is mainly focused on EDC pocket knives with innovative designs. However, there are also plenty of Gerber pocket knives geared towards practicality such as utility pocket knives and keychain knives. 

### Gerber fixed knives 
Gerber fixed knives are some of the strongest knives on the market, at affordable prices. Some examples of popular Fixed Gerber knives are: The Gerber Ultimate Survival Knife, the tactical Gerber Strongarm and the practical Gerber Spine. 

### Gerber multi-tools 
Gerber was one of the first American companies to produce multi-tools. Gerber tools are incredibly strong and very functional. It's no coincidence that Gerber multi-tools have gained their undisputed place in the toolkits of technicians, handymen and carpenters. For years, the United States Army has been equipping its troops with Gerber multi-tools. It says a lot about the quality and innovation that Gerber adds to the market. With a Gerber multi-tool, you're ready for anything. 

## History of Gerber 
Gerber Gear, originally known as Gerber Legendary Blades, began manufacturing knife sets in 1939. Founder Joseph R. Gerber highly valued quality, reliability and innovation. 

The company is located in Portland, Oregon. All products are locally designed. Production takes place both in the USA and China. Gerber is known for their knives and multi-tools, with millions of products being sold worldwide. Knives that have been handed down from father to son for generations. 

As part of the Fiskars Group, a global hub for design-driven brands, Gerber Gear shares a common mission: pioneering design to make the ordinary extraordinary. For more than 80 years, Gerber has been providing products that save time, save the day and change lives. Always promising quality and reliability.

Gerber knives & multi-tools

A chisel is an indispensable tool for anyone working with wood. You use a chisel to cut away wood, make joints or create fine details. From carpentry to wood carving: chisels are versatile, precise and durable. There are different types of chisels, such as beveled-edge chisels, masonry chisels and gouge chisels, each designed for a specific purpose. Popular brands such as Kirschen, Narex and Pfeil offer high-quality chisels suitable for beginners and professionals alike.

Chisels

Hammers are essential tools for almost every DIYer, woodworker and professional. They are used to drive in nails, secure joints or tap materials loose and tap gouges or chisels. From carpentry to light demolition jobs: with the right hammer you work safely and effectively. There are different types of hammers, such as claw hammers, mallets and bench hammers. Well-known brands such as Estwing and Hultafors are known for their quality and durability.

Hammers

A good screwdriver is indispensable in woodworking and almost any other job or DIY. You can use a screwdriver for assembling furniture, securing fittings or maintaining tools with Torx screwdrivers, for example. Whether you're working with fine details or doing tough carpentry, the right screwdriver for the job will allow you to work accurately and purposefully. There are screwdrivers for every task; from Phillips and flathead to Torx and Pozidriv, each with their own use.

Screwdrivers

## Why choose Narex?
With more than a century of experience with their entirely in-house production in the Czech Republic, Narex delivers tools that bring together tradition and innovation. Each piece is thoughtfully designed: from carefully selected steels and advanced heat treatments to ergonomic wooden handles that are comfortable to hold.

Narex's product range is wide and versatile. From chisels, gouges and carving knives to files, rasps and carpentry tools. For those with the highest demands, there are premium series such as the Richter, with cryogenically hardened Cr-V steel and a hardness of 62 HRC. But the affordable series are certainly not inferior to the more expensive ones in terms of reliability and ease of use.

What sets Narex apart is the unique balance between tradition and modern technology. Production is done entirely in their own factory, ensuring quality and workmanship at every level. They then finish the blades and handles by hand. Thus, Narex combines high-quality craftsmanship with excellent value for money. With that, Narex still remains true to their original promise: to deliver top-quality tools that remain accessible to everyone, regardless of your budget or experience. So you get the benefits of high-quality craftsmanship, without spending unnecessary money.




## Narex series
Narex mainly divides up their chisels and gouges into several series, namely:

### Narex Wood Line Profi / Wood Line Plus series
The workhorses in the Narex range, intended for both beginner and advanced woodworkers. Hardness for both is around 59 HRC with beechwood or hornbeam handles and Chrome-Manganese (Cr-Mn) steel for the blade. The Woodline series is characterised by the steel strike ring. The Woodline Plus series has no metal striking ring, but a convex rounded handle for a comfortable grip during prolonged work.

### Narex Richter series
Narex's premium chisels. Richter chisels are made from Chrome-Vanadium (Cr-V) steel, which is first normally hardened and then cryogenically treated for high hardness Furthermore, they have ultra-thin side surfaces that make it easy to work in narrow corners. 

## Narex product types
### Narex chisels
Sharp, flat tools for cutting, planing or shaving away wood. Used for precise joints, finishing surfaces or making grooves.

### Narex gouges
Curved blades for hollowing out or shaping wood. Ideal for sculpting, lathe turning or making round shapes such as spoons.

### Narex rasps
Coarser tools for quick wood removal and rough shaping. Used for sculpting or coarse sanding before using finer tools.
### Narex files
Finer tools than rasps, for smoothing and refining wooden surfaces after coarser work. 

### Narex draw knives
Draw knives are blades with 2 handles for planing and shaping thin layers of wood by pulling the blade towards you.

### Narex wooden mallet
A wooden mallet (also known as a beater) is a hammer with a wide, usually cylindrical wooden head. It is used to strike or adjust chisels, gouges or joints with force but without damaging the wood or tools.

### Narex woodcarving knives
Small, sharp blades for detailed carving, such as figures or patterns in wood.

### Narex workbench clamps
Tools for securing workpieces on a workbench so you can cut, plane or drill stably.

### Narex block hammers
Block hammers are also called 'mallet'. You use these to purposefully and safely knock on your chisels.

### Narex cross gauge (wheel marking gauge)
This marking tool is inspired by the old-fashioned marking gauge, but works a lot nicer. Definitely worth a closer look!

### Narex awl
A pointed, steel tip with handle intended for pre-piercing holes in wood, (e.g. as a guide for screws) or for marking.

### Narex screwdrivers
A convenient tool for screwing and unscrewing. Narex is known for their strong, ergonomic models that can withstand heavy use.

## About Narex
The Narex 'Bystřice' brand was founded in 1919 in Bystřice pod Hostýnem, Czech Republic. From the beginning, the company focused on manufacturing tools for woodworking. Over the years, Narex has expanded and modernised its production, but the core always remained the same: making strong and reliable tools for woodworkers. Over the century, Narex has seen many changes both within the company and outside.

Today, Narex has become an established manufacturer with more than a century of tradition. Their tools are still produced entirely in the Czech Republic, using high-quality steels, careful heat treatments and meticulous hand finishing. Thanks to this combination of tradition and modern technology, Narex is known worldwide for its quality, durability and, above all, accessibility.

Narex

## Spyderco Sage 1 Cool Gray G10 Maxamet steel C123GPGY


The Sage collection has been one of the most popular Spyderco collections for years. Within this collection Spyderco enhances the classic Sage design with a wide range of locking mechanisms. This year Spyderco enhanced the [Sage 1](kato://product/SPC123GPGY), the first model, with a liner lock, just like its predecessor, but used completely different materials. Namely: MicroMelt Maxamet steel and a grey G10 handle. Maxamet is a wear and tear resistant type of steel, made by Carpenter in the United States.

Spyderco Reveal Volume 6, our favourites

## Why is M390 so wear and tear resistant?


To answer this question we need to look at the chemistry and the production process of this steel. First the way Böhler produces its M390. M390 is produced according to a powder metallurgical process. This requires some explanation.


Normally a manufacturer combines different elements in an alloy, pours out large blocks and flattens them to end up with sheets that can be used by knife manufacturers. Böhler, however, takes it up a notch. After putting these elements together they put them in a gas-atomizing machine which sprays the melted steel like a type of diffuser. The result is that the structure becomes much finer on a molecular level.


There are, of course, other manufacturers who have mastered this process. Take, for instance, Crucible with the CPM method or Carpenter which has called it the Micro Melt.


Afterwards you can check out the chemical composition of the steel. This is what M390 looks like:




| | |
| --- | --- |
| Carbon | 1.9 |
| Chrome | 20.0 |
| Molybdenum | 1.0 |
| Tungsten | 0.6 |
| Vanadium | 4.0 |
| Manganese | 0.3 |
| Silicon | 0.7 |


 


We can tell you a lot more about which element takes care of which qualities, and how a combination of specific elements ensure that you end up with the excellent qualities of M390, but we prefer to keep it simple and just mention the advantages!


## Advantages of Böhler M390


In addition to sharpness retention M390 has a few other fine qualities. It can be hardened to a relatively high hardness without it breaking quickly. This, however, doesn't mean that M390 is very tough. It does mean that M390, when compared to other types of steel, can be sharpened a little thinner.


M390 is also relatively stainless. Because of the large amount of chrome rust won't stand a chance. Especially when compared to other hard types of steel that are known for their sharpness retention but can still be affected by rust.


## Disadvantages of Böhler M390


Where there are advantages, there will also be disadvantages. M390, for instance, is relatively expensive. In terms of purchase price per kilo, but also in terms of modification. Wear and tear resistant namely also means hard to modify. As such you need more time to modify it, but your sanding belts will also wear out a lot faster. A knife made from M390 steel is therefore often more expensive than a knife made from a different type of steel.


M390 is also not that easy to sharpen. That is to say: you won't get very far by using a simple Arkansas stone. M390 prefers diamond-coated stones or ceramic options. Preferably under a very fixed angle. M390 is also not incredibly tough. It also isn't brittle, but you do need to take this into account.

Böhler M390 steel: what is it and why is it so popular?

When you look closely you can see that in three different places the rockwell hardness is 58\. Does the steel have the same quality in all three places because it is at 58 HRC? Not by a long shot. For one of these points the steel is more corrosion resistant than for the other. There is also a point where the steel is more wear and tear resistant. You won't see this difference when you look at the HRC value alone.

As said before, there is a lot to be said against the above, but it is an example that demonstrates that there is more to such an HRC number as you might think.

## Structure of the steel vs the hardness

We talked about the hardness before, and the construction of the steel. The example of the wall was already quite clear, but we will take it one step further. We will go from 2D (a wall) to 3D (a large, solid, brick block).

Because for several decades now, types of steel are not only made by throwing different alloy elements in a large melting pot, and stirring it a couple times. Today there are also types of 'powder steel'. These are types of steel for which the different alloying elements are pulverised and mixed. This leaves you with a much finer structure. Now we are no longer talking about bricks, but pebbles. Which are tighter together, with thin layers of cement in between. Does anything break? Then it's not the entire brick coming off, but just a small pebble. Much stronger. Examples of this are CPM types of steel from Crucible, such as S30V, S35VN and all other types of steel that start with CPM. For Carpenter, they are MicroMelt (MM) steels. Like CTS-XHP and CTS-204P. For Böhler, for instance, we are talking about the famous [Böhler M390](kato://content/migrated_topic_606), which is made according to their MicroClean process.

What does hardness tell you about a knife?

[Roselli](kato://content/migrated_pageid_1227) is a Finnish company that has been producing quality axes and knives for the past 40 years. The company was born, like many of the best knife companies, through a need to create something that was otherwise not available. Heimo Roselli grew up in rural Finland and started creating his own tools, perfecting his blacksmith skills and finding a balance between hardness and flexibility in his steel. He needed tools suitable for fishing, hunting and carpentry around the farm. On their website, they give a little insight into this process, but do not give too much away, in typical Finnish style; keeping their cards close to their chest.


*"Heimo Roselli’s years of refining forging techniques ...which to this day is a secret kept between Heimo and his men at the Roselli workshop in Harmoinen. The Roselli steel has been independently tested many times, and is internationally recognized as the hardest steel in any modern knife - with the UHC (Ultra High Carbon) models measuring about 66 HRC."*


Fast-forward to today, Roselli has established itself as a company renowned for their beautiful tools, with their puukkos and axes crafted in a traditional Finnish style. I have not had the pleasure of owning a [Roselli knife](kato://content/migrated_pageid_1244) (yet!) but I did have the opportunity to get to grips with their short handled axe. The first thing that struck me about Roselli’s axe range is their lack of model types. To some this could be frustrating, however, I believe this lends credence to their philosophy of creating simple tools that provide the user with a multifunctional and versatile tool. So let’s dive into the details.


## The Axe Head


This carbon steel axe has a HRC of about 60 and measures 350mm all in. The head itself is very thick! One of the chunkiest I have used in an axe of this size, with about 90% of the steel being found in front of the eye rather than on the butt end. The back of the head is built with a small swell for hammering duties. The thickness and the angle of the cheeks has a double use in that it prevents the axe from getting stuck and lends to a very wide wedge for splitting. It also carries a lot of weight needed to deliver effective splitting action. This is very important, especially considering how short the handle of this axe is. I found this an interesting style that I had not used before and I found the weight to be very evenly distributed. Initially, when I saw how little material existed at the butt end, I was a little sceptical. However, this shape really works!

Roselli Axes | Review by Padraig Croke

The saw is as valuable a tool as your knife or your axe when it comes to outdoor and bushcraft essentials. A saw will save calories and time and will aid in wood processing for your campfire, as well as for sloyd and crafting activities. On top of this, the saw is safer than an axe, particularly for the less experienced outdoors person. So it is worth spending just as much time finding the right saw for your needs as with a knife or an axe. With the vast range of saw blade styles, not to mention sizes, shapes and characteristics, there is a saw for every type of user. One of Knivesandtools' newest products is from a Japanese company called [Z-Saws](kato://category/zsawbrand), who have been around for a long time, and build tools for casual arborists to outdoors people and woodwork professionals alike. Let’s take a look at some of the Z Saw range and help you choose what is right for your needs.

## Japanese Saw Tradition

The Japanese are renowned for their quality woodworking tools, particularly when it comes to hand saws for arborists and carpentry. So it should come as no surprise that Z-Saws have been making traditional hand saws since the 1940s. Since then, they have continued to innovate and expand on their hand saw models. They were also one of the first companies in Japan to introduce Hard Impulse-heating treatment, which is known as one of the great innovations for maximising saw tooth hardness. This works by rapidly heating just the tips of the saw tooth within milliseconds by means of squarewave impulses with a very high peak power to achieve a hardness level of HV800-950 (64.0 - 68.2 HRC), which is the maximum hardness that can be achieved on steel. They say that the secret to providing quality handsaws is down to their non-stop innovation and their decades-long experiences. Z-Saws and their replacement blades are a little less expensive than their perhaps more popular competitors Silky. This can be seen in the build quality and overall material choices, but they are by no means a bad choice! For all intents and purposes, Z-Saws are a fantastic choice for the more economically conscious user.

## Using pull stroke blades

All the saws we are looking at in this range are [pull stroke style blades](kato://content/migrated_topic_721). Pull stroke blades are perfect for pruning saws and for arborists because all the cutting power comes from the pull stroke action of the blade. This pull cut motion will make the blade much easier to use at awkward angles or when you are attempting to cut things at a height, applying a cutting pressure into your material with little effort needed. As well as this, the pulling action allows for more gentle and controlled strokes, so delicate and precise cuts can be made more easily. The forward motion should only be skirting across the cut and clearing it of any dust or pulp that would hinder a clean cut. If you have never used a pull stroke saw before then you may need to practice a little, as the motion feels usual if you are used to the more traditional type saw. People unfamiliar with this motion can very easily snap their blade by putting too much force in the push stroke and having the blade get caught and bend, resulting in a snapped blade. Fortunately, Z-Saws seem to be creating blades that are quite tough and flexible in comparison to their competitors.

Z-saw saws | Info and buying guide by Padraig Croke

The humble saw... When it comes to bushcraft and outdoor tools, it’s often seen playing second fiddle to its much cooler older brother, the woodsmans axe. But the world of saws, like most specialist tools, has a plethora of choices and options available, and it could be easy to get caught up in the debates that float around on the forums about which saws are better and why. So, rather than adding to that cloud of debate, it is perhaps more useful to take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of certain types of saws, and why we would choose to carry one type over the other. This article will focus on two types of saw we most commonly find in bushcraft kits, the folding pocket saw ([Silky Gomboy](kato://content/migrated_pageid_819)), and the collapsible bow saw ([Agawa Canyon Boreal 21)](kato://product/AWA2B1C1).

## What are you going to be using your saw for?

For the last few years I have been intermittently switching between both of these saws and I can honestly say that I love both, but for different reasons. They both have their place in the outdoors world, but if you are looking at purchasing a new saw, then there are some factors that need to be understood before making your decision. How wide the gaps are between the teeth, the thickness of the kerf (gap) created by the saws teeth in the wood, and at what angle the teeth are set to (rake) are all elements of a blade that need to be considered, so we can make our choices with a basic understanding of what we need our saw to do.

## Greenwood or Drywood?

The first thing to consider is whether you cut mostly green wood or dry wood. Green wood blades are going to be predominantly used by sloyd and green woodworkers, or people pruning their garden or woodland, whereas drywood blades are for carpentry and joinery, as well as firewood processing and cutting dried logs. A greenwood blade has a much wider set of teeth, combined with a raker after every 4 or so teeth. This raker is designed to remove the greenwood dust and pulp from your saws cut, preventing it from clogging and restricting your cutting. A drywood blade doesn’t need this, and this raker will not be included. The technical elements get a little more detailed than this, and there is a world of nuance in these choices alone. But as a rule of thumb, this would be the first place to start when considering a saw blade.

## Push and Pull

The other main consideration when choosing a blade type is rake style. This is the angle the teeth of the blade are set to, and ultimately will determine whether the blade cuts on the push or the pull of the saws motion when you are using it. A standard bow saw will generally be set at a 30 degree angle on both sides of a tooth, meaning it cuts equally on both the push and the pull motion and allows for you to use it comfortably when your log is on a sawhorse. The downward pressure of a push cut will secure your log to the sawhorse, but a pull cut will slightly lift it. A standard bow saw blade is a jack of all trades type blade, and is not particularly specialised to any one particular use. Then you have a Japanese pull saw, like the Silky Gomboy we are using here, its teeth are set at a much more aggressive angle so as to only make a cut when the user is pulling the blade back towards them. The forward motion should only be skirting across the cut and clearing it of any dust or pulp that would hinder a clean cut. This pull cut motion will make the blade much easier to use at awkward angles or when you are attempting to cut things at a height, applying a cutting pressure into your material with little effort needed. There is also the option of having a curved blade over a straight one, ensuring consistent contact with the material being cut, but we will get into that more once we are discussing the saw.

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