A Bowsaw will cut through a 10cm+(4inches+) Log using 1/4 Kcal of an Axe; which is a far more efficient tool than a big knife. Even using a knife and baton is not nearly as efficient as a good quality 50cm+(21inches+) Bowsaw.

Big knives may be good in the jungle to replace a machete, but they are very ineffective in the Northern Forest.