Here are links (amazon.com) to the pocket chain saws that I'd mentioned earlier. They are NOT wire-type saws, but rather narrow versions of a typical chain saw.


http://www.amazon.com/Unbelievable-Pocket-Chain-Portable-Camping/dp/B0002YPMSY


http://www.amazon.com/Pocket-Chainsaw-Survival-Tool-Carrying/dp/B000LNQA50

They're both made by the same company.

If your life might depend on it I think I'd go with the second one - with the large loop connectors that could be used even if the cordage snapped and a storage can.

They cut amazingly fast - and if you hold it in an arc (around the branch) it essentially cuts three-ish sides at once.

The only thing to be careful of is - like with any other saw - future movement of the kerf that will pinch the saw blade. Its easier to do when cutting in a arc.

I've only used my pocket chain saw a few times, so I haven't a clue how long it will stay sharp.

Like I said before, my preference is to use a "real" folding saw rather than these. There are several excellent versions available.

+1 on the pocket saws. They're similar to my current kit saw. Gerber has a collapsing saw with a similar blade. I put a replacement blade in a zip-lock freezer bag. They are much easier to carry than the wire saws that work (no sharp teeth sticking out).