Click to view our Accessibility Statement or contact us with accessibility-related questions
Drop Refurbished
Like-new products you can trustDrop Rewards
Get $5 for every 500 points you earn! Learn more
Drop Keyboard Club
Become a member and expand your keycap collectionCollaborate With Us
For Brands & DesignersFollow Drop
Base camping, canoeing, car camping, heavyweight backpacking and living in rural areas are all GREAT things, but they are NOT ultralight backpacking. Folding saws, leathermans and axes do not belong in ultralight. Most folding knives do not belong in ultralight. And for anyone who thinks you NEED a fire, you don't. You WANT a fire. Nothing wrong with that. I love campfires, and are all for it, but the ultralight section should cater to the true minimalist ultralight hikers. Remember, the lightest item is the one you don't bring!!!
I do not disapprove of this discussion, or argue the usefulness of these saw when you need to cut some wood, but if you are out in the wilderness, true back country, you should not be cutting down trees, and have no need to burn anything you can't break by hand.
Fully understand the ultralight movement before you jump on board. It is not for everyone. Thru hikers spend very little time "in camp" and most the time on the move. The trail becomes your campsite. Where you sleep is simply where you sleep. You bring only what you need, and you never, ever NEED a folding saw, even for safety. Your clothing, sleep system and shelter and skills will keep you alive (and comfortable) in any conditions, as long as you are properly prepared.
Again, I love all sorts of outdoor recreation, and am not trying to knock these saws, this discussion, or heavier style camping. I am just trying to clarify what ultralight truly means to those who fully embrace it. And suggest Massdrop not post folding saws in Ultralight. Okay rant over.