$3 UL saw build

[LeanMachine]

I posted this on rokslide but thought somebody here might find it useful as well

I have always wanted a saw to use for skull capping deer when backpacking to keep from having to carry the skull out. I looked at a few builds on here and elsewhere online. I weighed out the pros and cons of each, for my applications, and came up with this. 1/2" emt conduit scrap skeletonized. Standard reciprocating saw blade. It has a wing nut on the other side to tension it with. I bought a 5 pack of 9" bi-metal blades for $15. I figured the finer tooth would be best for bone. Can take a pruning blade too when we are taking the stove. Works like a champ on antler and 2 inch hickory limb i tested it on. Obviously handle could be half as long if I wasn't utilizing it to stow the blade.

Total weight is 3.5 oz

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[BlackHogDown]

Good idea.

[Uncle_Milty]

I am digging that build. Probably going to build for our Elk trip next month now!

[TxHamJello]

That is a fantastic idea! Well done

[Jkbow]

I'm going to have to build one for myself, fantastic idea. Thanks!

[stoic]

I didn't realize that UL listing carried over to hand saw construction.

Nice and simple tool though.

[justletmein]

I like that for wood stove purposes, thanks for sharing.

[LeanMachine]

I didn't realize that UL listing carried over to hand saw construction.

Nice and simple tool though.

I meant it as ultralight. But perhaps I used it inappropriately.

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[nimrodtracy]

Nice

[LeanMachine]

I got within 10 yards of trying this out on a big buck only to be betrayed by the wind at the last critical moment. Luckily my buddy got a buck so i got to try the saw out. It performed perfectly. Even better than i had hoped. If you are sure to cut all of the skin and soft tissue with a knife first, you can remove the skull plate in a minute or less.

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[canny]

Assuming there’s no lock? How well does it stay tight on the hinge bolt?


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[LeanMachine]

Assuming there’s no lock? How well does it stay tight on the hinge bolt?


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Very well. Doesn't move at all. You can get it pretty tight with wing nut but i just barely snug it. All that downward pressure when cutting probably helps.

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[texan16]

Sweet build and congrats to your buddy !!!