Silky saw question (arborist models)

J

Joe R.

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Aug 6, 2013
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116
I currently use a curved 13" Stihl Super Turbocut made in Japan by ARS (has a 1.2mm kerf and hardened teeth).

It has started to dull and wish to replace it with a Silky model.


I am considering the Sugoi, Ibuki, Sugowaza and the Zubat.

Of these, only the Zubat has hardened teeth. The others are sharpenable but have significantly thicker blades (1.75-2.25mm vs the Zubat's 1.4mm).

questions:
1) How much longer will the Zubat's hardened teeth last before becoming dull versus the other ones?
2) Is the Zubat's thinner blade give it a "flimsy" feel compared to the other ones?​


As there is only $15 between the cheapest and most expensive one, price is not an issue here.

Won't be swinging from a rope either, it all will be ground-level work, so scabbard considerations are much less important.
 
I have the Zubat, but not the others so I can't make a comparison. After a moderate amount of use, it is still sharp. I can't say how long this will last. All I can tell you is that the blade does not feel flimsy in any way.
 
Thanks Scott.


The problem with buying a Silky saw is that there are so many models to choose from, and are all in the same ballpark price-wise. They are the "Lay's Potato Chips" of saw brands...bet you can't pick just one:o
 
I have both the silky Sugoi and Zubat. As an Arborist for the last 6 years, I have used both quite a bit. Most Guys at work will choose the Zubat for their main saw. I use the Sugoi. Both are great saws and I have found both to last around the time before needing replaced. The Zubat may last a bit longer but not much IMO. I like the Sugoi better in a tree and for cutting larger branches (Also us it camping for cutting fire wood), if your going to be using it on the ground mostly the Zubat is a great and probably my choice. Also I have seen more Zubats with broken blades then the Sugoi.
 
Thanks Matthew.

From what I have read the hook at the end of the Sugoi (besides cutting vines and small branches)is helpful for the guys on ropes to help keep the blade in the cut when working at arms length. Do you think the hook could be more trouble than it is worth for someone who will only use it on the ground?
 
I haven't personally found the hook to get in the way on the ground or at all for that matter. I know some of the guys at work hate the hook and that's why they wont buy the Sugoi and choose the Zubat. Its all personal preference I think. I wouldnt not buy the saw cus of the hook.
 
Thanks again Matthew.

I notice you are from Canada too, have you noticed any durability differences between hardened or non-hardened saws when using them in -10 to -15(C) temperatures? (ie is one more brittle that the other in freezing temperature?)
 
I'm not by any stretch a professional. I've used Silkys to trim trees and to cut sprouts and small saplings. They are superior performers, at least in my experience. And yes they are quieter than a chain saw. And more reliable. I do keep reminding myself I can resharpen my chain saw. Don't think I can handle resharpening the Silkys.
 
Off hand, not that I've noticed. Last winter we averaged -20 each day in the winter and had no broken hand saws.
 
Charlesmc2 said:
...And yes they are quieter than a chain saw...
Click to expand...

Ever since I used the curved Stihl pruning saw(mentioned in the first post) the chainsaw has barely been used. I don't bug the neighbors, nor the wildlife, plus it is much easier to carry long distances while on snowshoes.

When new it could easily cut through six inch diameter branches in spaces tighter than practical for my old buck saw.

But ever since I got the opportunity to use a friend's Silky, I realized how much better they are than my Stihl.


matthew krissak said:
Off hand, not that I've noticed. Last winter we averaged -20 each day in the winter and had no broken hand saws.
Click to expand...

Excellent news, it puts my mind at ease.
 
After 20 years as a professional I use the simple Fanno brand. I have used two different Silky models and yes, they do cut faster and last longer but not so much as to justify the cost compared to the Fanno. I find the Fannos handle the most comfortable and new blades are much cheaper for the fanno too. It should be noted that I am extremely hard on my handsaws. A Fanno will break teeth when used as a makeshift machete on backwoods treks.
 
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