Handsaws: The Arborist’s Unsung Hero

Welcome to another edition of Tool Tuesday — your behind-the-scenes look at the tools Red Mountain Rigging uses to provide safe, efficient, and professional tree services in Calgary.

This week, we’re spotlighting one of the most trusted tools in our kit: the humble handsaw. Whether we’re pruning a maple in Mount Royal, removing a hazard tree in Redwood Meadows, or prepping limbs for the chipper in Cochrane, our handsaws are always close at hand.

Why Handsaws Are Still Critical in Professional Tree Services

With all the high-tech equipment available today — chainsaws, chippers, aerial lifts — it might surprise some that handsaws remain essential. But for arborists, their simplicity is also their superpower.

Here’s why:

• Precision and control – Especially when aloft, a handsaw gives greater control for tight cuts and delicate branches.
  
  
• Safety compliance – According to ANSI Z133, every arborist climbing must carry a handsaw.
  
  
• Quiet and clean – Handsaws are silent, making them ideal for residential jobs where noise or emissions are a concern.
  
  
• Versatility – From pruning to removals to cleanup, different blade types handle different jobs with ease.
  
  

Handsaws are not just “backup tools.” They’re often the first choice when finesse, safety, or quiet work is the priority.

ANSI Z133 and the Handsaw Safety Requirement

ANSI Z133, the safety standard for arboricultural operations, requires that every arborist working aloft must have a handsaw on them. This isn’t just a formality — it’s about ensuring there’s always a cutting tool within reach, especially in emergency situations where quick action is needed.

For safety reasons:

• Folding saws must lock securely to avoid unintentional openings.
  
  
• Solid tang saws must be stored in form-fitted scabbards to prevent damage to climbing gear and protect the arborist from cuts.
  
  

This standard reflects just how vital the handsaw remains — not just as a tool, but as a safeguard.

How Red Mountain Rigging Uses Handsaws in Calgary Tree Jobs

At Red Mountain Rigging, we select our handsaws based on the task at hand:

• Pruning – We use smaller, straight blade saws with fine teeth for precise cuts and a clean finish.
  
  
• Removals – Curved blades with XL teeth are our go-to when speed and aggressiveness are key.
  
  
• Brush cleanup – Folding saws with medium teeth are ideal for prepping branches before chipping.
  
  

In any scenario, our crews prioritize safe use, proper maintenance, and cleaning between trees to prevent the spread of tree diseases — a crucial step especially when pruning diseased wood.

Silky Handsaws: The Go-To Brand for Arborists Worldwide

While there are many handsaw brands on the market, Silky handsaws are a favorite among our crews for good reason:

• Ergonomic design – Comfortable grip even during long climbs
  
  
• Razor-sharp teeth – Allow for quick, clean cuts with minimal force
  
  
• Durable scabbards – Ensure ANSI Z133 compliance
  
  
• Wide product range – From compact folding saws to heavy-duty removals saws
  
  

Let’s look at a few models we use:

1. Stihl Folding Handsaw (Orange Handle)

• Use: At the chipper or for light pruning
  
  
• Blade: Short, straight blade with small teeth
  
  
• Why we love it: Compact, easy to carry, perfect for cleanup cuts and ornamental trimming
  
  

2. Silky Zubat (Black Handle, Solid Tang)

• Use: Our most-used climbing saw
  
  
• Blade: Curved, comes in multiple lengths
  
  
• Why we love it: Aggressive cutting, great retention in the scabbard, lightweight and balanced
  
  

3. Silky Sugowaza (Largest Model)

• Use: Major removals and heavy limb work
  
  
• Blade: 420mm curved blade with XL teeth
  
  
• Why we love it: Extremely fast, clean cuts on large limbs — perfect when chainsaws aren’t practical
  
  

Straight vs Curved Blades – Which to Use and When?

Choosing the right blade design is all about the job:

Likewise, tooth size matters:

• Fine teeth (more TPI) = smoother cuts for pruning
  
  
• Large teeth (fewer TPI) = faster cuts for removals
  
  

Matching the right saw to the right job helps us work efficiently and maintain tree health when needed.

Preventing Tree Disease: Why We Clean Our Tools Between Trees

Many tree diseases, like fire blight or black knot, can spread via pruning tools. That’s why our crews at Red Mountain Rigging:

• Separate pruning and removal saws
  
  
• Sanitize pruning saws between jobs
  
  
• Educate customers on proper maintenance if they own their own saws
  
  

It’s a small step with huge implications for your yard’s health.

FAQs About Handsaws and Tree Pruning in Calgary

What is the best handsaw for pruning trees?
For clean, healthy cuts, a straight blade handsaw with fine teeth is ideal. We recommend models like the Silky Gomtaro or Stihl Precision Pruner.

Do I need to sanitize my handsaw after pruning?
Yes — especially when working with diseased trees. Use alcohol-based disinfectant or diluted bleach between cuts to prevent spreading infections.

Are handsaws better than chainsaws for tree trimming?
Not better — just different. Handsaws are preferred for precision, pruning, and noise-sensitive areas. Chainsaws are great for bulk or heavy-duty removals.

Why do arborists carry handsaws if they have chainsaws?
Chainsaws can’t always make precise cuts or be used safely in tight spaces. ANSI Z133 also mandates climbers carry a handsaw for emergencies.

Can I use a curved handsaw for pruning?
You can, but it may be too aggressive. A curved saw with large teeth risks tearing bark and damaging limbs, so stick with a fine-tooth straight blade for pruning.

Final Cuts: Why Handsaws Are Still in Every Arborist’s Toolkit

Handsaws might not be flashy, but they’re critical tools in the professional arborist’s gear. At Red Mountain Rigging, they help us deliver safe, controlled, and efficient work — whether we’re pruning your prize tree or clearing a storm-damaged branch.

If you’re in Calgary, Redwood Meadows, or the surrounding areas, and you want tree pruning, trimming, or removal services, give us a shout. Our tools — and our crew — are always ready.

Call us today for a free tree assessment or use the form on our website. Whether it’s a simple trim or full removal, we’ve got the right tool for the job — and the hands to use it.