"Michael" wrote in message
...

I need to cut some 4-6 inch saplings for a project (shag bark hickory).
After I get the tree down, I need to limb it and clean up the brush.
Because of park regulations, I can't use mechanical devices (no Stihl).
I've used a bow saw in the past but that has been truly, truly a difficult
process. Maybe the bow saw is just dull, I don't know. I wonder if there is
some excellent saw out there that really hogs out a kerf.


You can still use a Stihl... ;~)
http://www.stihlusa.com/products/han...-pruning-saws/

While I've used a bow saw for such work for decades I've found that a good
pruning saw is much better. I particularly like those with curved blades as
they help keep the blade in the kerf when my sawing position is not good.
The pruning saw also lets you make cuts where a bow saw's frame would not
have clearance.

I also have a Snap-Cut pole pruner. I've had it for 20+ years and use it
regularly with no problems. It too has a curved blade.
http://www.gilmour.com/pruning-tools...n-tree-pruner/

I've used the pole saw to limb trees in tight urban settings before taking
them down with with my Stihl M271... neighbors haven't complained as I've
cut stuff up for them too. ;~)

John