How many times have you been in a situation where you needed that animal to take two more steps to clear that piece of foliage before you could shoot? Most hunters (including myself) have. Whether you’re running and gunning for turkeys or getting your tree stand ready for fall, tools for cutting woody material are essential for hunters. As a professional arborist, here are three I trust.
Essential for tree stand prep when you need to reach well above your head. These pole systems come in telescopic or extension attachment models.
They are also very versatile, providing the ability to swap out a saw blade for a pruning accessory. The poles are made of durable fibreglass and are much lighter and quieter than powered tools.
Before you go whacking at foliage, find out if it's OK to do so. And check your shooting lanes a few times as you cut. You likely won't need a full landing strip cleared.
Wise words from the editor: Orange or red. Those are the only handle colours you should consider for tools and knives used in the woods. Unless you enjoy shopping for new ones.
When you need an option for those quick cuts on larger material, this is a must for your vest or pack. Folding hand saws are packable, light, and wicked sharp. They are also great for prepping a fire or field dressing big game. These tools feature an aggressive blade equipped with cutting teeth of various angles for fast and smooth operation.
A must-have for the turkey chaser, for quick, quiet cuts of small-diameter branches or shrubs.
They can be used to open up shooting space and eliminate obstacles when quickly setting up on a receptive bird. Pruners can be carried in a sheath worn on the hip.
I use a Silky Pocket Boy, made with durable Japanese steel. It starts around $80.
Manual hand tools are easy to carry, quiet and convenient at a moment’s notice during a hunt.
You won't ever need to remember to charge anything. They make quick work for brushing-in blinds, opening shooting lanes, and even assisting in an emergency.
Originally published in the August 2025 issue of Ontario OUT of DOORS
