durable limb saw?

[ousoonerfan22]

I end up having to buy a new limb saw every season and would like to find one that will last.I've been buying Gerber but end up breaking them where the blade is attached in the handle or the blade itself.I know I'm probably abusing them but I seem to always have a 2-3" limb in the way.I try to hang stands in red,white and pin oaks and if a blackjack oak is in a good spot I'll grab the chainsaw but only if that's on private land.

What brand do you guys use?

[nhbowhunter]

I had a similar problem with the folding Gerber-type saws. Here is what I have learned.

1. These type of "L" shaped folding saws do have their limits. 3 inches is a pretty hefty limb. I have found that these kind of saws work best on limbs no larger than 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
   
2. On larger limbs I bet your saw usually breaks when you are pushing forward, yes? The tip of the saw catches and the momentum of your forward thrust causes the blade to bend or break. SLOW DOWN! On larger limbs apply the majority of your force when you pull the blade TOWARD your body. Lighten up significantly on the AWAY from body stroke.
   
3. Let the blade to do the work. Don't try and muscle things through. Apply even pressure while sawing. If you can feel your biceps or triceps, flexing like you are curling 30lb dumbbells then you are using to much muscle.
   
4. Lastly, use the right tool for the job. Don't use a 5lb sledge hammer to drive a penny nail... Also don't try to drive a railroad spike with a fly-swatter. For larger diameter limbs I recommend a folding pack saw like this one http://duluthpack.com/folding-saw.html , but remember rules 1, 2, and 3 above still apply.
   

[hungry hunter]

The cheap pruning saws that you get at the hardwares stores, about $4.00