Silky Telescoping Landscaping Pole Saw HAYATE 420 20-Feet #372-42

First, my background. I keep about 10 miles of trails open for walking and cross country skiing, and have worked part time at two of the top 10 XC ski centers in the US. Trail grooming includes not only the snow, but keeping branches out of everyones faces. To that extent I’ve used axes, bow saws, other pole saws, and power pruners (powered pole saws – essentially a small chain saw bar on the end of a long pole). For my personal use, the Silky is the best compromise – light, VERY long reach (much longer than a power pole saw), and cheaper than a powered pole saw. Less parts to break, too! I’ve also been shocked how well the blade cuts. I use a chain saw a lot, and in hardwood up to 6″ or so I’d guess the Hayate is just as fast. It’s amazing. Nice clean cut too (concern for the health of the tree). I’ve never really liked bow saws in the past, as I’ve found a sharp ax much quicker. . . but this saw has won me over to “razor” type tooth saws, and I have a folding hand saw as well, and plan to add another to my trail clearing tools. It is NOT the cheapest saw out there, that’s for sure, but is a quality tool that if taken care of will last a long, long time, and therefore gives the best value over the long term. The telescoping bits work better than any pole saw I’ve used yet in terms of stability. My only complaint is that it is rather long (around 8′) when in it’s “closed” (but blade on) position. I hope Silky comes out with a 6′ (closed) Hayate that extends to 12′ or so – that would be just as good for most folks. When i do need the full 20′ reach though, it is REALLY nice to have.