A good pole saw allows you to reach branches you would otherwise need to climb for. This saves time, reduces risk, and keeps your feet on the ground. However, the choice of model matters: the wrong length, the wrong blade, or a too heavy construction makes the job more tiring than it needs to be.
This guide covers the best pole saws of 2026. Silky dominates the range, and rightly so.
What is a pole saw?
A pole saw is a handsaw mounted on a telescopic pole, usually made of aluminum or fiberglass. You control the blade with a handle at the bottom and can reach branches at a height of 3–8 meters without a ladder or lift. The telescopic pole is adjustable in length and locked with a twist mechanism or clamps.
There are two types: straight pole saws with a fixed blade at the front end (like the Silky Hayauchi) and folding models with a blade that folds for transport (like the Silky Longboy). Straight models offer better control for precise pruning. Folding models are easier to carry.
Comparison: the best pole saws 2026
| Model | Max Reach | Price | Blade Length | Best suited for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hayauchi 3-Section 4.9M | ~7–8 m | SEK 2,752 | 390 mm | Arborist, professional |
| Hayauchi 4-Section 6.3M | ~9–10 m | SEK 3,440 | 390 mm | Tall trees, maximum reach |
| Hayauchi 2-Section 3.7M | ~6 m | SEK 2,264 | 390 mm | Compact, quick setup |
| Forester 4.5M | ~7 m | SEK 2,400 | 360 mm | All-round, ground & climbing |
| Forester 3M | ~5 m | SEK 2,240 | 360 mm | Garden, medium reach |
| Longboy 3.6M | ~5–6 m | SEK 2,640 | 360 mm | Transport, compact |
| Zubat Pole Saw | ~4 m | SEK 1,840 | 330 mm | Budget choice, simpler jobs |
Silky Hayauchi — the industry standard for professional use
Hayauchi is the pole saw most arborists and tree care companies choose when price is not the only argument. The pole is made of oval aluminum, which provides stiffness without the pole bending under load. This is a small but important detail: a flexible pole transmits too little force to the blade, making sawing take longer.
The blade is 390 mm and set at a fixed angle that allows for precise cuts. Silky's MIRAI-I teeth (triangular grind) cut in both directions, not just on the pull stroke. In practice, it’s fast. A branch 6–8 cm in diameter takes 10–15 seconds.
Hayauchi is available in three lengths:
- 2-Section, 3.7M — easiest to transport, SEK 2,264
- 3-Section, 4.9M — the most popular option, SEK 2,752
- 4-Section, 6.3M — maximum reach for tall trees, SEK 3,440
Replacement blades cost SEK 812 and are easily changed with a screw. A good rule of thumb: replace the blade when you notice you need to push harder. Dull blades make the job three times harder.
Silky Forester — the balanced alternative
Forester is a step down in price and reach but a good choice for those who don't need the last few meters. The blade is 360 mm. The pole is 3 or 4.5 meters. Prices: SEK 2,240 and SEK 2,400 respectively.
It is a popular model for gardeners and arborists working with medium-sized trees. Not as stiff in the pole as Hayauchi when fully extended, but for jobs up to 5–6 meters in height, it's barely noticeable.
Silky Longboy — for those who carry a lot
Longboy is a folding pole saw, which means the blade folds along the pole for transport. It takes up less space in the van. Extended, it is 3.6 meters, complete price SEK 2,640.
It is not as stiff as the Hayauchi and is better suited for occasional jobs than for daily intensive use. Beginners who want something to start with, or a backup saw in the car, often choose the Longboy.
Silky Zubat — the simple choice
Zubat is a fixed (non-telescopic) pole saw at SEK 1,840. It is suitable for jobs where you know exactly what reach you need and don't want to pay for a telescopic function. The blade is 330 mm and the cutting quality is good for the price.
Throw saw: Nordic Pocket Saw Arborist 2
The Nordic Pocket Saw Arborist 2 is not a traditional pole saw but a throw saw: a chainsaw that is thrown into the tree with a throw weight and then pulled from both ends. The price is SEK 1,640. It can handle branches up to 10 meters, but requires practice to set up properly. Good as a complement, not a replacement for a pole saw.
Which blade is suitable?
Silky sells replacement blades separately for Hayauchi (SEK 812), Forester (SEK 800), and Longboy (SEK 480). The blade is the only consumable part of a pole saw. Always have a spare blade in your vehicle.
The blade quality is what justifies the Silky price. Cheaper pole saws from hardware stores have softer steel that quickly loses its edge. Silky's teeth stay sharp significantly longer, which is reflected in the time taken per cut.
Reach in practice
The stated pole length is not the same as your actual reach. A 4.9-meter Hayauchi provides approximately 7–8 meters of branch reach depending on your height and the angle you are working at. Hold the pole slightly upwards, not vertically, for best control. A fully extended pole gives you maximum reach but poorer precision.
See the full range
Don't know which Hayauchi length suits your needs? Contact us and we will help you choose.