How I Used the Coghlans Commando Saw 8304 and What I Found
When faced with the need for a compact, versatile cutting tool that could handle more than just the occasional twine, my attention turned to the Coghlans Commando Saw 8304. This NATO-approved, eight-strand wire saw promises to tackle wood, plastic, bone, and even soft metals, all within a surprisingly small package. I needed something that wouldn’t take up precious space in my emergency preparedness kit, and this wire saw seemed to fit the bill perfectly. My previous experience with similar wire saws had been mixed, leaning towards fragility, so I was cautiously optimistic. I’d considered a small folding saw, but its bulk was a dealbreaker. Unboxing, the Commando Saw felt surprisingly well-made for its price point, sparking a flicker of hope that it might actually perform.
Real-World Testing: Putting Coghlans Commando Saw 8304 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place in my backyard, aiming for a realistic scenario of needing to process some smaller fallen branches for a controlled fire. I selected a piece of dry pine approximately three inches in diameter. The instructions were straightforward, requiring me to hold the plated rings and saw back and forth. Initially, the saw bit into the wood adequately, but as I progressed, it became clear that there was significant binding. The unique eight-strand design, while novel, seemed to struggle with the friction generated, requiring considerable force to keep it moving.
This was particularly evident when trying to maintain a steady sawing motion through the denser part of the wood. About three-quarters of an inch into the cut, with moderate but not excessive pressure, the wire snapd. This failure was disappointing, especially considering it wasn’t an extreme test of its capabilities. I was not in a survival situation, but the experience highlighted a significant fragility I hadn’t anticipated.
Extended Use & Reliability
Due to the immediate failure during my first attempt, extended use of this particular wire saw was not possible. The single unit I received was rendered unusable after a single, relatively minor task. Therefore, I cannot offer insights into its long-term durability, performance across multiple uses, or maintenance requirements. The material used for the wire, while appearing to be of decent quality initially, evidently lacked the tensile strength or flexibility needed for repeated stress.
Compared to other compact cutting tools I’ve relied on, such as small folding saws or even a robust pocket knife for more delicate tasks, this wire saw’s immediate failure put it far below expectations. My prior experience with similar wire saws, while not always perfect, typically allowed for at least a few uses before degradation or breakage occurred. This unit did not even reach that point.
Breaking Down the Features of Coghlans Commando Saw 8304
Specifications
The Coghlans Commando Saw 8304 is described as a NATO-approved tool featuring a unique eight-strand design. Its stainless steel blade extends to twenty inches in length. It boasts plated swivel ends intended to prevent twisting and plated rings that can convert the saw into a snare. The product details claim it is safe to handle.
These specifications, particularly the length of the blade and the stated material, suggest a tool designed for versatility. The two-decade length of the wire should theoretically provide sufficient reach for processing moderate-sized branches or materials. The mention of stainless steel implies some resistance to corrosion, a crucial factor for outdoor equipment.
Performance & Functionality
In its primary intended function of cutting wood, the Coghlans Commando Saw 8304 performed poorly during my testing. While it managed to make some initial progress on a three-inch pine branch, the saw quickly began to bind, requiring excessive force. The eight-strand design seemed to contribute to friction rather than efficient cutting.
The most significant issue was the catastrophic failure of the wire after a very short period of use, approximately three-quarters of an inch into the cut. This indicates a critical weakness in the material or construction that compromises its overall functionality. It did not meet the basic expectation of being able to saw through a moderately sized piece of wood.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this wire saw centers around its eight-strand wire construction and plated swivel ends. The swivel ends are intended to offer smoother operation and prevent the wire from twisting excessively during use. The inclusion of plated rings that can be used to form a snare is an interesting feature, adding a secondary function to the tool.
However, the ergonomics of using the saw are challenging due to the binding issue. Holding the plated rings securely while applying consistent sawing pressure was manageable, but the resistance from the material being cut made for an awkward and strenuous experience. The overall feel of the wire itself, while appearing strong initially, proved to be deceptive regarding its actual tensile strength.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the durability of the Coghlans Commando Saw 8304 is exceptionally poor. The wire snapped after a single, brief use on a three-inch diameter piece of wood. This suggests that the product is not built for sustained or even moderate use.
Maintenance for this type of tool would typically involve cleaning off debris and ensuring the rings and swivels remain free of corrosion. However, given the immediate breakage, questions of long-term maintenance become moot. There is a clear failure point in the wire’s integrity that negates any potential for extended service life.
Accessories and Customization Options
The primary “accessory” feature of the Coghlans Commando Saw 8304 is the integration of the plated rings for conversion into a snare. This dual-purpose design is a notable aspect, offering potential utility beyond simple cutting.
Beyond this integrated feature, there are no other included accessories or significant customization options mentioned or apparent. The tool is presented as a standalone unit, and its inherent fragility limits the practical application of any aftermarket modifications.
Pros and Cons of Coghlans Commando Saw 8304
Pros
- Extremely compact and lightweight, ideal for packing into a survival or emergency kit.
- NATO-approved designation suggests it meets certain military standards, though my testing calls this into question.
- Features plated swivel ends designed to reduce twisting and improve handling.
- Includes plated rings that allow for conversion into a snare, offering dual functionality.
- Low price point makes it an inexpensive addition to a preparedness kit for minimal space.
Cons
- Catastrophic failure of the wire occurred after minimal use on a moderately sized branch.
- Tended to bind significantly in wood, requiring excessive force and making sawing difficult.
- Durability is extremely questionable; not suitable for anything beyond very light-duty tasks.
- The advertised ability to cut various materials appears to be significantly overstated based on my experience.
- The eight-strand design did not translate to effective cutting performance in practice.
Who Should Buy Coghlans Commando Saw 8304?
The Coghlans Commando Saw 8304 is only suitable for a very niche user who prioritizes extreme compactness above all else and understands its severe limitations. This might include someone creating a minimalist “get-home” bag where every ounce and inch counts, and the expectation is purely for emergency, one-off use on very small, soft materials. Even then, the risk of immediate failure makes it a questionable choice.
Individuals who need a reliable cutting tool for camping, bushcraft, or any situation requiring consistent performance should absolutely avoid this product. Those who might require cutting through anything more substantial than a twig, or who need a tool they can depend on, should look at alternatives such as small folding saws, a quality bow saw with replaceable blades, or even a sturdy folding knife with a saw blade. No essential accessories are needed, as the product’s fundamental performance is the primary concern.
Conclusion on Coghlans Commando Saw 8304
My experience with the Coghlans Commando Saw 8304 was profoundly disappointing. While its eight-strand design, compact size, and the potential for snare conversion are theoretically interesting features, the product failed to perform its basic cutting function under minimal stress. The twenty-inch stainless steel blade snapped within moments of engaging a three-inch diameter branch, rendering it useless.
The value proposition of this saw is extremely low given its demonstrated lack of durability and poor cutting performance. While it is inexpensive, its immediate failure means it offers no practical utility, making it a waste of money even at its low price. I cannot recommend the Coghlans Commando Saw 8304 for any purpose where reliable cutting is a requirement. Buyers seeking a dependable cutting tool should invest in more robust options, even if they sacrifice some degree of portability.