Stihl PR 16
Score: 92/100Silky Gomboy
Score: 90/100Rankings
The Stihl PR 16 is a lightweight, compact folding pruning saw designed for efficient cutting on both wet and dry wood. It features a 16 cm blade with Japanese toothing and a chrome-plated finish, making it ideal for gardeners who need a portable tool for precise pruning tasks. While the safety catch is stiff initially, it loosens with use, and the saw is highly rated for its cutting efficiency.
The Silky Gomboy Curve is a durable, versatile folding pruning saw featuring a curved 240 mm blade optimized for aggressive cutting of branches, dry timber, and bone. Its replaceable blade system and secure locking mechanism make it a favorite among professionals, though it is heavier than ultralight options. It is best suited for arborists and bushcrafters needing heavy-duty performance.
| Attribute | | Silky Gomboy |
|---|---|---|
6.3 inches | 9.45 inchesbest | |
— | 6.8 TPIbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.35 lbsbest | 0.57 lbs |
3.88 inches | 17.5 inchesbest |
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| Attribute | | Silky Gomboy |
|---|---|---|
Handle & Ergonomics(2) | ||
Handle Material | Rubber/Plastic | Rubber-clad Steel |
Handle Type | Ergonomic | Fixed |
Dimensions & Weight(2) | ||
Weight (lbs) | 0.35 lbs | 0.57 lbs |
Overall Length (inches) | 3.88 inches | 17.5 inches |
Performance & Usage(4) | ||
Intended Use | Pruning | Pruning, Bushcraft |
Saw Type | Folding Saw | Folding |
Cutting Action | Unidirectional | Pull |
Suitable Materials | Wood | Wood, Bone |
Blade Specifications(3) | ||
Blade Length (inches) | 6.3 inches | 9.45 inches |
Teeth Per Inch (TPI) (TPI) | TPI | 6.8 TPI |
Blade Material | Chrome-plated Steel | Japanese Steel |
Build & Durability(2) | ||
Blade Coating | Chrome | Chrome/Black Plated |
Replaceable Blade | false | true |
General(1) | ||
Warranty | Limited Lifetime | |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers, including BBC Gardeners' World Magazine, have awarded the Stihl PR 16 a 4.8 out of 5-star rating and designated it a Best Buy winner. Experts praise its ability to tackle wood effortlessly without clogging or sticking, noting its smooth cutting efficiency and pocket-friendly portability.
Everyday users consistently highlight the saw's reliability and strong cutting performance, describing the blade as surprisingly sharp and strong. The ergonomic design with rubber grips receives positive feedback for comfort during extended pruning tasks. The primary recurring theme in user feedback is the stiffness of the folding button mechanism when new, which typically improves with regular use.
Professional reviewers and editors praise the Silky Gomboy Curve as a 'reworked classic' that excels in cutting speed and durability, highlighting its special taper-ground design and impulse-hardened teeth.
Everyday consumers commonly praise the saw for its razor-sharp cutting speed, often describing it as cutting 'like butter' and being capable of one-handed operation. Recurring complaints focus on the saw's weight and rougher kerfs on smaller limbs.
“surprisingly sharp and strong”
“fits easily in a pocket while cutting smoothly and efficiently”
“cuts like butter”
