Best Saw for Gardening of 2026 for Clean Cuts

The Supstable mini chainsaw is a versatile cordless pruning saw designed for light to medium cutting tasks around the home and garden. With both 6-inch and 8-inch guide bars included, it can handle everything from trimming small branches to cutting firewood pieces up to a few inches thick. This makes it a practical tool for DIY homeowners, gardeners, seniors, and anyone who needs a portable saw without the weight and hassle of a gas model.

At the heart of this saw is a 1000W brushless motor that provides ample power for most pruning and woodcutting jobs around the yard. Brushless motors are known for their efficiency and durability, and this one delivers smooth cutting with less vibration than traditional motors. The automatic oiling system keeps the chain lubricated during operation, reducing friction and prolonging chain life. You just need to fill the 30ml reservoir with bar and chain oil before each use.

In terms of build quality, the saw feels solid despite its light weight of just over 3 pounds. The ergonomic handle and non-slip auxiliary handle give you good control, and the safety lock prevents accidental startups. The included safety goggles and gloves add an extra layer of protection for beginners. While it is not designed for heavy professional use, it is well-made for the price point and should hold up to regular yard maintenance.

Storage is convenient thanks to the included hard shell suitcase, which keeps the saw, batteries, charger, and extra chain organized and protected. The two 2000mAh batteries charge quickly and provide enough runtime for most typical sessions, though heavy cutting may drain them faster. The saw is easy to maintain: the chain can be tightened or replaced with the included screwdriver, and the oil tank is easy to access.

A few realistic limitations exist. The battery runtime may not be sufficient for extensive projects, and the saw is not intended for felling trees or heavy lumber cutting. The lubricating oil is not included, so you will need to purchase it separately. Additionally, the chain can stretch with use and requires occasional adjustments. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Supstable mini chainsaw offers excellent value for its price, especially for those who prioritize portability and ease of use.

For DIY homeowners, gardeners, and light-duty contractors looking for an affordable, cordless option for pruning and branch trimming, this mini chainsaw is a solid choice. Its combination of a powerful brushless motor, interchangeable bars, safety features, and included accessories makes it a practical addition to any workshop or garage. Just be sure to have bar oil on hand and temper expectations for heavy-duty tasks.

The CAIDMOS 12-Inch Folding Hand Saw is a purpose-built manual cutting tool designed to handle branch trimming, landscape maintenance, and quick carpentry tasks. Built around a folding frame, this compact handsaw emphasizes portability and fast cutting action, allowing users to tackle pruning duties without dragging out bulky power tools or stringing extension cords across the yard.

This saw is well suited for DIY homeowners maintaining residential landscaping, outdoor enthusiasts packing light for campsite chores, and woodworkers needing a swift method to break down rough stock. Property managers and trade professionals will also appreciate having a low-profile cutting tool tucked away in a service truck or utility tote for clearing stray brush and small tree limbs on job sites.

Cutting performance centers on a blade crafted from high-manganese steel. Featuring triple-bevel staggered teeth, the blade cuts primarily on the pull stroke, which naturally keeps the thin steel rigid and reduces the chance of bending mid-cut. The tooth geometry clears green wood chips and dry sawdust efficiently, keeping kerf friction low and speeding up each pass through medium-density saplings, pine, and common garden shrubs.

Safety and handling are managed by an integrated push-button lock and an ergonomic molded handle. The locking latch engages firmly when fully opened, keeping the sharp teeth from accidentally folding back toward your knuckles during aggressive downward or pull strokes. Depressing the black button releases the catch so the blade tucks away completely inside the handle cavity, keeping the sharp edges shielded inside your toolbox.

As with any manual folding saw, there are practical boundaries to keep in mind. While it handles branches up to several inches in diameter cleanly, it is not built for felling large trees or cutting through dense structural hardwoods on a continuous basis. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only a quick wipe-down to remove sticky tree sap and an occasional drop of light machine oil on the pivot screw to preserve smooth opening action.

For homeowners looking to tidy up overgrown tree canopies or outdoor users wanting a dependable saw for firewood prep, the CAIDMOS folding handsaw is a sensible, practical investment. Its combination of sharp cutting teeth, dependable blade locking, and featherweight portability makes it a reliable asset for regular home and garden upkeep.

In real-world yard care, a compact folding saw often outpaces a powered chainsaw for quick maintenance because there is zero setup, fuel mixing, or battery charging involved. It allows for precise pruning right up against tree collars without tearing tender bark or damaging adjacent limbs.

Around the garage or small workshop, the saw functions admirably for rough timber processing, breaking down pallets, or notching rustic landscape timbers. Its narrow kerf minimizes wasted material while ensuring straight cuts through softwoods and garden stakes.

The BlumeTrec 14.5FT pole saw is a manual pruning tool designed for homeowners, gardeners, and light forestry work. It combines a sharp manganese steel blade with a modular, adjustable-length pole to help you trim high branches safely from the ground. This saw is a solid choice for DIY users who want a reliable, low-maintenance alternative to gas or electric pruners.

This pole saw is best suited for DIY homeowners, gardeners, and anyone who regularly maintains trees, shrubs, or hedges around the yard. It's also practical for older adults or those who prefer not to climb ladders for routine pruning. While it's not a heavy-duty professional tool, it handles most residential trimming tasks with ease.

In real-world use, the Mn steel blade delivers clean cuts on branches up to several inches thick. The three-sided edge and double-sided barb design grip the branch securely, reducing slipping and allowing you to cut from multiple angles. The precision-ground teeth help discharge sawdust, so the blade doesn't clog during use. The modular pole system lets you quickly adjust the length from 8.5ft to 14.5ft, and the extra locking screw keeps the saw head firmly attached. The anti-slip grip and soft-wrapped handle provide comfortable control, even during longer sessions.

Build quality is decent for the price point. The stainless steel poles have a matte, powder-coated finish that resists rust, and the Mn steel blade is durable and corrosion-resistant. Assembly is straightforward: you simply screw the sections together. Storage is easy since the pole breaks down into compact sections, and the saw head can be detached. No special maintenance is required beyond occasional cleaning and blade sharpening.

One realistic limitation is that this is a manual saw, so cutting thicker branches requires more physical effort than a powered pruner. Also, at full extension, the 14.5ft pole can feel a bit heavy for some users during prolonged overhead work. The blade is best suited for branches up to about 3-4 inches in diameter; anything larger may be tough to cut by hand.

Overall, the BlumeTrec 14.5FT pole saw is a practical, budget-friendly option for DIY homeowners and gardeners who need a safe way to trim high branches without a ladder. It's lightweight, easy to assemble, and offers good cutting performance for routine yard maintenance. If you're looking for an affordable manual pruner that gets the job done without fuss, this saw is worth considering.

The VRYTOR 7-inch folding pruning saw is a compact manual cutting tool built for homeowners, gardeners, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Designed for quick branch trimming, clearing overgrown vines, and managing light yard work, this hand saw offers a low-maintenance alternative to power tools for routine property upkeep.

At the core of the saw is a 7-inch blade manufactured from heat-treated 65Mn steel. The cutting edge uses a 7 TPI (teeth per inch) triple-cut pattern with deep tooth slots designed to eject wood chips smoothly and avoid clogging during each stroke. The manufacturer lists an effective cutting capacity for branches up to 4 inches thick, making it suitable for pruning saplings, shaping garden bushes, or prepping campfire kindling.

Safe handling is supported by an integrated push-button lock that holds the saw blade firmly in place during use. When closed, the teeth fold completely into the handle, helping guard fingers and gear against accidental cuts during transport. The handle is coated in textured non-slip soft rubber in high-visibility orange and black, supporting a firm grip even when working in damp outdoor conditions.

Measuring 8.8 x 2.4 x 0.9 inches when folded, this hand tool takes up minimal storage space in garden totes, vehicle compartments, or hiking packs. Because it relies entirely on manual power, there are no batteries to recharge, cords to manage, or fuel to mix. Routine maintenance involves clearing sap and debris from the tooth gullets after use and keeping the hinge clean.

While capable for its size, this folding saw has realistic boundaries. Cutting thicker limbs near the 4-inch limit requires sustained physical exertion, and it cannot match the speed of powered reciprocating saws or chainsaws on large storm-cleanup jobs. In addition, the blade is fixed into the handle assembly without quick-swap replacement blades included.

For homeowners, trail clearers, and backpackers looking for a lightweight, budget-friendly manual saw to handle routine yard trimming and campsite firewood chores, the VRYTOR 7-inch folding pruning saw offers dependable utility. Verify your cutting needs stay within its 4-inch branch rating to ensure it fits your regular maintenance workload.

This manual saw is tailored for outdoor property care and portable trail use. The 7 TPI triple-cut teeth are arranged to saw through green wood, shrubs, wild vines, and small logs, as well as soft plastics for DIY garden repairs.

Its compact folded footprint allows it to ride in a backpack or work belt without snagging on clothing or outdoor gear. For outdoor cooking or camping, it provides a straightforward method for breaking down deadwood into manageable stove lengths without carrying heavy mechanized tools.

The WEIMELTOY 10-inch heavy-duty pruning saw is a folding hand saw designed for efficient cutting of tree branches, shrubs, and small wood pieces. It is primarily intended for DIY homeowners, gardeners, campers, and landscapers who need a portable and reliable cutting tool for outdoor maintenance tasks.

Performance-wise, the SK5 steel curved blade with triple-cut razor teeth delivers fast cuts in both push and pull strokes. According to product specifications and user feedback, it can handle green and dry wood up to 6 inches in diameter without bogging down. This makes it suitable for tree trimming, pruning, camping firewood prep, and general yard work. The blade's flexibility and hardened edge contribute to durability and resistance to chipping under normal use.

Build quality is practical for the price point. The blade is made from SK5 high-carbon steel, which is heat-treated for extra strength and edge retention. The rubber handle provides a comfortable, non-slip grip even in wet or sweaty conditions, reducing hand fatigue during extended cutting sessions. The folding mechanism includes a button lock that secures the blade in both open and closed positions, enhancing safety during use and storage.

Storage and portability are strong points: the saw folds down to a compact size that fits in a backpack, toolbox, or glove compartment. Its lightweight design (0.66 pounds) makes it easy to carry on hikes or around the yard. Maintenance is minimal - just wipe the blade clean after use and occasionally sharpen or replace as needed. The simple locking mechanism requires no special tools to operate.

A realistic limitation is that while the saw is capable, it is not designed for heavy logging or cutting large diameter trunks. The blade may require sharpening after extensive use on tough, dry wood. Additionally, the locking mechanism, while functional, might loosen over time; users should check it periodically to ensure safe operation.

Overall, the WEIMELTOY folding pruning saw offers solid cutting performance and convenience at an affordable price. It is best suited for DIY homeowners, gardeners, campers, and light landscaping tasks where portability and ease of use are priorities. For heavier professional tree work, a larger fixed-blade saw or chainsaw would be more appropriate. For everyday pruning and general outdoor cutting, this saw provides good value and reliable functionality.

The WEIMELTOY pruning saw is built around an SK5 high-carbon steel blade that is hardened for extra durability and edge retention. The triple-sharpened teeth are designed to stay sharp through repeated use on green and dry wood. The folding mechanism uses a steel button lock that secures the blade firmly in both open and closed positions. The rubber handle is molded to the metal tang, providing a secure bond that resists slipping. While not intended for heavy industrial use, the construction is adequate for regular gardening and camping tasks. Users should avoid using the saw on nails, rocks, or other hard materials to prevent blade damage. Periodic cleaning and light lubrication of the pivot point will extend the saw's life.

The Fiskars 2-Piece Garden Tool Set is a practical cutting duo designed for DIY homeowners, landscapers, and property care enthusiasts who need dependable manual cutting tools. Combining a bypass pruner and a compact folding hand saw, this set equips users to manage routine branch trimming, plant pruning, and outdoor maintenance without hauling heavy power equipment.

When addressing smaller stems and live green growth, the bypass pruner utilizes a hardened steel blade treated with a low-friction coating. This surface finish helps prevent sticky sap buildup and corrosion while ensuring smooth, effortless shearing through branches up to a half-inch thick. For thicker limbs and dried deadwood, the Power Tooth folding saw takes over. Its aggressive triple-grind tooth geometry cuts material on both push and pull strokes, accelerating cutting speed while leaving clean, healthy cuts behind.

Build quality and user comfort are clearly factored into the design. Both tools feature SoftGrip handle inserts that dampen pressure points and improve traction during damp outdoor jobs. The folding saw includes an integrated blade lock mechanism that secures the cutting edge safely open during heavy pull strokes and locked firmly closed inside the handle for transport. Durable pivot joints and quality steel blades ensure these tools hold an edge through multiple seasons of regular yard upkeep.

Storage and upkeep are straightforward thanks to the compact dimensions and lightweight build. The folding saw slips neatly into tool belts or utility bucket organizers, while the shears can be stowed in any small toolbox drawer or garage pegboard holder. Routine care only requires cleaning off sap with a damp rag and applying light machine oil to the pivot and cutting edges. Potential buyers should keep in mind that the pruner is strictly sized for half-inch diameters, meaning thicker green branches will require switching to the hand saw or a dedicated lopper.

For suburban homeowners, workshop owners managing perimeter growth, and DIY groundskeepers seeking a simple pruning kit, this Fiskars pairing delivers proven utility. It combines the precise trimming action of bypass shears with the muscle of a pull-stroke saw, making routine outdoor cleanup practical and efficient.

Safe storage is a top priority for sharp outdoor hand tools, and this pair handles the challenge effectively. The folding saw tucks its aggressive triple-grind blade entirely within the handle contour, preventing accidental snags inside tool pouches, glove compartments, or utility bags.

Both tools carry a slender profile that occupies minimal footprint on a garage workbench or tool organizer. Regular wipe-downs and occasional pivot lubrication will preserve the low-friction coating and locking mechanism for dependable operation season after season.

The REXBETI Folding Saw is a heavy duty pruning saw designed for tough cutting tasks around the yard, garden, and campsite. With an 11 inch blade made from SK-5 steel and aggressive 7 TPI teeth, this hand saw is built to slice through dry wood, thick branches, and even small logs up to 7 inches in diameter. It's a practical tool for DIY homeowners, gardeners, campers, and anyone who needs a reliable saw for occasional or regular outdoor work.

For DIY homeowners and gardeners, this saw excels at pruning overgrown shrubs, cutting back tree limbs, and clearing brush. The long blade combined with sharp, staggered teeth allows you to power through branches quickly with minimal effort. Campers and bushcraft enthusiasts will appreciate the folding design, which makes it easy to pack in a backpack or stash in a glovebox. The rubber coated polymer handle offers a secure grip even in damp conditions, reducing hand fatigue during repetitive cuts.

The build quality is impressive for the price. SK-5 steel is known for its hardness and edge retention, meaning the blade stays sharp longer than cheaper alternatives. The teeth are heat-treated for added durability, and the folding lock keeps the blade safely closed when not in use. While it's not a professional-grade arborist tool, it handles most residential pruning and light construction tasks with ease. The saw feels solid in the hand, and the blade tension is consistent throughout the cut.

Storage and maintenance are straightforward. The saw folds down to a compact size that fits in most toolboxes, garage drawers, or camping gear. After use, simply wipe the blade clean and store it dry to prevent rust. The lack of a blade cover or sheath is a minor downside, but the folding lock provides adequate safety when closed.

Realistic limitations include the blade length, which may be cumbersome for tight spaces or precise trimming. Some users might prefer a shorter blade for finer work. The handle's rubber coating, while comfortable, could become slippery if your hands are greasy or covered in sap. For heavy-duty professional use, a fixed-blade pruning saw with a longer blade might be a better fit, but for most DIY and outdoor needs, this saw delivers excellent value.

Overall, the REXBETI Folding Saw is a smart addition to any homeowner's toolkit or camping gear. It combines a durable blade, comfortable handle, and convenient folding design at an affordable price. If you need a reliable saw for yard maintenance, outdoor projects, or emergency cutting, this model is worth considering for its performance and portability.

The Corona Tools RazorTOOTH Folding Pruning Saw is a compact hand saw designed for cutting tree limbs, branches, and general yard debris. It features a 7-inch RazorTOOTH blade that aggressively cuts through green wood, making it a practical tool for DIY homeowners, gardeners, and landscapers who need quick and efficient pruning without the hassle of power tools.

This saw is best suited for light to medium-duty pruning tasks around the home or garden. It excels at trimming small to medium branches, shaping shrubs, and clearing overgrowth. The folding design allows the blade to lock securely into the handle for safe storage and easy transport, whether in a tool belt, pocket, or garden bag. According to product specifications, the ergonomic handle provides a firm, comfortable grip that reduces hand fatigue during extended cutting sessions, which is a real advantage for users tackling multiple pruning jobs.

In terms of performance, the RazorTOOTH blade lives up to its name, delivering fast cuts with less effort compared to standard pruning saws. The aggressive tooth geometry helps slice through green wood cleanly, minimizing tearing and allowing for smoother cuts. While it is not designed for heavy-duty logging or dry hardwood, it handles typical yard waste effectively. The lightweight construction (0.5 pounds) makes it easy to maneuver, and the compact folded size (11.5 x 4.5 x 1 inches) fits neatly into a toolbox or glove compartment.

Build quality is solid for the price point. The blade appears to be well-made, and the folding mechanism feels secure when locked. The handle has a non-slip texture that improves control, even when hands are sweaty or gloved. Maintenance is straightforward: keep the blade clean and dry, and occasionally oil the pivot point to ensure smooth folding. The saw does not come with a sheath, but the blade locks safely into the handle, so storage is simple.

One realistic limitation is that the blade is optimized for green wood; it may not perform as well on dry or hardened branches, and the teeth may dull faster if used on dirty or gritty wood. Additionally, the 7-inch blade length restricts cutting to branches up to about 3-4 inches in diameter, so larger limbs require a different tool. Some users may also find the folding mechanism a bit stiff initially, but it loosens with use.

Overall, the Corona RazorTOOTH Folding Pruning Saw is a reliable and affordable choice for homeowners, gardeners, and landscapers who need a compact, easy-to-carry pruning saw for routine yard work. It offers fast cutting, good ergonomics, and safe storage in a lightweight package. If you primarily deal with green branches and want a tool that fits in your pocket or tool belt, this saw is worth considering. For heavier or dry wood, a fixed-blade or larger pruning saw might be more appropriate.

The Corona RazorTOOTH Folding Pruning Saw is built with a focus on durability and practicality. The blade is made from high-carbon steel with a RazorTOOTH grind that stays sharp through multiple cuts. The handle is constructed from a sturdy plastic with a rubberized grip that provides good traction even in wet conditions. The folding mechanism uses a locking tab that engages securely, preventing accidental closure during use. While the materials are not premium, they are appropriate for the price and intended use. The saw feels solid in hand and should withstand regular yard work over several seasons with proper care.

The ergonomic handle of the Corona RazorTOOTH saw is designed for comfort and control. It features a contoured shape that fits the hand naturally, reducing strain during prolonged cutting. The rubberized insert adds cushioning and helps absorb vibrations, which can be a factor when cutting through tough branches. The handle also has a slight finger groove that improves grip security. At just 0.5 pounds, the saw is lightweight enough to use one-handed without fatigue. The folding design also makes it easy to grip the handle without interference from the blade. Overall, the ergonomics are well-suited for users who need to make multiple cuts in a session without discomfort.

One of the standout features of the Corona RazorTOOTH saw is its portability. When folded, the saw measures only 11.5 x 4.5 x 1 inches, making it small enough to slip into a pocket, tool belt, or garden bag. The locking mechanism keeps the blade safely enclosed, so there is no risk of accidental cuts during transport. Weighing only half a pound, it adds negligible weight to your gear. This makes it an excellent choice for homeowners who need a pruning saw for quick jobs around the yard or for landscapers who want a backup tool that fits easily in a truck or backpack. The compact size also means it takes up minimal storage space in a garage or shed.

The SEESII 6-inch mini chainsaw is a compact, cordless electric saw designed for light to medium trimming tasks around the home, garden, and workshop. It's best suited for DIY homeowners, gardeners, and hobbyists who need a portable tool for pruning trees, cutting firewood, or clearing brush. The upgraded 1000W pure copper motor delivers a chain speed of 30 feet per second, allowing it to cut through branches up to 6 inches thick with ease.

In real-world use, the chainsaw offers impressive cutting efficiency for its size. Users can expect smooth, fast cuts through softwoods and smaller hardwoods. The automatic chain lubrication system keeps the chain running smoothly and prevents messy oil leaks, which is a common issue with cheaper models. The quiet operation is a major plus, letting you work early in the morning or late in the evening without creating noise complaints.

Build quality is decent for the price point. The housing is made from reinforced ABS plastic, which is lighter than metal but still durable for occasional use. The handle includes a low-kickback design and a hand guard to protect against debris and accidental contact. The double safety lock prevents the saw from starting unintentionally, adding another layer of security.

The kit comes with two 2000mAh lithium-ion batteries that provide up to 2 hours of runtime combined, depending on the load. This is enough for most weekend projects. The batteries are also compatible with Makita 18V tools, which is a nice bonus for users already invested in that ecosystem. A carrying case, extra chain, and gloves are included, so you're ready to go right out of the box.

That said, the 6-inch bar limits the saw to small-diameter wood. It's not meant for felling large trees or heavy construction work. The plastic body, while light, may not hold up under frequent professional use. Some users may find the chain tensioning knob a bit fiddly at first, but it works fine once you get the hang of it.

Overall, the SEESII mini chainsaw is a solid choice for anyone who needs a lightweight, easy-to-use saw for light trimming and pruning. It's a great gift for dads, husbands, or gardeners who enjoy maintaining their property. For heavier tasks, you'd want a larger gas or corded electric saw, but for everyday yard work, this little saw gets the job done without fuss.

The SEESII mini chainsaw features a reinforced ABS plastic body that is both lightweight and surprisingly sturdy for its class. The motor housing is well-ventilated to prevent overheating, and the pure copper windings promise better efficiency and longevity compared to aluminum motors. The chain is made from hardened steel and maintains its edge reasonably well for light use. The automatic oiler uses a simple pump mechanism that delivers consistent lubrication without over-oiling. While the plastic construction won't survive abuse like professional-grade metal saws, it's more than adequate for a home tool that sees occasional use.

The saw comes with two 2000mAh lithium-ion batteries, which the manufacturer claims offer up to 60 minutes of runtime each under light load. In practice, continuous heavy cutting will reduce this to around 30-40 minutes per battery. The batteries charge fully in about 60-90 minutes via the included charger. A nice feature is compatibility with Makita 18V batteries, allowing users to tap into an existing battery system. The batteries also have overload and overheat protection to extend their lifespan.

The Horonaxo 10-inch folding hand saw serves as an efficient cutting tool designed specifically for tree trimming, limb removal, and general backyard clearing. Constructed with a high-carbon steel blade engineered to match SK-5 steel performance, this saw targets outdoor maintenance tasks where a standard chainsaw or bow saw feels overly bulky. Its balanced geometry and tooth pattern make it a dependable companion for everyday yard care and backcountry maintenance.

This tool suits DIY homeowners, landscapers, woodworkers, and outdoor enthusiasts who need portable cutting capacity on demand. Whether pruning overgrown orchard branches, cutting kindling on a camping trip, or clearing storm-damaged brush around the garage, the tool packs enough reach to handle branches up to 6 inches in diameter with minimal physical effort.

The cutting action relies on triple-ground teeth configured for efficient pull-stroke operation. Rather than pushing forward and risking blade bend, the saw cuts cleanly on the draw, clearing chips quickly and slicing smoothly through wet sapwood as well as dry branches. A rust-resistant coating reduces binding against sticky sap, keeping each pass fluid while safeguarding the metal from moisture during damp morning yard work.

Build quality centers around a positive folding lock mechanism that fixes the blade securely in both open and closed positions. This eliminates accidental pivot slips during rigorous sawing motions and secures the sharp teeth when stowed away. Complementing the locking system is an ergonomic handle wrapped in non-slip rubber, which helps maintain a confident hold even when working with wet hands or leather work gloves.

While this hand saw excels at general pruning and light trail clearing, users should manage expectations when tackling dense, seasoned hardwoods near the maximum diameter limit. Overly aggressive side pressure may flex the blade, so smooth, measured pull strokes yield the cleanest cuts. Overall, the Horonaxo folding saw represents a practical, budget-conscious addition to any homeowner's shed, vehicle emergency kit, or workshop hand tool collection.

For property owners, this folding hand saw is well matched for seasonal tree trimming, deadwood removal, and shaping fruit trees where clean cuts preserve plant health.

For outdoor adventures, the saw packs neatly into camping gear, offering an easy way to process campfire fuel and clear trail obstructions without the weight of an axe.

In the workshop or garage, it works nicely for quick crosscuts on rough lumber, clearing pallet boards, and tackling rough sizing tasks where grabbing a power tool is unnecessary.