A pole saw includes a long handle with end adapter, a blade-carrying component pivoted to the end adapter for movement between an extended use position and a handle-adjacent storage position, and a saw blade fixed to the blade-carrying component. The end adapter and holding component are cast aluminum for strength and light weight, and are pivoted together about an offset axis so that the blade and blade-carrying component are positioned adjacent the handle in a partially protected position when collapsed for storage. A folding lock mechanism includes an anchor that engages a saw-holding bolt on the blade-carrying component, and a wing nut that can be tightened to secure the sheath on the blade.