Best Pruning Shears
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Wondering which pruning shears will make the cut for your gardening projects? We sifted through more than 14 models and selected the top 5 for hands-on testing. Our evaluation focused on their cutting ability, comfort, build quality, and suitability for various pruning tasks. Through direct comparison, we’ve discovered key tips that can assist you in finding the ideal pair of pruning shears tailored to your garden’s needs.
For all your gardening needs, look no further! Our team, comprised of seasoned gardening professionals and enthusiasts, rigorously evaluates a variety of gardening tools. This includes conducting tests based on specific requests and selecting products we believe will greatly benefit both our readers and ourselves. Our comprehensive guides on the top gardening gloves, watering cans, composting bins, and more are a must-see if you’re looking for new gardening equipment. Discover all our tested and reviewed items on this page.
Top pruning Shears
- Precision-ground steel blade for clean cuts
- Low-friction blade coating to reduce sticking and rust
- Non-slip grip handle for comfort and control
Why people like them:
These Fiskars pruners are popular for their overall ease of use and comfortable design. The sharp blades make clean cuts, while the low-friction coating prevents them from gumming up with sap. The non-slip grip allows for better control and reduces hand fatigue during extended pruning sessions.
Who they’re for:
These pruners are ideal for general gardening tasks and are suitable for gardeners of all experience levels. They’re perfect for cutting flowers, herbs, small branches, and deadheading plants.
- Sharp blades ensure clean cuts and minimize damage to plants.
- Comfortable handle design reduces hand strain during use.
- May not be powerful enough for very thick branches or heavy-duty pruning tasks.
Corona BP 3180D Forged Classic Bypass Pruner
- Heavy-duty bypass blade made from SK5 steel for clean, durable cuts
- Comfortable, non-slip grips with hand guard
- Sap groove to prevent blade sticking.
Why people like it:
Users appreciate the sturdy construction and sharp blade for effortlessly cutting even thicker branches. The comfortable grips and hand guard enhance safety and reduce fatigue during prolonged use. The sap groove minimizes blade sticking, ensuring smooth operation.
Who it’s for:
This pruner is suitable for serious gardeners who tackle demanding pruning tasks on various plants. Its durability and power make it ideal for cutting thicker branches and small tree limbs.
- Heavy-duty construction and sharp blade for effortless cutting
- Comfortable grips and hand guard for safety and reduced fatigue
- Sap groove prevents blade sticking for smooth operation.
- Slightly heavier than some other options.
TABOR TOOLS S821A Bypass Pruning Shears
- Chrome vanadium steel blade for long-lasting sharpness and rust resistance
- Ergonomic handles with soft grips and finger guard
- Bypass design with adjustable tension screw for precise cuts.
Why people like it:
- Users praise the sharp blade and smooth cutting action, even on live stems.
- The comfortable handles with finger guard provide excellent grip and control.
- The adjustable tension allows customizing the cut for different stem thicknesses.
Who it’s for:
- This pruner is a versatile choice for general gardening tasks and suitable for both new and experienced users.
- Its balance of comfort, precision, and affordability makes it popular among hobbyists and casual gardeners.
- Sharp and durable chrome vanadium steel blade
- Ergonomic handles with comfortable grips and finger guard
- Adjustable tension screw for customized cuts.
- May not be powerful enough for the very thickest branches.
Bahco Ergo Bypass Pruner PX-M2
- Swiss-made, bypass blade made from high-carbon steel for excellent sharpness
- Comfortable, non-slip handles with angled design for natural hand position
- Sap groove and internal spring mechanism for smooth operation.
Why people like it:
- Users love the incredibly sharp blade that glides through stems effortlessly.
- The angled handles provide a comfortable grip and reduce wrist strain.
- The internal spring and sap groove contribute to smooth cutting and less maintenance.
Who it’s for:
- This pruner is a premium choice for experienced gardeners who value precision and comfort in their tools.
- Its high-quality construction and smooth operation make it ideal for delicate pruning tasks and various plant types.
- Exceptionally sharp Swiss-made blade for clean cuts
- Comfortable, angled handles with non-slip grips
- Internal spring and sap groove for smooth operation and reduced maintenance.
- Higher price point compared to some other options.
Dramm 18026 Stainless Steel Compact Shear
- Teflon-coated bypass blade for reduced friction and rust resistance
- Lightweight, aluminum handles with comfortable grips
- Safety lock for storage and transportation.
Why people like it:
- Users appreciate the smooth cutting action due to the Teflon coating and the lightweight design for comfortable handling.
- The safety lock provides peace of mind during storage and transportation.
Who it’s for:
- This pruner is good for users who prioritize lightweight comfort and value rust resistance.
- Its easy handling and safety features suit hobbyists and casual gardeners.
- Teflon-coated blade for smooth cutting and rust resistance
- Lightweight aluminum handles with comfortable grips
- Safety lock for secure storage and transportation.
- May not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks or thick branches due to its lightweight design and potentially smaller cutting capacity compared to other options on this list.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different types of pruning shears?
There are mainly three types: bypass, anvil, and ratchet. Bypass shears work like scissors, ideal for live plants and clean cuts. Anvil shears have a single blade that closes onto a flat surface, great for dead wood. Ratchet shears are a type of anvil shears but with a mechanism that cuts in stages, reducing the effort needed for tough cuts.
How do I choose the right pruning shears for my garden?
Consider the type of plants you have. Go with bypass shears for a cleaner cut for delicate or live plants. If you deal with a lot of deadwood or have tougher plants, anvil or ratchet shears might be better. Also, think about ergonomics and hand size; look for shears that fit comfortably in your hand and don’t require excessive force to use.
How often should I sharpen my pruning shears?
It depends on how frequently you use them, but a good rule of thumb is to sharpen them at least once per season. If you notice the cuts becoming less clean or more difficult to make, it’s likely time to sharpen them. Regular maintenance keeps them effective and extends their lifespan.
Can I use pruning shears for all types of plants?
While pruning shears are versatile, they’re not suitable for all plant sizes and types. They work best on smaller branches and stems, usually up to ¾ inches in diameter. For larger branches, you might need loppers or a pruning saw. Always use the right tool for the job to avoid damaging your plants or the tool.
