You might be surprised to know that over 70% of gardening enthusiasts prioritize pruning as a vital step in maintaining a healthy garden. But, with so many pruning shears on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. From ergonomic handles to innovative cutting technology, the best pruning shears can make all the difference in your gardening experience. But which ones stand out from the rest? You’re about to find out, as we count down the top 9 pruning shears that will take your gardening game to the next level.
Contents
- ARS HP-VS8Z Signature Heavy Duty Pruner
- FELCO F-2 068780 Classic Manual Hand Pruner, F 2, Red
- VIVOSUN 6.5 Inch Gardening Scissors
- Ratchet Pruning Shears Gardening Tool
- EZ Kut Heavy Duty Pruning Shears
- Fiskars 391041-1001 PowerGear2 Pruner, Steel
- Corona Clipper BP 4214D Flex Dial Bypass Pruner
- Gonicc 8 Professional Titanium Bypass Pruning Shears
- Felco Pruning Shears (F 6)
- Factors to Consider When Choosing Pruning Shears
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
ARS HP-VS8Z Signature Heavy Duty Pruner
If you’re a gardener or landscaper seeking a reliable and efficient pruning tool for tackling thicker branches and stems, the ARS HP-VS8Z Signature Heavy Duty Pruner is an ideal choice, thanks to its unique latch lock that enables single-hand operation and hard chrome-plated blades that resist rust and sap buildup.
You’ll appreciate the ergonomic handles and offset blades designed for maximum comfort, allowing you to work for extended periods without fatigue.
The replaceable blades guarantee your pruner remains sharp and effective, while the lightweight and balanced design reduces strain on your hands and wrists.
With its durable aluminum blades and plastic handles, this pruner is built to last, making it a valuable addition to your gardening toolkit.
Best For: Gardeners and landscapers who need a reliable and efficient pruning tool for tackling thicker branches and stems.
Pros:
- Unique latch lock enables single-hand operation for increased efficiency
- Ergonomic handles and offset blades provide maximum comfort and reduce fatigue
- Replaceable blades ensure the pruner remains sharp and effective over time
Cons:
- The aluminum blades may be prone to bending or breaking if used on extremely hard or thick branches
- The plastic handles may be less durable than handles made from other materials
- The pruner’s weight and balance may not be suitable for users with smaller hands or grip strength
FELCO F-2 068780 Classic Manual Hand Pruner, F 2, Red
For gardeners seeking a reliable and durable pruning tool for trimming rose bushes and woody perennials, the FELCO F-2 068780 Classic Manual Hand Pruner is an ideal choice, offering a 1-inch cutting capacity and ergonomic comfort.
You’ll appreciate the smooth, soft action and exceptional durability, making it perfect for regular use.
With its 8.25-inch solid forged metal alloy handles, replaceable cutting blade, and anvil blade with sap groove, this pruner is built to last.
Plus, it’s covered by a 1-year warranty, but with proper care, it’ll be your trusted companion for a lifetime.
Weighing just 8.8 ounces, it’s comfortable to hold and maneuver, and its ambidextrous design makes it suitable for both left- and right-handed users.
Best For: Gardeners who need a reliable and durable pruning tool for trimming rose bushes and woody perennials.
Pros:
- Offers smooth, soft action and exceptional durability, making it perfect for regular use.
- Ergonomic comfort and ambidextrous design make it suitable for both left- and right-handed users.
- Covered by a 1-year warranty, but with proper care, it’ll be your trusted companion for a lifetime.
Cons:
- Some users mentioned the locking mechanism can be a drawback.
- No batteries are included, and a lithium-ion battery is required (not included).
- Weighing 8.8 ounces, some users may find it slightly heavy.
VIVOSUN 6.5 Inch Gardening Scissors
The VIVOSUN 6.5 Inch Gardening Scissors are an ideal choice for gardeners with arthritis, carpal tunnel, or hand or wrist issues, thanks to their comfortable grip handles designed to reduce hand strain.
You’ll appreciate the ultra-sharp stainless steel precision-sharpened blades that make deadheading, trimming, and shaping a breeze.
The secure sideways locking mechanism guarantees safe storage and easy use for both right- and left-handed users.
With one-hand operation, you can make precise cuts, perfect for trimming trees and flowers, cutting papers, or even opening boxes.
Weighing only 80 grams, these scissors are lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them a great addition to your gardening toolkit.
Best For: gardeners with arthritis, carpal tunnel, or hand or wrist issues who need comfortable and easy-to-use gardening scissors.
Pros:
- Ultra-sharp stainless steel precision-sharpened blades for efficient deadheading, trimming, and shaping
- Comfortable grip handles designed to reduce hand strain and suitable for those with arthritis, carpal tunnel, or hand or wrist issues
- Secure sideways locking mechanism for safe storage and easy use for both right- and left-handed users
Cons:
- No specific drawbacks mentioned in the product description or customer reviews
- No additional features or accessories included with the product
- May not be suitable for heavy-duty or commercial gardening use
Ratchet Pruning Shears Gardening Tool
You’ll appreciate the strength-boosting power of these ratchet pruning shears, designed to make quick work of stems, stalks, and small branches, making them the best choice for gardeners who need a reliable tool for pruning, trimming, and harvesting plants.
With a carbon steel blade and wooden handle, these shears are built to last.
The serrated anvil blade and round point make clean cuts a breeze, and the ambidextrous design guarantees comfortable use for both left- and right-handed gardeners.
Plus, the lifetime warranty provides peace of mind.
With over 4,900 customer reviews and a 4.1-star rating, it’s clear that these ratchet pruning shears have earned their spot as a top choice among gardening enthusiasts.
Best For: Gardeners who need a reliable tool for pruning, trimming, and harvesting plants.
Pros:
- Strength-boosting ratchet mechanism makes pruning easier
- Durable carbon steel blade and wooden handle ensure long-lasting performance
- Ambidextrous design and comfortable grip make it suitable for both left- and right-handed gardeners
Cons:
- Some users have reported issues with the locking mechanism
- Blade oiler has been mentioned as a problem by a few customers
- No batteries are included, but this is not a major concern since the product does not require batteries
EZ Kut Heavy Duty Pruning Shears
If you’re struggling with arthritis or weak hands, the EZ Kut Heavy Duty Pruning Shears are your best bet, thanks to their ergonomic design and ratcheting action that takes the strain out of pruning.
With a comfortable, shock-absorbing grip and high-quality SK5 hardened carbon steel blade, you’ll be able to tackle even the toughest branches with ease.
The ratcheting function allows you to cut through branches up to 1.5 inches thick without exerting too much effort. Plus, the non-stick coating facilitates smooth cuts and prevents rust buildup.
With a 4.4-star rating and over 874 customer reviews, it’s clear that these shears have won over many gardeners’ hearts.
Give them a try and experience the difference for yourself!
Best For: Seniors, people with arthritis, and those with weak hands who need a comfortable and easy-to-use pruning shear for gardening, farming, hunting, and trail riding.
Pros:
- Ergonomic design with ratcheting action for easy pruning
- Comfortable, shock-absorbing grip and high-quality SK5 hardened carbon steel blade
- Non-stick coating facilitates smooth cuts and prevents rust buildup
Cons:
- Rivet broke after moderate use in some cases
- Locking mechanism can be difficult to use
- No other notable cons mentioned in customer reviews
Fiskars 391041-1001 PowerGear2 Pruner, Steel
Those seeking a reliable and efficient pruning shear that can tackle tough gardening tasks with ease will appreciate the Fiskars 391041-1001 PowerGear2 Pruner, Steel, which boasts a powerful cutting performance thanks to its innovative PowerGear technology.
You’ll enjoy the ease of cutting through thick branches with 3x more power on every cut. The low-friction blade coating facilitates smooth cuts and reduces gumming, while the fully hardened bypass-style steel blades stay sharp through heavy use.
The ergonomic design provides a comfortable grip, making it perfect for users with arthritis or weak hands.
With its excellent durability and ease of use, it’s no wonder users highly recommend this pruner, saying it’s the best garden clipper they’ve found in years.
Best For: Users with arthritis or weak hands, as well as anyone seeking a reliable and efficient pruning shear for gardening and pruning tasks.
Pros:
- Powerful cutting performance with 3x more power on every cut
- Ergonomic design provides a comfortable grip and ease of use
- Fully hardened bypass-style steel blades stay sharp through heavy use and provide excellent durability
Cons:
- Some users experienced issues with the ergonomic handle spinning off-axis
- Lock mechanism can be difficult to use
- Some users prefer older models or other brands
Corona Clipper BP 4214D Flex Dial Bypass Pruner
The Corona Clipper BP 4214D Flex Dial Bypass Pruner is the best choice for gardeners who demand a precise, fatigue-reducing fit due to its adjustable FlexDIAL feature, providing 8 customizable positions.
You’ll appreciate the coated non-stick blade that facilitates smooth cutting and reduces maintenance.
The ComfortGEL grips provide comfort and control, while the ShockGUARD bumpers reduce hand fatigue and cushion each cut.
The full steel construction guarantees superior durability and cutting performance.
With a limited lifetime warranty, you can trust this pruner to be a reliable companion in your gardening journey.
As an eco-friendly bonus, Corona’s commitment to sustainability is evident in their 100% recyclable packaging and tree-planting initiatives.
Best For: Gardeners who demand a precise, fatigue-reducing fit and prioritize comfort and control while pruning.
Pros:
- Adjustable FlexDIAL feature with 8 customizable positions for a comfortable fit
- Coated non-stick blade for smooth cutting and reduced maintenance
- ComfortGEL grips and ShockGUARD bumpers for reduced hand fatigue and improved control
Cons:
- No specific drawbacks mentioned in the product description
- Weight of 0.317 ounces may be a concern for some users
- Limited information available on the warranty claim process
Gonicc 8 Professional Titanium Bypass Pruning Shears
You’ll find the Gonicc 8 Professional Titanium Bypass Pruning Shears to be the best choice for gardeners seeking a high-quality, durable, and sharp tool capable of cutting through 3/4 diameter size tree branches with ease.
With its drop-forged body and handles, premium Titanium steel blade, and Ultra-fine Polishing Technology, you’ll be impressed by its cutting performance.
The ergonomically designed non-slip handles and sap groove design facilitate a comfortable grip and prevent sticking.
Weighing only 6.4 ounces, these pruning shears are lightweight and easy to maneuver.
With a 4.6-star rating from over 27,000 customers, it’s clear that this product has earned its spot as the #1 best seller in Hedge Clippers & Shears.
Best For: Gardeners seeking a high-quality, durable, and sharp tool for cutting through tree branches.
Pros:
- Sharp and durable Titanium steel blade with Ultra-fine Polishing Technology for effective cutting performance
- Ergonomically designed non-slip handles for comfortable grip and maneuverability
- Lightweight and easy to use, weighing only 6.4 ounces
Cons:
- Some customers have reported concerns about the foam grip’s durability and the need for replacement
- No batteries are included (although none are required)
- No additional features or accessories are included with the product
Felco Pruning Shears (F 6)
If you’re a gardener seeking high-performance pruning shears that can tackle small pruning work with precision and comfort, the Felco Pruning Shears (F 6) is an excellent choice, thanks to its ultra-durable forged aluminum handles and hardened steel blades.
You’ll appreciate the ergonomic design, which features a revolving handle for extra comfort and a cushioned-shock absorber that softens the cutting impact.
With a large cutting capacity, well-balanced weight, and wire cutter for small wires, these pruners are perfect for trimming grape vines, shrubs, and young trees.
The hardened steel blade and screw-mounted anvil blade guarantee reliably clean, precise cuts every time.
Best For: Gardeners seeking high-performance pruning shears for small pruning work, particularly for trimming grape vines, shrubs, and young trees.
Pros:
- Ultra-durable forged aluminum handles and hardened steel blades for long-lasting use
- Ergonomic design with revolving handle and cushioned-shock absorber for comfort and reduced fatigue
- Precise pruning with large cutting capacity, wire cutter, and sap groove to minimize blade sticking
Cons:
- No specific drawbacks mentioned in the product description or customer reviews
- No additional features or accessories included (e.g., carrying case, sharpening tool)
- May require occasional maintenance (e.g., cleaning, sharpening) to maintain optimal performance
Factors to Consider When Choosing Pruning Shears
When choosing the right pruning shears for your gardening needs, you’ll want to evaluate several key factors.
You’ll need to think about the quality of the blade material, how comfortable the handle is to grip, and the type of cuts you need to make.
Blade Material Quality
Choosing the right pruning shears begins with selecting blades made from high-quality materials that can withstand the demands of regular use.
You want blades that can handle heavy use and resist corrosion, so you can focus on pruning without worrying about your tools failing you.
High-carbon stainless steel blades are a popular choice for their corrosion resistance and durability.
If you’re looking for a lighter and stronger option, titanium blades are a great choice, allowing for more precise cuts and reduced fatigue.
When it comes to construction, forged blades are stronger and more durable than stamped blades, as they’re made from a single piece of metal shaped and strengthened through a heating and cooling process.
Additionally, coated blades can reduce friction and prevent sap and debris from sticking to the blade, making your pruning tasks easier.
Finally, consider the Rockwell Hardness Scale (HRC) when selecting your pruning shears, as higher numbers indicate greater hardness and durability.
Handle Comfort and Grip
With high-quality blades in place, it’s time to focus on the other half of the pruning shears equation: the handles, where comfort and grip can make all the difference between a successful pruning session and a frustrating one.
You’ll want to look for ergonomic handles with contoured grips that reduce fatigue and discomfort, allowing you to prune for extended periods without strain. Non-slip materials like rubber or silicone can improve grip and control, even in wet or slippery conditions. Additionally, cushioning or shock-absorbing features in the handles can help reduce the impact of cutting and minimize hand fatigue.
For a comfortable fit, consider adjustable handles or rotating handles that accommodate different hand sizes and preferences.
Textured or ridged handles can provide a secure grip, even for users with arthritis or hand tremors, allowing for more precise control.
Cutting Capacity and Type
You’ll need to weigh the type and capacity of the cutting blades, as they directly impact the effectiveness of your pruning sessions.
The cutting capacity refers to the maximum thickness of the branch that the shears can cut through. If you’re dealing with thicker branches, you’ll need shears with a higher cutting capacity. On the other hand, if you’re pruning smaller plants or flowers, a lower cutting capacity will suffice.
The type of cutting blade is also vital.
Bypass blades are ideal for live stems, as they make clean cuts without crushing the plant. Anvil blades, on the other hand, are better suited for dead or dry wood, as they can apply more pressure to cut through tougher material.
You may also come across ratcheting or geared pruning shears, which provide extra leverage for thicker branches. Consider the types of plants you’ll be pruning and the frequency of use when selecting the right cutting capacity and type for your needs.
Ergonomic Design Considerations
When selecting pruning shears, keep in consideration ergonomic design factors that can greatly impact your comfort and fatigue levels during extended pruning sessions.
A well-designed handle is essential, as it should fit comfortably in your hand to reduce fatigue and discomfort. Look for contoured grips with cushioning and non-slip materials to improve grip comfort and reduce hand strain during prolonged use.
The angle and positioning of the blades are also important, as they should allow for a natural wrist and forearm alignment, reducing strain and promoting comfortable cutting motions.
Additionally, consider the placement of thumb and finger rests, which can reduce finger fatigue and provide additional control during use. Adjustable handles or rotating handles can also be beneficial, as they can accommodate different hand sizes and preferences, ensuring a comfortable and secure grip for you.
Weight and Balance Distribution
As you seek to minimize fatigue and maximize comfort during pruning sessions, pay attention to the weight and balance distribution of your pruning shears, as it substantially impacts your overall experience.
A well-balanced pair should have 60% of its weight in the handles and 40% in the blades, allowing for ideal control and comfort. Look for pruning shears with ergonomic handles and contoured grips, which can reduce fatigue and discomfort by evenly distributing the weight across your hand.
A balanced pair can reduce the strain on your wrist and forearm, allowing you to use them for longer periods without fatigue.
When choosing pruning shears, verify the weight is evenly distributed between your hands to prevent strain on your dominant hand.
Adjustable or rotating handles can be customized to fit your hand size and comfort preferences, promoting comfortable use.
Additional Features and Value
Considering the range of features and value-adding aspects can make a significant difference in your pruning experience, so you should prioritize weighing the importance of ergonomic design, non-slip grips, and adjustable tension alongside specialized blades and maintenance features.
These additional features can greatly enhance your overall pruning experience.
For instance, ergonomic design and non-slip grips can reduce fatigue and discomfort during extended use. Adjustable tension, on the other hand, allows you to customize the shears to your specific needs.
Some pruning shears also come with specialized blades, such as sap grooves or wire cutters, which can be valuable for specific pruning tasks or plant types.
When evaluating the value of pruning shears, consider factors like durability, rust resistance, and ease of cleaning and maintenance. These factors can impact the overall lifespan and performance of the shears.
Additionally, the warranty and customer support offered by the manufacturer can provide assurance and protection for your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Pruning Shears Be Used for Both Right- and Left-Handed Users?
You’re wondering if pruning shears can accommodate both right- and left-handed users. The good news is that many models are ambidextrous, designed to be reversible or have interchangeable handles, making them suitable for both left- and right-handed gardeners.
How Do I Clean and Maintain My Pruning Shears?
As you hold your trusted gardening companion, you wonder how to keep it in top shape. To clean your pruning shears, simply wipe them with a soft cloth and mild soap, then dry and oil the blades to maintain their precision.
Are There Any Pruning Shears Suitable for People With Arthritis?
If you have arthritis, you’ll want pruning shears with ergonomic grips, non-slip handles, and easy-to-squeeze blades, making it easier for you to grip and cut without straining your hands or wrists.
Can I Use Pruning Shears to Cut Thick Branches or Logs?
You shouldn’t use pruning shears to cut thick branches or logs; they’re designed for trimming small stems and stems, not heavy-duty cutting.
Are Pruning Shears Safe to Use Around Pets and Children?
When you’re gardening, you’re not just thinking about plants, you’re thinking about people and pets around you. You need to make certain your pruning tools won’t harm them, especially curious kids and pets, so always store them safely out of reach.
Conclusion
You’ve got your hands on the best pruning shears, and now it’s time to get down to business.
Remember, the right tool can make all the difference in your gardening game.
With these high-quality pruning shears, you’ll be cutting like a pro in no time.
Don’t let your pruning tasks get the best of you – take the reins and ‘cut to the chase’ with one of these top-rated models.
