How to choose a lopper for working with tall trees in the garden

Caring for the site requires time and effort. One of the important points for every gardener is tree pruning. During this operation, the living plant is given a beautiful shape, old branches are removed, and the garden’s productivity increases. To simplify this procedure, there are different tools, which include a lopper and how to choose the right one for your site, we have prepared tips for you depending on the size of the site, the type of work, the plants growing on it and the budget.

What is a lopper and what is it for?

A garden lopper helps with pruning thorny bushes, trees, and plants with tough branches. Its design is intended for sanitary, decorative, emergency and seasonal pruning. Its main difference from other instruments is its long handles, which:

• cope with thick branches and twigs;
• allow you to reach hard-to-reach places;
• pruning thorny bushes;
• require less physical effort.

The device can only be operated with two hands. Loppers for pruning trees (pear, apple trees) with long handles are used in small areas, and if a dozen trees and shrubs or green hedges are already growing on it, then they will become a must-have tool. Benefits of using these devices:

• the work of pruning plants proceeds faster;
• For tall trees there is no need to use a ladder.

Important! Manual varieties are cheaper than electric models and easier to use.

Content:

1. Electric lopper (mains) Worx WG307E 15 cm
2. Electric pole saw (mains) Hammer VR700C
3. Electric pole saw (powered) greenworks GPS7220 20 cm
4. Electric pole saw (mains) BLACK+DECKER PS7525
5. Electric hedge trimmer (mains) BOSCH AHS 60-16 60 cm
6. Electric pole saw (powered) RYOBI RPT4545E 45 cm
7. Electric lopper (mains) BLACK+DECKER GK1000 Alligator 15 cm
8. Electric pole saw (powered) RYOBI RPP755E 25 cm
9. Electric hedge trimmer (mains) Hammer VR700CH 41 cm
10. Electric hedge trimmer (mains) RYOBI RP750450 45 cm

Types of loppers that exist

All loppers differ in design, size and capabilities. Main division by type of actuation:

• mechanical;
• electrical;
• gasoline.

Good to know, read: — Features of choosing an electric pruner for pruning trees.

Mechanical

All modifications of manual loppers can be divided into two groups:

• Double-lever: characterized by a simple mechanism, they work on the principle of ordinary scissors. Trimming occurs when the blades close. The length of the handle is 30-90 cm. The longer they are, the thicker the branch can be cut and reached to a greater height. Suitable for caring for bushes and lower branches of trees.
• Rod-type: consist of blades and a rod - a high-rise lopper. When working, hold the barbell with one hand, and drive the moving part with the other using a cord. The length of the rod is from 1 to 4 meters, chosen depending on the height of the trees. Supplied complete with tool or separately. If it is possible to rotate the working head, then cutting can be done at different angles.

In the manufacture of tools, durable steel is used for the blades, and durable but lightweight materials are used for the handles, which are sometimes coated with an anti-slip coating. The weight of the tool is 0.2-2.6 kg, which allows you to remove branches 30-55 mm thick.

Additional Information! Chain loppers cope with branches up to 30 mm.

Electrical

The electric garden lopper is powered by an electric motor. Movement around the site depends on the length of the cord. Models available for use:

• At height - with a barbell and a chain saw. An additional rod will ensure pruning at a height of more than 5 m.
• Below - with a saw blade and a small handle. The power lever is usually located on the holder, which is very convenient when starting.

The electric lopper comes in a cordless version, which has a built-in or removable battery. Its capacity determines the operating time until the next charge. The advantage of using it is that there is no need for an electrical network.

Rating of the best models for hedges

GARDENA 12002

A classic model that will be a good solution for caring for a small garden. The product is lightweight and has good lever action. A person does not have to make any effort, just press and that’s it. There are shock absorbers made of special plastic, which guarantees joint protection. High-quality sharpened blades guarantee a neat and even cut. The manufacturer provides a 25-year warranty on the product.

The average cost is 1,550 rubles.

Advantages:

• No rust;
• Acuity;
• Long warranty;
• Ergonomic, since nothing slips out of your hands;
• The handles are made of aluminum;
• Small mass.

Flaws:

• Not found.

PALISAD 60518

Convenient double-lever model, which is equipped with comfortable handles. Blade type – contact. Product weight – 1.2 kg. There is a high-quality protective coating. The thrust plate is durable and does not rust from moisture. Hard steel was used to make the sharp part. Working diameter – 35 mm. The product is suitable for hedges. Total length – 750 mm.

The average cost is 1,080 rubles.

Advantages:

• Does not require effort to cut branches;
• Hands do not get tired;
• Minimum time costs;
• Will last for several years;
• The blade is perfectly sharp, which ensures a neat cut;
• Suitable for caring for small trees and hedges.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Center tool 0207

A popular Russian product that will be a good helper for removing excess branches. The working diameter of the tool is 45 mm, which is high. For greater convenience, the model is equipped with a ratchet mechanism. The total length of the device is 75 cm. The sharp elements are made of steel. The handles are telescopic, which will help you get to any branches and remove them safely.

The average cost is 1,820 rubles.

Advantages:

• Beautiful body;
• The tool will not break at the wrong time;
• Good mechanism;
• Beautiful cut;
• Low cost.

Flaws:

• Not detected.

RACO 4218-53/376С

A reliable lopper that uses a lever drive. The weight of the product is 1 kg, so your hands will practically not become clogged from prolonged use. Working diameter – 32 mm. There is a high-quality power drive. There is a reliable thrust plate. The shape of the sharp element is curved. Before purchasing, it is important to know that the rod is not included in the kit; it must be purchased separately.

The average cost is 1,850 rubles.

Advantages:

• No fatigue from long work;
• Professional assembly, without backlash or creaks;
• The thrust plate is made of durable material;
• Acuity;
• Will last for several years;
• Any work will bring pleasure.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Classification of loppers by design features

Types of loppers are distinguished according to the operating principle of the cutting blades:

• Flat: curved or straight cutting blades are sharpened and meet in one plane. There are models where one blade is straight and the other is curved. They provide an even cut – a gentle option for living branches. They cope poorly with dry branches - they get stuck.
• Bypass: the lower blade is concave, not sharpened. The upper blade slides past the lower one and at the same time parallel to it.
• Contact or with an anvil: one blade cuts, the other is persistent, works like an anvil. Thick, dry branches cut better, but live ones more often crush, which is bad for plants.
• Universal: rod models with a hacksaw and cutting mechanism. Thick branches of different diameters and at high heights are trimmed.
• Combined: many modifications. Devices are available with additional attachments.

Important! All tools can additionally be equipped with a ratchet mechanism - it helps to cut the branch in several stages. It is especially convenient to remove old thick branches.

Loppers are classified according to the method of adjusting the rod:

• Rod: a special fastening connects the cutting part and the rod. Stacked version - assembled from several rods. The forces applied to the handle through a chain or rope using special blocks are transferred to the cutting unit.
• Telescopic: the handles extend to a certain length. They are equipped with pole saws and double-lever models.

Electric pole saw (powered) greenworks GPS7220 20 cm

Photo: market.yandex.ru

The GreenWorks GPS7220 Electric Pruner/Lopper allows you to trim high tree branches. It has a three-part composite rod. Equipped with 8" bar and chain. The handle, which rests on the forearm, has a rubber coating for comfortable holding of the tool. Protection system against accidental activation.

Electric pole saw (powered) greenworks GPS7220 20 cm

Advantages:

• Operation speed
• Convenience
• Safety
• Automatic lubrication
• Interface

How to choose the right lopper, which one is best for high-rise tree pruning

How to choose a lopper, answers to a small list of questions will help:

• determine the types, list and scope of actions required to be carried out on the site;
• take into account: the height of growing trees and shrubs, their age, the thickness of the branches;
• first choose the type of tool, and then the length of the rod or handles.

The device is examined for important characteristics:

• Light weight - more convenient to work, less effort spent, especially if the area is large or there are a lot of plants.
• Blade lock – holds the tool in the closed position. Convenient to store and carry.
• The handle is covered with special rubber - it does not slip in the hand.
• Telescopic handle – helps regulate the cutting height. A large length of handles is not required in a double-lever tool, otherwise when working you will need to form a large angle with them in order to grab the branches.
• Precision sharpening – ensures high blade sharpness and increases service life.
• Teflon or chrome coating of knives - wood will not stick, friction between the blades will be reduced during operation.
• Step or ratchet mechanism - will allow you to leave the tool inside the wood, the spring will remove the blade.

Important! Inexperienced workers are recommended to choose models with closed handles - less dangerous, with special pads - against the occurrence of calluses.

Loppers for pruning young trees and shrubs are models that cut branches up to 25 mm thick. A telescopic lopper is useful for areas with plants of different heights. A lopper for tall trees is suitable for fruit areas. A garden lopper with a long handle is chosen based on one’s own wishes and preferences:

• curly trimming - a bypass unit is suitable;
• a lot of dry branches - it’s better to take a tool with an anvil;
• young plants - consider planar models.

Criterias of choice

Before buying a lopper, decide on the purpose of using the tool, estimate your budget, and analyze the operating conditions. If you have to work with a couple of crops in the garden or on the plot, there is no point in buying an expensive model. But for intensive use, reliable branded tools are better suited. Let's get acquainted with the key parameters for choosing a lopper.

• Maximum branch diameter.
  The thickness of the branches of young trees rarely exceeds 2.5 cm. Old plants are overgrown with branches up to 5 cm in diameter.
• Blade locking function.
  This option increases the safety of using the tool and prevents injury.
• Length of handles.
  This criterion will depend on the operating conditions of the device. If you plan to trim branches at height, buy a model with long or telescopic handles.
• Weight.
  Heavy metal tools are equipped with reliable components made from stainless steel, tool steel or carbon steel. To reduce the weight of the product, manufacturers replace durable metal with plastic, this affects the reliability and service life of the lopper.
• Method of sharpening cutting elements.
  Branded models are equipped with precision-sharpened blades. Such cutting elements remain sharp longer.

The working parts of the lopper should move smoothly and easily, without creaking or crackling. If the operation of the instrument is accompanied by extraneous sounds, do not buy it; it will probably fail soon.

An important selection criterion is the manufacturer. As practice shows, famous manufacturers (Bosch, Gardena, Fiskars, Grinda, Patriot, etc.) produce reliable, functional tools that do not break during operation and have a long working life. You need to be careful when purchasing models from little-known brands. You can buy a really good lopper at a bargain price, but you can save money and lose on quality.

Features of using loppers

A lopper is a simple tool, but to increase its service life you need to provide it with proper care and follow a number of rules during operation:

• Before starting work, an external inspection is carried out: they check the serviceability, reliability of the fastenings, and the sharpness of the cutting blades. It is advisable to close and open the blades several times.
• The worker wears safety glasses and gloves, and clothing that does not restrict movement.
• All actions begin only after taking a stable position in order to avoid traumatic situations.
• After work: clean the tool from dirt, remaining branches, wood and adhering juice. Wipe dry. Close the blades and secure with a lock. If the metal of the cutting blades becomes corroded, lubricate them with oil.
• Do not leave the lopper unattended or throw it on wet ground or grass.
• Store in a dry, dark place, out of reach of children.

The difference and advantages of a lopper from other tools lies in its design:

• the reinforced lever will help remove thick knots at less cost;
• the ratchet mechanism and telescopic handles simplify the labor-intensive process of pruning plants;
• A not very large pole lopper will allow you to reach distant branches.

A telescopic high-altitude garden lopper will allow you to work while standing on the ground and without climbing on a stepladder. Some problems that arise with this:

• uneven and incorrect end - compensated over time, as experience is gained;
• a cut at a height cannot be processed - it is better to remove an unnecessary shoot than for it to grow and interfere with the plant.

The work takes into account the capabilities of the device:

• You cannot cut a branch thicker than what is indicated in the passport - the blades will get stuck. Releasing them will break the tool or damage the branch.
• Hardwood is more difficult to cut - usually in fruit trees.

Which lopper is good - each gardener determines for himself. Depends on the available budget, the size of the plot, the types of work and the plants growing on it. These parameters will also help in choosing a garden tool manufacturer. Following the rules of care and operation will allow you to use the device longer. A lopper is a must-have tool for gardeners who want to have a beautiful, well-groomed garden and get a harvest from it.

Electric lopper (mains) Worx WG307E 15 cm

Photo: market.yandex.ru

Chain lopper WORX JAWSAW WG307E is used during gardening work. Capable of cutting branches up to 10.5 cm thick. The tool is equipped with an Oregon saw set for high-quality cutting. The jaw grip allows for easy cutting while in weight. This model can be equipped with an extension handle.

Electric lopper (mains) Worx WG307E 15 cm

Advantages:

• Comfort
• Automatic lubrication
• Reliability
• Safety

Blade material: why is it important?

Like pruners, this can be tool steel - for the most budget models, stainless steel, as well as various combinations of materials: for example, hardened steel for the blade and aluminum for the anvil of a contact lopper. Professional and semi-professional models may have forged blades.

The last option is considered the best, since such blades are the most durable and hold their sharpness the longest, but a tool of this class is significantly more expensive than a regular one, and it hardly makes sense to invest in it unless you are a landscape designer or the owner of a huge garden.

It’s great if the lopper’s blades can be replaced, and the manufacturer offers spare ones - this allows you, in the event of breakage or aging of the cutting parts, not to throw away the lopper, but simply replace the working elements.

Electric hedge trimmer (mains) BOSCH AHS 60-16 60 cm

Photo: market.yandex.ru

The Bosch AHS 60-16 hedge trimmer is a garden tool designed for trimming bushes in a garden plot or cottage. A special screen protects the operator’s hand during operation, and a device on the knife protects the brush cutter from damage when colliding with an obstacle. Laser sharpening of knives - for a high-quality clean cut.

Electric hedge trimmer (mains) BOSCH AHS 60-16 60 cm

Advantages:

• Engine cooling
• Comfort
• Double sided knife
• Safety
• Power

comparison table

The following table will help you decide on the choice of manual garden lopper. Thanks to it, he finds out the main characteristics of the models considered and their average price.

Model	Working diameter, mm	Length, mm	Weight, kg	Average price, rub.
PALISAD 60521	30	700	0.85	739
PATRIOT LP 1040	40	1040	1.50	1 833
GRINDA ProLine TX-980A		645 – 8855	1.54	1 909
RACO 4218-53/372C	30	2500	0.835	1 950
GARDENA 12002	42	500	0.895	2 094
Center tool 0207	45	750	1.63	2 455
FISKARS PowerGear L74	38	545	0.6	3 057