The Best Hand Pruners | We Look at the 11 Best Garden Pruners To Buy Now
Whether you’re a professional horticulturist or a passionate gardener, a good pair of hand pruners is an essential tool in your kit. Hand pruners come in different shapes, sizes, and qualities, and choosing the right one can make all the difference in the world. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to the best hand pruners you should buy.
Felco F-2: The Best Hand Pruners Overall
The Felco F2’s were the first “good” set of hand pruners I’ve ever had and were gifted to me by my boss when I worked at a Landscaping Nursery. You can read my in-depth Felco F2 review here and why I love them so much.
The Felco F2 hand pruners are widely considered to be one of the best hand pruners on the market. They are built with high-quality materials and are designed to last for years. The blade is made of hardened steel, which makes it extremely durable and able to handle tough pruning tasks. The non-stick coating on the blade also prevents sap and other debris from sticking to it, which makes cleaning easier.
The handles are ergonomically designed to reduce hand fatigue, and the forged aluminum alloy construction is both lightweight and durable. The red coating on the handles makes them easy to locate in the garden or tool shed.
One of the most impressive features of the Felco F2 hand pruners is their cutting capacity. They can easily handle branches up to 1 inch in diameter, which is more than enough for most pruning tasks. Additionally, the safety catch is easy to use with one hand, and the pruners can be locked in the closed position for safe storage.
If you want the BMW of hand pruners and value fine craftsmanship, then the Felco F2’s should be your first choice.
Corona Classic Cut: Best Budget Option
If you are looking for good quality pair of hand pruners that will last, cut well and not break the bank, the the Classic Cut is a good choice. The newer versions of the Classic Cut have a thicker cushion on the handle than previous generations of the model. In addition, the bypass blade can be easily sharpened and is also replaceable which adds years of life to the tool. The Corona is entirely metal, giving it a sturdy and solid feel. Its action is smooth, allowing for clean cuts.
These are roughly half the price of the Felco F2’s and you may wonder what the main difference is. It’s in the ergonomics first, the Felco just feel great in the hand under hard use. If you read my reason above, I still think its worth the extra money for the higher quality tool, but if you’re on a tight budget, the Corona Classic Cut Hand Pruner is absolutely the best option on the market.
Best General Purpose: Corona Pro Cut
This is the second Corona pruners to make our list and that’s for two reasons, they are a good option and the market for high quality hand pruners is very weak. I know the Fiskars 79436997J Softgrip Bypass Pruner makes everyone’s list for best pruner for arthritic hands or best ergonomic pruners, but I disagree. These Corona pruners have a very nice soft grip and a shock absorber in between the handles which add to the comfort and usability of the hand pruners. They are vey sharp and have a coated blade which helps shun sap and debris keeping them cleaner and assisting in the cutting power. If you have serious arthritis in your hands, consider an electric hand pruner like this Scott’s rechargeable.
Depending on where you pick these up, they are just a $5 upgrade over the Corona Classic Cut and definitely worth the extra money. You can easily cut branches that are 3/4″ in diameter and even up to a little over 1 inch. These hand pruners are excellent quality and cut smoothly without putting too much pressure on your hands. They’re a bit of an investment, but definitely worth the money. A nice upgrade would be an included sheath that clipped to your belt.
MEPEREZ Shears: Best Ratcheting Hand Pruners
I have tried several ratcheting pruners and there are only two legitimate options in the world if you ask me. Both The Gardner’s Friend and these MEPEREZ are amazing, but the MEPEREZ beat out TGF because of the price. There isn’t much difference and I actually prefer the handle on the MEPEREZ. My 87 year old neighbor also has a pair and it’s the only pruners he can use. He also like to put his clipping in the trash for pick up se he cuts his branches and weeds very small to fit in the garbage cans.
I put these clippers to the test over the past few months, and I’m honestly really satisfied with how well they performed. These were my first pair of ratcheting clippers before and I gotta say, I’m really loving that feature. They are not the first pair I grab because I don’t need the ratcheting cutting action often, but my younger kids like them.
Okatsune 104 8.25-inch Bypass Pruners
I have had my fair share of pruners, but the Okatsune 104 8.25-inch Bypass Pruners have truly surpassed my expectations. These pruners are both durable and efficient, making them an indispensable tool in my garden. I have been using them for several months now, and I can confidently say that they have made my pruning tasks quicker and more enjoyable.
The Okatsune 104 pruners feature a sleek and minimalistic design, with the iconic red and white handle that is easy to spot in the garden. They have an ergonomic grip that fits comfortably in my hand, reducing strain and fatigue during extended pruning sessions.
The blades are made from Izumo Yasugi steel, which is known for its strength and durability. This ensures that the pruners maintain their sharpness and efficacy over time. Additionally, the pivot bolt is designed for easy maintenance, allowing for straightforward blade replacement and cleaning.
With their ergonomic design, sharp blades, and durable construction, these pruners are perfect for both casual and professional gardeners.
Nevlers 8″ Bypass Pruning Shears
I picked up the Nevlers 8″ Bypass Pruning Shears, like so many things I buy on Amazon, on a whim! When I sat down to test and write a roundup article about the ten best hand pruners, I quickly found out that despite 10,000 pruners for sale on the internet, only a handful are worth your time or money. After trying over 18 pruners for this list, I can tell you the Nevlers 8″ Bypass Pruning Shears are worth spending money on.
The shears boast an ergonomic design, featuring non-slip handles that provide a comfortable grip. The lightweight build reduces hand fatigue, allowing for extended pruning sessions without discomfort. The sharp blades easily handle branches up to 1-inch in diameter, making them suitable for a variety of pruning tasks.
The Nevlers 8″ Bypass Pruning Shears are a reliable and efficient choice for gardeners seeking a versatile tool. With their comfortable design, sharp blades, and durability, these shears make pruning tasks a breeze.
Fiskars Softgrip Bypass: Best Ergonomic Handle
If you have read this far, you know you should by the Felco F2’s, but if you don’t want to spend the money and need something a little easier on your hands, the Softgrip 79436997J will do the job. They don’t feel as substantial in the hand as an all metal construction pair, but if your cutting involves flowers and plants more than trees and shrubs these are a good option. My one complaint which other reviewers often cite too is the weak lock. I find that my Fiskars pruners often “unlock” by themselves or very easily and will pop open. I don’t feel that I will injure myself, it’s just more annoying than anything.
Ronix Bypass-RH3108: Best Cheap Hand Pruners
You may wonder why include a pair of pruners in an under $10 category? Well, some of you may only need a pair of pruners once or twice a year or maybe you loose stuff. Then these are for you. But don’t let the price fool you, they are surprisingly great hand pruners for the money. The Ronix are a little on the lighter duty side and that is where they shine. They easily cut up to an inch in diameter and will go to town on softer wood like pine or and just perfect for pruning flowers and rose bushes.
I stumbled across the Ronix pruners while helping an elderly neighbor who happened to have a pair. You have to understand, I swear by my Felco’s, but considering the cost and how the Ronix did on some light to medium duty tasks, I can recommend them as a great option. If you can swing a few more bucks, the Corona Classic Cut is a much better option, but if $10 is all you have you can be a happy gardener here.
ClassicPRO Titanium Bypass Pruning Shears
I added the ClassicPro to the list after seeing that it has over 1,800+ reviews. Now, to be fair, the ClassicPro Titanium, and its steel model, the ClassicPro are both complete copies of the Felco F2. Part of me didn’t even want to list them, but they do have a ton of good reviews. If I said I would never buy a copy-cat product from Amazon, then there would be slim pickings. This prompted me to buy a pair to try out for myself. I was surprised at the overall quality and performance. But, if you can pony up $20 more, I would get the real deal Felco’s.
I was surprised at the fit and finish and these are a good value for the money.
One of the standout features of the ClassicPRO shears is the use of titanium-coated blades. This coating not only adds to the tool’s durability and longevity, but it also makes it more resistant to rust and corrosion. The blades are also very sharp and can easily cut through branches up to 1 inch in diameter.
The ergonomic design of the ClassicPRO shears ensures a comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue and allowing for extended use without discomfort. The handles are made of a high-quality aluminum alloy that is both lightweight and durable, further contributing to the tool’s ease of use and longevity.
Another notable feature of the ClassicPRO shears is the sap groove, which prevents sap from sticking to the blades and making them harder to use. This feature also reduces the frequency of cleaning and maintenance required.
Overall, the ClassicPRO Titanium Bypass Pruning Shears are a reliable and long-lasting tool that can handle a wide variety of pruning and cutting tasks.
Edward Tools Classic Cut Bypass Pruners
For less than $10 these guys will surprise you. If you need the most basic pruners to use once in a while, get these. They’re also perfect as an extra set to keep in the kitchen drawer to handle flowers from the store. My main complaint is that the spring lock is finicky when you want to close and put them away.
The 2″ blades are made of SK5 carbon steel, which is known for its durability and sharpness. The blades are also coated to resist rust and sap. I don’t have much to say other than if you consider the price, you will not be disappointed.
Gonicc 8.5″ Professional Pruning Shears(GPPS-1014)
Since I picked up the ClassicPro Titanium coated above, I was hit with several retargeting ads for the Gonicc, so I succumbed and grabbed a pair. I have mixed feelings; they are a good value but I didn’t feel that great in my hand. However, there are a ton of Amazon reviewers who disagree and love these. The rotating handle is also noted as a standout feature, as it can help reduce strain and fatigue during long periods of use.
So, to clarify, the rotating handle, it’s like a rolling pin and allows the pressure to “roll” off your fingers. The handle is designed to rotate 360 degrees, which can help reduce wrist strain and fatigue during extended use. The handle also has a non-slip grip, which provides added comfort and control.
The coated blade did help sap not to stick, but they do need several hard cuts to break in the blades as they pass each other. The blades are 2.8 inches long and can cut branches up to 0.6 inches in diameter. This makes them suitable for a wide range of pruning tasks, from small stems to larger branches.
Which Pruner Are You Going To Buy?
My extensive testing of 11 different hand pruners has provided valuable insights into the best options available on the market today. From casual gardeners to professional landscapers, there is a pruner to suit every need and budget. By considering factors such as ergonomics, blade sharpness, durability, and value for money, we hope this comprehensive guide has made it easier for you to select the ideal hand pruner for your gardening tasks. Ultimately, investing in a high-quality pruner will not only enhance your gardening experience but also promote the health and beauty of your plants. So, whether you’re trimming delicate flower stems or tackling robust branches, the right pruner is just a snip away!
Rember These Tps For Buying You Next Set Of Hand Pruners:
When shopping for hand pruners, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure you select the right tool for your needs. Here are some points to keep in mind:
- Type of pruner: Hand pruners come in two main types: bypass and anvil. Bypass pruners have a scissor-like action with two curved blades that pass each other, providing a clean, precise cut. They are ideal for green, living plants. Anvil pruners have a single straight blade that cuts against a flat surface, making them suitable for cutting dead or dry branches.
- Blade material: High-quality blades are typically made from materials such as stainless steel, carbon steel, or hardened steel. These materials ensure durability, sharpness, and resistance to rust and corrosion.
- Ergonomics: Look for pruners with comfortable, non-slip handles that fit well in your hand. Ergonomic designs reduce hand strain and fatigue during extended pruning sessions.
- Cutting capacity: Consider the size and type of branches you typically need to cut. Most hand pruners can handle branches up to 1-inch in diameter, but some models are designed for larger or smaller cutting tasks.
- Adjustability: Some pruners come with adjustable blade tension or cutting width, allowing you to customize the tool to suit various tasks and preferences.
- Safety features: A safety lock or clasp helps prevent accidental injury when the pruner is not in use. Choose a model with an easily accessible and reliable safety mechanism.
- Maintenance: Opt for pruners that are easy to clean, sharpen, and maintain. Some models offer replaceable blades or parts, extending the tool’s lifespan.
- Durability and construction: Choose pruners made with high-quality materials and solid construction to ensure they withstand regular use and last for many seasons.
- Size and weight: The size and weight of the pruners should be suitable for your hand size and strength. Lightweight pruners can reduce hand fatigue, but make sure they are still durable and strong enough for your needs.
- Price and warranty: Consider your budget and look for pruners that offer a good balance between cost and quality. Additionally, check if the manufacturer provides a warranty or guarantee, as this can be an indicator of product quality and customer support.
By keeping these points in mind, you can find the perfect hand pruners to meet your gardening needs and preferences.
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