Choosing and Using Tree Loppers

Tree Loppers are pruning tools used to cut branches of trees and shrubs. They differ from shears in that they can be much larger and often have telescopic handles for reaching higher branches. Tree pruning is an important part of landscape maintenance to remove dead branches, control growth and encourage health. It can also help to prevent the spread of disease and promote safety by preventing falling debris. The key to successful tree lopping is using the correct equipment and understanding the different styles of cutting.

When choosing the best loppers, look for blades that are hardened to keep their sharpness and have a Teflon or titanium coating that reduces sap residue and rust. This helps to make it easier to clean the blades after use and maintain a precise cut. It is also important to choose a model that has ergonomic features for increased comfort, such as shock absorbers and soft grips.

The most popular models of loppers have a bypass design, which operates like a pair of scissors with a cutting blade sliding past a stouter lower blade in side-by-side fashion. This type is suitable for cutting live green growth and leaves a cleaner cut than shears. It is a good choice for trimming small to medium-sized trees and is ideal for removing broken or damaged branches, or for thinning out a canopy.

Anvil loppers work in a similar way, although they tend to crush the stems rather than simply cutting them. This is useful for reducing the bulk of dead growth and clearing a path through dense vegetation, but it can leave an untidy wound that may be vulnerable to infection. It is also more likely to jam with fibrous material or deflect the upper blade, making it less effective for trimming live growth.

For more difficult pruning, consider a model with a ratchet design that can be pumped to increase the force applied to the branch being cut. This can reduce strain on the arms and wrists while ensuring that a precision cut is made every time. Some ratchet loppers are designed to retract after each use, which makes them more portable and easier to store.

When using a pair of loppers, it’s important to get the wood deep into the blade and close it in one fluid motion. It’s tempting to snip, but this weaker technique can damage the blade and stress the hands. Instead, it’s better to take your time and be patient with each cut.

Many professional loppers have a built-in locking mechanism that secures the blades into position after each use. This makes it easy to transport and store them, and it also ensures that the blades are properly aligned for optimal performance. Some models can also be sterilized, which is helpful for cleaning up after a job and inhibiting the transfer of plant diseases. This feature is a good option for professionals who use them regularly for large projects. Those who only require occasional use may prefer to buy a standard pair that can be sterilized by running them under hot water after each use.

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