When you have bushes, hedges, and trees on your property, investing in the right hand tools is a must to ensure a beautiful, healthy landscape. With so many manual trimmers on the market, determining what piece of equipment is best for the job can take time and research. Here’s a guide to both pruners and loppers so that you pick the perfect hand tool for the task. 

When Should You Use Hand Pruners?

A pruner is a small, compact hand tool. This spring-loaded device is designed for simple, effective use using just one hand. For added convenience, the device will open automatically after each cut so that you can work quickly and efficiently.

As a tool that’s on the smaller side, most products are meant to cut through branches and twigs under one inch in diameter. As such, they’re best for use on small plants and shrubs, especially when you’re doing more delicate or precise shaping.

The best way to use pruners is by wearing gardener gloves and holding them in your dominant hand. Always keep the blade sharp and store the tool in the locked, closed position to prevent accidents and to keep the blade in pristine condition.

When Should You Use Loppers?

Loppers, in contrast, are a highly versatile tool designed to be used with both hands, providing additional leverage. With long handles, loppers can help you prune and trim back taller branches in hard to reach places. Plus, due to the added length of the handles and the varying sizes of the lopper blades, this tool can be used to trim thicker branches.

This tool should always be cleaned and wiped down after use to prevent the blade from dulling or rusting. Loppers are often used first to get the thick branches out of the way before using pruners for the small twigs and other final touches.

If you’re looking for hand pruners, loppers, and other quality outdoor hand tools, contact L & R Power Equipment Inc. With nearly six decades of experience serving customers throughout Trumbull, East End, Monroe, Shelton, and Fairfield, CT, you can trust this community-focused business for top-notch equipment and repairs. To connect with a friendly sales associate about your outdoor power tool needs, call (203) 268-8400. For more information on the brands they carry and current inventory, visit them online.