An informative introduction to different loppers
An informative introduction to different loppers
A good pair of loppers makes garden work both easier and more precise. Whether you are pruning fruit trees, shrubs or hedges, it is important to choose a model that suits your needs and the type of vegetation you are working with. This article gives you an overview of the most important factors to consider when choosing loppers, as well as an introduction to the different types and brands on the market.
The article presents a selection of loppers representing different types, sizes and price ranges. The aim is to provide a broad overview of features and characteristics so you can more easily find a model that suits your needs. The product information is based on publicly available descriptions from manufacturers and retailers and is summarised to give a clear and informative picture of the market.
Factors to consider when buying loppers
When choosing loppers, there are several practical and ergonomic aspects to consider. The most important relate to cutting ability, comfort and maintenance.
1. Cutting mechanism
There are two main types of cutting mechanisms: bypass and anvil. Bypass loppers work like scissors with two blades that slide past each other, providing a clean cut ideal for live branches. Anvil loppers have a single blade that presses against a flat surface and are best suited for dry or hard branches.
2. Cutting capacity and power transmission
The cutting capacity indicates how thick branches the loppers can handle. For general shrub pruning, a capacity of 20–25 mm is often sufficient, while more powerful models can handle up to 50 mm. Some loppers have gearing mechanisms that increase cutting power, making the work easier, especially with tough branches.
3. Length and reach
Loppers come in different lengths. Short models provide better control, while telescopic handles make it possible to reach high branches without using a ladder. Consider where you will most often use the loppers before choosing the length.
4. Ergonomics and weight
A light and well-balanced pair of loppers reduces strain on arms and shoulders. Handles with non-slip material and shock-absorbing features increase comfort during prolonged use. If you prune often, ergonomics can be crucial for both efficiency and enjoyment.
5. Maintenance and materials
The blades should be made of hardened steel to maintain sharpness. It is an advantage if the loppers can be disassembled for cleaning and lubrication. Some models have replaceable blades, which significantly extend their lifespan.
Products in focus
The Gardena EasyCut 110/18V is an electric, cordless pruning shear designed for easy pruning of shrubs and small trees. It comes as a complete Ready-To-Use set with both battery and charger, so it can be used immediately.
The shears are powered by an 18 V lithium-ion battery, which provides stable power and flexibility without the need for a power cord. The maximum cutting capacity is 28 mm, making it suitable for most common garden tasks.
Ergonomic design and a comfortable handle contribute to a pleasant working position, while the LED indicator shows the current battery level. The non-stick coated blades reduce friction and make cutting more precise.
The EasyCut 110/18V is part of the Gardena POWER FOR ALL system, which means that the battery can be used with other compatible tools in the same series.
- Cordless operation: Provides freedom of movement during pruning without the need for a power cord.
- 18 V lithium-ion battery: Stable and efficient power source with included charger.
- Cutting capacity of 28 mm: Suitable for pruning branches and shrubs in the garden.
- Ergonomic handle: Ensures comfortable use over longer periods.
- POWER FOR ALL compatibility: The battery can be used in several Gardena products.
Pros and cons
- Comes as a complete set with battery and charger
- Cordless and flexible in use
- Ergonomic design with LED battery indicator
- Compatible with the POWER FOR ALL system
- The weight of 2.3 kg may feel heavy during prolonged use
- The cutting capacity of 28 mm may be limiting for thicker branches
Pros and cons
Pros
- Comes as a complete set with battery and charger
- Cordless and flexible in use
- Ergonomic design with LED battery indicator
- Compatible with the POWER FOR ALL system
Cons
- The weight of 2.3 kg may feel heavy during prolonged use
- The cutting capacity of 28 mm may be limiting for thicker branches
Pros
- Comes as a complete set with battery and charger
- Cordless and flexible in use
- Ergonomic design with LED battery indicator
- Compatible with the POWER FOR ALL system
Cons
- The weight of 2.3 kg may feel heavy during prolonged use
- The cutting capacity of 28 mm may be limiting for thicker branches
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Gardena
- Model: 14772-20
- EAN: 4078500065498
- Product type: Pruning shears (electric, cordless)
- Battery type: Lithium-ion
- Battery voltage: 18 V
- Charger: Included charger (AL 1810 CV)
- Included battery: PBA 18 V/36 P4A
- Maximum cutting capacity: 28 mm
- Features: LED battery level indicator, ergonomic handle, non-stick coated blades, POWER FOR ALL compatibility
- Weight (incl. battery): 2.3 kg
The Milwaukee M12 BLPRS-0 is a brushless pruning shear designed for efficient cutting without manual effort. It is powered by Milwaukee’s M12 battery system and can cut branches with a diameter of up to 32 mm.
The shears are equipped with technology that allows the blades to follow the movement of the trigger, giving the user better control during operation. A special feature allows the tool to be locked at half capacity (16 mm), increasing speed for lighter pruning tasks.
With an M12 B2 battery, the tool can perform over 1,000 cuts in branches of 1.25 cm, making it suitable for extended use. It comes with a wrist strap and mounting point for improved handling and safety.
The pruning shears are compatible with all MILWAUKEE® M12™ batteries but are supplied without battery, charger, and case.
- Brushless motor: Provides high efficiency and longer lifespan.
- Cutting capacity: Up to 32 mm at full capacity and 16 mm at half capacity.
- Variable speed trigger: Provides precise control over cutting.
- Flexible battery system: Compatible with all M12 batteries.
- Ergonomic design: Supplied with wrist strap for better handling.
Pros and cons
- Powerful cutting capacity up to 32 mm
- Option for half capacity for faster cuts
- No manual effort required – reduces strain
- Compatible with existing M12 batteries
- Lightweight and well-balanced construction
- Supplied without battery and charger
- Requires M12 batteries for operation
- May be oversized for very small pruning tasks
Pros and cons
Pros
- Powerful cutting capacity up to 32 mm
- Option for half capacity for faster cuts
- No manual effort required – reduces strain
- Compatible with existing M12 batteries
- Lightweight and well-balanced construction
Cons
- Supplied without battery and charger
- Requires M12 batteries for operation
- May be oversized for very small pruning tasks
Pros
- Powerful cutting capacity up to 32 mm
- Option for half capacity for faster cuts
- No manual effort required – reduces strain
- Compatible with existing M12 batteries
- Lightweight and well-balanced construction
Cons
- Supplied without battery and charger
- Requires M12 batteries for operation
- May be oversized for very small pruning tasks
Specifications
- Model: M12 BLPRS-0
- Item number (SKU): 4933480114
- Blade material: SK5 steel
- Max cutting capacity (full): 32 mm
- Max cutting capacity (half): 16 mm
- Variable speed trigger: Yes
- Weight without battery: 1.3 kg
- Weight with battery (M12 B2): 1.5 kg
- Battery system: MILWAUKEE® M12™
- Supplied without battery, charger, and case
The Gardena Telescopic Pruning Shears StarCut 410 PLUS is designed for pruning branches at height and allows the user to work from the ground. The telescopic aluminium shaft can be adjusted from 230 to 410 cm, providing a total reach of up to approximately 6.5 metres including the user's height.
The shears are equipped with a 12x gear transmission, which increases cutting power and allows branches with a diameter of up to 32 mm to be cut. The internal pulley prevents the cord from getting caught in branches during work, and the slim cutting head makes it easier to reach between dense foliage.
The cutting angle can be adjusted individually from the ground, so pruning can be adapted to different angles and branch thicknesses. The precision-ground blades with non-stick coating reduce friction and make cleaning easier after use.
A T-shaped handle and a sliding stop on the pull sleeve contribute to safe and comfortable handling. The product is made in Germany and constructed from aluminium and stainless steel to ensure low weight and high durability.
- Telescopic reach: Adjustable shaft from 230 to 410 cm provides access to high branches.
- Powerful gear transmission: 12x transmission increases cutting power during pruning.
- Precision blades: Non-stick coating reduces resistance and makes cleaning easier.
- Adjustable cutting angle: Enables precise pruning from the ground.
- Lightweight construction: Aluminium shaft and compact cutting head for easy handling.
Pros and cons
- Long reach without the use of a ladder
- Efficient gear transmission for powerful cutting
- Lightweight and robust aluminium construction
- Adjustable cutting angle for flexible pruning
- Non-stick coating on blades for easy cleaning
- Can feel heavy during prolonged use at full length
- Requires some technique to achieve precise pruning at height
Pros and cons
Pros
- Long reach without the use of a ladder
- Efficient gear transmission for powerful cutting
- Lightweight and robust aluminium construction
- Adjustable cutting angle for flexible pruning
- Non-stick coating on blades for easy cleaning
Cons
- Can feel heavy during prolonged use at full length
- Requires some technique to achieve precise pruning at height
Pros
- Long reach without the use of a ladder
- Efficient gear transmission for powerful cutting
- Lightweight and robust aluminium construction
- Adjustable cutting angle for flexible pruning
- Non-stick coating on blades for easy cleaning
Cons
- Can feel heavy during prolonged use at full length
- Requires some technique to achieve precise pruning at height
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Gardena
- Model: 12001-20
- Item number: 2594548
- EAN: 4078500028332
- Cutting system: Bypass
- Handle, material: Aluminium
- Handle, colour: Black and orange
- Blade, colour: Stainless steel
- Length: 2300 mm (telescopic up to 4100 mm)
- Cutting capacity: 3.2 cm
- Made in: Germany
The Gardena HighCut 360/18V is a battery-powered telescopic pruner designed to cut branches at height without the need for a ladder. With an integrated extension tube, the tool can reach up to 3.6 metres, providing a total working height of around 5 metres.
The pruner has a detachable handle, making it easier to transport and store. The rotating and narrow cutting head can be tilted up to 60 degrees, allowing you to cut branches at different angles and maintain a good overview while working.
The hardened steel blades with non-stick coating ensure clean cuts in fresh wood with a diameter of up to 28 mm. The ergonomic design and LED indicator for battery status contribute to a comfortable and controlled working experience.
The set comes ready to use with an 18V POWER FOR ALL battery and a fast charger. The battery is part of the POWER FOR ALL ALLIANCE, meaning it can be used in several compatible garden and household products.
- Long reach: Telescopic function with up to 3.6 metres length allows pruning at height.
- Efficient cutting: Cuts branches up to 28 mm in diameter with hardened steel blades.
- Battery operation: 18V lithium-ion battery provides cordless freedom and up to 400 cuts per charge.
- Ergonomic design: Detachable handle and LED indicator for battery status.
- Angled cutting head: Rotatable head up to 60 degrees for precise pruning.
Pros and cons
- Enables pruning of high branches without a ladder
- Supplied as a complete set with battery and charger
- Non-stick coating reduces friction and sticking
- Compatible battery system with other POWER FOR ALL products
- Ergonomic and flexible design
- Can feel heavy during prolonged use at full length
- Battery runtime depends on branch thickness and wood type
Pros and cons
Pros
- Enables pruning of high branches without a ladder
- Supplied as a complete set with battery and charger
- Non-stick coating reduces friction and sticking
- Compatible battery system with other POWER FOR ALL products
- Ergonomic and flexible design
Cons
- Can feel heavy during prolonged use at full length
- Battery runtime depends on branch thickness and wood type
Pros
- Enables pruning of high branches without a ladder
- Supplied as a complete set with battery and charger
- Non-stick coating reduces friction and sticking
- Compatible battery system with other POWER FOR ALL products
- Ergonomic and flexible design
Cons
- Can feel heavy during prolonged use at full length
- Battery runtime depends on branch thickness and wood type
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Gardena
- Model: 14776-20
- Item number: 3154515
- EAN: 4078500065573
- Maximum branch thickness: 2.8 cm
- Maximum length: 3.6 m
- Power source: Battery
- Battery voltage: 18 V
- Battery technology: Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion)
- Blade material: Hardened steel
- Non-stick coated blade: Yes
- Product colour: Black, Silver
- Ergonomic handle: Yes
Product descriptions
The Gardena EasyCut 110/18V is an electric, cordless pruning shear designed for easy pruning of shrubs and small trees. It comes as a complete Ready-To-Use set with both battery and charger, so it can be used immediately.
The shears are powered by an 18 V lithium-ion battery, which provides stable power and flexibility without the need for a power cord. The maximum cutting capacity is 28 mm, making it suitable for most common garden tasks.
Ergonomic design and a comfortable handle contribute to a pleasant working position, while the LED indicator shows the current battery level. The non-stick coated blades reduce friction and make cutting more precise.
The EasyCut 110/18V is part of the Gardena POWER FOR ALL system, which means that the battery can be used with other compatible tools in the same series.
- Cordless operation: Provides freedom of movement during pruning without the need for a power cord.
- 18 V lithium-ion battery: Stable and efficient power source with included charger.
- Cutting capacity of 28 mm: Suitable for pruning branches and shrubs in the garden.
- Ergonomic handle: Ensures comfortable use over longer periods.
- POWER FOR ALL compatibility: The battery can be used in several Gardena products.
Pros and cons
- Comes as a complete set with battery and charger
- Cordless and flexible in use
- Ergonomic design with LED battery indicator
- Compatible with the POWER FOR ALL system
- The weight of 2.3 kg may feel heavy during prolonged use
- The cutting capacity of 28 mm may be limiting for thicker branches
Pros and cons
Pros
- Comes as a complete set with battery and charger
- Cordless and flexible in use
- Ergonomic design with LED battery indicator
- Compatible with the POWER FOR ALL system
Cons
- The weight of 2.3 kg may feel heavy during prolonged use
- The cutting capacity of 28 mm may be limiting for thicker branches
Pros
- Comes as a complete set with battery and charger
- Cordless and flexible in use
- Ergonomic design with LED battery indicator
- Compatible with the POWER FOR ALL system
Cons
- The weight of 2.3 kg may feel heavy during prolonged use
- The cutting capacity of 28 mm may be limiting for thicker branches
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Gardena
- Model: 14772-20
- EAN: 4078500065498
- Product type: Pruning shears (electric, cordless)
- Battery type: Lithium-ion
- Battery voltage: 18 V
- Charger: Included charger (AL 1810 CV)
- Included battery: PBA 18 V/36 P4A
- Maximum cutting capacity: 28 mm
- Features: LED battery level indicator, ergonomic handle, non-stick coated blades, POWER FOR ALL compatibility
- Weight (incl. battery): 2.3 kg
The Milwaukee M12 BLPRS-0 is a brushless pruning shear designed for efficient cutting without manual effort. It is powered by Milwaukee’s M12 battery system and can cut branches with a diameter of up to 32 mm.
The shears are equipped with technology that allows the blades to follow the movement of the trigger, giving the user better control during operation. A special feature allows the tool to be locked at half capacity (16 mm), increasing speed for lighter pruning tasks.
With an M12 B2 battery, the tool can perform over 1,000 cuts in branches of 1.25 cm, making it suitable for extended use. It comes with a wrist strap and mounting point for improved handling and safety.
The pruning shears are compatible with all MILWAUKEE® M12™ batteries but are supplied without battery, charger, and case.
- Brushless motor: Provides high efficiency and longer lifespan.
- Cutting capacity: Up to 32 mm at full capacity and 16 mm at half capacity.
- Variable speed trigger: Provides precise control over cutting.
- Flexible battery system: Compatible with all M12 batteries.
- Ergonomic design: Supplied with wrist strap for better handling.
Pros and cons
- Powerful cutting capacity up to 32 mm
- Option for half capacity for faster cuts
- No manual effort required – reduces strain
- Compatible with existing M12 batteries
- Lightweight and well-balanced construction
- Supplied without battery and charger
- Requires M12 batteries for operation
- May be oversized for very small pruning tasks
Pros and cons
Pros
- Powerful cutting capacity up to 32 mm
- Option for half capacity for faster cuts
- No manual effort required – reduces strain
- Compatible with existing M12 batteries
- Lightweight and well-balanced construction
Cons
- Supplied without battery and charger
- Requires M12 batteries for operation
- May be oversized for very small pruning tasks
Pros
- Powerful cutting capacity up to 32 mm
- Option for half capacity for faster cuts
- No manual effort required – reduces strain
- Compatible with existing M12 batteries
- Lightweight and well-balanced construction
Cons
- Supplied without battery and charger
- Requires M12 batteries for operation
- May be oversized for very small pruning tasks
Specifications
- Model: M12 BLPRS-0
- Item number (SKU): 4933480114
- Blade material: SK5 steel
- Max cutting capacity (full): 32 mm
- Max cutting capacity (half): 16 mm
- Variable speed trigger: Yes
- Weight without battery: 1.3 kg
- Weight with battery (M12 B2): 1.5 kg
- Battery system: MILWAUKEE® M12™
- Supplied without battery, charger, and case
The Gardena Telescopic Pruning Shears StarCut 410 PLUS is designed for pruning branches at height and allows the user to work from the ground. The telescopic aluminium shaft can be adjusted from 230 to 410 cm, providing a total reach of up to approximately 6.5 metres including the user's height.
The shears are equipped with a 12x gear transmission, which increases cutting power and allows branches with a diameter of up to 32 mm to be cut. The internal pulley prevents the cord from getting caught in branches during work, and the slim cutting head makes it easier to reach between dense foliage.
The cutting angle can be adjusted individually from the ground, so pruning can be adapted to different angles and branch thicknesses. The precision-ground blades with non-stick coating reduce friction and make cleaning easier after use.
A T-shaped handle and a sliding stop on the pull sleeve contribute to safe and comfortable handling. The product is made in Germany and constructed from aluminium and stainless steel to ensure low weight and high durability.
- Telescopic reach: Adjustable shaft from 230 to 410 cm provides access to high branches.
- Powerful gear transmission: 12x transmission increases cutting power during pruning.
- Precision blades: Non-stick coating reduces resistance and makes cleaning easier.
- Adjustable cutting angle: Enables precise pruning from the ground.
- Lightweight construction: Aluminium shaft and compact cutting head for easy handling.
Pros and cons
- Long reach without the use of a ladder
- Efficient gear transmission for powerful cutting
- Lightweight and robust aluminium construction
- Adjustable cutting angle for flexible pruning
- Non-stick coating on blades for easy cleaning
- Can feel heavy during prolonged use at full length
- Requires some technique to achieve precise pruning at height
Pros and cons
Pros
- Long reach without the use of a ladder
- Efficient gear transmission for powerful cutting
- Lightweight and robust aluminium construction
- Adjustable cutting angle for flexible pruning
- Non-stick coating on blades for easy cleaning
Cons
- Can feel heavy during prolonged use at full length
- Requires some technique to achieve precise pruning at height
Pros
- Long reach without the use of a ladder
- Efficient gear transmission for powerful cutting
- Lightweight and robust aluminium construction
- Adjustable cutting angle for flexible pruning
- Non-stick coating on blades for easy cleaning
Cons
- Can feel heavy during prolonged use at full length
- Requires some technique to achieve precise pruning at height
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Gardena
- Model: 12001-20
- Item number: 2594548
- EAN: 4078500028332
- Cutting system: Bypass
- Handle, material: Aluminium
- Handle, colour: Black and orange
- Blade, colour: Stainless steel
- Length: 2300 mm (telescopic up to 4100 mm)
- Cutting capacity: 3.2 cm
- Made in: Germany
The Gardena HighCut 360/18V is a battery-powered telescopic pruner designed to cut branches at height without the need for a ladder. With an integrated extension tube, the tool can reach up to 3.6 metres, providing a total working height of around 5 metres.
The pruner has a detachable handle, making it easier to transport and store. The rotating and narrow cutting head can be tilted up to 60 degrees, allowing you to cut branches at different angles and maintain a good overview while working.
The hardened steel blades with non-stick coating ensure clean cuts in fresh wood with a diameter of up to 28 mm. The ergonomic design and LED indicator for battery status contribute to a comfortable and controlled working experience.
The set comes ready to use with an 18V POWER FOR ALL battery and a fast charger. The battery is part of the POWER FOR ALL ALLIANCE, meaning it can be used in several compatible garden and household products.
- Long reach: Telescopic function with up to 3.6 metres length allows pruning at height.
- Efficient cutting: Cuts branches up to 28 mm in diameter with hardened steel blades.
- Battery operation: 18V lithium-ion battery provides cordless freedom and up to 400 cuts per charge.
- Ergonomic design: Detachable handle and LED indicator for battery status.
- Angled cutting head: Rotatable head up to 60 degrees for precise pruning.
Pros and cons
- Enables pruning of high branches without a ladder
- Supplied as a complete set with battery and charger
- Non-stick coating reduces friction and sticking
- Compatible battery system with other POWER FOR ALL products
- Ergonomic and flexible design
- Can feel heavy during prolonged use at full length
- Battery runtime depends on branch thickness and wood type
Pros and cons
Pros
- Enables pruning of high branches without a ladder
- Supplied as a complete set with battery and charger
- Non-stick coating reduces friction and sticking
- Compatible battery system with other POWER FOR ALL products
- Ergonomic and flexible design
Cons
- Can feel heavy during prolonged use at full length
- Battery runtime depends on branch thickness and wood type
Pros
- Enables pruning of high branches without a ladder
- Supplied as a complete set with battery and charger
- Non-stick coating reduces friction and sticking
- Compatible battery system with other POWER FOR ALL products
- Ergonomic and flexible design
Cons
- Can feel heavy during prolonged use at full length
- Battery runtime depends on branch thickness and wood type
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Gardena
- Model: 14776-20
- Item number: 3154515
- EAN: 4078500065573
- Maximum branch thickness: 2.8 cm
- Maximum length: 3.6 m
- Power source: Battery
- Battery voltage: 18 V
- Battery technology: Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion)
- Blade material: Hardened steel
- Non-stick coated blade: Yes
- Product colour: Black, Silver
- Ergonomic handle: Yes
Different types of loppers
Loppers come in many varieties, each suited to different types of pruning tasks. Here is an overview of the most common types.
1. Bypass loppers
Bypass models provide a clean and precise cut that protects the plant and promotes healthy regrowth. They are ideal for fresh, green branches and are often used for fruit trees and shrubs. However, this type requires more force for thicker branches.
2. Anvil loppers
Anvil loppers are designed to handle hard, dry or dead branches. They require less force, but the cut is not as clean as with bypass models. They are therefore best suited for rougher pruning and clearing work.
3. Telescopic loppers
Telescopic models have extendable handles, making it possible to reach high branches without a ladder. They are available as both bypass and anvil variants and are practical for pruning trees and tall shrubs.
4. Ratchet and geared loppers
These models have a mechanism that increases cutting power, allowing you to cut thicker branches with less effort. They are particularly suitable for users who want to minimise strain on hands and arms.
5. Electric and battery-powered loppers
For larger gardens or frequent pruning, an electric or battery-powered pair of loppers can be an advantage. They require minimal physical effort and provide consistent cuts, but are typically more expensive and require charging or a power connection.
Different brands of loppers
The lopper market offers many manufacturers, each with their own strengths and specialities.
Fiskars
Fiskars is one of the best-known brands in garden tools. Their loppers are known for ergonomic design, low weight and innovative gearing systems that make pruning easier.
Gardena
Gardena offers a wide range of loppers for both hobby and professional users. The brand is particularly known for user-friendly solutions and telescopic models with precise blades.
Bahco
Bahco produces robust and professional tools, including high-quality and durable loppers. They are aimed especially at those who want a tool that can handle intensive use.
Wolf-Garten
Wolf-Garten focuses on ergonomics and efficiency. Their loppers often have replaceable blades and telescopic functions, making them versatile and easy to maintain.
Ryobi
Ryobi offers both manual and battery-powered loppers. The electric models are popular among users who want to combine power and convenience in one solution.
Frequently asked questions
Which type of loppers should I choose?
It depends on what you are pruning. For live branches, bypass loppers are best, while anvil loppers are more effective for dry or hard branches. Also consider length and weight in relation to your work.
How thick branches can loppers cut?
Most manual loppers can handle branches up to 30–50 mm in diameter, depending on the model and gearing. For thicker branches, a pruning saw or battery-powered loppers may be more suitable.
How do I maintain my loppers?
Clean the blades after use and wipe off sap and dirt. Lubricate moving parts with oil and sharpen the blades regularly to maintain sharpness. Store the loppers in a dry place to avoid rust.
What is the difference between telescopic and regular loppers?
Telescopic loppers have extendable handles so you can reach high branches without a ladder. A regular model is lighter and more manoeuvrable but has a shorter reach.
Can loppers be used for all types of plants?
No, it depends on the plant’s thickness and structure. For thin, green branches, bypass loppers are ideal, while hard, dry branches require a stronger anvil or geared lopper.
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