What Are Tree Loppers?

Often referred to as a pruner or shears, Tree Loppers are used for cutting and trimming tree branches. They are generally considered a specialized tool for gardeners and can be very powerful. The use of loppers to cut a tree can be very dangerous and is not recommended for people without appropriate training or experience. This type of work can lead to severe injuries, including paralysis or death. For this reason, it is highly recommended that you seek the help of a certified Arborist to perform any tree trimming.

There are many different types of loppers on the market, ranging from basic manual models to those that offer more advanced features such as power-actuated handles or ratcheting systems. Some also have a telescopic handle, which allows the user to extend the length of the tool in order to reach higher branches that would be otherwise out of their reach. Many of these tools come with additional cutting mechanisms, such as a pruning saw blade that can be attached to the telescopic handle for more difficult cuts.

The best loppers will cut branches cleanly, with few if any snags or catches. They should also be easy to operate with minimal effort. Ideally, the blades should be made from a durable material, such as hardened steel or stainless steel, which will resist damage over time. In addition, the handles should be comfortable to grip and well-balanced in the hand. The newest designs of loppers may be coated in titanium or Teflon, which helps to reduce the amount of sap residue that builds up on the blades over time and makes them easier to clean after each use.

Loppers are typically categorized based on their blades, which are either anvil or bypass. Anvil loppers have a stationary base with a groove, and a movable sharpened blade that presses into the groove when trimming branches. They are a good choice for dry, brittle branches and can snap them in half easily, but are not ideal for soft green or live branches. Bypass loppers have one blade that crosses over another, and they are more suitable for cutting live, soft branches.

Some loppers are equipped with a locking mechanism that helps to prevent accidental closure of the jaws. This feature is particularly useful if you are working with large or thick branches that require a great deal of force to cut through. A few models also have a mechanical advantage, which increases the amount of pressure that can be applied to the blades by a single user.

For any sizeable branch, it is best to follow the three-cut system for a cleaner and safer finish. Make an undercut, then a top cut above it, and a finished cut at the point where you want the branch to drop. This will help to stop the branch from tearing back into the tree and will also make sure that children, pets, or gawkers are clear when it does fall.

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