The Best Tree Loppers for Pruning Thick Branches

Best Overall

Kings County Tools Double Ratcheting Anvil Lopper

4.8

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“If a limb falls in your yard,” says Andrew Hughes, arborist and owner of Urban Loggers, a tree cutting company based in Ohio, “that would be an appropriate cleanup job for an anvil lopper.” The Kings County Tools Double Ratcheting Anvil Lopper earns our top spot because of its heavy-duty craftsmanship and powerful cutting force. With a cutting capacity of up to 2.5 inches, the wide jaws can cut thick branches with ease. Thanks to the ratcheting mechanism, the cutting force increases each time you pump on the handles. The carbon-coated blades show no signs of dulling or nicking—even after heavy use on hard, dry wood. This tool is backed by a limited warranty, and the manufacturer promises a replacement if the ratcheting mechanism stops working.

The telescoping handles can be adjusted between 26 and 40 inches in length, making this one of the most versatile loppers on the market. When fully extended, you should be able to reach high branches and tall shrubs without having to strain yourself. However, these loppers weigh in at over 4 pounds, so you likely can experience some arm fatigue over time. The manufacturer says hand fatigue is reduced by the product’s non-slip rubber grips.

Price at time of publish: $70

_{Type: Anvil︱Materials: Alloy steel︱Length: 26 to 40 inches (adjustable)︱Weight: 4.39 pounds︱Cut capacity: 2 to 2.5 inches}

Best Budget

Fiskars Bypass Lopper

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Despite its low price tag, Fiskars’ Bypass Lopper earns accolades for making a smooth, angular cut without tearing or damaging trees and shrubbery. The 28-inch-long tool, with a low-friction, precision-ground blade, can smoothly cut branches up to 1.5 inches in diameter and maintain its sharpness over time. Plus, the low-friction coating helps reduce sticky residue on the blade that comes from tree sap. (The goo that does accumulate can be easily cleaned off with a soft cloth.)

Thanks to padded grips on the handles, this tool is comfortable to hold for an extended period. At just under 3 pounds, it might not be the lightest, but it’s not cumbersome when cutting overhead either. This lopper also features shock-absorbing bumpers to improve overall comfort. While it works great for more basic gardening and pruning tasks, it’s not the best choice for heavy-duty jobs. But it offers a high-quality design and maximum performance.

Price at time of publish: $27

_{Type: Bypass︱Materials: Alloy Steel︱Length: 28 inches︱Weight: 2.6 pounds︱Cut capacity: 1 - 1.5 inches}

Best Splurge

Felco F 22 Pruning Shear

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Since all of the parts on these bypass loppers from Felco are replaceable, the overall longevity is well worth the splurge. The high-quality hardened steel blade delivers a clean, precise cut. Thanks to the curved shape of the cutting head, the pruning process is a lot easier. The manufacturer doesn’t provide a specific cutting capacity, but expect it to easily cut through branches 2 inches thick.

These loppers have forged aluminum handles with non-slip grips, which makes them comfortable to hold and maneuver, and built-in shock absorbers to protect the wrists and arms. These loppers come in multiple lengths ranging from 16.9 to 33.1 inches. The 33-inch length is ideal for trimming higher branches and taller shrubs. At just under 4.5 pounds, these loppers are on the heavy side, so they likely could cause some arm fatigue after extended use.

Price at time of publish: $271

_{Type: Anvil︱Materials: Aluminum, steel︱Length: 33.1 inches︱Weight: 4.37 pounds︱Cut capacity: Not listed}

Best Anvil

Jardineer 2" Anvil Loppers Shears

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“Anvil-style loppers, which have just one blade, are best for cutting larger branches,” says Andrew Hughes, arborist and owner of Urban Loggers, a tree cutting company based in Ohio. These anvil loppers are an excellent choice for cutting dry branches and dead stems. Thanks to a giant ratchet jaw and 2-inch blade, they maximize cutting force and require minimal effort from users. The non-stick carbon steel blade resists residue from sticky sap and makes a clean cut, which is ideal for optimal plant health. A spare blade is included, which is a nice bonus, should you encounter any problems.

These should not be used on softer greenery or thicker branches. Measuring 31 inches long, the Jardineer loppers come in handy for reaching overhead branches. The handles are soft and offer a comfortable, nonslip grip. At nearly 5 pounds, however, this tool is on the heavy side and could cause some arm fatigue over time.

Price at time of publish: $46

_{Type: Anvil︱Materials: Steel, carbon steel (blade)︱Length: 31 inches︱Weight: 4.99 pounds︱Cut capacity: up to 2 inches}

Best Telescoping

Spear & Jackson 8290RS Razorsharp Heavy Duty Telescopic Ratchet Anvil Loppers

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These heavy-duty loppers from Spear & Jackson are a great tool for cutting hard and thick branches. This tool’s biggest selling point, the telescoping handle, can be adjusted between 15.75 and 31.5 inches. With the handle extended all the way, you can access high branches that you’d normally need a ladder to reach. The ratcheting action amplifies the cutting force and requires minimal work on the user’s part.

With a few slight pumps on the handle, these loppers can cut through dead branches up to 2 inches thick. They come in particularly handy for broken branches and deadwood, as well as dry stems and limbs. The carbon steel blade provides long-lasting sharpness and a smooth cut. It is coated with Teflon to resist rust and corrosion. For a comfortable hold, the aluminum handles feature soft, non-slip grips.

At just over 4 pounds, these loppers are fairly heavy, and you may experience arm fatigue if you don’t give yourself a break. Thanks to a safety lock, these loppers can be stored safely in a closed position.

Price at time of publish: $70

_{Type: Anvil︱Materials: Aluminum, carbon steel (blade)︱Length: 15.75 to 31.5 inches (adjustable)︱Weight: 4.2 pounds︱Cut capacity: up to 2 inches}

Best Grip

Corona 31-inch DualLINK Bypass Lopper

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As the name suggests, the ComfortGEL grips make these Corona loppers a pleasure to use. These compound action loppers exert enough force to cut through thick branches up to 1.75 inches in diameter. Even though this tool is not extendable (an extendable model is available), the long aluminum arms make it easier to cut hard-to-reach branches and allow for more leverage. Meanwhile, a power-compounding link amplifies the cutting force and reduces the required user effort. And, thanks to a comfortable grip and a shock-guard bumper system, this tool reduces hand fatigue, wrist pain, and blisters.

These loppers have a narrow blade opening, which is ideal for accessing tight spots. The blade can be resharpened as needed, so you can expect years of reliable use. What’s more, Corona backs their products with a limited lifetime warranty.

At just under 4 pounds, these loppers are on the heavier side, which means you may experience some fatigue when working overhead.

Price at time of publish: $43

_{Type: Bypass︱Materials: Alloy steel (blade)︱Length: 31 inches︱Weight: 3.8 pounds︱Cut capacity: up to 1.75 inches}