15 Best Ratchet Pruners
The best ratchet pruners are necessary tools that every homeowner or gardener should consider adding to their gardening arsenal.
Each project comes with difficulties including gardening. However, tools like ratchet pruners, also known as pruning shears or clippers can make things easier.
Pruning is a popular duty carried out in gardens that includes shaping and trimming crops and removing dead and damaged foliage with the help of pruners.
Thereโs a wide selection of ratchet hand pruners that will meet your gardening needs. All you need to do is find them. Letโs do it together!
What Are Ratchet Pruners?
Ratchet pruners are tools utilized on garden plants. Theyโre specially made for light or heavy trimming of unlucky dead branches.
Theyโre designed with plant maintenance in mind. They usually feature a sharp blade and a leveled blunt side. Their working system is similar to other pruning tools.
These gardening tools perform by pressing their cutting edge or sharp blades against a leafage or branch while the other side sets in place the base of the plant to cut.
The ease of use is why I prefer ratchet pruners over other pruners. They make plant maintenance a walk in the park you will enjoy.
How Do Ratchet Pruners Work?
Ratchet pruners have a special system that enables them to cut through tough branches even when the gardener or homeowner has poor hand strength.
Just squeeze the handle inwards. The blade will go down then lock in place. Release the handle. Squeeze it again. This will cause the blades to move together.
These tools require different acts to perform one cut but theyโre effective. And theyโre mainly utilized by people with arthritis or muscular/strength issues.
What Are The Best Ratchet Pruners?
If youโre looking for ratchet pruners, youโve come to the right place! The following list highlights some of the best ratchet pruners by Power Drive, Fiskars, and Felco.
You can trust these popular brands because they stand behind their tools with lifetime warranties. They also have affordable prices, sharp blades, and sturdy construction.
That being said, letโs compare their features and choose the right ratchet pruners that meet your needs. Hopefully, this list can help you make an informed purchase.
- Best Overall: Power Drive 5X Cutting Power Anvil Ratchet Pruners
โGreat for tough pruning, the locking mechanism is safe, solid as a rock, makes a tough job easy, cheap.โ - Best Budget: Corona General-Purpose Hand RP 3230 Ratchet Pruner
โCompact, fits any hand nicely, cuts through branches over half an inch thick with ease, budget-friendly.โ - Best for Small Hands: Spear & Jackson 6358RS Razorsharp Ratchet Pruners
โEasy to use with one hand, perfect for smaller hands, makes cutting a breeze, super sharp, great price.โ - Best Large: GRรNTEK Professional Garden Ratchet Pruners
โDesigned for long-use, well-balanced, hand protection for safe working, 8/20mm cutting diameter.โ - Best Ergonomic: Spear & Jackson 6458RS Ergonomic Ratchet Pruners
โErgonomically-designed handle, extremely useful and comfortable in the hand, good for sore hands.โ - Best for Arthritic Hands: Fiskars 6689 Super-Durable Hand Ratchet Pruners
โEasy to utilize for arthritic hands, a good upgrade to basic ratchet pruners, helpful with thicker stems.โ - Best Lightweight: Florian Lightweight Yellow Hand Ratchet Pruners
โFeels flimsy but it ratchets, excellent reliability, great for people with carpal tunnel and arthritis, cheap.โ - Best Heavy-Duty: Foxany Heavy Duty Professional 8″ Ratchet Pruners
โMinimizes hand fatigue, great all-round ratchet pruners, ensures a smooth work, great for small stems.โ - Best Classic: Felco F-2 068780 Classic Manual Hand Ratchet Pruners
โFelco never disappoints, replaceable parts, perfect for light applications, easily handles thick branches.โ - Best for Senior Gardeners: EZ Kut Heavy Duty Hand Ratchet Pruners
โRatchet pruners made in the USA, multi-purpose ergonomic tool, sharp blade, unparalleled durability.โ
Best Ratchet Pruners Comparison Chart 2023
Finding the right pair of garden shears that fit your hands perfectly and get the job done can be difficult. Buying the cheapest ones on the shelf isnโt gonna cut it (in the true sense of the word).
Nor the most expensive ones! You need to select something that will meet your gardening needs within your budget. If youโre in a haste, check out the following chart to make a quick choice.
Top 15 Best Ratchet Pruners Reviews 2023
Finding the right gardening tool isnโt going to be hard if you know what youโre looking for.
Consider type, comfort, and performance. Are you in the market for a regular pair for light trimming? Or do you want to tame stubborn branches? Do you prefer extra cushioning and high-quality blades?
Also, pay attention to the warranty. Opt for machines that include lifetime warranties. Determining your needs can help you choose the best ratchet pruners. Once you do that, comb the market carefully.
The following reviews can help you narrow down your choices and make an informed decision.
Power Drive 5X Cutting Power Anvil Ratchet Pruners
(Best Ratchet Hand Pruners)
The Power Drive hand pruning shears will meet the needs of people with limited hand strength. Theyโre suitable for both light- and heavy-duty jobs.
Loaded with carbon steel blades that have been hardened and heating treated, this gardening tool will last for a long time without needing regular sharpening.
Theyโre also coated with a non-stick material to prevent the build-up of sticky debris. I support and trust this company because of its exceptional customer service.
If you have smaller hands, this rather pruner is for you. Theyโre ergonomically-made with homeowners with carpal tunnel syndrome and arthritis in mind.
Key Features:
- 5 times the power
- Ergonomically-designed handle
- Perfect for smaller hands and women
- High-quality hardened steel blade
- Effortless cutting
Pros
- Solid as a rock
- Makes a tough job easy
- Well-made and compact
- The locking mechanism is safe
- Easy to use, lightweight, and durable
- Excellent and comfortable
- Great for tough pruning
- Easy to operate
Cons
- Hard to open and lock
Product Specifications:
Brand: | Gardenite |
Blade material: | Heat-treated and hardened carbon steel |
Warranty: | 12-month warranty |
Weight: | 8 ounces |
Color: | Black and green |
Corona General-Purpose Hand RP 3230 Ratchet Pruner
(Best Budget)
If youโre on a budget, consider the Corona Hand RP 3230 ratchet pruner. Itโs a perfect, general-purpose tool for your gardening tool kit with a cutting capacity of 3/4 inches.
The specially designed grip is suitable for both right- and left-handed homeowners. The non-slip molding prevents slips and makes the tool comfortable for users of all hand sizes.
The blade is resistant to sticky debris and substances thanks to the non-stick coating. The tool is created with stainless steel rivets and features a 4-step ratcheting mechanism.
Key Features:
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Reduces fatigue, easy and safe to utilize
- The ideal equipment for all-purpose pruning
- Non-slip co-molded grips and non-stick blades
- Works for both right- and left-handed users
- cutting capacity up to 3/4 inches
Pros
- Light and fits any hand nicely
- Simple design, great for large branches, and cuts easily
- With proper maintenance, they will last you for a long time
- Cuts through branches over half an inch thick with ease
- Excellent value for money
Cons
- Almost all plastic
Product Specifications:
Brand: | Corona |
Blade material: | Non-stick coated metal blade |
Warranty: | Limited lifetime warranty |
Weight: | 6.4 ounces |
Color: | Black and red |
EZ Kut Heavy Duty Hand Ratchet Pruners
(Best Ratchet Hand Pruner for Senior Gardeners)
The EZ Kut 3130-BRK ratchet pruner can be utilized to cut branches and plants up to one-inch thick. The 3-stage ratchet system delivers 5 times the cutting power of a standard pruner.
Therefore, itโs perfect for senior gardeners, women, or anyone with poor hand strength. This gardening tool has SK-5 hardened carbon steel blades that ensure sharp, clean and precise cuts.
The blade is super-durable. However, in case you break it, thereโs also a replacement available for you. If youโre looking for a comfortable and ergonomically-designed tool, then EZ Kut is for you.
The blades also have a non-stick coating. Thereโs more! EZ Kut also has a wraparound knuckle protector. Itโs a lightweight heavy-duty ratchet pruner thatโs covered by a lifetime warranty.
Key Features:
- All metal construction
- High-quality cast aluminum body garden clippers
- Help reduce hand fatigue, wrist strain, and much more
- Ergonomically-designed, non-slip w/ black cushion handle
- SK-5 hardened carbon steel blade with non-stick coating
- The perfect tool for senior gardeners and women
- Cuts up to 1.5-inch thick branches
Pros
- Made in the USA
- A sharp and heavy blade
- Locks in a closed position
- Almost effortless pruning
- Unparalleled durability
- Multi-purpose tool
- Ergonomic design
Cons
- Not good for small hands
Product Specifications:
Brand: | EZ Kut |
Blade material: | SK-5 hardened carbon steel blade |
Warranty: | Lifetime warranty |
Weight: | 12 ounces |
Color: | Black and green |
The Gardener’s Friend Anvil Style Ratchet Pruners
If youโre not a huge fan of traditionally shaped pruners, then this product is for you. Itโs great for those afraid of their hands slipping off of regular pruners.
The loop on one side prevents slippage while the soft rubber grip on the other side absorbs pressure. Itโs the perfect gardening tool for homeowners with poor hand strength.
What I like most about this tool is the hardened carbon-steel blade. Thereโs also a replaceable blade just in case your first blade breaks. They also feature a non-stick coating.
The tool has a 3-step ratcheting mechanism that makes cutting through stubborn branches easy. Theyโre suitable for both left- and right-handed gardeners.
Key Features:
- Lifetime warranty
- Developed by professional gardeners
- The loop on one side prevents slippage and a soft rubber grip on the other side absorbs pressure
- Replaceable hardened carbon-steel blades
- 3-step ratcheting mechanism
Pros
- Ergonomic design
- No more painful pruning
- Quick and effortless cutting
- The perfect birthday gift for any gardener
- A tool that rejuvenates aging female gardeners
- Perfect for cutting large branches and twigs
- Great for senior gardeners
- Great value for money
- Safe and easy to use
Cons
- The lock is difficult to use
Product Specifications:
Brand: | The Gardenerโs Friend |
Blade material: | Hardened carbon steel blade |
Warranty: | Lifetime warranty |
Weight: | 7.8 ounces |
Color: | Black and silver |
Florian Lightweight Yellow Hand Ratchet Pruners
(Best Lightweight Ratchet Pruners)
If youโre in the market for a lightweight yet effective hand ratchet pruner, then Florian is the perfect tool for you. Although itโs simple, this gardening tool is super durable.
What I appreciate most about this tool is the very classic styling. The comfortable handles are created of fiberglass-reinforced nylon. They donโt have a loop to prevent your hands from slipping.
However, the tool weighs only 4.8 ounces which naturally prevents hand fatigue. I also like the carbon-steel blade thatโs coated with Teflon to prevent build-up and extend the life of the tool.
With this tool, you can cut through branches up to 3/4 inches in diameter. Itโs also suitable for handling delicate rose bushes. The tool increases base hand strength by 700%.
Key Features:
- Spring steel high carbon pruning blade
- Manufactured and assembled in the United States
- The patented ratchet-cut system increases hand power by 700%
- The blade coated with Teflon to prevent residue build-up
- Fiberglass-reinforced nylon handles
Pros
- Feels flimsy but it ratchets
- Very powerful and excellent reliability
- Great for people with carpal tunnel and arthritis
- Cheap and cheesy but a genius product
- Makes gardening a breeze
Cons
- All plastic and flimsy locking mechanism
Product Specifications:
Brand: | Florian |
Blade material: | Spring steel high carbon pruning blade |
Warranty: | Lifetime warranty |
Weight: | 3.98 ounces |
Color: | Black and yellow |
Felco F-2 068780 Classic Manual Hand Ratchet Pruners
(Best Classic Ratchet Pruners)
The Felco is one of the most popular hand pruners on the market. Therefore, if youโre looking for a well-known and durable ratchet pruner, look no further than Felco.
With this tool, you will achieve precise and clean results thanks to the top-quality steel blades. They add to the durability of the tool. With proper care, Fleco will last for a long time.
But hereโs the kicker. Their handles arenโt plastic but metal with a rubber cushion that serves as a shock absorber and helps you cut effortlessly. It also prevents bruises and blisters.
I like the spring mechanism between the handles. It ensures you spend less energy to cut. It also ensures that the blades open only when the tool is in use and keeps you safe.
Key Features:
- Lightweight metal handles
- A rubber cushion and shock absorber
- A hardened bolt and nut to assure exact adjustment of both the cutting and blades
- High-quality hardened steel blades
- Limited lifetime warranty
Pros
- Felco never disappoints
- Replaceable components
- These easily handle thick branches
- Perfect for light applications
- Easily adjustable pruner
Cons
- The blades rust easily
Product Specifications:
Brand: | Felco |
Blade material: | High-quality hardened steel blades |
Warranty: | 1-year warranty |
Weight: | 8.8 ounces |
Color: | Silver and red |
Ironwood Tool High-Strength Company Ratchet Pruners
The Ironwood Tool Company ratchet pruning shears provide durability and reliability. Theyโre affordable and worth considering due to the high-quality carbon-steel blades.
Theyโre coated with a non-slip material that protects them from plant sap and different sticky materials that can clog in between the blades. Meaning, you wonโt have this issue with this tool.
The design has a handguard that improves your handโs mobility. It also helps the tool pass through tight bushes and shrubs. The durable aluminum handles are easy to utilize and very strong.
Theyโre also lightweight and rust-resistant. With this tool, you can easily cut green and dry wood. If you have arthritis or other conditions, opt for these comfortable shears.
Key Features:
- Perfect for any gardener
- High strength carbon steel blade with non-stick coating
- Handguard that extends the reach and hand mobility in tight areas
- Ergonomic grip, aluminum blades, and comfortable to use
- Lightweight gardening tool
Pros
- Smooth operation
- Gives hands extra power
- Great for stubborn branches
- Easy to use, even with arthritic hands
- The best bang for the buck
- Lightweight but durable
- Takes little pressure
Cons
- None
Product Specifications:
Brand: | Ironwood Tool Company |
Blade material: | Non-stick coated high strength carbon steel blade |
Warranty: | Not specified |
Weight: | 9.6 ounces |
Color: | Silver and red |
GRรNTEK Professional Garden Ratchet Pruners
(Best Large Ratchet Pruners)
If youโre searching for a tool that makes accurate cuts, then GRรNTEK is the perfect choice for you. This gardening workhorse has an automatic ratchet mechanism.
Therefore, itโs ideal for cutting green, dense, and dry materials to the preferred dimensions. But thereโs more! This gardening tool comes with durable aluminum handles with PVC coating.
The coating acts as a shock absorber and ensures comfortable use. The SK-5 blade features an 8/20mm cutting diameter. The best part? The tool has an integrated sharpener and oil sponge.
These accessories will help you take good care of your tool and extend its lifespan. Lastly, itโs suitable for both left- and right-handed users and doesnโt cost a fortune.
Key Features:
- Blade made from SK-5 steel
- Perfect for arthritic and injured hands
- An integrated blade sharpener and oil sponge
- Aluminum handles with a PVC coating
- Automatic ratchet mechanism
Pros
- Designed for long-use
- Comfortable and well-balanced
- Practical, functional, and durable
- Hand protection for safe working
- Sharp and lightweight
Cons
- Better options available
Product Specifications:
Brand: | GRรNTEK |
Blade material: | SK-5 hardened carbon steel blade |
Warranty: | Not specified |
Weight: | 9.9 ounces |
Color: | Silver and green |
gonicc 8″ Professional Anvil Groove Design Ratchet Pruners
The Gonicc ratchet pruners have all the necessary features to deliver versatility and effectiveness in your tasks. With this gardening tool, you will get a great output and save a lot of time.
Highlighted features include a steel construction that adds to the longevity of the product. Thereโs also a steel handle designed to endure external elements and provide a powerful performance.
Thanks to the safety lock, you can enjoy safe and accurate cutting. This tool is three times stronger than other models. What I like most is the ergonomic design that ensures pain-free work.
It reduces the strain on your arms. The anti-slip grip provides stability during operation but the slide lock isnโt stable. Meaning, you can experience trouble securing it at the preferred point.
Key Features:
- SK-5 steel blade for precision and durability
- Ergonomic design that works for both left- and right-handed users
- The ratcheting systemโs settings increase your handโs power by 3 times
- High-quality construction, lifetime warranty, and comfortable use
- High-quality chrome vanadium steel handle
Pros
- User-friendly
- Perfect for heavy-duty jobs
- The ideal tool for senior gardeners
- The compound lever makes cutting very easy
- Great handle and excellent cutting
- Extremely sharp and efficient
- Solid construction
Cons
- Poor quality blade
- The lock is hard to open
- They lack strength
Product Specifications:
Brand: | Gonicc |
Blade material: | SK-5 hardened carbon steel blade |
Warranty: | Lifetime warranty |
Weight: | 1.76 ounces |
Color: | Black and red |
Fiskars 6689 Super-Durable Hand Ratchet Pruners
(Best Ratchet Pruners for Arthritic Hands)
Fiskars is a popular and reliable brand known for its quality household tools. Their ratchet hand pruner is worth considering because itโs durable and has a high cutting ability.
The performance is excellent thanks to the low friction coating that ensures a smooth experience. Thus, you can work uninterrupted. But hereโs the kicker. It has a Dura frame handle thatโs super comfortable and steel construction. The automatic ratchet system ensures precision and power.
The steel construction adds to the durability of the tool. However, what I donโt like about this gardening tool is the lock. You need to put more effort than usual, which sucks.
Key Features:
- Fully hardened, precision-ground steel blade
- Includes steel exoskeleton and a rugged Dura Frame
- Perfect for cutting through stems and branches up to a 3/4-inch diameter
- Lifetime warranty, great price, and ergonomic design
- Maximum cutting power with minimal effort
Pros
- Very sharp
- Strong and works well
- Easy to use for arthritic hands
- A good upgrade to basic ratchet pruners
- Very helpful with thicker stems
- Cuts almost anything
- Very efficient
Cons
- Plastic parts
- Lacks precision
- Wears rapidly
Product Specifications:
Brand: | Fiskars |
Blade material: | A fully hardened, precision-ground blade |
Warranty: | Lifetime warranty |
Weight: | 8 ounces |
Color: | Black and silver |
Foxany Heavy Duty Professional 8″ Ratchet Pruners
(Best Heavy-Duty Ratchet Pruners)
Another excellent tool thatโs worth your time and attention is the Foxany heavy-duty ratcheting pruner with a modern design. This gardening tool ensures a smooth and safe experience.
The SK-5 steel blades provide a great combination of durability and power and ensure clean and precise cuts. The tool has a 5-setting ratcheting mechanism and sturdiness to endure external elements.
It also has a safety lock that makes the whole work safer. Thereโs also a spring loading function, which is not seen in other tools. This function makes the opening and closing simpler and reduces fatigue.
The tool can be utilized for both large-scale and small-scale jobs. However, itโs more suitable for simpler tasks. Itโs lightweight, practical, ergonomically-designed, and comfortable to utilize.
Key Features:
- Safety lock and ergonomic design
- High-quality carbon SK-5 steel blade
- A built-in spring loading function
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Minimizes hand fatigue
- Great all-round ratchet pruners
- Perfect for small stems up to 1/4 inches
- Ergonomically fits into your hand
- Ensures a smooth work
- They cut very well
Cons
- Not so good on thicker stems/branches
Product Specifications:
Brand: | Foxany |
Blade material: | SK-5 hardened carbon steel blade |
Warranty: | Not specified |
Weight: | 10.4 ounces |
Color: | Black and silver |
MLTOOLS Easy Cut Lightweight Ratchet Pruners
The MLTOOLS pruning shears are both user-friendly and 100% safe. The main reason why I included this tool is because of its consistent output. Itโs a long-lasting and affordable gardening tool.
One of my favorite parts about this tool is the SK-5 steel construction. I also like the sturdy, sharp blades and ergonomically-designed handles. They ensure safe work, reducing the chances of injury.
If youโre searching for a lightweight yet powerful tool, then MLTOOLS is for you. Itโs ready to be utilized out of the box and includes all the necessary parts, so you donโt need to make extra purchases.
The occasional jamming is the only thing I dislike. The unlock button canโt deliver the desired stability at times. If this isnโt a deal-breaker for you, donโt think twice about buying this gardening tool.
Key Features:
- Ergonomic design
- 1-inch cutting capacity
- SK-5 high-carbon steel blade
- Great ratcheting system
- Lightweight tool
Pros
- Great for hands that lack strength
- A great set of pruning shears at a fantastic price
- A high-quality tool with super powerful cutting force
- Makes cutting small branches a walk in the park
- Easy to utilize and easy to ratchet
Cons
- Limited use
- Poor construction
- Hard to open
Product Specifications:
Brand: | MLTOOLS |
Blade material: | SK-5 hardened carbon steel blade |
Warranty: | Not specified |
Weight: | 6.4 ounces |
Color: | Silver and green |
Clauss 20133 Heavy-Duty 8-inch Ratchet Pruners
The Clauss 20133 is a heavy-duty ratchet-action pruner with heavy-duty construction and steel blades. This tool provides a ratchet action for total cutting power.
What I like most about this tool is the red rubberized cushion polyamide handle. The model is perfect for cutting thick branches and other heavy-duty gardening jobs.
It opens wide and features cushioned grips. But thereโs more! The company stands behind its product and provides a lifetime warranty in case something goes wrong.
Key Features:
- Made in Taiwan
- 2-inch steel blade
- Red rubberized cushion polyamide handle
- Lifetime warranty
- Durable design
Pros
- Gets the job done
- Easy to utilize and effective
- Perfect for light/medium pruning chores
- It feels like a long-lasting tool
- Comfortable design
Cons
- Lacks sharpness
Product Specifications:
Brand: | Clauss |
Blade material: | 2-inch steel blade |
Warranty: | Lifetime warranty |
Weight: | 10.4 ounces |
Color: | Silver and red |
Spear & Jackson 6358RS Razorsharp Ratchet Pruners
(Best Ratchet Pruner for Small Hands)
The Spear & Jackson 6358RS razor-sharp ratchet pruner uses a knife-like cutting action onto a flat lower blade known as the anvil. Tools like this will easily slice things up to 20mm in diameter.
Thanks to the ratchet action, you can enjoy easy pruning in four steps. Just squeeze the handle until the ratchet is engaged with a click, let go and reapply until the next click. Repeat until itโs done.
The blade is created of top-quality carbon steel. Itโs also PTFE coated for resistance to rust and a smooth cutting. Last but not least, itโs lightweight with a non-slip grip and a metal locking catch.
Key Features:
- Ratchet action for easy pruning in 4 steps
- Non-slip grip, metal locking catch, and steel blade
- Perfect for dead and thick branches up to 20mm in diameter
- Lightweight cast aluminum body with loop handle
- Rust-resistant and ensures a smooth work
Pros
- Super sharp
- Cuts with great ease
- Excellent value for money
- The ratchet makes cutting a breeze
- Easy to utilize with one hand
- Perfect for smaller hands
- Great price
Cons
- Flimsy
Product Specifications:
Brand: | Spear & Jackson |
Blade material: | High-quality carbon steel blade |
Warranty: | Not specified |
Weight: | 8.1 ounces |
Color: | Silver and blue |
Spear & Jackson 6458RS Ergonomic Ratchet Pruners
(Best Ergonomic Ratchet Pruners)
Last but not least, I have another product by Spear & Jackson thatโs worth your attention. Itโs their high-quality tool with high carbon steel blades.
Theyโre PTFE coated for rust resistance and effortless cutting. Just like the previous model, this one has a sturdy metal locking catch and a lightweight cast aluminum body.
Itโs a combination of comfort and effectiveness thanks to the ergonomically-designed body and ratchet action that means easy pruning in 4 steps.
Key Features:
- High carbon steel blades
- PTFE coated for smooth cutting
- Lightweight cast aluminum body
- Ratchet action for easy pruning
- Sturdy metal locking catch
Pros
- Very well designed
- Extremely useful and comfortable in the hand
- Good for sore hands
Cons
- Poor design
Product Specifications:
Brand: | Spear & Jackson |
Blade material: | High-quality carbon steel blade |
Warranty: | Not specified |
Weight: | 9.2 ounces |
Color: | Red and blue |
Buying Guide: What is the Best Hand Pruner?
Maintaining your garden can be a relaxing experience with the right gardening tools in hand. Different ratchet pruners have different features and prices.
Expensive doesnโt always mean quality. Cheap, on the other hand, can cost you more than you initially paid for when the gardening tool fails to perform and you have to purchase a new one.
With so many options available, itโs not easy to make a decision. However, the following key factors can help you find the best ratchet pruners in record time.
Cutting Capacity
The cutting capacity determines the thickness of the branches you can slice with the ratchet pruner. Opt for a hand pruner that cuts between 1/2-inch and 1 1/2-inch thick branches.
Pick the machine thatโs best suited for your gardening needs according to the branches you usually have to deal with. Hand pruners with higher cutting capacities usually weigh more.
Blade Quality
Opt for a ratchet pruner with high-quality blades that can cut efficiently, require little maintenance, and last longer. Usually, high-quality blades can be resharpened when needed.
Most ratchet pruners feature hardened steel or high-carbon steel blades. Some even have a low-friction coating so that they cut smoothly and an anti-rusting coating for protection.
Locking Mechanism
These tools have sharp blades and if youโre not careful enough, you can end up hurting yourself. Opt for a tool with a good locking system that keeps the blades closed when not in use.
Handle
If you have arthritic hands, itโs important to consider the handle of your tools before you make a choice. Ensure that theyโre ergonomically-designed, durable, and lightweight.
Most gardeners and homeowners with arthritic hands, consider ratchet pruners with rubber cushioning. Theyโre easier to hold and work with. Pay close attention to your hand size too!
Thereโs a wide range of units for large, medium, and small hands. Some units have rotating handles for cutting hardwood. However, theyโre not the easiest handles to cut with.
Weight
The goal of buying a ratchet pruner is so youโre able to utilize them comfortably and take out branches with great ease. Weight matters because heavy tools are harder to handle.
The size affects the weight, as well as the material utilized for the blades. Opt for something lightweight thatโs also made of high-quality material, so you can utilize it for a long time.
Replacement Parts
Even the best hand pruners will start to break down over time. Perhaps the blades will break or get dull. Or maybe some screw ends up breaking or getting loose.
Therefore, before purchasing expensive gardening tools, make sure that you can find replacement parts if necessary. That way, if something breaks, you can easily fix it.
Price
This should be a no-brainer. As I already said, instead of chasing the most expensive or the cheapest, opt for something proven that delivers quality but doesnโt cost a fortune.
If youโre on a budget, donโt worry! You can still find decent ratchet pruners for as little as $20. However, donโt expect as good cutting operation and durability as a costly pair.
Warranty
Last but not least, pay close attention to the warranty. Reputable brands such as the ones mentioned in todayโs buying guide stand behind their tools with lifetime warranties.
How to Use Ratchet Pruners?
Ratchet pruners arenโt hard to use. Theyโre simple gardening tools that you shouldnโt have issues with. However, the following few tips can make your work more successful.
- Always check the sharpness of the blades before you start cutting. Keeping your blades sharp at all times will increase the life of your tool and improve its performance.
- Clean the blades before work with orange oil, vinegar, or WD-40 so that theyโre free from rust, sawdust, and sap. Proper maintenance is the key to longevity with any tool.
- Ratchet pruners can be utilized to slice branches between 1/2 inches and 1 1/2 inches thick. Try to slice anything thicker than that, you will likely end up damaging the blade.
- Put the dense branch deep into the jaws of the tool while cutting. Push the handles till you hear a click. Let go of the blades till you hear another click. Keep on pressing the handles till you hear the second click and let go of the blades again. Keep doing this till the branch is cut.
- After utilizing the tool, wipe it clean. Then, add some lubricant and keep it in a safe place. Proper storage also plays an important role in the longevity of gardening tools.
How to Maintain Ratchet Pruners?
Keeping your ratchet pruners in good shape is the key to longevity. Cleaning, sharpening, and oiling your blades will increase both the life and performance of the tool.
Unscrew the handles and utilize orange oil, WD-40, or vinegar for the cleaning. Sharpen the blades with a sharpening stone or a hand file. In the end, oil them properly.
FAQs
Pruning is Painful but Necessary for Growth
Although all of the ratchet pruners reviewed in todayโs buying guide are great choices, the Power Drive ratchet pruner won the throne.
Theyโre suitable for everyone, especially those with arthritis or diminished hand strength. The best part about this tool is the replaceable blade.
Itโs a carbon-steel blade that ensures clean and precise cuts. I also like the looped handle. Itโs perfect for preventing slips. With proper care, these hand pruners will last you a long time.
If youโre on a budget, consider the Corona 3230 ratchet pruner. This tool enables you to cut branches up to 3/4 inches thick and doesnโt cost much.
Hopefully, this article can help find the best ratchet pruners for your needs. Please, donโt forget to share this article with other gardeners.