Glenda Taylor | updated August 26, 2021 at 11:18 AM

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Trees and shrubs can increase the attractiveness of the roadside-but not if they grow too large or block windows. Keeping the landscape tidy requires more than one tool, but one of the best tools for pruning small branches and shrubs is a trusted pruning saw.

Pruning saws are great for cutting branches that are too thick to be cut with pruning shears or pruning shears. They are the tool of choice for cutting from the top of the head because they only require one hand to operate. The best pruning saw varies from user to user, because pruning needs also vary. Next, learn what to look for when buying a pruning saw, and find out why the following models are great for various pruning tasks.

Pruning trees and shrubs is more than just making them look their best-removing dead or diseased branches is essential to keep them healthy. In addition, some shrubs and trees have very dense growth patterns, and removing some branches can allow greater air circulation and thus better growth. There are several types of pruning saws. Some are designed for pruning thick branches, while others are more suitable for narrower stems. There are several factors worth considering when choosing one to keep your green plants in their best condition.

Although pruning saws all have the same purpose—allowing users to cut branches quickly and efficiently—the design differences make certain types of pruning saws more suitable for specific pruning chores than others.

Speaking of pruning saws, saw blades are the protagonist of the exhibition. The specific material and blade configuration will determine the quality and best use.

The tooth profile on the pruning saw blade will determine whether it cuts by pulling or pushing—or both. If the teeth are tilted forward, the blade will cut during the pull stroke; if they tilt back, it will cut off during the push stroke. If the teeth extend straight, the blade will cut in the push or pull stroke.

The number of teeth will also vary. Some pruning saws (not all) are marked with teeth per inch (TPI), and most pruning saws have 3 and 24 TPI. The lower the TPI, the faster and harder the blade cuts, but it may leave rough ends on the branches. The higher the TPI, the longer the cutting time, but the smoother the branches of the cut.

The time the user can trim branches without feeling fatigued depends largely on the handle of the saw. The high-quality handle design fits the shape of the hand (ergonomically), which can reduce fatigue and soreness of the hand and wrist. Non-slip grips are also desirable.

The handle of the pruning saw usually has a pistol-type handle, and the user's hand places the fingers under the handle. This is suitable for most pruning tasks, but traditional saw handles allow users to use thrust or pull to complete larger cutting tasks.

The optimal weight of the pruning saw depends on the user. The weight of the saw varies from a few ounces to about 3 pounds or more. The heavier the saw, the more stable it is, but the faster it will lead to fatigue in the hands and arms, especially when used on top of the head. Lightweight pruning saws are easier to operate, but users may need to apply more downward pressure when sawing branches.

All saw blades are sharp and there is a risk of injury, especially electric models. An unpowered pruning saw is safer, but grabbing a sharp blade while digging a tool in the toolbox is still a painful experience. For this reason, some pruning saw manufacturers have installed a locking mechanism on the folding saw to ensure that the blade is safely stored before it is ready for use. Other pruning saws may come with a sheath or sheath, allowing the user to safely store the pruning saw in its housing-usually on a belt loop-for quick retrieval.

A good quality pruning saw helps to make clean cuts to the shapes of trees and shrubs, but some tricks can make the project faster, safer, and simpler. Before starting, be sure to prepare the correct equipment-work gloves, long-sleeved shirt, long pants and protective glasses.

To be the first choice, pruning saws need to be durable, well-made, and equipped with sharp, high-quality blades. Although the best pruning saw for your needs ultimately depends on the type of pruning to be performed, all of the following models are good at cutting.

The 15-inch curved blade of the Fiskars pruning saw is made of precision ground steel, which has sufficient durability and strength. The gently curved blade makes it ideal for pruning the branches above and below the head. Its straight teeth can be cut in a push or pull stroke, and the trademarked Power Tooth blade is very suitable for sharp, clean cuts.

The ergonomic non-slip handle and light weight (less than 1 pound) can reduce hand and arm fatigue, and the pistol grip can increase control. Using the included handle, the entire saw is 21.62 inches long.

The sharp serrations on the TABOR TOOLS pruning saw are designed to cut during the pulling stroke. The saw is equipped with a 10-inch straight blade, suitable for easy pruning of any branch from waist to shoulder height. This sturdy and lightweight saw (less than a pound) is equipped with an ergonomic non-slip handle. Its total length (from the tip of the blade to the tip of the handle) is 18.5 inches, making it suitable for carrying in most portable toolboxes.

The TABOR TOOLS pruning saw is also equipped with a protective scabbard, which is attached to the belt for easy carrying and use. This pruning shear can be used to trim branches up to 4 inches in diameter.

The weekend gardener does not need to spend a fortune to buy a high-quality pruning saw to shape unruly shrubs. The REXBETI pruning saw is equipped with an 8-inch straight blade and 7-TPI wide teeth to quickly trim unwanted branches. REXBETI saw blades are made of durable SK-5 steel with long-lasting sharpness and durability.

This pruning saw can be cut by pulling or pushing, and has a non-slip rubber grip for high comfort. When not in use, the saw blade is folded in the handle. If necessary, the saw can be easily carried in a backpack or tool belt. Most importantly, its price is very attractive.

The Corona arc blade pruning saw is designed to cut stronger branches (up to 10 inches in diameter) and is a powerful tool. The ergonomic handle is reminiscent of a saw used to cut wood by hand. It places the user's wrist in a straight position during sawing, thereby maximizing sawing motion. The large 18-inch blade can handle heavy work. It is made of SK-5 pulse hardened steel to prevent dullness. The chrome-plated coating further improves the rust resistance and performance.

From the handle to the tip of the blade, the total length of the saw is 23.25 inches, making this pruning saw ideal for those who love orchards or those who regularly trim trees.

When using DocaPole "GoSaw" to trim branches, jump over the swaying ladder and reach a higher place. This convenient saw can also be used as a hand saw for trimming branches at chest height. GoSaw has an acme threaded handle that can accommodate a retractable DocaPole (sold separately), but it also fits other acme threaded rods, such as those used to push brooms and paint rollers.

GoSaw is equipped with an ultra-sharp 13-inch precision grinding blade that can cut on the pull and push strokes. When there is no connecting rod, GoSaw can double as a handsaw with an ergonomic over-grip handle. The saw is designed for light pruning tasks and can cut small branches and branches smoothly.

When folded into a protective cover, the length of the corona pruning saw is only 12 inches, which is small enough to be carried in a backpack or tool belt. The 10-inch pulse-hardened steel blade on the saw has sharp teeth after unfolding, which can cut branches up to 6 inches in diameter, making it a valuable tool for collecting firewood and trimming trees and shrubs when camping.

At 6 TPI, this folding pruning saw will actively cut the branches, although it may not leave the smoothest cut ends. The sheath has a dual function as an ergonomic handle, and the slightly curved saw blade is designed to cut during the pulling stroke.

Shoppers who choose this chrome-plated, rust-proof pruning saw from Samurai will also get a protective scabbard. In addition to providing a practical way to keep the saw blade in good condition and protect the user from injury, the scabbard also includes a strap loop so that the user can carry the saw with him while still freeing his hands for other tasks.

The curved pulse-hardened steel blade makes overhead cutting easier, while the padded non-slip handle is designed to reduce hand fatigue.

This special saw cuts on the pulling stroke, and its precise cutting ability can create a smooth end cut, which is ideal for live trees. From the tip of the blade to the end of the handle, the size of the samurai pruning saw is 20.5 inches.

Although it is only 7.7 inches long, the rust-resistant, low-friction steel blade on this folding pruning saw is designed to cut branches up to 4 inches in diameter. FLORA GUARD can cut on both the push and pull strokes, which is very suitable for quick pruning of small branches.

The padded, non-slip ergonomic handle makes it easy to hold the saw firmly, and the safety lock button prevents the saw blade from unfolding during storage. The button is also used to lock the blade at various angles for cutting in narrow places. There is a hole at the end of the handle, and a clamp can be used to fix the saw on the belt loop.

Use HOSKO 10-foot tree pruning and pruning saws to extend the cutting range without climbing a ladder. This pruning saw can be used with or without the included telescopic pole, it has a 12-inch long hardened steel blade. The slight curve on the blade helps the user generate more power when cutting overhead, and the cleverly placed hook on the tip of the blade helps pull loose branches from the tree.

The HOSKO saw cuts on both pushing and pulling strokes, and is equipped with an ergonomic handle to help reduce hand fatigue. The telescopic rod is adjustable, allowing the user to add or remove parts to reach the desired height.

At some point, most trees and shrubs need to be pruned to keep them healthy and beautiful. For those who may be familiar with pruning shears or pruning shears but are ready to upgrade to more aggressive cutting tools, some problems with pruning saws can be expected.

As a general rule, choose a pruning saw with a blade diameter that is twice the diameter of the branch you want to cut. For example, choose a saw with a blade of at least 10 inches to cut branches with a maximum diameter of 5 inches.

The curved design makes it easier to see the low branches and branches above the head.

Many pruning saws today cannot be sharpened. This is because they are made of carbon steel and electroplated to reduce rust. Sharpening will remove the plating.

Wipe the blade after use to remove any juice or residue and dry. Optional: Before storing in winter, coat the saw blade with a thin layer of mineral oil to protect it.

Trees and shrubs can increase the attractiveness of the roadside-but not if they grow too large or block windows. Keeping the landscape tidy requires more than one tool, but one of the best tools for pruning small branches and shrubs is a trusted pruning saw. Pruning saws are very suitable for cutting branches that are too thick to be cut with pruning shears or pruning shears. They are the tool of choice for cutting overhead because they only require one hand to operate.

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