Best Hand Pruners For Thick Branches This Year – Outdoor Tools Reviews
Our winners of the Best Hand Pruners For Thick Branches this year are:
BEST OVERALL
Fiskars 91095935J Steel Bypass Pruning Shears

- Hardened steel blades
- Ergonomic handle design
- Non-stick coating
- Lightweight construction
- 1-inch cutting capacity
Introduction
Pruning thick branches requires the right tool, and hand pruners are a gardener’s best friend for this task. They are designed to make clean cuts, promote healthy plant growth, and ease the gardening workload. With so many options available, choosing the best hand pruners for thick branches can be overwhelming.
In this article, we will guide you through the essential features to consider when purchasing hand pruners, answer frequently asked questions, and provide reviews of the top products available on Amazon. Whether you’re a professional landscaper or a home gardener, finding the right pruner can make all the difference in your gardening experience.

Reviews & Comparisons
1. Fiskars 91095935J Steel Bypass Pruning Shears
The Fiskars Steel Bypass Pruning Shears are designed for precision and ease. With hardened steel blades, they ensure sharpness and durability with every cut, making them ideal for thick branches.

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Why we like it
We like the Fiskars shears for their high-quality blades and ergonomic design. They reduce hand fatigue and provide a reliable cutting experience, making them a top choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.
Features
- Hardened steel blades
- Ergonomic handle design
- Non-stick coating
- Lightweight construction
- 1-inch cutting capacity
Pros
- Durable materials
- Comfortable grip
- Sharp and precise
- Easy to use
- Low maintenance
Cons
- May require frequent sharpening
- Not ideal for very small hands
- Locking mechanism can be tricky
- Limited color options
- Pricey for some budgets
Our Verdict
The Fiskars Steel Bypass Pruning Shears offer a perfect blend of precision and comfort. They are slightly more expensive but provide value through durability and ease of use, making them a worthwhile investment for serious gardeners.
2. Corona BP 3180D Forged Classic Bypass Pruner
The Corona BP 3180D is a forged classic bypass pruner that delivers strength and reliability. Ideal for thick branches, it features a high-carbon steel blade that stays sharp longer.

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Why we like it
We appreciate the Corona pruner for its robust build and sharp cutting ability. It’s a go-to tool for gardeners who need a reliable and long-lasting pruner for regular use.
Features
- High-carbon steel blade
- Forged steel construction
- Sap groove for cleaner cuts
- 1-inch cutting capacity
- Comfortable non-slip grips
Pros
- Extremely durable
- Sharp blade
- Easy maintenance
- Efficient sap groove
- Good handle grip
Cons
- Heavier than some models
- Requires oiling to prevent rust
- Lock may loosen over time
- Not suitable for left-handed users
- Basic design
Our Verdict
The Corona BP 3180D is a sturdy and effective pruner, perfect for those who prioritize durability and cutting precision. While it may be heavier, its performance makes it a great choice for gardening enthusiasts.
3. Gonicc 8” Professional SK-5 Anvil Pruning Shears
Gonicc’s 8” Professional Anvil Pruning Shears are designed for efficiency and durability. With SK-5 steel blades, they’re perfect for cutting through tough, thick branches with ease.

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Why we like it
We favor the Gonicc pruners for their SK-5 steel blades that provide exceptional sharpness and cutting power. They are designed to tackle challenging pruning tasks effortlessly.
Features
- SK-5 high carbon steel blade
- Anvil design for hard branches
- Comfortable ergonomic handles
- Safety lock mechanism
- 1.2-inch cutting capacity
Pros
- Extremely sharp blades
- Comfortable to use
- Durable construction
- Effective safety lock
- Ideal for hard branches
Cons
- Heavier than bypass pruners
- Lock mechanism can be stiff
- Not suitable for delicate cuts
- Handles may feel large
- Requires regular sharpening
Our Verdict
The Gonicc 8” Anvil Pruning Shears are perfect for gardeners dealing with tough branches. Their robust design and sharp blades ensure they can handle demanding tasks, although they might be heavier for prolonged use.
4. Felco F-2 Classic Manual Hand Pruner
The Felco F-2 Classic Manual Hand Pruner is a favorite among professional gardeners. Known for its precision and quality, it features replaceable parts and a design that stands the test of time.

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Why we like it
We love the Felco F-2 for its superior build quality and precision. It’s a highly reliable tool that offers consistent performance, making it worth the investment for serious gardeners.
Features
- High-quality hardened steel blade
- Replaceable parts
- Ergonomic design
- 1-inch cutting capacity
- Sap groove feature
Pros
- Outstanding durability
- Precise cuts
- Replaceable blades
- Ergonomic handle
- Trusted brand
Cons
- Expensive
- Lock can be hard to operate
- Not ideal for small hands
- Requires regular maintenance
- Limited color options
Our Verdict
The Felco F-2 Classic Pruner is a top-tier tool for those who value durability and precision. Its high-quality construction and performance make it a preferred choice for professionals and dedicated gardeners.
5. ARS HP-VS8Z Signature Heavy Duty Pruner
The ARS HP-VS8Z Signature Pruner is a heavy-duty tool made to tackle thick branches with ease. Known for its superior craftsmanship, it’s a reliable choice for gardeners needing strength and precision.

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Why we like it
We admire the ARS pruner for its blend of strength and precision. It’s perfect for those who require a heavy-duty tool that doesn’t compromise on cutting quality.
Features
- Heavy-duty build
- Hard chrome-plated steel blades
- Ergonomic handle design
- 1-inch cutting capacity
- Sap groove for clean cuts
Pros
- Extremely strong
- Sharp blades
- Comfortable grip
- Rust-resistant
- Efficient cutting
Cons
- Higher price point
- Heavier than some models
- Requires frequent sharpening
- Lock mechanism can be stiff
- Not suited for minor trimming
Our Verdict
The ARS HP-VS8Z is an excellent choice for those needing a robust pruner for thick branches. Its heavy-duty design ensures it can handle tough tasks, although it may not be ideal for lighter pruning work.
6. Tabor Tools GG12 Anvil Lopper
Tabor Tools GG12 is an anvil lopper designed for heavy-duty pruning tasks. It offers a powerful cutting performance for thick branches, thanks to its robust construction and sharp blades.

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Why we like it
We like the Tabor Tools GG12 for its powerful cutting ability and ergonomic design. It’s a great tool for gardeners who often deal with large and thick branches.
Features
- Anvil blade design
- Robust construction
- Extendable handles
- Comfortable grips
- 2-inch cutting capacity
Pros
- Powerful cutting
- Durable design
- Comfortable to use
- Good for thick branches
- Extendable handles
Cons
- Heavier weight
- Bulkier design
- Requires strength to operate
- Limited color choices
- Higher maintenance
Our Verdict
The Tabor Tools GG12 Anvil Lopper is ideal for those who need a powerful tool for heavy-duty pruning. While it’s bulkier, its extendable handles and cutting power make it a valuable tool for serious gardeners.
7. Gardenite Ultra Snip Pruning Shears
The Gardenite Ultra Snip Pruning Shears offer precision and comfort for pruning tasks. They’re lightweight and easy to handle, perfect for cutting thick branches with ease.

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Why we like it
We appreciate the Gardenite shears for their lightweight design and precise cutting ability. They’re ideal for gardeners looking for a comfortable and efficient pruning tool.
Features
- Precision-ground stainless steel blades
- Lightweight design
- Ergonomic handles
- 1-inch cutting capacity
- Safety lock mechanism
Pros
- Light and easy to handle
- Sharp blades
- Comfortable grip
- Affordable
- Good for thick branches
Cons
- Not for heavy-duty tasks
- Requires frequent sharpening
- Lock can be finicky
- Limited durability
- Basic design
Our Verdict
The Gardenite Ultra Snip Pruning Shears are a great choice for those who prefer a lightweight and precise tool. They offer excellent value for money, although they may not be suited for very heavy-duty tasks.
8. VIVOSUN 6.5” Gardening Hand Pruner
The VIVOSUN 6.5” Gardening Hand Pruner is designed for easy and precise pruning. With durable blades and an ergonomic design, it’s ideal for cutting through thick branches smoothly.

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Why we like it
We like the VIVOSUN pruner for its combination of durability and comfort. It’s perfect for gardeners who need a reliable tool for regular pruning tasks.
Features
- Durable stainless steel blades
- Ergonomic handle design
- Non-slip grips
- Safety lock feature
- 1-inch cutting capacity
Pros
- Durable construction
- Comfortable to use
- Sharp blades
- Affordable
- Good handle grip
Cons
- Not for very thick branches
- Requires regular sharpening
- Lock can be stiff
- Basic design
- Limited to small hands
Our Verdict
The VIVOSUN Gardening Hand Pruner is a reliable and affordable tool for gardeners. It’s particularly suited for regular pruning tasks, although it may not handle very thick branches as effectively as larger models.
9. GARTOL 8-Inch Professional Anvil Pruning Shears
The GARTOL 8-Inch Professional Anvil Pruning Shears are built for strength and efficiency. With sharp blades and durable construction, they are perfect for tackling tough branches.

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Why we like it
We appreciate the GARTOL pruners for their strong build and sharp cutting ability. They are ideal for gardeners who require a robust tool for heavy pruning tasks.
Features
- SK-5 high carbon steel blade
- Anvil design
- Ergonomic handles
- Safety lock mechanism
- 1.2-inch cutting capacity
Pros
- Extremely sharp
- Durable build
- Comfortable grip
- Effective safety lock
- Good for hard branches
Cons
- Heavier than bypass pruners
- Requires regular sharpening
- Not for delicate cuts
- Handles may feel large
- Lock can be stiff
Our Verdict
The GARTOL Professional Anvil Pruning Shears are excellent for gardeners dealing with tough branches. Their robust construction and sharp blades make them a reliable choice for demanding pruning tasks.
10. Fiskars PowerGear2 Pruner
The Fiskars PowerGear2 Pruner is designed to make cutting thick branches easier with its innovative gear technology. It offers increased cutting power and is perfect for heavy-duty pruning.

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Why we like it
We like the Fiskars PowerGear2 for its unique gear mechanism that enhances cutting power. It’s ideal for gardeners who need a powerful yet easy-to-use pruning tool.
Features
- PowerGear technology
- Bypass blade design
- Ergonomic handles
- Non-stick coating
- 1-inch cutting capacity
Pros
- Increased cutting power
- Comfortable to use
- Sharp blades
- Durable construction
- Good for thick branches
Cons
- Higher price point
- Heavier than basic models
- Lock can be tricky
- Requires regular maintenance
- Not ideal for smaller hands
Our Verdict
The Fiskars PowerGear2 Pruner is a powerful tool for gardeners needing extra cutting power. Its innovative design and strong performance make it a great choice for tackling thick branches.
Buying Guide
- Blade Material: Look for pruners with high-carbon steel blades for durability and sharpness. Stainless steel is also a good option for rust resistance. Check out Gardening Know How for more information.
- Handle Comfort: Ergonomically designed handles with rubber grips reduce hand fatigue. Ensure the handles are non-slip and fit comfortably in your hand.
- Cutting Capacity: Check the maximum cutting diameter the pruners can handle. For thick branches, look for a capacity of at least 1 inch. Fine Gardening offers insights on pruning tools.
- Locking Mechanism: A secure locking mechanism ensures safety when the pruners are not in use. This feature is crucial to prevent accidental cuts.
- Weight: Lightweight pruners are easier to handle, especially for prolonged use. However, ensure they are sturdy enough to handle tough branches.
FAQs
What are hand pruners used for?
Hand pruners are used for trimming and cutting small branches, stems, and twigs. They are essential for maintaining plant health by removing dead or overgrown branches. These tools help shape plants, promote growth, and prevent the spread of disease.
Can hand pruners cut thick branches?
Yes, certain hand pruners are specifically designed to cut thick branches. Look for pruners with a higher cutting capacity, often around 1 inch or more, to ensure they can handle thicker branches without damage.
How do I maintain my hand pruners?
To maintain your hand pruners, regularly clean the blades after use to prevent rust and sap buildup. Sharpen the blades as needed to maintain cutting efficiency. Lubricate the moving parts to ensure smooth operation and store them in a dry place.
What is the difference between anvil and bypass pruners?
Bypass pruners have a scissor-like action, which is ideal for live branches, providing clean cuts that promote healing. Anvil pruners have a single straight blade that cuts against a flat surface, better suited for dead or hard branches.
How do I choose the right size pruners?
Choosing the right size pruners depends on the size of the branches you need to cut and your hand size. Larger pruners are suitable for thicker branches, while smaller ones are easier to handle and better for smaller tasks.
Conclusion
Finding the best hand pruners for thick branches involves considering factors like blade material, handle comfort, cutting capacity, and weight. By understanding these features, you can make an informed decision that suits your gardening needs. With the right pruners, trimming thick branches becomes a manageable and even enjoyable task. Explore our reviews to find the perfect tool for your garden.