Kinds of Tree Pruners

Pruning Shears

• Pruning shears are used to cut tree branches ¾ inch in diameter or smaller. There are two types of pruning shears, which include bypass and anvil. Bypass or scissor pruning shears have two blades that overlap, leaving a clean cut. Anvil pruning shears contain a stationary top blade and a mobile bottom blade that cuts and crushes dull branches.
  
  

Lopping Shears

• Lopping shears cut through branches that are up to 1 ¾ inches in diameter. The shears have long handles that provide extra reach for tall tree branches and leaves. Lopping shears with ratchet joints and shock-absorbing bumpers between the blades are used for tough or heavy-duty pruning projects.
  
  

Pruning Saws

• Pruning saws are used to remove tree branches 1 to 4 inches in diameter. They come in various sizes with straight or curved blades and teeth that are either fine or coarse. Fine-toothed pruning saws remove tree branches up to 2 ½ inches in diameter, while coarse-toothed pruning saws cleanly cut heavy branches 3 to 4 inches in diameter.
  
  

Chain Saws

• Chain saws are used to remove large branches and tree trunks. The chain saw's horsepower and blade length determine the branch diameter through which the saw can cut. Individuals using chain saws are required to wear protective clothing, such as long sleeve shirts, a hard hat and steel toe work boots. The saws are never used above shoulder height or while standing on a ladder.