10 Best Pruning Saws for Trees

A decent pruning saw allows even the hardest branches easy work and also guarantees a pleasant clean cut that stops pathogens from invading your plants. It is vital for your protection as well as the health of your plants to pick the best instrument for this task.

Accessible in a large range of forms, sizes and styles, there’s a pruning saw out there for any project and every sort of budget. If you’re chopping tree limbs for firewood, pruning an overgrown hedge/bush/tree, or clearing dead branches from trees around your home, a pruning saw is a powerful instrument to be commanded by you.

Pros of using pruning saws for trees:

• Cut through thick branches and shrubs up to 3 inches in diameter;
• Cutting is available on the push-and-pull strokes;
• Quick and clean cuts;
• Quality of blades. Most models on the budget have the blades made of steel;

The following guide aims to assist if you can’t choose among the best pruning saws for trees available on the U.S. market. Each model has pros and cons left by experts. The comparison table and buying guide are aimed at gardeners who do not want to spend money in vain.

Corona RS 7245 Razor Tooth Folding Saw – the best for the blades!

The Corona Razor Tooth saw would do as it was supposed to do – to slash. It performs best when cutting the chest of your body, but it still does an outstanding job when picked over your head or under the abdomen (which is where the curved blades shine). The sharp teeth of the blade provide fast, clean cuts.

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Corona utilizes high-carbon pulse reinforced material. Impulse hardening is a method distinct from traditionally reinforced high carbon steel, and the premium cost of sawing represents the distinction. A rubber-like substance on the handle of the saw is used for extra gripping strength. The substance goes up to the saw region where you might put your thumb.

Another fantastic aspect is the wide loop at the back of the tool’s handle that stopped your hand from falling away as you bring the blade through the thick tree limbs.

Corona RS 7245 isn’t the average hand saw. The blade is composed of premium Japanese-made curved steel with extremely sharp teeth (6 per 1 inch). That’s why this pruning saw would be a great pick who can work with very dense hardwood.

Home Planet Gear Folding Hand Saw – the best for versatility!

With an increased maximum length of 17 and 9 1⁄2 inches when locked, this bone saw is a compact size and weight for fast holding. The blade is strengthened such that it remains sharp and offers the user a Japanese-look sawing look. The handle is constructed of ribbed latex with an adjustable build for a secure grip.

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This method really is a multi-purpose method. You’ll be happily shocked to see how least this can impact the spending. You may use it as a portable tool, a greenhouse tool, or an emergency survival tool. Whatever you want to use, it may be very helpful.

This folding pruning saw offers a professional gear-style lock, so you can rely on better protection. And since the pocket blade blends tightly into its grip, there are no teeth left visible – so that you feel extra secure when handling it.

Tarvol Heavy Duty Pruning Saw – the best for cutting capacity!

This lopper helps you to remove shrubs, bushes, grass and brush rapidly and effectively.

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It has a curved blade that allows it to be very simple and fast to hack through thicker foliage and twigs, even branches up to 8 inches in diameter. The slim carrying case is easy to adjust on the belt.

The pistol-style grip offers a secure, solid feel when cutting/sawing the trees behind your house. It has a handy hanging hole for better storage.

TABOR TOOLS TTS25A Folding Saw – the best for weather-resistance!

This model is offered in two models – with the curved or straight blade. The blades are 8 inches long. The thin, serrated edge and the reinforced steel body make it simple to break branches up to 4″. The blade is immune to rust and corrosion, even under less than ideal environmental conditions.

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Half of the handle is bright red and simple to see in poor light conditions. Pick this instrument for its great non-slip rubber handle with a secure use for longer periods of time. And in wet weather, you’ll get a good grip.

It’s quick to turn this closed knife, and it has a safe locking system so it won’t flip back up. This protective function lets you place it in your pocket or tool belt and carry it with you.

This instrument has been crafted with comfort and versatility in mind, including ergonomically contoured handles and coated blades for smoother, longer-lasting slices. The easy, ergonomic handles maintain a consistent weight around the instrument.

Silky Zubat Professional Curved Hand Saw – the best for heavy-duty use!

The Silky Zubat 270-33 Hand Saw is a specialist Japanese pruning saw with a 13-inch angled, rough chromium tip. It can reliably cut much, much thicker branches than other tools. It’s incredibly robust, too.

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The maker offers you a lifetime guarantee on any materials flaws, that’s how happy they are in their goods. It’s also worth noting that it’s 100% manufactured in the United States.

The blade provides chrome-plated and rust-resistant features, with a pulse-hardened, non-set tooth pattern with six 1.5-inch teeth.

This Silky Zubat saw is more costly than the ones described above. However, this is for positive intentions. This device is specifically designed for the tasks with dense woods.

The Buyer’s Guide

Types

• Straight bladed tools typically have a gun grip style handle and are suitable for general pruning work on green wood up to 5 inches thick;
• Curved blade instruments are designed to remove wider tree limbs to 4-5 inches in diameter. The curve allows them more secure in operation and increases the performance of the cutting process;
• Folding pruning saws do not need a scabbard, are simple to hold and are very useful for light pruning work and for cutting brushwood for campfires;

The blade material

The blade material typically will decide how long your saw is going to work, and whether it’s a reasonable cost investment. Pruning saws are often tough to sharpen, and new blades are challenging to bring through. Look for the blades constructed of high carbon material, as well as those that are pulse hardened for enhanced toughness.

The shape of the blade

The design of the saw, curved or straight, determines the degree to which the saw may be sliced more naturally. A straight blade is preferred for cuts close to the body while curved blades can be great for trimming over the head.

The tooth arrangement indicates where your pruning saw will be split to push, lift, or both. In particular, search for saws with a triple ground tooth, as this configuration needs less effort for each split.

Tips for users of pruning saws:

• Many manual saws are double-toothed draw tools. Typically it means you can cut the tree branches with the “pull” stroke;
• This implies that only very light downward pressure is needed on the “pull” stroke and none at all on the “throw” stroke, which is counter-intuitive if you use a traditional crosscut saw;
• If you’ve only ever used a traditional cross-cut instrument for sawing wood, you should definitely consider using a premium pruning saw for trees;
• When cutting branches that are greater than 1-inch in diameter, create a cut on the underside at first. Only then you should cut across from the tip;

Maintenance of pruning saws:

• Clean the blade of sap and other debris with a damp cloth or paper sheet;
• Let the saw dry completely before storing in a case or toolbox;
• You may also want to oil the blade before storing – in such a way, you may protect the coating from rust and oxidation. The light lubrication with a bicycle chain can be helpful;

Video Tutorial: How to Hand-Prune Trees

Factors to Consider When Buying Pruning Saws for Trees

Pruning saws are essential tools for maintaining the health and appearance of trees. When purchasing a pruning saw, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the right one for your needs. This table compares various indicators that you should consider when buying pruning saws for trees.

This table provides a useful guide to the various factors that you should consider when purchasing a pruning saw for trees. By comparing these indicators, you can make an informed decision and choose a saw that meets your specific needs and preferences. Remember that different pruning tasks may require different types of saws, so it’s important to choose the right saw for each job.

FAQ

How do I choose a pruning saw?

Choosing the best pruning saw for you depends on a variety of factors. The first is the type of blade. There are two basic sorts of blades: straight and curved. Standard blades are ideal for general applications and for pruning on branches positioned between your waist and shoulders, while curving blades are made for pruning areas above your shoulders or below the waist.

You also need to choose between a folding hand saw, non-folding saw, pole saw or bow saw. The choice depends entirely on your needs.

The next consideration is the blade’s length. Pruning saws are available in a number of sizes, so select one that matches the size of the tree you’re pruning. Yet another item to consider is the handle style. A saw that feels good in your hand is crucial.

Finally, when it comes to choosing a pruning saw, keep your money in mind. There are many different saws available in a variety of price ranges. [1], [2]

Are pruning saws any good?

The answer to this question is yes! Pruning saws are some of the most versatile and useful tools that you can own as a gardener. They allow you to trim back your trees and plants with precision, making them look their best. The shrubs and branches they can prune range from 1.5 inches. Only saw can deal with such thickness, and pruning saw will deal with it accurately and safely. [3], [4]

What makes a good pruning saw?

When shopping for the ideal pruning saw, there are a few features to consider. The most significant aspect is the blade’s size. You want a saw with a blade big enough to do the task, but not too large that it makes your hand ache while you use it.

The teeth on the blade should also be sharp and durable. Look for a saw with high-quality steel teeth that cuts through branches without damaging them and does it smoothly.

Another important feature to look for is a comfortable grip. You don’t want a saw that’s difficult to hold or causes fatigue during use. A good grip is essential for precision cuts and preventing injuries.

Finally, make sure the saw is easy to operate. It should have a locking mechanism to keep the blade in place when not in use, and a quick-release button for easy removal. [1], [2]

What size pruning saw should I get?

The size of the tree you’re planning on pruning will determine the required size of your pruning saw. For smaller trees, a hand saw will do the trick. For larger trees, you will need a larger saw with a longer blade.

There are many different types of pruning saws, each with its own size, so be sure to get one that is best suited for your needs, one of the bigger blades can reach 20 inches in length. The blade size that is both portable and effective however, ranges from six to eight inches.

Portability is very important when it comes to choosing your pruning saw, picking a blade that is too long for the job you’re doing will not only be impractical but also will make you strain yourself. [1]

Why are pruning saws curved?

The curved blade of a pruning saw is designed to cut on the pull stroke. This allows you to apply more cutting pressure and results in a cleaner cut.

Curved blades also help you get into tight spaces, making them ideal for trimming trees and branches that grow close together. The curve of the blade keeps the saw from getting stuck in the tree and minimizes damage to the bark. [2]

How long does a pruning blade last?

It all depends on the type of blade and how often it is used. Most blades will last for years, but if they are used frequently they may only last for a year.

There are also several factors that can affect the life of your pruning blade. For example, if you are cutting through thick branches or hardwood trees, then the blade will wear down more quickly than if you are just trimming thinner branches. You may also extend the life of your blade by cleaning it on a regular basis and honing it as needed. [5]

Can a pruning saw cut down a tree?

A pruning saw is not meant to be a primary tree-cutting tool and should not be used for this purpose. A pruning saw is designed to cut branches and limbs off of trees, not to fell whole trees. For larger trees, you will need a more heavy-duty saw, such as a chainsaw.

For smaller trees or branches that need to be cut down however, a pruning saw can do the job quite nicely. [6], [7]

How thick can a pruning saw cut?

This depends on the type of saw you are using. Some pruning saws can cut through up to 3 inches of wood, while others are more limited. Be sure to check the specifications of your particular saw before you buy it.

Pruning saws are designed for light cutting tasks such as trimming branches and removing dead wood from trees. They should not be used for heavy-duty lumbering tasks, as they are not designed for this purpose and will likely break or become damaged. In general however, pruning saws can cut branches thicker than 1.5 inches in diameter but less than 3 inches thick.

If you need to cut thicker branches or logs, consider using a chainsaw instead. Chainsaws can typically handle much thicker cuts than pruning saws, but they require more experience and skill to use safely. [3], [4], [8]

How are pruning saws different from regular carpentry saws?

Pruning saws are designed with a curved blade that makes it easier to cut through branches. It’s worth mentioning that the pruning saw blade isn’t as tall as the blade in other saws. The teeth on the blade are also angled so that they can easily grip and slice through wood. They are also smaller in size so that they can be easily handled by gardeners. This makes them the perfect tool for trimming branches on trees.

Regular carpentry saws are straight and have sharp square teeth that can easily cut through metal and other materials, of course thick wood is in the list as well. They are not designed for cutting branches because they aren’t as delicate and can cause more damage to the tree. [9]

Which is better: pruning saw or manual pole saw?

It depends on the job you need to do. Pruning saws are smaller, handheld saws that are designed for precision cutting and trimming of small branches and limbs. They are lightweight, easy to use, and can be used in tight spaces where a manual pole saw may not fit. Manual pole saws are longer than pruning saws and have a longer reach. They are more powerful, so they can cut through larger branches and limbs with ease. However, they can be more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.

Overall, if you need to do precision trimming of smaller branches and limbs, then a pruning saw is probably your best bet. If you need to cut through thicker branches or larger limbs, then a manual pole saw would be the better option. Ultimately, it comes down to the job you need to do and what tools will make that job easier for you.

Can I use a hacksaw to prune trees?

It is possible to use a hacksaw to prune trees, but it is not the best option. Hacksaws aren’t designed for precise cutting needed for pruning trees. Hacking movements will leave messy cuts on your branch. You could try to sew it off but it would be a very slow and not really effective process. [10]

What type of pruning saw is best for cutting thicker branches?

A folding saw or a straight saw with a curved blade are both good options for cutting thicker branches. These saws have teeth that are designed to make quick work of tough cuts.

How do I properly maintain my pruning saw?

To maintain your pruning saw, you should regularly clean the blade with a rag and some oil to prevent rust. You should also sharpen the blade with a file or sharpening stone when it starts to become dull. Be sure to tighten any loose screws or bolts on the saw as well.

Can a pruning saw be used to cut through live branches?

Yes, pruning saws are designed to be used on live branches. However, it’s important to make sure the saw blade is sharp and in good condition before use to ensure a clean cut and prevent damage to the tree.

What safety precautions should I take when using a pruning saw?

Always wear gloves and eye protection when using a pruning saw. Make sure the blade is sharp and in good condition, and use the saw on a stable surface. Be mindful of your surroundings and the position of the branch before making a cut.

Can a pruning saw be used to prune fruit trees?

Yes, pruning saws can be used to prune fruit trees. However, it’s important to use the appropriate pruning techniques for fruit trees to ensure a healthy tree and a bountiful harvest.

What is the difference between a curved and straight pruning saw blade?

A curved blade allows for a more ergonomic cutting motion and is better for cutting through thicker branches. A straight blade is better for making precise cuts on smaller branches.

How do I know when it’s time to replace the blade on my pruning saw?

If the blade is no longer cutting smoothly or is visibly damaged, it’s time to replace it. You may also need to replace the blade if it’s become dull and can no longer be sharpened.

What is the difference between a pruning saw and a pruning shears?

Pruning saws are designed for cutting thicker branches, while pruning shears are better for trimming smaller branches and foliage. Saws are also typically used for making cuts that are harder to reach, while pruning shears are used for more precise cuts that require more control.

What type of blade is best for pruning fruit trees?

A straight blade with smaller teeth is best for pruning fruit trees, as it allows for more precise cuts on smaller branches. It’s also important to keep the blade sharp to prevent damage to the tree and promote healthy growth.

Can a pruning saw be used to prune bushes and shrubs?

Yes, pruning saws can be used to prune bushes and shrubs. However, it’s important to use the appropriate pruning techniques for the specific plant to promote healthy growth and prevent damage.

What is the proper way to hold a pruning saw?

When using a pruning saw, hold the handle with one hand and the blade with the other. Make sure your grip is firm but not too tight, and keep your elbows close to your body for stability. Always cut on the pull stroke for a smoother cut.

Can a pruning saw be used to cut through hardwood trees?

Yes, pruning saws can be used to cut through hardwood trees, but a saw with a longer blade and larger teeth will be more effective for this task. It’s also important to use the appropriate cutting techniques to prevent damage to the tree and the saw.

Is it better to use a manual or powered pruning saw?

It depends on the task at hand and personal preference. Manual pruning saws are more environmentally friendly and do not require electricity, but powered saws can make cutting through thicker branches easier and faster.

Final thoughts

Hopefully, this guide has allowed you to grasp the environment of pruning saws. Although there are several versions to pick from, now you should be able to select the right pruning saw fit your needs.

I created PoleSawGuide with one simple idea – to assist people who do gardening. In this particular review, I wanted to gather the best pruning saws that my trusted friends or I tested and found if not excellent but good enough tools for recommending to all our readers.

During our tests, we managed to specify 4 major types:

• Folding tools for manual labor – the best choice for those gardeners who seek a portable and lightweight saw (like EverSaw Folding Saw);
• Non-folding tools – these saws come with a carrying case or sleeve to avoid any harm during transportation;
• Classic saws – where the blade comes with a telescoping pole (not a handle). In such a way, a person can easily reach a tree to prune the branches;

You will find different models in this guide, but all of them fall under the above-mentioned types. We tried to cover the features of the best pruning saws attached to the poles (both folding and non-folding ones) from the most recognized brands in the market – TABOR TOOLS, Silky, Samurai Ichiban and POCKETBOY.

Taking into account the price/quality ratio, the Corona RS 7245 model turned out to be the greatest pick. This 7-inch saw with 6 teeth, and the ergonomic handle is only under $30.

We tried to stay unbiased and focused on the pole saws that are awesome for cutting the branches of trees or bushes. In my humble opinion, the best tools come with the practical blades the length of which is no more than 8 inches. That is why all models in this review range between 6-8 inches. Especially look at folding tools that are good for your budget and safe to transport until you need pruning.

References:

1. https://gardeningproductsreview.com/best-pruning-saws-guide-recommendations/
2. https://www.mygardenplot.com/best-pruning-saws/
3. https://homeandstyle.co.uk/what-is-a-pruning-saw/
4. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/tools/when-to-use-pruning-saws.htm
5. https://www.hobbyfarms.com/4-signs-your-hand-saw-needs-replacing/
6. https://breakingfreemediation.com/how-to-cut-down-a-small-tree-with-a-saw/
7. https://www.finepowertools.com/saws/saw-for-cutting-trees/
8. https://landscapingplanet.com/what-to-use-to-cut-thick-branches/
9. https://www.hobbyfarms.com/pruning-saw-differs-other-saws/
10. https://www.practicalgardening.blackdovenest.com/2011/06/pruning-saw-for-cutting-thick-branches.html