When tackling larger pruning jobs, it’s crucial to have the right pruning saw at your disposal. From folding and fixed saws to curved and straight blades, these top pruning saws will assist you in pruning with ease.
Secateurs and loppers serve as convenient pruning tools; however, for thicker branches, a pruning saw is the ideal choice. Acting as the last line of defense before resorting to a chainsaw, a pruning saw boasts a toothed blade capable of effectively cutting branches 5cm thick and above. These saws are available in various shapes and sizes, ranging from compact folding saws that can be conveniently carried in a pocket to long, straight, fixed blades that require a holster for safe storage. They all feature a high-carbon steel blade, with many being specifically designed to cut a particular type or thickness of wood. Generally, the longer the blade, the thicker the wood it can cut, but factors such as blade strength, sharpness of teeth, durability, as well as grip, and comfort, all influence the ease and precision of cutting with a saw.
Best pruning saws
1. Best Pruning Saws to Buy in 2024
ARS CAM24 PRO pruning saw
RRP: £48.86
Our rating: 5 out of 5
![Best Pruning Saws](https://thegardenfarming.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/ARS_Arborist_Saw_2e57f558-c107-4b65-a96e-6ca3bed9bfdd_580x.webp)
Pros
- Very light and comfortable
- Long strong blade
- Cuts smoothly and efficiently
- Handy holster for safety
- Replacement parts available
The ARS CAM24 PRO pruning saw has been awarded the Best Buy for the Best fixed straight saw by BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine. This light and comfortable saw excels at cutting even thick, dense wood with ease. It features a high carbon steel blade with chrome plating for durability, and impulse hardened teeth to ensure prolonged sharpness. Operating on the pull stroke, its handle is equipped with a rubber grip and a hook to prevent hand slippage during pressure application. Ideal for cutting wood that’s level with the user, this saw comes with a convenient holster and offers replaceable parts along with a lifetime warranty.
2. Best Pruning Saws to Buy in 2024
ARS PM-21 folding pruning saw
RRP: £38.95
Our rating: 5 out of 5
![Best Pruning Saws](https://thegardenfarming.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/618NLbkhfqL._AC_UF10001000_QL80_.jpg)
Pros
- Very light and comfortable
- Cuts easily and cleanly
- Replacement parts available
- Choice of cutting angles
The light and simple ARS PM-21 folding pruning saw has been lauded as a BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy for Best folding saw. Crafted with a chrome-plated carbon steel blade and impulse-hardened teeth, it offers durability and prolonged sharpness. Made from aluminum, this saw features a shaped, rubber grip handle that ensures comfortable use and effortless cutting through even thick, dense wood. Additionally, every part of the saw is replaceable, and it comes with a lifetime warranty. This information is based on the BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine review of the ARS PM-21 folding pruning saw.
3. Best Pruning Saws to Buy in 2024
Silky Gomboy Curve Professional folding saw
RRP:£47.39
Our rating: 4.8/5
![Best Pruning Saws](https://thegardenfarming.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/pdtimg_4800216hd.jpg)
Pros
- Cuts smoothly and very easily
- Excellent quality, durable materials
- Comfortable grip, low-vibration handle
- Replacement blade available
- The long curved blade gives good access and reach
Cons
- Expensive
The Silky Gomboy Curve Professional folding saw has been recognized as a BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy for the best folding saw for high use. This well-crafted saw is made of excellent quality materials and, although expensive, is well worth it for frequent use. Its long, slightly curved blade makes pruning disproportionately easier than with a shorter saw, offering good reach into dense shrubs and awkward spots. The durable materials and teeth set into the blade ensure a smooth cut with minimal resistance, while the handle’s micro-textured rubber coating ensures a good grip even when wet. It can also be used two-handed for added power, and the handle has an ‘eye’ for easy storage. However, it is rather large and could get in the way, and the replacement blades, although available, are pricey at £29.94.
4. Best Pruning Saws to Buy in 2024
Felco 640 pruning saw
RRP: £65.99
Our rating: 4.8 out of 5
![Best Pruning Saws](https://thegardenfarming.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/F640-Model-640-Curved-Saw_1620e4c8b7b390.jpg)
Pros
- Very light and comfortable
- Cuts easily and cleanly
- Replacement parts and repair services are available
- Choice of cutting angles
Cons
- Expensive compared with others of similar quality
The high-quality Felco 640 pruning saw received the BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy award for the Best fixed curved saw. It features a high-carbon steel blade with chrome plating to prevent corrosion and impulse-hardened teeth, resulting in clean and precise cuts. The saw’s curved handle, equipped with a rubber grip, offers comfort and balance during use. Additionally, it comes with a holster, belt hook, and a Velcro strap for secure and easy carrying. Capable of handling even the toughest wood, this saw is a valuable investment for those tending to numerous trees and shrubs. Furthermore, it includes a lifetime warranty, with replacement parts and repair services readily available.
5. Best Pruning Saws to Buy in 2024
Stihl PR16 Handycut folding saw
RRP: £28.60
Our rating: 4.8 out of 5
![Best Pruning Saws](https://thegardenfarming.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/dc2c11c0671d4cf38ddcf6df2c8f6735.jpg)
Pros
- Comfortable and light
- Compact and portable
- Cuts smoothly and efficiently
- Replacement blade available
Cons
- Small cutting width
- Safety catch stiff
Based on the information provided in the Web Search Results, the light and comfortable pruning saw with a curved, chrome-plated Japanese steel blade has been awarded a BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy award for the Best compact saw. The saw, with a cutting width of 65mm, is noted for its sharpness, strength, and lack of clogging or sticking. It features a folding mechanism facilitated by a plastic button and its shaped handle with well-placed rubber grips provides excellent cushioning for the hand. While the stiffness of the safety catch is mentioned as a slight drawback, it is noted to loosen up with time. Compact and neat, this saw is suitable for carrying in a pocket while gardening and comes with a two-year warranty.
Best Pruning Saws – Best of the Rest Pruning Saws
Here are some notable pruning saws that, while not awarded the BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy, still possess commendable features:
6. Best Pruning Saws to Buy in 2024
Darlac Sabre Tooth Folding Saw
- RRP: £21.99
- Rating: 4.3 out of 5
![Best Pruning Saws](https://thegardenfarming.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/71TbGxgFMjL.jpg)
Pros:
- Makes good clean cuts
- Locks open and closed
- Replacement blade available
Cons:
- Blade catches on the handle when closing
The straight carbon steel blade with a rust-resistant chrome coating offers strength and sharpness with a 90mm cutting width. The comfortable soft rubber grip handle is hooked to prevent hand slipping, and the blade folds in and out, locking in place both ways for safety. Replacement blades are available at an additional cost, and they come with a lifetime warranty. Ideal for those with a few trees and shrubs.
7. Best Pruning Saws to Buy in 2024
ARS PM-21 Folding Pruning Saw
- RRP: £38.95
- Rating: 5 out of 5
![Best Pruning Saws](https://thegardenfarming.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/618NLbkhfqL._AC_UF10001000_QL80_-1.jpg)
Pros:
- Very light and comfortable
- Cuts easily and cleanly
- Replacement parts available
- Choice of cutting angles
This saw, awarded a BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy for Best folding saw, features a chrome-plated carbon steel blade with impulse-hardened teeth, providing durability and ease of use. With a shaped, rubber grip handle, it offers comfortable use and effortless cutting. It is available for purchase on Amazon US.
8. Best Pruning Saws to Buy in 2024
Stihl PR16 Handycut Folding Saw
- RRP: £28.60
- Rating: 4.8 out of 5
![Best Pruning Saws](https://thegardenfarming.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/dc2c11c0671d4cf38ddcf6df2c8f6735-1.jpg)
Pros:
- Comfortable and light
- Compact and portable
- Cuts smoothly and efficiently
- Replacement blade available
Cons:
- Small cutting width
- Stiff safety catch
- This light and comfortable pruning saw with a curved, chrome-plated Japanese steel blade offers sharpness and strength with no clogging or sticking. It folds in and out of the handle with the help of a plastic button. The handle has well-placed rubber grips, cushioning the hand well. It is compact and neat, making it ideal for various pruning needs.
How to choose a pruning saw
When choosing a pruning saw, consider the following factors:
Blade Strength
- Pruning saw blades are typically high carbon steel, often quench or impulse hardened to enhance strength and maintain sharpness.
- Impulse-hardened blades and teeth stay sharper for longer, making them suitable for extensive pruning tasks.
- Carbon steel blades should have a protective coating or chrome plating to prevent rust.
Handle
- Look for an ergonomically shaped handle with a non-slip grip, typically made of rubber or TRP plastic, for optimal control and comfort during use.
- Consider a saw with a hooked handle end to prevent hand slippage while cutting.
Cutting Needs
- The size and position of the branches you intend to cut will determine the required blade length and cutting width.
- Straight blades are suitable for comfortable cuts between the shoulders and waist, while curved blades are ideal for cuts above head height or below the waist.
Safety Features
- Compact folding blades should have an easily accessible push-button safety lock that securely holds the blade in place.
- Ensure that fixed blades come with a carry holster or blade cover to protect sharp teeth when not in use.
- Look for saws with hanging holes on the handle for safe storage.
Durability and Maintenance
- Check if replacement blades and parts are available to extend the saw’s life, but consider the cost of replacements.
- Some brands offer a repair service for a fee, and there are specialty files available for sharpening saw teeth, although professional sharpening is recommended due to the angled nature of the teeth.
By considering these factors, you can select a pruning saw that best suits your specific needs and ensures safety, durability, and ease of use.
How to Use a Pruning Saw Safely
When using a pruning saw, it is important to prioritize safety. Here are some guidelines to ensure safe usage:
- Wear Protective Gear
- Always wear sturdy gloves when using a pruning saw to protect your hands.
- When pruning above head height, wear safety glasses to protect your eyes.
- Stability and Positioning
- Avoid standing on ladders while pruning, as stability is crucial for safe cutting.
- Ensure you are positioned comfortably to cut safely, especially when working above head height.
- Blade Selection
- Choose the right blade for the job. A curved blade is recommended for cutting above head height.
By following these safety measures, you can minimize the risk of accidents and work with a pruning saw safely and efficiently.
Testing Pruning Saws
In the testing of pruning saws, the following criteria were used, with equal importance attributed to each:
- Handling
- Evaluation of comfort, weight, balance, grip, and the presence of features like a hooked handle, ease of folding, and safety features.
- Cutting
- Focus on blade shape and material, cutting width and efficiency, as well as the smoothness and precision of cuts.
- Maintenance
- Assessment of blade strength and sharpness, hardening and protective features, and the availability of replacement parts or a repair service.
- Value for Money
- Consideration of the above criteria, along with any special features, recommended retail price (RRP), and warranty.
By testing pruning saws against these criteria, an informed assessment of their performance, durability, and overall value for the user is obtained.
These guidelines and testing criteria ensure that pruning saws are not only effective but also safe and reliable for users.
Note: if you need spades, you can check our The Best Garden Spades in 2024 Reviews blog.
References
- ↑https://www.arborday.org/trees/tips/
- ↑https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/types/trees/pruning-guide
- ↑https://www.treesaregood.org/treeowner/pruningyourtrees
- ↑https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fsbdev7_016046.pdf
- ↑https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/pruning-trees-and-shrubs
- ↑https://extension.usu.edu/forestry/trees-cities-towns/tree-care/pruning-powerlines
- ↑https://www.portland.gov/trees/tree-care-and-resources/how-prune-properly
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