Garden loppers are a must-have tool for any gardener or landscaper who wants to keep their trees and bushes in top shape. With so many options on the market, it can be tough to choose the best one for your needs. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 garden loppers available today.

Our Top Picks

• Best Overall: Fiskars PowerGear2 Lopper
• Best Heavy-Duty: Tabor Tools GB30A Anvil Lopper
• Best Ratcheting: MLTOOLS Easy Cut Ratcheting L8230
• Best Anvil Lopper: TABOR TOOLS GG11A Anvil Lopper 
• Best Budget: Corona SL 3264 ComfortGEL Bypass Lopper

Buying Guide

• Blade quality and material: The blade material is important for sharpness, durability and cutting power. Carbon steel blades tend to be very sharp and cut well, but require more maintenance. Stainless steel and aluminum alloys are lower maintenance but may need sharpening. Non-stick coatings can also help reduce sap and resin buildup. Higher quality, forged blade materials will hold an edge better over time.
• Blade design: Different blade designs suit different cutting needs. Bypass loppers, which have two blades that pass by each other, are good for live, green wood. Anvil loppers, where a blade cuts onto a hardened surface, are better for dead or seasoned wood. Some loppers have one bypass blade and one anvil blade for versatility. Curved blades can follow the natural shape of branches better.
• Cutting capacity: Choose a lopper that is rated to cut branches slightly larger than what you need. Loppers come in a range of cutting capacities, from 3/4 inch up to 2-3 inches in diameter. For heavier pruning jobs, consider long-handled lopping shears or pruning saws.
• Handle design and material: Longer handles, around 26 to 30 inches, provide more leverage and require less effort. Telescopic handles offer even more reach. Padded handles provide comfort for extended use. Aluminum or fiberglass handles reduce weight. Some handles rotate or have adjustable pivots for cutting at different angles.
• Weight and balance: Choose a lopper that feels balanced and comfortable in your hands. Lightweight loppers, under 2 pounds, are good for smaller jobs, while more substantial loppers, around 3 pounds, tackle bigger branches. Poor balance or heavier weight can lead to fatigue and difficulty controlling the lopper.

Best Garden Loppers Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are garden loppers used for?

A: Garden loppers are used for pruning and trimming trees, bushes, and other plants in your garden.

Q: What are the different types of garden loppers available?

A: There are bypass loppers, anvil loppers, ratchet loppers, and compound loppers.

Q: What is the difference between bypass and anvil loppers?

A: Bypass loppers have curved blades that slide past each other like scissors, while anvil loppers have one straight blade that cuts against a flat surface.

Q: Can garden loppers be sharpened?

A: Yes, most garden loppers can be sharpened with a sharpening stone or file.

Q: Do I need to oil my garden loppers?

A: Yes, it’s a good idea to oil the pivot and blades of your garden loppers periodically to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.

Final Thought

A good pair of garden loppers is an essential tool for any gardener who wants to keep their trees and bushes healthy and attractive. By investing in one of the top 5 loppers on our list, you’ll be able to tackle even the toughest pruning and trimming jobs with ease.