Lopping Shears
Lopping shears are essential gardening tools, particularly for cutting and pruning trees and shrubs. They are distinguished by their long handles and robust blades that allow users to cut through thick branches and stems easily.
Types of Lopping Shears
There are several types of lopping shears suited to specific applications:
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Anvil loppers: These have a blade that cuts onto a flat surface, ideal for dead or hard wood.
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Bypass loppers: Function like typical scissors with two blades bypassing each other, perfect for fresh, living wood.
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Ratchet loppers: Equipped with a mechanism that reduces the effort required, making cutting easier.
What to Look For When Buying Lopping Shears
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Blade material: High-quality steel ensures durable and sharp cutting edges.
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Handle material and length: Ergonomic handles and appropriate length improve ease of use and reduce strain.
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Cutting capacity: Ensure the shears can handle the thickness of branches you intend to prune.
Care and Maintenance
Regular maintenance extends the lifespan of your loppers:
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Clean the blades after each use to remove sap and plant residue.
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Sharpen the blades regularly to maintain cutting performance.
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Oil the joints to preserve smooth movement and prevent rust.