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The Best Pruning Saws for Perfectly Trimmed Gardens

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By Old House Journal Review Team
Last updated: 17 Jan 2023

As a gardener, the chances that you’ll experience diseased or dying plants are pretty high, and it’s best to swing into action to protect the healthy plants in the fold whenever that happens. In such situations, most gardeners prune the bad plants, and why not? It’s one of the simplest and safest methods of cutting off unwanted plant parts. This procedure is often done with a couple of tools, the best of which is a pruning saw. However, the thing about pruning saws is that there are so many of them, which makes it quite challenging to select something ideal for your gardening needs. That’s why we have listed some of the great pruning saws in 2023 in this buying guide as well as some factors to consider when buying a pruning saw. This piece also contains answers to some frequently answered questions about these vital gardening tools.

Best Overall
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Corona Pruning Saws
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Runner Up
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Rexbeti Pruning Saw
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Honorable Mention
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WisdomLife Pruning Saw
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Contender
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Flora Guard Pruning Saw
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Another Option
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Tarvol Pruning Saw
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Show contents
Finest Pruning Saw of 2023 Reviewed in Detail
  • 1 Corona Pruning Saws
  • 2 Rexbeti Pruning Saw
  • 3 WisdomLife Pruning Saw
  • 4 Flora Guard Pruning Saw
  • 5 Tarvol Pruning Saw

Buying Guide for Quality Pruning Saws

Pruning is often seen as a difficult procedure, but only by those that haven’t used a quality pruning saw. The best pruning saws are ultra-sharp and ergonomically designed to be properly handled – so it’s no surprise that they’re the go-to options for many gardeners. They also come in various sizes, which means that there’s a pruning saw for every gardener. 

In the previous section, we listed our favorite pruning saws available, with brief descriptions of them. However, we understand that sometimes, customers require extra information to make the right buying decision. And that’s why we have created this section to explain some elements that affect the quality of pruning saws. 

Features to Assess When Buying Pruning Saws

Pruning saws are great for cutting off unwanted plants or plant parts; however, they’re not all created equal. So that you don’t get confused when you get to the agricultural tools section, we’ve decided to list some of the factors to look out for when shopping for pruning saws. With these pieces of information, you should be able to choose the right pruning saw for your gardening endeavors. 

Type

It’s no surprise that pruning saws come in multiple forms that perform various functions. And although some general-purpose pruners can execute multiple pruning procedures, you may need sophisticated pruning saws for certain unconventional pruning activities. So study the types of pruning saws below and determine which one best suits your gardening needs. 

Bow pruning saws

These are not your everyday pruning saws. They are meant for cutting large and hard plant parts – they can even be used to cut down trees. These pruning saws are shaped just like a bow (hence the name), and the long serrated blade is affixed between two opposite sides of the saw. 

Pole pruning saws

These types of pruning saws are custom-designed for pruning tall trees. The design of these pruning saws typically includes a normal serrated blade attached to a long adjustable or fixed pole (hence the name, once again).

Folding and non-folding pruning saws

Folding pruning saws are uniquely designed with sheaths that they fold into when they’re not in use. This simple feature makes them easy to carry about. Non-folding pruning saws are the complete opposite; however, they come with hooks at the end of their handles, which also serve as an anti-slip measure. 

Blade material 

The best pruning saws are forged from high carbon steel. Any other material would be inferior, and it’s advisable to stay away from such. A general rule of thumb when it comes to blade material of pruning saws is that the higher the carbon, the better. Carbon is what makes the metal hard and less prone to dulling. 

Pruning saw action

Pruning saws are designed to cut through wooden material in two ways – pull stroke and push stroke. However, only a few of them cut both ways. If you’re to choose between either cutting action, it’s best to go for pull stroke pruning saws. They require less human power and execute clean cuts without causing any damage to other parts of the plant or wooden material. 

Hardening process

Pruning saws go through many processes in their production; however, the hardening process determines how long they’ll stay sharp. In this case, there are two hardening processes, quench and impulse hardening, and you’ll have to choose between both. 

Let’s save you all the scientific jargon about these processes and just say that the best is impulse hardening. Pruning saws forged by this process are three times stronger and sharper than the alternative, making them the best choice. However, note that such pruning saws are more expensive than the alternative. 

Cutting direction

Cutting direction, also known as tooth geometry, is vital when choosing a pruning saw. The best pruning saws feature triple ground serrated teeth, which gives them an edge over others. This element makes pruning saws really sharp and reduces the conventional cutting time by half. It also allows clean cuts, and it makes clogging by wood debris impossible. 

Weight

The weight of a pruning saw affects its ease of handling and control. And usually, the thickness and weight of what you need to cut will determine the ideal saw weight to go for. A general rule of thumb is that the thicker the material to cut, the heavier the pruning saw to choose. So use this information to choose what’s best for your needs. 

Serrations

Pruning saws come in three major serrations: coarse, medium, and fine. The ideal one to go for is determined by the material you need to cut. Coarsely serrated pruning saws are great for cutting through fresh, heavy wood, while the fine ones are best suited for hard and dry wood. The averagely serrated pruning saws are more multipurpose and can cut a wide variety of wood types. 

Straight or curved pruning saws

Pruning saws can come straight or curved, and this isn’t an aesthetic feature. Curved pruning saws are best suited for cutting materials beneath the waist or above your head, mostly because you’ll find it easy to use them at such angles. On the other hand, straight pruning saws are ideal for cutting between your shoulders and waist for the same reasons as the first. 

Blade length

Pruning saw blades can either be long or short. Long blades increase your reach and stroke span, but they may not be easy to control. Short blades, on the other hand, are quite easy to control and cheaper. In addition, their small size makes them more portable and easy to store. 

Blade locking mechanism

Blade locking is a safety mechanism in pruning saws. It prevents the typically sharp blades from shifting out of place and causing injury to the handler. In this case, the best blade locking mechanisms to look out for in pruning blades include the swing lock, push-button, and thumb lever. 

Handle

You should look out for the size and quality of pruning saw handles. Ensure that the handle is large (or small) enough to perfectly fit your hand and that it is made of either rubber, plastic, or wood. You also need to make sure that it is anti-slip and crafted to withstand the shock from cutting through wood.

Finest Pruning Saw of 2023 Reviewed in Detail

1

Corona Pruning Saws

– Best Overall
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The Corona Pruning Saw features a curved, 3-sided razor design that makes it ultra sharp. This product is forged through an impulse hardening process, making it strong, sharp, and resistant to dulling. 

This pruning saw also features varying blade lengths, the longest of which is a 10-inch blade that’s ideal for cutting small to medium-sized branches. In addition, it weighs about 12.8 ounces, which is perfect for cutting heavy, large pieces of timber.

Pros
  • Ultra-sharp with its 3-sided razor design 
  • Friction-resistant and cuts fast 
  • Thanks to its foldable design, it’s quite portable and safe to carry
Cons
  • Some users have complained of early rusting
2

Rexbeti Pruning Saw

– Runner Up
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This foldable pruning saw is one of the best options available. With it, you can cut through wood, bone, and plastic seamlessly; plus, it cuts in both directions. In addition, its unique staggered teeth design allows it to cut through hard material easily without dulling. 

The Rexbeti Pruning Saw has an extra-long 11-inch steel blade that perfectly cuts 7-inch diameter branches. It also sports a non-slip rubber handle that makes it easy to control. Finally, its seven teeth per inch make it super sharp, and it weighs less than a pound!

Pros
  • Easy to handle and control
  • Super lightweight
  • It cuts pretty fast
Cons
  • Some users claim that some units are poorly designed
3

WisdomLife Pruning Saw

– Honorable Mention
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You can cut and trim branches with ease and precision with the WisdomLife Pruning Saw. This durable saw features a triple-cut 7-inch blade that provides an easy and seamless cutting experience all day long, as well as a secure locking mechanism to help you lock its blade in place. In addition, it sports an anti-slip handle designed to fit comfortably in your hands, no matter what size they are. Finally, this product can easily fit into your pocket, and since it’s pretty lightweight, it won’t feel like a burden.

Pros
  • Features safety mechanisms to protect users
  • Cuts through wood efficiently and smoothly
  • Comes with a hanging hole for storage
Cons
  • Using the lock mechanism on this pruner may prove difficult for individuals with mild arthritis
4

Flora Guard Pruning Saw

– Contender
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The Flora Guard Pruning Saw represents everything a typical gardening cutting tool should be. Its 7.7-inch blade is quite short, but its ultra-sharp, triple ground teeth make up for what it lacks in length. This product also comes with a lock mechanism that eliminates the risk of injury when in use. And thanks to its anti-slip handle, this pruner will not fall off even when loosely handled.

Pros
  • High-carbon steel makes it super durable
  • Cutting with this pruning saw feels comfy and smooth 
  • Pretty easy to handle
Cons
  • Its locking mechanism may develop faults
5

Tarvol Pruning Saw

– Another Option
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The Tarvol Pruning Saw is a Japanese-style hand pruning saw that’s perfect for cutting branches and other plant parts up to 8 inches thick. It features a sharp, curved 14″ blade and has seven teeth per inch, making it ideal for delicate and cumbersome work. The ergonomic handle on this product is comfy, non-slip, and easy to grip. It even has a hanging hole for storage! This high-quality saw weighs 12.8 ounces and comes with a lifetime warranty from the manufacturer. In addition, it’s lightweight and portable, so you can take it anywhere that needs a trim!

Pros
  • Super safe, thanks to an innovative lock mechanism that keeps the blade in place 
  • Quite easy to hold and operate too
Cons
  • Some units may feature scabbard/sheath issues

People Also Asked

Q: How do you maintain a pruning saw?

A: Maintaining a pruning saw is pretty simple. All you have to do is keep it away from moisture, lubricate the blade, and sharpen it regularly. Don't forget to remove the debris from the serrated teeth of the blade.

Q: What are some safety practices for using pruning saws?

A: Ensure that the pruning blade is sharp, you should wear gloves when using pruning saws. If you'll be using the saw above your head, put on a hat, and move your body close to the object you're cutting.

Q: What can I cut with a pruning saw?

A: Depending on the model and size, pruning saws can cut everything from timber to branches and shrubs. Some models are able to cut through plastic and bone too.

Q: How much do pruning saws cost?

A: Prices of pruning saws differ based on many factors. However, they are all quite cheap. These gardening tools typically cost anything between $8 to $20.

Garden Tools
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By Old House Journal Review Team
The Old House Journal Review Team’s product reviews and in-depth guides are here to help you restore, repair, update, and decorate your home. The content is created by The Old House Journal Review Team. The Old House Journal editorial staff is not involved. Old House Journal is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
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