Best Pruning Saws

If you’re looking to keep your trees and shrubs healthy, a good pruning saw is essential. For clean cuts that help plants heal fast, you need the best pruning saws for the job. The right tool makes all the difference between a ragged wound and a precise cut. This guide will help you choose a top-rated saw that feels good in your hand and cuts smoothly.

Not all pruning saws are created equal. The best ones share a few key features that set them apart. They have sharp, well-designed teeth that cut on the pull stroke for better control. The blade is made from strong steel that holds its edge. And the handle is comfortable, giving you a secure grip even when the saw gets sticky with sap. Let’s look at what makes a saw truly great.

Key Features of a Top Pruning Saw

Knowing what to look for will save you time and money. A saw with the right features will last for years and make your gardening work easier.

Tooth Design: Triple-cut or impulse-hardened teeth stay sharper longer. Teeth that cut on the pull stroke give you more power and precision.
Blade Length: A 6-8 inch blade is perfect for most branches. For thicker limbs or higher branches, a 10-13 inch blade gives more reach and cutting capacity.
Curved vs. Straight Blade: Curved blades fit better around branches and can cut faster. Straight blades offer more control for detailed, close-up work.
Handle Ergonomics: Look for a non-slip, contoured handle. Some have a rotating head for cutting at awkward angles without straining your wrist.

Our Top Recommendations for Different Needs

Based on durability, user reviews, and performance, here are some standout models. Each excels in a specific area, so you can match the tool to your garden’s needs.

Best Overall: Silky Zubat Professional

The Silky Zubat is a favorite among arborists for good reason. Its tapered blade is incredibly sharp and slices through wood with minimal effort. The rubberized handle provides excellent grip and control, even during long pruning sessions. It’s a reliable workhorse for a wide variety of tasks.

Pros: Razor-sharp impulse-hardened teeth, very durable, smooth cutting action.
Cons: Higher price point, blade can be brittle if twisted.
Best for: Gardeners who want one premium, do-it-all pruning saw.

Best for Thick Branches: Corona RazorTOOTH

When you have some serious cutting to do, the Corona RazorTOOTH delivers. Its aggressive tooth design removes material quickly on both the push and pull strokes. The blade is stiff and sturdy, perfect for tackling hardwoods and branches up to its full capacity without buckling.

Pros: Cuts very fast, great for hardwoods, excellent value for money.
Cons: Heavier than some models, not as nimble for fine pruning.
Best for: Cutting thicker branches and managing overgrown areas.

Best Folding Saw: Felco Folding Saw

For safety and portability, a folding saw is a must. The Felco folds neatly into its handle, protecting the teeth in your pocket or tool belt. It locks securely open during use and has a very comfortable, ergonomic handle that reduces hand fatigue. It’s a perfect companion for walking your property.

Pros: Safe storage, very comfortable grip, reliable locking mechanism.
Cons: Slightly smaller cutting capacity than fixed-blade saws.
Best for: General garden maintenance, camping, and keeping in your pocket while you work.

How to Make a Perfect Pruning Cut

Using the best pruning saws correctly is just as important as choosing one. A proper cut helps the tree compartmentalize the wound and prevents disease. Follow these steps for the health of your plants.

Locate the Branch Collar: Look for the swollen area where the branch meets the trunk or a larger branch. Your final cut will be just outside this collar.
Use the Three-Cut Method for Heavy Branches: For branches thicker than an inch, this prevents tearing the bark.
1. Make an undercut about 12 inches from the trunk, cutting one-third of the way through.
2. Move a few inches further out and cut completely through the branch from the top. This removes the weight.
3. Finally, make your precision cut just outside the branch collar to remove the stub.
Cut Smoothly: Let the saw do the work. Use long, steady strokes rather than forcing it. A sharp saw will require little pressure.

Caring for Your Pruning Saw

Maintenance keeps your saw cutting like new and prevents the spread of plant diseases. A little care after each use goes a long way. It’s a simple habit that protects your investment.

Clean After Use: Wipe the blade with a rag and a bit of rubbing alcohol or soapy water to remove sap and debris. Dry it thoroughly.
Sharpening: Use a triangular saw file designed for your saw’s tooth pattern. Follow the original angle of each tooth. Most quality saws need sharpening only once or twice a season with normal use.
Safe Storage: For folding saws, close them. For fixed blades, use a blade guard or sheath. Store in a dry place to prevent rust.

FAQ: Your Pruning Saw Questions Answered

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

Pruning saws have specially designed teeth for cutting live wood cleanly. They usually cut on the pull stroke for control and have wider-set teeth to prevent binding from wet wood chips.

Can I use a pruning saw on dry wood?

Yes, you can, but it might be slower than using a carpenter’s saw. Pruning saw teeth are optimized for green wood, which is more fibrous. For lots of dry wood, a different saw might be more efficient.

How often should I sharpen my pruning saw?

Sharpen it when you notice it requires more effort to cut or starts to leave rougher edges. With regular use in a home garden, a good saw might only need sharpening once a year.

What safety gear should I wear when using a pruning saw?

Always wear protective gloves and safety glasses. For overhead work, consider a hard hat. Gloves protect your hands from blisters and cuts, while glasses shield your eyes from falling chips and dust.

Choosing one of the best pruning saws is an investment in your garden’s future. A quality tool makes pruning less of a chore and more of a satisfying task. Remember to match the saw to your most common jobs, maintain it well, and always focus on making clean, proper cuts. Your trees and shrubs will thank you with vigorous, healthy growth for seasons to come.