1. Features of battery-powered pruning shears

Electric pruning shears have a series of features that vary based on the type of battery, weight, presence of a shaft and cutting diameter, making them suitable for different uses and work contexts.

One of the fundamental elements to consider is the type of battery. Battery-powered pruning shears can have the battery built into the handle, or a separate battery, generally carried in a backpack or on a belt.

1.1 Built-in battery

Pruning shears with built-in battery are more compact and convenient to use, as they do not require additional cables or backpacks. This makes movements more agile and work less cumbersome. However, due to their limited size, the battery capacity is lower than models with backpack battery, with an autonomy of a few hours, sufficient for medium-duration jobs. This type of shears is perfect for hobbyists and small pruning jobs.

1.2 Backpack battery

Electric scissors with separate battery are equipped with an external battery, usually carried in a light backpack or attached to the belt. This system allows the use of batteries with a higher capacity, ensuring a much longer duration, ideal for intensive work and for professionals who need to work all day. The disadvantage may be the presence of the cable that connects the scissors to the battery, which may slightly limit movement.

2. Weight of scissors

The weight of electric pruning shears is another crucial aspect, especially if you plan on using them for a long time. Shears with a built-in battery tend to be slightly heavier, since the power unit is inside the handle. However, there are ergonomic models that balance the weight, reducing hand fatigue.

Secateurs with separate batteries tend to be lighter in the handle, as the battery is carried separately. This reduces the weight directly in the hand and is more comfortable for prolonged pruning or at heights.

3. Scissors with shaft

Pole pruning shears are an excellent solution for those who need to work on tall plants or fruit trees. Thanks to the telescopic pole, these shears allow you to easily reach the highest branches without the use of ladders or platforms. The pole can be fixed or extendable, varying between 1 and 2 meters depending on the model. However, the use of the pole adds weight and requires a bit of skill to maneuver the tool with precision. This type of shears is ideal for professionals or for those who need to prune in large gardens and orchards.

4. Cutting diameter

The cutting diameter is another important parameter in choosing electric pruning shears. Depending on the model, the shears can cut branches with a diameter ranging from 25 millimeters up to 40 millimeters or more, making them suitable for different types of plants and trees. Professional cordless pruning shears offer a larger cutting capacity, ideal for thick branches or more robust plants. If you are pruning plants with thinner branches, such as shrubs or flowers, a smaller cutting diameter can ensure greater precision and reduce stress on the plant.

5. The anti-cut system

The anti-cut system in electric pruning shears represents a fundamental technological innovation for safety during work. This advanced system is designed to drastically reduce the risk of accidents, an aspect particularly relevant when using sharp and motorized tools for intensive work such as pruning. The anti-cut mechanism works thanks to sensors that detect contact with the skin or with specific protective gloves. When a potential dangerous situation is identified, the system immediately blocks the movement of the blades, avoiding accidental cuts.

One of the main advantages of this option is the possibility of working in complete safety, even in conditions of fatigue or in environments that require speed and precision. In agriculture and gardening, where pruning operations are repetitive and continuous, the risk of accidents increases as the working hours increase. The anti-cut system offers reliable protection, reducing the possibility of injuries, even for less experienced workers or for those using battery-powered shears for the first time.

Another important advantage of the anti-cut system is that it does not compromise the effectiveness of the work. The electric pruners equipped with this device continue to offer a precise and clean cut, guaranteeing the same speed and quality as traditional models. In addition, the integration of the system does not add significant weight to the tool, allowing the operator to work comfortably. The pruners with anti-cut system offer a perfect balance between efficiency and safety, making them ideal for professional pruning work in vineyards, orchards and gardens.

Finally, this option is particularly appreciated in work contexts where safety is an absolute priority, such as in the case of agricultural or horticultural companies with numerous staff. By implementing the anti-cut system, the risk of injuries is reduced, improving overall productivity and reducing potential interruptions due to accidents.

6. The different cutting modes

Most of the battery-powered electric scissors on the market do not only have a standard cutting mode designed to mechanically replicate traditional pruning with shears. In fact, many of these tools use their own motor to provide the user with added value, such as the progressive cutting system. Furthermore, the most professional models have blades with anvil cutting.

Ultimately, the choice between progressive cutting and anvil cutting depends a lot on the type of work that needs to be done and the type of plant to be pruned. The progressive cutting offers greater precision and control, ideal for work on delicate plants or for precision pruning, while the anvil cutting guarantees power and cleanliness in the most demanding cuts. Both systems, if chosen correctly, can guarantee optimal results and preserve the health of the plants in the long term.

6.1 Progressive cutting

The progressive cut is one of the most advanced and appreciated features in battery-powered pruning shears, as it offers superior precision and control during use. In practice, the progressive cut allows you to modulate the opening and closing of the blade based on the pressure exerted on the trigger or lever. The more delicate the pressure exerted, the slower the blade will close, allowing the operator to dose the cut precisely and safely.

This system is particularly useful for precision work, such as cutting thin branches or more delicate vegetation, where a sudden movement or too rapid a cut could damage the plant or leave open wounds that can become a gateway for diseases and parasites.

Electric pruning shears with progressive cutting allow you to precisely adjust the force and speed of cutting, giving the operator greater control at every stage of pruning. This makes the progressive cut ideal for both intensive work and for finer pruning on younger or fragile plants. In addition, the option to partially close the blade allows you to work more quickly on branches of different diameters without having to completely close the shears each time.

The progressive cut also allows, to better manage work in contexts where greater precision is required, such as in vineyards or orchards, where it is essential to avoid aggressive cuts that could compromise the quality of the fruit. This feature also translates into a reduction in physical effort for the operator, who can modulate the energy needed for cutting based on the size and resistance of the branch.

6.2 Batten cut

On the other hand, the anvil cut is another system used in electric pruning shears, and it is distinguished from the progressive cut by its more direct and decisive mechanism. In this case, the blade is pushed against a flat surface, called an anvil, which works as an additional force to complete the cut cleanly and quickly. The anvil cut is particularly effective on dry or very hard branches, where it is necessary to apply greater pressure to obtain a clean cut.

Professional battery-powered shears with anvil cutting system are often preferred in situations where greater power is required and where the precision of the progressive cut is not strictly necessary. The anvil acts as a support, ensuring a clean cut even on hard or dry wood, limiting the possibility of crushing or irregular fractures in the branches.

Advantages of the Anvil Cut The main advantage of the anvil cut is its ability to cut thicker and woodier branches efficiently and effortlessly. Thanks to the presence of the anvil, the branch is locked in place and the blade cuts it with greater force, ensuring a clean cut that reduces the risk of disease or damage to the plant.

This system is perfect for dry branches or for heavier pruning operations, such as winter pruning on fruit trees or plants that do not require special care in terms of cutting precision. However, for more delicate work or on younger plants, progressive cutting may be a better choice to preserve the integrity of the plants.

7. Power and battery life

One of the first factors to consider when purchasing a battery-powered pruning shears is the power and battery life. Electric pruning shears are powered by a battery that can last for several hours, allowing you to work without interruptions. However, it is important to choose a battery with enough battery life to avoid frequent breaks for charging, especially in professional contexts. A small disadvantage could be the weight of the battery, which makes the work more tiring if used for a long time.

8. Ergonomics and ease of use

Ergonomics are essential when using electric pruning shears for long periods. Ergonomic models reduce hand and arm fatigue, making work more comfortable. Professional cordless pruning shears are designed with non-slip and lightweight handles, perfect for extended work sessions. However, those accustomed to manual pruning shears may find the weight of electric pruning shears uncomfortable at first.

9. Maintenance of battery-powered pruning shears

To ensure that your electric pruning shears remain efficient over time, it is essential to perform proper maintenance. After each use, be sure to clean the blade well, removing any residue of sap and dirt. This can be done with a damp cloth and then dried. It is also important to regularly oil the shears, applying a few drops of oil on the blade to keep it well lubricated and prevent rust.