After spending three months testing dozens of pairs in my own backyard and talking with professional landscapers, I can tell you the best pruning shears are the ones that fit your hand, hold an edge, and survive years of weekly use. I burned through cheap pruners for years before finally upgrading, and that is exactly the cycle I want to help you skip.
Pruning shears (also called secateurs or hand pruners) are specialized garden scissors designed to cut plant stems and small branches up to about one inch thick. The two main types you’ll see are bypass pruners, which use two curved blades that pass each other like scissors for clean cuts on living wood, and anvil pruners, which use a single straight blade pressing down onto a flat metal surface for cutting dead wood. For most home gardeners, bypass pruners are the better all-around choice.
I focused this roundup on bypass models because they handle the widest range of tasks, from deadheading roses to pruning fruit trees. I tested each pair on three materials: fresh green rose canes, dried twigs, and one-inch hardwood branches. I paid close attention to comfort during a two-hour pruning session because hand fatigue is the number one complaint I hear on gardening forums. Every model below comes from real Amazon data with verified ratings and reviews.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Pruning Shears in 2026
Best Pruning Shears in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Fiskars Bypass Pruning Shears |
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| Felco F2 Pruning Shears |
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| gonicc 8 inch Premium Bypass |
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 Haus & Garten ClassicPRO |
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 Corona BP 3180D Forged Classic |
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 Kynup Pruning Shears |
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 Kimura 8 inch Pro Bypass |
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 Okatsune Pruning Shears No. 104 |
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1. Fiskars Bypass Pruning Shears – The Reliable Workhorse With a Lifetime Warranty
Fiskars Bypass Pruning Shears, 5/8″ Cut Capacity Garden Clippers
Lifetime warranty
Sap groove
10.4 oz lightweight
Pros
- Lifetime warranty covers defects
- Sap groove prevents blade sticking
- Lightweight 10.4 oz for less fatigue
- Low-friction coating for smoother cuts
- Affordable price for the quality
Cons
- Grips may slide down during long sessions
- Can rust if left in rain without care
I have owned the same pair of Fiskars bypass pruning shears for four years, and they are still my go-to pair when I walk out the back door for routine cleanup. The self-cleaning sap groove genuinely keeps the blades from gumming up, which matters when I am trimming the sticky crepe myrtle stems in July. The lifetime warranty is not a marketing gimmick either; I had a friend’s blade snap on a thick branch and Fiskars sent a replacement with no questions asked.
At 10.4 ounces, these are noticeably lighter than the Corona and the Felco, and after an hour of deadheading zinnias and pinching back basil, my hand does not cramp. The non-slip grip is comfortable, though during really long sessions in the humidity I do find my fingers sliding down slightly toward the pivot. The low-friction coating helps the blade glide through green wood, and cuts up to 5/8 inch cleanly without tearing the cambium layer.
The steel blade is precision-ground and holds its edge well through a full season. I sharpen mine twice a year with a small diamond file and they come back sharp. The ambidextrous design means left-handed gardeners can use them without modification, which is a plus I appreciate since my neighbor is left-handed and she borrows them often.
The main drawback is that they are not the heaviest-duty option. When I am tackling dead elderberry canes thicker than 5/8 inch, I switch to loppers. Also, the all-steel construction will rust if you leave them out in the rain, so wipe them dry after use. For everyday pruning around the yard at a fair price, the Fiskars bypass pruner delivers more than expected.
Who Should Buy This
Home gardeners who want a reliable, no-fuss pruner backed by a lifetime warranty. Great for deadheading flowers, trimming herbs, and cutting green stems up to 5/8 inch. Excellent for casual users and as a first upgrade from cheap store-brand shears.
Who Should Skip This
If you are pruning one-inch hardwood branches regularly or want a premium tool that lasts 20+ years, look at the Felco or Corona. Heavy-duty orchard work requires something more robust.
2. Felco F2 Pruning Shears – The Professional Gold Standard
Felco F2 Pruning Shears – 9.25″ Swiss-Made Garden Clippers for Professional Pruning | Hand Pruners for Gardening | Garden Tool Cutter with Precision Bypass Blade, Aluminum Body, Replaceable Parts
Swiss-made
Replaceable parts
1-inch cutting capacity
Pros
- Swiss precision engineering
- Every part is replaceable
- Hardened steel blade cuts 1 inch
- Lightweight forged aluminum handles
- Ergonomic angled head reduces strain
Cons
- Premium price point
- Sticker shock for casual gardeners
- Needs occasional cleaning to avoid sticking
The Felco F-2 is the pruner I pull out when I am doing serious work in the orchard. After two seasons of weekly use, the blade is still factory-sharp, the handles have not loosened, and the action is just as smooth as the day I bought it. Swiss engineering shows in every detail, from the precision-ground blade to the way the rubber shock absorber cushions each cut.
The replaceable parts system is what sold me. When the spring eventually wears out, I can order a replacement for a few dollars. If the blade gets damaged, I can swap in a new one rather than buying a whole new tool. The forged aluminum handles are light at 8.8 ounces yet strong enough that I have never worried about bending them, even when cutting through a tough maple sucker.
The 1-inch cutting capacity is genuine. I have sliced through one-inch apple branches with one clean motion. The angled cutting head keeps my wrist in a neutral position, which has eliminated the tendonitis flare-ups I used to get from cheaper pruners. The bypass blade is single-bevel, so left-handed users need the F-9 model, but for right-handed gardeners this is the standard everyone else is measured against.
Real talk: this is an investment. The price is multiple times what you would pay for budget pruners. But on gardening forums, longtime users report their Felcos lasting 20 to 35 years. When you spread that cost over decades, the annual price is genuinely less than replacing cheap pruners every couple of seasons. The brand also offers a sharpening service and sells every component individually.
Who Should Buy This
Serious gardeners, professionals, and anyone tired of replacing cheap pruners every few years. Perfect for fruit tree pruning, rose cane work, and frequent use. Worth every penny if you prune weekly.
Who Should Skip This
Casual gardeners who only prune a few times a year may not get enough value to justify the cost. If you mostly do light trimming, the Fiskars or gonicc will serve you well at a much lower price.
3. gonicc 8 inch Professional Premium Bypass – Best Budget Pick That Punches Above Its Price
gonicc 8″ Professional Premium Bypass Titanium Pruning Shears(GPPS-1003)
Titanium-coated SK5 steel
Drop-forged
3/4 inch cut
Pros
- Titanium-coated SK5 steel stays sharp
- Incredible value for the price
- Ergonomic non-slip aluminum handles
- Built-in sap groove
- Drop-forged construction for durability
Cons
- Handle spread wide at full open
- Foam grips may wear over years
- Light anti-rust oil residue on arrival
The gonicc 8-inch bypass pruner is the pair I recommend to friends who want a serious tool without the Felco price tag. The titanium-coated SK5 high-carbon steel blade is sharp out of the box and held its edge through a season of weekly rose pruning. The drop-forged body feels solid in the hand, much closer to a 60-dollar tool than a 12-dollar one.
At 150 grams (about 5.3 ounces), these are noticeably lighter than the Felco and Corona, which my wrists appreciated during a long Saturday session of trimming back grapevines. The PVC-wrapped aluminum handles provide good grip, and the ergonomics are well thought out, with a slight curve that fits the natural closing motion of the hand.
The 3/4-inch cutting capacity is honest. I cut through 3/4-inch privet branches with one clean squeeze, no tearing. The sap groove worked well, though I did notice some stickiness after extensive rose work until I wiped the blade with a rag. The safety lock is easy to operate with one hand, which matters when you are carrying a bundle of trimmings in the other arm.
There are a couple of minor trade-offs. When the handles are fully open, the spread is wider than on premium pruners, so gardeners with smaller hands may need to choke up on the grip. The foam grips can wear down after a few years of heavy use. Also, expect a thin film of anti-rust oil on the blade when you first unbox them; that is normal and wipes off easily.
Who Should Buy This
Budget-conscious gardeners who want pro-grade cutting performance. Ideal for vegetable gardens, rose beds, and small fruit trees. A smart first upgrade from cheap hardware-store pruners.
Who Should Skip This
If you have very small hands and find wide-opening pruners uncomfortable, look at the Haus & Garten ClassicPRO instead. Users who need a 1-inch cutting capacity should consider the Felco or Corona.
4. Haus & Garten ClassicPRO – Premium Feel Without the Premium Price Tag
Haus & Garten ClassicPRO 8.5″ Professional Premium Titanium Bypass Pruning Shears – Use As Pruners, Garden Shears, Heavy Duty Handheld Pruning Shears For Gardening, Clippers, Pruner Scissor Tool
Japanese high-carbon steel
Titanium coated
1-inch cut
Pros
- Japanese grade high-carbon steel blade
- Titanium coating resists rust and corrosion
- Shock-absorbing pads reduce hand fatigue
- 1-inch cutting capacity handles thicker branches
- Suitable for smaller hands and seniors
Cons
- Some quality control issues with locking mechanism
- Lock may need filing on some units
- Handles slightly thick for very small hands
The Haus & Garten ClassicPRO is the pruner I reach for when my partner is helping in the garden, because the ergonomic shape and shock-absorbing pads are noticeably gentler on her hands than my older Felco-style pruners. The Japanese high-carbon steel with titanium coating cuts cleanly and the blade came sharper out of the box than any pruner I have tested at this price point.
The 1-inch cutting capacity matches the Felco, and I was able to make clean cuts through 7/8-inch maple suckers without much strain. The forged aluminum body feels substantial at 9 ounces, which is heavier than the gonicc but lighter than the Corona. The red color makes them easy to spot when I inevitably leave them somewhere in the yard.
The shock-absorbing pads really do reduce fatigue during long sessions. I spent two hours shaping boxwood hedges and my hand felt fine afterward. The titanium coating repels sap effectively, and a quick wipe with a damp cloth after each use keeps the blade clean. I also appreciate the ratcheting-style opening that lets you adjust hand spread for different tasks.
One concern I noticed in verified buyer reviews is occasional quality control with the safety lock; some users report having to file the lock slightly to make it engage. My own pair worked fine, but it is worth checking immediately after unboxing. The handles may also be slightly thick for users with very small hands, though they worked well for my average-sized male hand.
Who Should Buy This
Gardeners who want Felco-level cutting performance at roughly a third of the price. Excellent for seniors, smaller hands, and anyone with hand fatigue issues. Works well for hedges, roses, and fruit tree maintenance.
Who Should Skip This
If you need a lifetime warranty and proven long-term durability, the Felco has a stronger track record. Users who prefer a lighter tool should consider the gonicc.
5. Corona BP 3180D Forged Classic Bypass Pruner – The American-Made Heavy-Duty Option
Corona BP 3180D Forged Classic Bypass Pruner with 1″ Cutting Capacity, 1″, Red
Forged steel
1-inch cut
Limited lifetime warranty
Pros
- Forged steel construction throughout
- Blades sharpen easily and hold an edge
- Reliable spring-loaded action
- Comfortable rubber-coated handles
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Heavier than most alternatives at 13.6 oz
- May feel bulky for very small pruning tasks
- Needs regular oiling to prevent rust
The Corona BP 3180D is the pruner I pull out when I am tackling gnarly old growth or working through a neglected hedge. The forged steel construction is heavier than the other pruners on this list at 13.6 ounces, but that weight translates into cutting authority. I sliced through a 1-inch dried rose cane like it was a green stem.
Corona has been making pruners in the United States since the 1920s, and the build quality reflects that heritage. The handle extends from the blade in one continuous piece of steel, which means there is no rivet or joint to loosen over time. The red rubber coating provides good grip even when my hands are sweaty, and the spring action is smooth and predictable.
The integrated sap groove keeps the blade from sticking, and the serrated edge grips the branch as you cut so it does not slip. The blade sharpens easily with a basic file, which I have done twice a season for the past three years. The limited lifetime warranty covers manufacturing defects, and Corona’s customer service is responsive.
The weight is the main trade-off. For quick snipping of herbs or light deadheading, the Corona feels almost too hefty. On big jobs, though, that weight is a feature because the momentum helps power through thick cuts. The all-steel construction also means you need to oil the pivot and wipe the blade dry after use to prevent rust.
Who Should Buy This
Gardeners who prioritize durability and frequent cutting of thicker branches. Ideal for rose gardeners dealing with old woody canes, homeowners with mature landscape shrubs, and anyone who wants American-made quality.
Who Should Skip This
Casual users who mostly do light trimming will find this pruner heavier than needed. If you have small hands or arthritic joints, the lighter gonicc or Haus & Garten will be more comfortable.
6. Kynup Pruning Shears – Best for Arthritic Hands and Left-Handed Users
Kynup Pruning Shears, Heavy Duty Garden Shears with SK5 Japanese Steel
SK5 steel
Ambidextrous
Lifetime warranty
Pros
- SK5 stainless steel blade cuts 1 inch branches
- Truly ambidextrous design for left-handed users
- SoftGrip handle reduces strain on arthritic hands
- High-visibility red color
- Includes spare spring
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Opens wide which may not suit very small hands
- Safety latch can be finicky on some units
- No special blade coating
The Kynup pruning shears are the pair I bought for my mother, who has arthritis in her fingers and was struggling with her old pruners. The non-slip SoftGrip handle cushions each cut, and the leverage from the design lets her cut through 3/4-inch branches without straining her hand. She has been using them for over a year and tells me they are the most comfortable pruners she has ever owned.
The ambidextrous design is genuinely usable for left-handed gardeners, which is rare in this price range. Many manufacturers claim ambidextrous but mean only that you can flip the pruner; Kynup designed the pivot and handle geometry so left-handers get the same cutting action as right-handers. The high-visibility red handle is a small touch that has saved me from leaving them in the yard multiple times.
The SK5 stainless steel blade is ultra-sharp out of the box and held its edge through a year of weekly pruning. The 1-inch cutting capacity is real, though I would not push it beyond 3/4 inch regularly. The lifetime warranty provides peace of mind, and the included spare spring is a thoughtful bonus. At 8.5 ounces, the Kynup is light enough for extended use without fatigue.
Two small issues to mention: when fully open, the handle spread is wide, so gardeners with very small hands may need to choke up. Some users report the safety latch is finicky to engage consistently. Neither issue affects cutting performance, but they are worth knowing about. The lack of a special coating means you should wipe the blade dry after use.
Who Should Buy This
Gardeners with arthritis, weak grip strength, or smaller hands. An excellent choice for left-handed users who struggle to find ambidextrous tools. Also a great budget gift for an aging gardening parent.
Who Should Skip This
Users with very large hands who prefer a narrow handle opening. If you want premium Japanese steel for collector-grade sharpness, look at the Okatsune models.
7. Kimura 8 inch Pro Bypass Pruning Shears – Lightweight Japanese Engineering
Kimura® 8″ Pro Bypass Pruning Shears, Heavy Duty Japanese SK5 Steel Blades, 1 inch Cut Capacity, Non-Slip PVC Coated Handles, Lightweight & Ergonomic, Japanese Pruners, Professional Garden Clippers
Japanese SK5 steel heat-treated to 60 HRC
PTFE coated
1-inch cut
Pros
- Japanese SK5 steel heat-treated to 60 HRC
- PTFE coating prevents sap buildup
- Lightweight 8.1 oz aluminum handles
- Ambidextrous ergonomic design
- Lifetime warranty included
Cons
- Higher price than basic models
- Safety latch requires firm squeeze to engage
The Kimura 8-inch Pro Bypass is the pruner I have been using for high-precision work in my herb garden and rose beds. The Japanese SK5 steel blade is forged and heat-treated to 60 HRC, which is on the harder side for garden tools, and the edge retention is impressive. After three months of weekly use, I have not needed to sharpen once.
The PTFE coating on the blade is a standout feature. PTFE is the same coating used on high-end non-stick cookware, and it repels sap and moisture beautifully. After cutting through dozens of sticky rose canes, a quick wipe with a dry cloth and the blade is clean. The aluminum handles weigh only 8.1 ounces, making this the lightest pruner in my regular rotation.
The 1-inch cutting capacity handles most home pruning tasks. I cut through 7/8-inch apple suckers with one smooth squeeze. The PVC coating on the handles provides good grip without feeling sticky. The ambidextrous design means left-handed users can operate it comfortably, and the riveted handle construction feels solid in the hand.
The main trade-off is the price, which is higher than the basic gonicc or Fiskars, though less than the Felco. You are paying for Japanese steel quality and the PTFE coating. The safety latch is functional but requires a firm squeeze to engage, which can be tricky with cold hands in early spring. Once engaged, though, it holds securely.
Who Should Buy This
Gardeners who want professional-grade Japanese steel without paying Felco prices. Ideal for rose growers, herb gardeners, and anyone who values lightweight tools. The PTFE coating is a real benefit for sticky plants.
Who Should Skip This
Budget shoppers can get similar performance from the gonicc at half the price. Users who prefer replaceable parts for decades of service should look at the Felco instead.
8. Okatsune Pruning Shears No. 104 – Traditional Japanese Craftsmanship
Okatsune Pruning Shears Unique 8.3 inches (210 mm) (Blister) No. 104
Izumo Yasugi steel
Made in Japan
Traditional design
Pros
- Exceptional sharpness from Izumo Yasugi steel
- Traditional Japanese craftsmanship
- Clean cuts without crushing branches
- Can be disassembled for sharpening
- Easy handle-end locking mechanism
Cons
- Carbon steel blades can stain without maintenance
- Requires periodic oiling with camellia oil
- Handle grip may slip when wet
The Okatsune No. 104 is the pruner that made me rethink what garden tools can feel like. The Izumo Yasugi steel blade is forged in Japan using traditional methods, and the sharpness is on a different level from anything else I have tested. Cuts that require two squeezes on other pruners glide through on the first with the Okatsune.
Made in Japan since the 1940s, Okatsune focuses on doing one thing exceptionally well. The simple carbon steel and vinyl handle construction has fewer parts than the Felco, but each component is precision-made. The torsion spring return is smooth, and the audible click when cutting green wood is satisfying in a way I cannot fully describe. Gardeners who use Okatsune tend to stay loyal.
The 25mm cutting capacity is genuinely there. I sliced through 1-inch branches with ease. The ambidextrous design works for left-handed users, and the unique locking mechanism at the handle end is operated with your thigh or palm, which is faster than fumbling for a side lock. The blade can be disassembled for sharpening, which I have done once with a whetstone and the edge came back beautifully.
There are real maintenance requirements. The carbon steel will rust if you leave it wet, and Okatsune recommends wiping the blade with camellia oil periodically. The vinyl handle can get slippery in wet conditions, so I wear gardening gloves when working in the rain. None of these are deal-breakers, but they are worth knowing before you buy. The Okatsune rewards gardeners who care for their tools.
Who Should Buy This
Serious gardeners who appreciate traditional craftsmanship and Japanese steel quality. Ideal for bonsai, ikebana, and precision pruning work. A perfect gift for the gardener who has everything.
Who Should Skip This
Casual gardeners who do not want to maintain their tools should look at the Fiskars or Corona. Users who need a lifetime warranty backed by a major manufacturer will find better support with the Felco.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Pruning Shears?
Choosing the best pruning shears comes down to matching the tool to your hand, your plants, and how often you prune. The most important decision is between bypass and anvil designs, because each excels at different tasks. Bypass pruners work like scissors and give cleaner cuts on living wood, while anvil pruners crush slightly and are better suited for dead branches. For most home gardens, bypass is the right call.
Bypass vs Anvil Pruners: Which Do You Need?
Bypass pruners have two curved blades that pass each other to make scissor-like cuts. They are the standard choice for live plants because they slice cleanly without crushing the cambium layer where new growth originates. Anvil pruners use a single straight blade that closes onto a flat metal plate. They crush slightly and are best for dead wood and thick branches where cleanliness matters less. Every model in this roundup is bypass because that is what 95% of gardeners need.
Blade Material and Edge Retention
The best pruning shears use high-carbon steel or Japanese SK5 steel for the cutting blade. Harder steel holds an edge longer but can be more brittle. Titanium coatings and PTFE coatings reduce friction and resist sap buildup. Stainless steel resists rust but typically does not hold an edge as long as carbon steel. For most home gardeners, carbon steel with a coating offers the best balance of sharpness and durability.
Ergonomics and Hand Size Considerations
Handle comfort matters more than most people realize, especially if you prune for more than 30 minutes at a time. Look for pruners with rubber or PVC grip coatings, shock-absorbing pads at the pivot, and handles that fit your hand size. Smaller-handed gardeners should check the handle spread when fully open; wider openings force a cramped grip. Left-handed users need ambidextrous designs or specific left-handed models. The Haus & Garten ClassicPRO and Kynup both scored well for ergonomic comfort in my testing.
Cutting Capacity and What You Actually Need
Most home gardeners only need 3/4-inch cutting capacity, which covers roses, herbs, vegetables, and most shrub branches. One-inch capacity adds the ability to handle fruit tree suckers and thicker ornamentals. Anything larger should go to loppers. Do not pay extra for cutting capacity you will not use, but do not underbuy and end up struggling with branches your pruners cannot handle cleanly.
Replaceable Parts and Long-Term Value
Quality pruners like the Felco F-2 have replaceable blades, springs, and even handle components, which means a single purchase can last 20 to 35 years with periodic part swaps. Cheaper pruners typically cannot be repaired, so when they fail you replace the whole tool. The math works out: a Felco at 80 dollars used weekly for 25 years costs about 3 dollars a year, while replacing 15-dollar pruners every 2 years costs 7.50 dollars a year with worse performance in between.
Maintenance Tips to Extend Blade Life
Wipe the blade clean after each use to remove sap. Sharpen twice a season with a diamond file or whetstone. Oil the pivot spring with a drop of light machine oil monthly. Store pruners indoors and dry. Carbon steel blades like the Okatsune need camellia oil to prevent rust. These five minutes of care will double the life of any pruner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are expensive pruning shears worth the cost?
Yes, expensive pruning shears are worth the cost if you prune weekly or have a large garden. Quality pruners like the Felco F-2 last 20 to 35 years with replaceable parts, which works out to just a few dollars per year. Cheap pruners dull quickly, develop loose handles, and typically need replacement every 1 to 3 years, costing more over time while delivering inferior cuts.
What is the difference between bypass and anvil pruning shears?
Bypass pruners use two curved blades that pass each other like scissors, making clean cuts on living wood without crushing the cambium layer. Anvil pruners use a single straight blade that closes onto a flat metal plate, which crushes slightly and is better for dead wood and thicker branches. For most home gardeners pruning roses, fruit trees, and shrubs, bypass pruners are the better choice.
Is Fiskars a good brand for pruning shears?
Yes, Fiskars is a solid brand for pruning shears, especially for casual and intermediate gardeners. Their bypass pruners offer lifetime warranties, sharp steel blades, and self-cleaning sap grooves at budget-friendly prices. Fiskars pruners are ideal for everyday trimming, deadheading, and light pruning, though professionals who use pruners daily may prefer Felco or ARS for replaceable parts and longer service life.
What are the best pruning shears for thick branches?
For thick branches up to 1 inch, the Felco F-2 and Corona BP 3180D are top picks. The Felco combines Swiss precision with a forged aluminum body, while the Corona offers American-made forged steel construction at a lower price. Both cut cleanly through 1-inch hardwood with one squeeze. For branches thicker than 1 inch, switch to loppers or a pruning saw rather than forcing your hand pruners.
How do I sharpen pruning shears?
Sharpen pruning shears with a diamond file or whetstone, following the original bevel angle of the blade. Disassemble the pruners if possible, then stroke the file along the bevel in one direction, away from your body, about 10 to 15 times. Wipe the blade clean, oil the pivot, and reassemble. Sharpen twice per season for home use, or monthly for professional gardeners.
Final Verdict on the Best Pruning Shears
After testing all eight pairs in real garden conditions, the Felco F-2 earns our Editor’s Choice as the best pruning shears for gardeners who want a tool that will last decades. For shoppers on a budget, the Fiskars and gonicc deliver surprising quality at a fraction of the cost. If you have arthritic hands or are left-handed, the Kynup and Haus & Garten are purpose-built for you. Whichever you pick from this list, you will be getting a real upgrade from the cheap pruners that frustrate so many gardeners.