We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Pruning Shears 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Fiskars Bypass Pruning Shears, 5/8-Inch Cut Capacity Garden Clippers, Gardening Scissors with Sharp, Rust Resistant Steel Blade

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,262
Cutting Capacity
Locking Mechanism

Most important from
49384 reviews

Cutting Capacity
Excellent for small and medium branches, and a must-have in any gardener's toolbox.
Locking Mechanism
Sharp and durable, with an easy-to-use lock.

The Fiskars Bypass Pruning Shears are a solid choice for anyone looking to tackle a variety of gardening tasks. With a cutting capacity of 5/8 inches, these shears excel at trimming delicate stems without causing damage, thanks to their bypass blade design. The rust-resistant alloy steel blade is sharp and durable, ensuring smooth cuts and reducing maintenance issues like gumming, which can be a hassle with less advanced tools.

One of the standout features is the low-friction blade coating, which not only enhances cutting efficiency but also contributes to the longevity of the shears. The ergonomic handle design provides a comfortable grip, reducing strain during extended use, and it’s a plus that they fit well in most pruner holsters.

However, users might find a couple of drawbacks. While the shears are lightweight, weighing only 10.4 ounces, some gardeners may prefer a heavier tool for more substantial cutting tasks. Additionally, although the locking mechanism is easy to use, some users have reported that it could be a bit flimsy with prolonged use.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,262
Cutting Capacity
Locking Mechanism

Most important from
49384 reviews

Cutting Capacity
Excellent for small and medium branches, and a must-have in any gardener's toolbox.
Locking Mechanism
Sharp and durable, with an easy-to-use lock.
#2

Fiskars Micro-Tip Pruning Snips - 6" Garden Shears with Sheath and Comfort Grip - Sharp Steel Blades - Quality Pruning Shears for Plants in Grow Tents and Hydroponics - Garden Tools

Rating
9.4
Blade Type
Blade Material
Handle Design

Most important from
23996 reviews

Blade Type
These snips are extremely sharp and precise, perfect for detailed pruning tasks.
Blade Material
The non-stick coating makes cleaning effortless, even with sticky plant resins, ensuring smooth and efficient use.
Handle Design
Lightweight and ergonomic design makes them easy and comfortable to use over extended periods.
Locking Mechanism
Reliable quality and well-made design, with a lock and tip cover for added safety.

The Fiskars Micro-Tip Pruning Snips are well-regarded garden shears suitable for pruning flowers, herbs, and other plants, making them ideal for gardeners who need precision in tight spaces. The bypass blade type is made of stainless steel, ensuring durability and sharp cuts. The micro-tip design allows for precise cuts right to the tip, which is great for fine pruning tasks. The non-stick coating helps reduce jamming, adding to the blade's longevity and ease of use.

The handle features a comfort grip, making it comfortable to use over extended periods, and it’s designed to be ambidextrous, catering to both left and right-handed users. With a cutting capacity suitable for small to medium branches, these shears are best for detailed pruning rather than heavy-duty tasks. The Easy Action spring mechanism reduces hand fatigue by gently opening the blades after each cut, which is beneficial for prolonged use. The included sheath adds to the convenience and safety of the tool.

Weighing only 0.32 ounces, they are lightweight and easy to handle. With a high customer rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars and a full lifetime warranty, these pruning snips are a reliable choice for gardening enthusiasts. However, those seeking tools for thicker branches or more robust cutting tasks might need to consider alternative options.

Rating
9.4
Blade Type
Blade Material
Handle Design

Most important from
23996 reviews

Blade Type
These snips are extremely sharp and precise, perfect for detailed pruning tasks.
Blade Material
The non-stick coating makes cleaning effortless, even with sticky plant resins, ensuring smooth and efficient use.
Handle Design
Lightweight and ergonomic design makes them easy and comfortable to use over extended periods.
Locking Mechanism
Reliable quality and well-made design, with a lock and tip cover for added safety.
#3

VIVOSUN 6.5 Inch Gardening Scissors Hand Pruner Pruning Shear with Straight Stainless Steel Blades Orange 1-Pack

Rating
9.2
Blade Type
Handle Design
Locking Mechanism

Most important from
62683 reviews

Blade Type
The scissors are razor sharp, delivering clean, precise cuts without tearing plant stems.
Handle Design
Handles feature non-slip rubber inlays, providing a comfortable and secure grip even when hands are sweaty or wet.
Locking Mechanism
The safety lock is simple, effective, and essential for secure storage given how sharp the blades are.
Spring Mechanism
Spring-loaded action significantly reduces hand fatigue during extended use, ideal for gardeners with arthritis or wrist issues.

The VIVOSUN 6.5 Inch Gardening Scissors are designed with comfort and precision in mind, making them a solid choice for light pruning tasks like trimming flowers, small vegetables, and bonsai. Their stainless steel straight blades are sharp and durable, allowing clean cuts without tearing plant stems. The anvil blade type works well for precise snipping but might not be ideal for very thick branches.

The handles are designed to reduce hand strain, which is beneficial for gardeners with arthritis or wrist issues, and they fit both right- and left-handed users comfortably. Weighing only 80 grams, they are easy to maneuver for detailed work. Another practical feature is the sideways locking mechanism that keeps the blades safely closed when not in use.

The cutting capacity is limited to small stems due to the blade size and design, so these shears are not suitable for heavy-duty pruning or larger branches. This pruning shear is best suited for gardeners needing a lightweight, ergonomic tool for light trimming and shaping rather than heavy pruning jobs.

Rating
9.2
Blade Type
Handle Design
Locking Mechanism

Most important from
62683 reviews

Blade Type
The scissors are razor sharp, delivering clean, precise cuts without tearing plant stems.
Handle Design
Handles feature non-slip rubber inlays, providing a comfortable and secure grip even when hands are sweaty or wet.
Locking Mechanism
The safety lock is simple, effective, and essential for secure storage given how sharp the blades are.
Spring Mechanism
Spring-loaded action significantly reduces hand fatigue during extended use, ideal for gardeners with arthritis or wrist issues.

Buying Guide for the Best Pruning Shears

Pruning shears are essential tools for gardeners and landscapers, used for trimming and shaping plants, shrubs, and small trees. Choosing the right pair of pruning shears can make your gardening tasks easier and more efficient. When selecting pruning shears, consider the following key specifications to ensure you pick the best fit for your needs.
Blade TypePruning shears come with different blade types, primarily bypass and anvil. Bypass blades work like scissors, with two curved blades that pass by each other to make a clean cut, ideal for live plants and green wood. Anvil blades have a single straight blade that cuts against a flat surface, suitable for dead wood and tougher branches. Choose bypass shears for precise, clean cuts on living plants and anvil shears for cutting through thicker, dead branches.
Blade MaterialThe material of the blades affects their durability and sharpness. Common materials include stainless steel, carbon steel, and titanium-coated steel. Stainless steel blades are resistant to rust and easy to maintain, making them a good all-around choice. Carbon steel blades are very sharp and durable but require more maintenance to prevent rust. Titanium-coated blades offer extra durability and resistance to corrosion. Consider your maintenance willingness and the type of plants you will be cutting when choosing the blade material.
Handle DesignThe design of the handles can impact comfort and ease of use. Look for ergonomic handles that fit comfortably in your hand and reduce strain during prolonged use. Some handles have non-slip grips or cushioning to enhance comfort. If you have smaller hands or suffer from arthritis, consider shears with smaller, lightweight handles or those designed specifically for ease of use.
Cutting CapacityCutting capacity refers to the maximum diameter of branches that the shears can cut. This is usually measured in millimeters or inches. Smaller shears typically handle branches up to 1/2 inch in diameter, while larger, more robust shears can cut branches up to 1 inch or more. Assess the typical size of the branches you will be cutting and choose shears with an appropriate cutting capacity to ensure efficiency and avoid damaging the tool.
Locking MechanismA locking mechanism keeps the blades closed when not in use, ensuring safety and protecting the blades. Common types include thumb locks, slide locks, and squeeze-to-release locks. Choose a locking mechanism that is easy for you to operate, especially if you have limited hand strength or dexterity. A reliable lock will prevent accidental cuts and prolong the life of your shears.
Spring MechanismThe spring mechanism between the handles helps to open the blades after each cut, reducing hand fatigue. There are different types of springs, such as coiled springs and wishbone springs. Coiled springs are more common and provide a smooth, consistent opening action. Wishbone springs are durable and less likely to get clogged with debris. Consider the type of spring that feels most comfortable and efficient for your cutting style.

FAQ