Understanding how ratchet pruning shears work
The ratchet pruner is designed to make it easier to cut thick branches or hardwood. Its internal mechanism works in stages: when you squeeze the handles, the ratchet locks the blade after an initial movement, allowing you to slightly release the pressure before starting again. This system divides the required effort into several phases, significantly reducing muscle fatigue. In fact, it is ideal for people with less strength in their hands or suffering from joint pain. Thanks to this mechanical assistance, it is possible to cut branches up to 3 cm in diameter without forcing. Thus, this type of tool not only conserves your energy, but also allows you to make clean and precise cuts, beneficial for the health of your plants.
The principle of the anvil pruner
Unlike the ratchet pruner , the anvil pruner uses a sharp blade that presses against a flat base (the anvil). This system is particularly effective for cutting dead, dry, or very fibrous wood. The cut is clean and requires less positioning precision than models with blunt blades. However, the pressure exerted is concentrated on one point, which can slightly crush the plant fibers, making this tool less suitable for young shoots or green stems. On the other hand, for pruning dead branches, it is extremely efficient and fast. Its main advantage is its mechanical simplicity: no complex parts, therefore less maintenance. This makes it a robust ally for regular maintenance work on wooded land.
Comparison of field effectiveness
In real-life conditions, the choice between ratchet and anvil pruners depends on the type of plant and the intended use. For pruning a vigorous rosebush or a softwood shrub, the ratchet model provides a clean and precise cut, promoting rapid healing. On the other hand, for clearing an orchard in winter and removing dead branches, the anvil is faster and more direct. Practical tests show that with ratchet pruners, the user feels less fatigue after several dozen successive cuts. However, the anvil remains unbeatable for dry wood, where aesthetic precision matters less than speed of execution. Thus, the perceived efficiency is mainly linked to the nature of the cut and the desired comfort.
Ergonomics and ease of use
Ergonomics play a key role in perceived efficiency. Ratchet pruners are distinguished by a significant reduction in effort, which is valuable for long pruning sessions or for gardeners suffering from muscle fatigue. In addition, the handle is often covered with a non-slip material, improving grip even in wet weather. Conversely, anvil pruners focus on robustness: they are generally lighter, with fewer moving parts, making them easier to handle with one hand. However, the lack of mechanical assistance means that all the force comes from the user, which can become tiring on hardwood. Therefore, user comfort depends as much on the user's morphology as on the type of plants being worked.
Durability and maintenance
When it comes to durability, both types of pruning shears have their advantages. Ratchet pruning shears require more regular maintenance, particularly cleaning and lubricating the mechanism to prevent premature wear. However, their design ensures consistently high-performance cutting performance over the long term if they are properly maintained. Anvil pruning shears, on the other hand, require only periodic sharpening of the blade and basic cleaning after use. Their simple mechanics limit the risk of breakdown. However, the blade can become dull more quickly when cutting very hard wood, requiring more frequent replacement. In short, the investment in maintenance time is a factor to consider when making your final choice, especially for regular gardeners.
Impact on plant health
Ratchet pruners are often recommended for cuts requiring maximum precision, particularly on living stems. The clean, sharp cut promotes rapid healing, reducing the risk of disease. On the other hand, anvil pruners, due to the compression of the fibers, can sometimes leave less clean wounds on living plants. This is not a problem for dead wood, but can slow the recovery of still active plants. Therefore, to preserve the health of your plants, it is preferable to use ratchet pruners for light pruning, and to reserve the anvil for dry cutting work. This strategic choice guarantees both the efficiency of the work and the well-being of your shrubs and trees.
Conclusion
In short, the choice between ratchet and anvil pruners depends on the type of work and the desired comfort. The former excels at clean cuts, long pruning sessions, and respecting living tissue, while the latter excels at quickly removing dead wood and performing heavy-duty maintenance work. A seasoned gardener can own both to optimize their work. For versatile use, the ratchet remains a safe choice, especially if you prioritize precision and plant health. If you're still unsure, personalized advice from a specialist store or a professional will help you invest in the tool that's perfectly suited to your needs.
FAQ
1. Do ratchet pruners really cut more easily?
Yes, thanks to its multi-stage mechanism, it reduces muscular effort and allows you to cut thicker branches without forcing.
2. Do anvil pruners damage plants?
For dead wood, no. But on green branches, it can crush the fibers, which slows healing.
3. What type of pruning shears should you choose for multi-purpose use?
If you're working with both live and dry wood, it's best to have both models. However, for precision and plant health, opt for a ratchet pruner .