Choosing the correct hand pruner can be challenging, especially if you have small hands. Using a hand pruner that’s too big or uncomfortable to grip can lead to hand fatigue, blisters, and even wrist strain.
This article will review some of the best hand pruners for small hands available today and discuss the pros, cons, and what to look for when choosing one.
By the end of this article, you’ll have all the information you need to choose the best hand pruner for small hands.
The Best Hand Pruners For Small Hands
Corona ComfortGel Pruner
Fiskars Pruning Shears
Garden Elite Pruning Shears
Corona Pruning Shears
Okatsune Small Pruners
Felco Pruning Shears
ARS Heavy Duty Pruner
1. Corona FlexDial ComfortGel Pruner
Key Features
- Cutting Capacity: 0.75 in (1.9 cm)
- Blade Type: Bypass
- Blade Material: Alloy Steel
- Length: 8 in (20.3 cm)
- Weight: 0.6 lb (0.3 kg)
Corona FlexDial ComfortGel Pruner is an essential gardening tool with adjustable FlexDial technology to custom-fit your hand size and reduce fatigue.
Its coated non-stick blade offers smooth and enhanced cutting for optimal performance. At the same time, ComfortGel grips ensure comfort and control during use. Additionally, shock guard bumpers reduce hand fatigue and cushion each cut.
This pruner has complete alloy steel construction for superior durability. It is designed to last season after season, backed by a limited lifetime warranty. These pruners are perfect for any gardener with small hands looking for a quality tool that lasts.
Overall, the Corona FlexDial ComfortGel Pruner is a top pick for any gardeners who prioritize comfort, control, and durability. This tool makes a valuable addition to any gardener’s tool collection.
Pros
- Perfect fit to your hand with FlexDial technology.
- Full steel construction.
- Non-stick blade coating.
- Anti-blister ConfortGel grip.
- Limited lifetime warranty.
Cons
- The locking mechanism is weak.
2. Fiskars Pruning Shears
Key Features
- Cutting Capacity: 0.63 in (1.6 cm)
- Blade Type: Bypass
- Blade Material: Steel
- Length: 9 in (22.9 cm)
- Weight: 0.65 lb (0.3 kg)
Fiskars Pruning Shears are high-quality garden tools that offer maximum power and precision for various pruning tasks.
It has an all-steel blade that stays sharp longer and is coated with a rust-resistant, low-friction coating that easily glides through the wood. With a self-cleaning sap groove that keeps blades from sticking, these shears make cutting a breeze.
The non-slip grip handle and easy-open lock provide easy control and storage. Fiskars pruning shears are built to last and offer excellent durability for lasting value, backed by a full lifetime warranty.
These shears are ideal for cutting small branches, flower stems and maintaining herb gardens, making them a must-have for any gardener.
Overall, Fiskars Pruning Shears are an excellent choice for those with smaller hands that seek reliable, long-lasting garden tools.
Pros
- Compact design.
- Rust-resistant, low-friction blade coating.
- Self-cleaning sap groove keeps blades from sticking.
- Full lifetime warranty.
Cons
- Small cutting capacity.
- Handles are not ergonomic.
3. Garden Elite Pruning Shears
Key Features
- Cutting Capacity: 1 in (2.5 cm)
- Blade Type: Bypass
- Blade Material: Japanese Alloy Steel
- Length: 8.5 in (21.6 cm)
- Weight: 0.56 lb (0.25 kg)
Garden Elite Pruning Shears are the ideal tool for any gardening enthusiast. They feature a non-stick steel blade that is hard, sharp, and coated with Teflon to resist sap and debris buildup. This ensures smooth and precise cuts every time you use them.
The handle is ergonomically designed with rubber grips that are non-slip and comfortable to hold. The thumb lock is easy to operate and secures the blade when not in use. You can use these pruners for long periods without feeling any strain or fatigue.
These Pruning Shears have a lifetime warranty so you can trust their quality and durability. They are among the best secateurs on the market and an excellent choice for any gardener.
Overall, Garden Elite Pruning Shears are a must-have for any gardener who wants to enjoy smooth and precise pruning with a comfortable and reliable tool.
Pros
- Rust and corrosion-resistant coated blade.
- Ergonomic Rubber Grip.
- Lifetime Warranty Included.
Cons
- It is Expensive.
4. Corona Pruning Shears
Key Features
- Cutting Capacity: 0.75 in (1.9 cm)
- Blade Type: Bypass
- Blade Material: Alloy Steel
- Length: 8.1 in (20.6 cm)
- Weight: 0.63 lb (0.3 kg)
Corona Pruning Shears are the most durable pruners with a fully forged steel construction.
The dual arc bypass blade efficiently cuts green or dry branches and stems, while the hand-matched hook and blade ensure precise, close cuts every time.
The self-cleaning sap groove and resharpenable blade make maintenance a breeze. Also, the comfortable, non-slip grip is perfect for small to medium-sized hands. Backed by a limited lifetime warranty, these pruning shears are a great choice for any gardener or landscaper.
Overall, the Corona Pruning Shears are a reliable and long-lasting option for any gardener looking for durable and precise cutting tools.
Pros
- Excellent strength and sharpness.
- Solid forged steel.
- Non-slip grips.
- Limited lifetime warranty.
Cons
- The locking mechanism is awkward.
5. Okatsune Small Pruners
Key Features
- Cutting Capacity: 0.75 in (1.9 cm)
- Blade Type: Bypass
- Blade Material: Alloy Steel
- Length: 9.8 in (24.9 cm)
- Weight: 0.4 lb (0.2 kg)
The Okatsune Small Pruners are an excellent choice for gardeners looking for easy-to-grip, durable, and long-lasting pruners.
These pruners have a smooth angled blade that delivers a clean cut without crushing or chewing the wood.
This garden tool is made from tough Izumo Yasuki Japanese steel with a Rockwell hardness of 60 +/-1. It is tough enough to handle even bamboo.
Overall, Okatsune Small Pruners are an outstanding investment for anyone looking for strong, high-quality, and reliable pruning shears.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to use.
- Perfect for smaller hands.
- Sharp and cuts smoothly.
- Lighter than other models
Cons
- The blade is not rust-proof.
- Handles are slippery and poorly shaped.
- The locking clip can lock the handle while pruning.
6. Felco Pruning Shears
Key Features
- Cutting Capacity: 0.8 in (2.0 cm)
- Blade Type: Bypass, Anvil
- Blade Material: Aluminium
- Length: 11 in (28 cm)
- Weight: 0.46 lb (0.21 kg)
The Felco Pruning Shears are high-performance pruners designed for precise and efficient pruning.
With their ergonomic design and well-balanced weight, these shears offer optimal comfort and cutting capacity.
The ergonomic handle with a cushioned-shock absorber minimizes the cutting impact. The narrow pointed anvil blade allows easy access to twiggy branches, ensuring a close cut to the trunk. Additionally, the wire cutter and sap groove provide added versatility.
Ideal for medium-sized hands but also great for small-size hands, the lightweight and high-quality hardened steel blades make these shears durable and long-lasting.
Overall, the Felco Pruning Shears are reliable, high-performance pruners with precise pruning and ergonomic design. These pruners are an excellent choice for gardeners of all levels.
Pros
- Good fit for people with smaller hands.
- All components are replaceable.
- Sharp and effective blades.
- Comfortable grip.
- It has an excellent pushback spring.
Cons
- Slightly more expensive than other pruners.
- It may develop light rust if not used regularly.
7. ARS Heavy Duty Pruners
Key Features
- Cutting Capacity: 0.7 in (1.8 cm)
- Blade Type: Bypass, Anvil
- Blade Material: Aluminum, Chrome Plated
- Length: 8 in (20.3 cm)
- Weight: 0.6 lb (0.3 kg)
The ARS Heavy Duty Pruner is an excellent choice for professional and home gardeners. Its hard chrome plating provides maximum protection against rust and sap buildup.
The ergonomic handles and offset blades also offer maximum comfort and precision. In contrast, the ability to replace blades ensures long-term durability and performance.
In addition, the limited lifetime manufacturer warranty ensures the quality and reliability of this pruner for years to come.
Overall, the ARS Heavy Duty Pruner is for anyone looking for a durable and easy-to-sharpen pruner with ergonomic handles for small hands that will last a lifetime.
Pros
- Very sharp and can cut through branches with little effort.
- Comfortable to hold and use, especially for those with small hands.
- It can maintain sharpness even after repeated use.
- Limited Lifetime Manufacture.
Cons
- Locking can be difficult.
- The handle is plastic.
- A little pricey
Our Top Picks For The Best Hand Pruners For Small Hands
Why Get A Hand Pruners For Small Hands?
- Proper Fit
- Increased Precision
- Ability To Work Longer
- Time-Saving
1. Proper Fit
When using hand pruners designed for small hands, you will have a better grip and control over the tool, which will help reduce hand fatigue and the risk of injury. A proper fit also means using the device with greater ease and efficiency.
2. Increased Precision
When hand pruners fit perfectly in your hand, it gives more precision in their cutting action. They are easier to control and require less force, allowing for more accurate cuts.
3. Ability To Work Longer
With a hand pruner that fits your hand well, you can work for longer without experiencing fatigue or discomfort. This is especially important for those people with big gardens who have to do a lot of pruning.
4. Time-Saving
Pruners that fit small hands can be time-saving. They allow for more efficient and precise cuts, reducing the need for extra time spent correcting mistakes or making multiple cuts. They will also be less tiring, so you will finish the job sooner than expected!
What to Look for When Buying Hand Pruners For Small Hands?
- Handle Size
- Handle Shape
- Cutting Capacity
- Blade Material
- Length
- Weight
1. Handle Size
The handle size of a hand pruner is important to consider, especially if you have small hands. You want to ensure that the pruner fits comfortably in your hand and that you can easily grip and use it without straining your hand or fingers. Look for hand pruners with smaller handle sizes or adjustable handles that can be made smaller to fit your hand.
2. Handle Shape
The shape of the handle can also make a big difference in how comfortable the pruner is to use. Look for hand pruners with ergonomically designed handles, with curves and grips that fit the natural shape of your hand. This can reduce strain and fatigue during use.
3. Cutting Capacity
The cutting capacity of a hand pruner refers to the maximum size of the branch or stem that it can cut through. Make sure to choose a hand pruner with a cutting capacity that matches the size of the plants you will be pruning. A pruner with a smaller cutting capacity may be sufficient if you’re working with smaller plants.
4. Blade Material
The blade material is important for both durability and sharpness. Look for hand pruners with blades made from high-quality materials, such as stainless steel, alloy steel, carbon steel, or aluminum. These are strong and can hold a sharp edge well.
5. Length
The length of the pruner can affect its cutting power and maneuverability. Longer pruners typically have more cutting power but may be more challenging for people with smaller hands. Shorter pruners are easier to handle but may not be able to cut through thicker branches.
6. Weight
The weight of pruners is a minor consideration as most are in the range of 0.4 to 0.7 lb (0.2 to 0.3 kg).
Tips On Using Hand Pruners For Small Hands
How To Sharpen Hand Pruners Step By Step
Keeping your hand pruners sharp is essential for their optimal performance. Dull blades can damage plants and make pruning a difficult and frustrating task.
Sharpening your hand pruners is a simple way to keep them in good condition. Here’s a list of what you will need for this task:
Now, here’s how to sharpen your hand pruners step by step:
1. Clean the blades. Before sharpening, wipe the blades clean with dish soap and a wire brush to remove any debris or sap. This will make the sharpening process easier and more effective.
2. Sharpen the main blade. Hold the pruners and move the sharpening stone at a slight angle from the bottom of the blade to the top using even pressure. You should hear a scraping sound as you move the stone along the blade. Repeat this until you see a shiny edge on the blade.
Pro Tip: You can use a multi-sharpening tool instead of a sharpening stone, one tool for all your sharpening needs!
3. Sharpen the other blade. Repeat the same process on the other blade. If it is an anvil pruner, skip this part, as it has only one blade.
4. Test the blades. After sharpening, test the blades by cutting a thin branch. If they cut cleanly and smoothly, your pruners are ready to use. If not, go back to sharpening until you get a satisfactory result.
5. Lubricate the pruners. Apply a small amount of oil to the spring and other moving parts to prevent rust and keep them in good condition. Avoid putting lubricant on the blade if you are going to prune straight away, as some plants can be sensitive to oils. However, if you will put them into storage, apply some oil to the blade.
Pro Tip: Regular maintenance and sharpening will keep your hand pruners in top shape and make your pruning tasks much easier. Sharpen your hand pruners once a month, depending on how frequently you use them.
Best Battery Operated Pruners For Weak Hand Grip
Traditional hand pruners can be hard to use with small hands or a weak grip. You may struggle to apply enough force or pressure to make a clean cut.
Battery-operated pruners such as Dragro electric pruning shears can solve this problem by using a rechargeable battery to power the cutting mechanism. You just need to press a button, and the pruners will do the rest.
This can make pruning effortless and more enjoyable for gardeners with small hands or a weak grip.
Battery-operated pruners can also save you time and energy, as they can cut through thicker branches and stems with less effort.
If you have limited dexterity or mobility, battery-operated pruners can help you prune your plants with greater precision and comfort.
Read our full review for the best electric pruning shears.
If you need something more powerful to trim, saw, and prune, check our list of the best cordless garden saws.
Best Hand Pruners For Small Hands Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Is Cutting Capacity And Why Is It Important In A Hand Pruner For Small Hands?
Cutting capacity refers to the maximum thickness of a branch that a hand pruner can cut through.
A smaller cutting capacity often means that the handles of the pruner will not expand as much, making it easier for those with small hands to use.
Therefore, when choosing a hand pruner for small hands, consider the cutting capacity, as it can directly impact comfort and ease of use.
What Are The Different Types Of Hand Pruners?
There are three main types of hand pruners: bypass pruners, anvil pruners, and ratchet pruners.
Bypass pruners have two curved blades that move past each other, similar to scissors. These types of pruners are sharper and lighter. They are the most popular among gardeners.
Anvil pruners have a blade that cuts as it closes onto the base, giving an action similar to a knife on a chopping board. Anvil pruners are best used on dead wood rather than live plants, as the blade often crushes stems when cutting unless the blade is exceptionally sharp.
Ratchet pruners are a type of pruning tool with a unique mechanism that allows them to make multiple cuts through thicker branches. This mechanism uses a series of clicks or ratchets that lock into place as the user squeezes handles together. With each squeeze, the ratchet mechanism advances one step, allowing the user to apply more pressure to the branch. This makes it easier to cut through thicker branches without having to use as much force as with traditional pruners.
Which Is Better, Bypass Or Anvil Pruners?
Bypass pruners are generally considered better than anvil pruners. They provide a cleaner cut, are easier to use, and are more versatile for various pruning tasks.
Anvil pruners can crush stems when cutting, which is not ideal for live plants. However, anvil pruners can be useful for cutting dead wood.
What Are Bypass Pruners Best For?
Bypass pruners are best for making clean cuts on live plants and branches, as they have two blades that pass by each other like scissors, allowing for a precise cut without crushing the stem.
They are ideal for various pruning tasks, including pruning trees, shaping plants, deadheading flowers, and removing damaged or diseased branches.
Are Secateurs The Same As Pruning Shears?
Yes, secateurs are the same as pruning shears. The term “secateurs” is commonly used in the UK, Australia, and other Commonwealth countries, while “pruning shears” is more commonly used in the United States.
Both terms refer to a handheld gardening tool used for pruning and cutting small branches and stem. The design and function of secateurs and pruning shears are the same, regardless of the name used to describe them.
Conclusion
Finding the best hand pruners for small hands can make all the difference in your gardening experience!
When choosing the perfect pair of pruners, consider factors such as handle size and shape, cutting capacity, blade material, length, and weight.
Remember to also take care of your pruners by cleaning and sharpening them regularly to ensure they perform their best. Happy pruning!
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