| Hand Tools |
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| The choice of hand tools is often down to personal preference, if they feel comfortable to hold and operate etc. However there are certain types that I believe (personal preference) perform better than others, as always you get what you pay for. |
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| Secateurs |
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| There are two basic types of secateurs, anvil and bypass. The bypass type of blade gives a much cleaner cut and is therefore less likely to cause damage around the wound, allowing the tree to heal easier. |
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| Loppers |
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| The same principles apply to loppers as secateurs with regards to their cutting action. Ensure that they are capable of cutting the diameter of branch you are working on. |
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| Bow Saw |
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| I use the shape of saw shown in the picture as they allow better access in restricted areas. Renew the blade as soon as it becomes blunt, this help to keep cuts clean and accurate. Once you get to branches larger than this saw can cope with you should be looking to seek professional assistance/advice. I don’t recommend the larger bow saws for tree care work; they restrict access and can be hard to cut accurately with. |
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| Japanese Pull Saw |
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| Superb tools with either a folding or fixed blade (in scabbard), great in tight situations, easy to carry around and produce a nice finished cut but be warned – do not even think of buying cheap versions of these saws! |
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| Pole Saw/Loppers |
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| Give you the obvious advantage of additional reach, on the down side it is harder to ensure that your cuts are made accurately. They can be bought as individual units but usually have a head assembly that can be converted from a saw head to a lopper head. Ensure that the shaft is strong enough whilst at the same time remaining light enough to handle. Do not try to cut branches of a larger diameter than recommended by the manufacturer. |
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