Choosing the right pruning shears can make the difference between effortless, precise cuts and frustrating, plant-damaging struggles. After extensively testing over 30 different models throughout 2024, our team at Rienfdomma has identified the standout performers across various categories and price points.
Whether you're a weekend gardener maintaining a few roses or a professional landscaper working all day, the right secateurs will reduce hand fatigue, produce cleaner cuts, and last for years with proper care.
Understanding Pruning Shear Types
Before diving into our reviews, it's essential to understand the two main types of pruning shears and their specific applications.
Bypass Pruning Shears
Bypass pruners work like scissors, with a sharp blade sliding past a broader base. They're ideal for live, green wood and produce the cleanest cuts with minimal damage to plant tissue. These are the go-to choice for most gardening tasks.
Anvil Pruning Shears
Anvil pruners feature a sharp blade that cuts down onto a flat anvil surface. They're better suited for dead wood and tougher materials but can crush live stems. They require less hand strength but aren't suitable for precision work on living plants.
Our Top Picks for 2025
Best Overall: Felco F-2 Classic Pruning Shears
Price: £79.99
The Felco F-2 remains the gold standard for professional and serious amateur gardeners. These Swiss-made bypass pruners have been refined over decades and continue to set the benchmark for quality, durability, and performance.
- Cutting capacity: 25mm
- Weight: 245g
- Handle material: Forged aluminium
- Blade material: Hardened steel
- Warranty: Lifetime repair service
- Hand size: Medium to large
✓ Pros
- Exceptional build quality and longevity
- Replaceable parts available
- Comfortable ergonomic design
- Professional-grade performance
- Lifetime repair service
✗ Cons
- Higher initial investment
- May be too large for small hands
- Heavier than some alternatives
Best Budget: Spear & Jackson Razorsharp Advantage Bypass
Price: £24.99
Excellent value for money, these British-made pruners offer surprisingly good performance at an affordable price point. Perfect for gardeners who want quality without breaking the bank.
- Cutting capacity: 20mm
- Weight: 200g
- Handle material: Steel with comfort grips
- Blade material: Carbon steel
- Warranty: 10 years
- Hand size: Small to medium
✓ Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Lightweight and manoeuvrable
- 10-year warranty
- British-made quality
- Good for smaller hands
✗ Cons
- Limited cutting capacity
- May require more frequent sharpening
- Not suitable for heavy professional use
Best for Women/Small Hands: Felco F-6 Ladies' Pruners
Price: £69.99
Specifically designed for smaller hands, these pruners maintain Felco's professional quality while offering a more comfortable grip and reduced hand span requirement.
- Cutting capacity: 20mm
- Weight: 210g
- Handle material: Forged aluminium
- Blade material: Hardened steel
- Warranty: Lifetime repair service
- Hand size: Small to medium
✓ Pros
- Perfect for smaller hands
- Reduced hand span requirement
- Professional Felco quality
- Comfortable all-day use
- Replaceable parts
✗ Cons
- Smaller cutting capacity
- May feel too small for large hands
- Premium price point
Best Anvil Pruners: Wilkinson Sword Heavy Duty Anvil
Price: £32.99
When you need to tackle dead wood and tougher materials, these anvil pruners provide excellent cutting power with minimal hand fatigue.
- Cutting capacity: 30mm
- Weight: 280g
- Handle material: Steel with soft grips
- Blade material: SK5 carbon steel
- Warranty: 5 years
- Hand size: Medium to large
✓ Pros
- Excellent for dead wood
- High cutting capacity
- Requires less hand strength
- Durable construction
- Good value for money
✗ Cons
- Can crush live wood
- Heavier than bypass pruners
- Less precise cutting
Comparison Table
| Model | Type | Price | Cutting Capacity | Weight | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felco F-2 | Bypass | £79.99 | 25mm | 245g | Professionals & serious gardeners |
| Spear & Jackson Razorsharp | Bypass | £24.99 | 20mm | 200g | Budget-conscious gardeners |
| Felco F-6 | Bypass | £69.99 | 20mm | 210g | Small hands |
| Wilkinson Sword Heavy Duty | Anvil | £32.99 | 30mm | 280g | Dead wood & tough materials |
Maintenance Tips for Longevity
Proper maintenance will extend the life of your pruning shears and ensure they continue to perform at their best:
- Clean after each use: Remove sap and debris with a damp cloth
- Oil regularly: Apply a light machine oil to pivot points
- Sharpen when needed: Maintain the blade edge for clean cuts
- Store properly: Keep in a dry place to prevent rust
- Replace worn parts: Many quality pruners have replaceable components
🔧 Professional Sharpening Service
At Rienfdomma Garden Centre, we offer professional sharpening and maintenance services for all types of pruning shears. Our experts can restore even heavily worn tools to like-new performance. Contact us for pricing and turnaround times.
Final Recommendations
For most gardeners, we recommend starting with bypass pruners, as they're more versatile and provide cleaner cuts for living plants. The Felco F-2 represents the best investment for serious gardeners, while the Spear & Jackson Razorsharp offers excellent value for occasional use.
If you have smaller hands or find standard pruners uncomfortable, the Felco F-6 is worth the investment. Reserve anvil pruners for specific tasks involving dead wood or when you need maximum cutting power with minimal effort.
Remember, the best pruning shears are the ones you'll actually use. Choose a pair that feels comfortable in your hands, suits your budget, and meets your gardening needs. With proper care, quality pruners can serve you well for decades.
🛒 Try Before You Buy
Visit our Cheltenham showroom to handle different models and find the perfect fit for your hands. Our knowledgeable staff can help you choose the right pruners for your specific gardening needs and budget.