Max. cutting diameter
The largest diameter (thickness) of a branch that the tool can handle.
The larger the maximum cut diameter, the more powerful this model, the lower the likelihood that a certain branch will be too tough for the tool. At the same time, note that to ensure high power, long handles and strong blades are needed, which accordingly affects the dimensions, weight and price. Therefore, it is worth choosing according to this parameter with a certain margin, but at the same time, this margin should not be too large.
As for specific figures, a maximum diameter
of 20 mm or less is considered relatively small, but it often turns out to be quite enough for simple work.
21 – 30 mm — the average value,
31 – 40 mm — above average, and in loppers the maximum thickness can
exceed 40 mm.
Blade length
The length of the blades provided in the tool. Usually, the characteristics indicate the working length of the blades — from the tip to the rotary axis.
Both long and short blades have their own specifics, advantages and disadvantages. So, the long length is optimal for working with relatively thin branches: it allows you to cut several of them at a time, and also makes it possible to reach into hard-to-reach places. At the same time, short blades are more compact and provide more force for the same length of handles, which is convenient when working with thick branches. More detailed recommendations on choosing the length of the blades for a specific situation can be found in special sources.
Handle adjustment
The ability
to adjust the length of the handles or the width of their disclosure on the tool, adjusting it to certain situations.
Longer handles at least allow you to reach further and achieve more force on the blade (due to the large length of the lever); shorter ones, in turn, make the tool more compact and manoeuvrable. In these moments, the meaning of this adjustment lies: in cramped conditions, the handles can be shortened, reducing the length of the tool to a minimum, and if there is enough space, lengthen in order to reduce the cutting force and at the same time increase its efficiency.
Note that in some models, in addition to the length, the distance between the handles can also be adjusted — to adjust to the personal characteristics of the user. This point should be clarified separately.
Ratchet mechanism
The presence of a
ratchet mechanism in the tool — a device known colloquially as a "ratchet". The principle of operation of such a mechanism is as follows: the blades of the tool can move in compression, but the reverse movement (in opening) is blocked by a gear wheel with a stop dog. This makes it easier to cut thick hard branches: the cut can be carried out in several stages, at each of them pressing the blades a few millimetres and not being afraid that they will move back. This way of working will be especially appreciated by users who do not have great hand strength. And in order to open the blades after cutting, you need to either unclench the handles with force, or vice versa, squeeze them all the way.
Finger loop
The presence
of a loop for the fingers in the design of the tool. Such a loop is used in one-handed tools: it is usually installed on one of the handles, four fingers are threaded into it, opposing the thumb. Such a device provides additional convenience and reliability in holding the tool (reduces the likelihood of letting it out of hand), and also provides some protection from branches and other foreign objects.
Saw attachment
The presence of a
saw nozzle on the tool — a device in the form of a small toothed blade that plays the role of a saw. With the help of such a nozzle, you can effectively cope even with large thick branches that are “too tough” for traditional blades; the cut is obtained as even and accurate as possible. Note that saw nozzles are mainly equipped with pole saws (see "Type"): at a low height for similar purposes, it is easier to use a traditional hacksaw.
Pole
Availability of a
bar in a complete set of delivery of the tool.
This feature is relevant mainly for high cutters (see "Type") — a long rod, in fact, allows you to reach the desired height with such a tool. At the same time, models with an intra-hand drive are equipped with rods by definition, but the pole saw with an external drive can be supplied without a rod — in such cases it is assumed that the user will select it himself, depending on his own preferences and the requirements of the situation. For details, see "Pillar Pruner Drive".
