Arthritis is every gardener’s enemy. This condition gives gardeners a lot of pain, not to mention that it also makes it hard for them to use gardening tools. In this case, you need the best pruning shears for arthritis.
Arthritis isn’t just an old man’s disease. There’s also juvenile arthritis that affects younger individuals. Whatever it is, arthritis makes gardening a less enjoyable experience. Also, pruning can be a very painful task since it can make your fingers really stiff and sore.
As much as you want to cut some roses or prune your flower bed, doing so will only bring discomfort. Sadly, some gardeners quit their hobby due to the intense pain it brings. From being a source of satisfaction, gardening becomes a nightmare of flaring joints.
Nevertheless, there are some workarounds you can try to ease the pain, especially when it comes to pruning. Nowadays, there are electric pruning shears or secateurs that let you trim without the need to perform the manual pressing motion. You just press a button and you can prune your flowers right away.
In this post, we reviewed five of the best secateurs for arthritic hands so you no longer have to suffer from your hobby or pastime.
1. KOMOK Electric Pruning Shears
For gardeners with arthritis, the KOMOK Electric Shears will be your go-to pruning tool. Instead of the manual mechanism, it comes with a cordless motor that will start pruning once you press the trigger. It also has a shockproof and anti-slip body so you can prune with ease.
Moreover, the KOMOK electric shears are equipped with an SK5 alloy metal blade that will cut thick branches easily. Also, it has a brushless motor that offers strong and stable performance.
Also, since you’ll be cutting different branches, this KOMOK pruner comes with an adjustable cutting range from 0.98 inch to 1.12 inches. You can switch cutting the range by simply pressing the trigger for three seconds and waiting for the beep.
This electric pruner also comes with a battery pack that can run for 6 to 8 hours for a high-speed charge of just two hours. You will also receive a second battery!
This may look bulky, but don’t worry because it’s reasonably lightweight for just 1.5 pounds. That’s already lightweight considering the power this cordless pruner can pack on its system.
Pros
- Easy to grip body
- Comes with two battery packs
- Adjustable cutting range
Cons
- Doesn’t always come with a storage bag
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2. Milwaukee Electric Shears
If you’re looking for a pruner that can cut thicker branches, you should get the Milwaukee Electric Shears. It’s equipped with an ultra-sharp blade with a pierce point. Also, it has a cutting range of up to 2 inches and can cut through a schedule 40 PVC in as fast as 3 seconds.
Aside from that, it cuts clean so you no longer have to deal with shavings or burrs. This is also made durable to resist rust, water, and impact.
The package includes the electric shears, charger, battery pack, and carrying case. It also has a built-in runtime indicator so you can track if you’re running out of juice. Nevertheless, each charge can deliver up to 200 cuts when dealing with thick branches.
Moreover, this electric pruner is equipped with a variable speed trigger so you can adjust your cutting needs based on the weather. And with its aluminum jaw, this pair of electric shears is the most rugged and durable option.
Our only gripe is that it’s a little heavy, which can be an issue for those with severe arthritis. Other than that, this electric tool is very useful.
Pros
- Perfect for thick branches
- Ultra-sharp blade
- Rugged construction
Cons
- A bit heavy than usual
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3. Jitterbug Air Pruning Shears
Another pair of electric secateurs that we recommend is the Jitterbug Pruning Shears. It’s equipped with durable and sharp tungsten steel blades that will cut for long hours. Also, its blade is forged to endure the toughest branches in your garden.
In addition, the Jitterbug secateurs come with a unique safety lock on the trigger so you will prevent accidental start-ups. Aside from that, this pruner has a textured and covered body aside from the handle that makes it easy to use.
The package includes the JT-360 pruner and a plug to connect the unit to a power source. This may not be cordless, but it remains very convenient for those with arthritis. It’s lightweight for around 1.5 pounds.
Take note that this has a pneumatic mechanism that uses 3 CFM of air on a working pressure of 90 psi. With that level of power, this can cut up to an inch of thickness. Aside from that, it will save you from arthritic pain while gardening.
Overall, this secateurs is well-made and with arthritic users in mind. Instead of suffering, you can save yourself from hand pain by getting these electric shears instead.
Pros
- Safety lock to prevent accidental start-ups
- Excellent grip design
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not cordless, but not a biggie
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4. JIUNENG Electric Shears
When it comes to portable pruning shears, we can always count on JIUNENG Cordless Pruner. It has a high-carbon steel head that can cut through branches up to 1.2 inches thick. It’s also effective for hard branches that take time to trim using manual shears.
Another highlight of this pruning shears is its ergonomic design. It’s made with arthritic users in mind with its shockproof and anti-slip design.
As for the power, these secateurs come with a battery pack that will work for up to four hours for every 1.5 hours of charge. Aside from that, it has a brushless motor that lasts up to five times longer than a typical brush type.
Moreover, this pruner can be used in your garden, an orchard, farm, and almost anywhere where trimming is needed. It’s easy to use and it prevents hand strain even if you’re pruning for long hours.
We also like that this pruner has the right body circumference for an easy grip. There’s also a trigger that’s convenient to press. Lastly, there’s a rope on the battery pack so you can hang it around while you tend to other gardening tasks.
Pros
- High-carbon steel blade
- Ergonomic design
- Long-lasting motor
Cons
- The battery pack is a little difficult to put on
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5. The Gardener’s Friend Ratchet Shears
Lastly, we recommend The Gardener’s Friend Ratchet Shears. This is the best option for those who are not fans of electric secateurs. Its ratchet design makes it easier to use since it reduces the strain to the hands. This is the perfect choice for those with arthritis and a weak grip.
In addition, this pruner was developed by professional gardeners so rest assured that it will last for years. You can use it to trim flowers, shrubs, and trees of up to an inch thick. This is also very convenient to use among senior gardeners who find it hard to use other types of secateurs.
This has a three-stage ratchet mechanism that cuts smoothly while reducing the impact on the hands. Also, it has a coated carbon steel blade that doesn’t rust easily. And to keep you comfortable while trimming, these secateurs are equipped with soft rubber grips.
Aside from that, we also like its aluminum body that will not rust. It also has an anvil channel coating that prevents the dulling of the blade.
So if you’re looking for manual yet arthritis-friendly secateurs, you will never go wrong with the Gardener’s Friend shears.
Pros
- Soft rubber grip
- Ideal for arthritic and weak hands
- Very durable blade
Cons
- May not be ideal for small hands
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Buying Guide for the Best Pruners for Arthritic Hands
Choosing a garden pruner isn’t easy, especially if you have arthritis. You have to look for an ergonomic choice that will prevent joint pain. To help you out, we recommend that you look for the following characteristics:
Get the right style
Pruners or secateurs are usually available in four different types: anvil, bypass, ratchet, and electric. When it comes to gardeners with arthritis, the best choice would be electric shears. The reason behind it is that electric options work in a press of a button. That saves arthritic gardeners from the pain of manual trimming.
However, for those who aren’t into electric options, ratchet shears are the next best option. It’s an anvil type with additional cutting stages. This makes it easier to cut with less force involved, thus ideal for those with weak and injured hands.
Check the material
The material of the blade should always be tough and durable enough to cut through stiff branches. As many gardeners say, the pruner should cut through branches like a hot knife on butter. Hardened and high-carbon steel are some of the best options. You can also look for the likes of titanium so it will not rust even if soaked in water.
Aside from the blade, you should also check the grip. It should always offer excellent texture so the secateurs won’t slip from your hands. If you are getting an electric type, make sure that the trigger is easy to reach and press.
Cutting range
Another important consideration when it comes to garden pruners is its cutting range. This refers to how much thickness the blade can cut. Usually, pruning shears can cut at a maximum of 1 to 2 inches. The higher the cutting range is, the more useful the pruner becomes on your day-to-day tasks.
When choosing the proper cutting range, always consider the plants you have in your garden.
Price range
If you’re serious about gardening, we always recommend investing in high-quality tools. As much as you can purchase the cheapest secateurs you can find, it’s only as good as its flimsy construction. In the long run, you’ll be spending more on purchasing replacements.
Although some pruners may come expensive, every dollar is worth the splurge. What you’ll get is a razor-sharp, solid, and reliable tool that will last for years. Nothing beats that option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I still prune my plants if I have arthritis?
A: Arthritis shouldn’t stop you from gardening! If you’re having a hard time trimming with manual and traditional shears, you can switch to an electric version. This type of secateurs comes in a corded or cordless construction and can be used in a press of a button. That way, you no longer have to exert your hands and joints.
Q: Are bypass pruners good for arthritic hands?
A: No, bypass pruners work like a pair of scissors so your hands will have to exert force to use it. When cutting thick branches, this can tire your weak hands easily. If possible, consider the likes of ratchet and electric shears for arthritic hands.
Q: Does gardening make my arthritis worse?
A: Pain can build up on your hands when you are performing gardening tasks. Still, you can try some alternatives to reduce the pain so you can continue with your pastime. You can start with your pruning shears by switching to more ergonomic options.
Q: What can I do to reduce pain while gardening?
A: If you are to kneel, make sure that there’s a kneeling pad to cushion your joints. During cold days, you should consider wearing warm gardening gloves to keep the blood flowing in your hands. The compression will also reduce the potential pain.
Q: What should I avoid when choosing an electric pruner?
A: Look for an electric pruner with the least vibration. Take note that a highly vibrating tool could make your hand arthritis worse. The good thing is that many electric shears nowadays are made shock-proof to protect your hands.
Final words
Gardening with arthritis can be really tough. Still, you can switch to more ergonomic tools so you can enjoy your hobby without the added pain. Above, we reviewed five of the best options that you can consider for your arthritic hands.