How to Choose the Best Ratchet Secateurs
How to Choose the Best Ratchet Secateurs
If you’re searching for the best ratchet secateurs, you’re likely to be a gardener who values comfort, efficiency, and sustainability. The right pair of secateurs can make pruning easier, especially when dealing with tougher, thicker stems. Whether a beginner, regular gardener or a professional, choosing the right pruning tool is essential—not only for your plants but for your hands, too.
In this article, we’ll discuss the key features to look for in quality ratchet secateurs so you can invest in a tool that lasts season after season.
Why Choose Ratchet Secateurs?
Ratchet secateurs are designed to reduce hand strain by cutting in stages. This mechanical advantage makes them perfect for people with reduced hand strength, arthritis, or those tackling thicker branches on a regular basis. But not all ratchet pruners are created equal!
1. Look for Quality and Longevity
Good gardeners should want tools that won’t end up in landfill after a single season. The best ratchet secateurs are built with:
- High-quality, hardened steel blades that stay sharp longer and are easy to sharpen
- Robust construction for everyday use
- Replaceable parts – blades, springs, nuts & bolts
Choose secateurs from trusted brands known for their durability and build quality.
2. Ergonomic Design Matters
Comfort is key when pruning. Prioritise tools that are easy on your hands, especially if you’re working for extended periods. Key features include:
- Lower hand protection: A bar under the lower handle will protect your handle whilst pruning.
- Wider handle spacing: If the handles are too close together you may pinch the skin on your palm.
- Non-slip grip: A rubber insert on the top handle will ensure control, even if your hand is wet.
These features combine to make pruning more comfortable and reduce hand fatigue.
3. Nut and Bolt Blade System – Not Pin and Clip
One of the most overlooked factors in ratchet secateurs is how the rear of the blade (ratcheting mechanism) is secured. Avoid models that use a pin and clip, as the clip is not only hard to remove but damaged. You will need a new clip when re-installing a blade. It is easier to replace a spring with the blade removed.
The best ratchet secateurs use a nut and bolt system, that:
- Provides a strong and secure hold.
- Allows for blade replacement without hassle.
- Can be re-used.
This means a longer-lasting, more serviceable tool.
4. Choose Brands That Offer Spare Parts
Spare parts availability is a strong indicator of a quality product. Reliable brands supply replacement blades, springs, and other components—making maintenance simple and extending the life of your tool.
A good ratchet secateur should be repairable, helping you reduce waste and save money overall.
5. Trusted Brands and Customer Support
Don’t be fooled by look-alike secateurs with a cheap price tag. Select trusted brands that specialise in gardening tools and offer customer support, warranties, and guidance on maintenance.
Look for ratchet secateurs made in Taiwan, known globally for excellent blade quality and mechanical performance.
When shopping for the best ratchet secateurs in Australia, buy from a gardening specialist who stocks ergonomic, high-performance pruning tools with full support and parts backup.
Conclusion
Choosing the right ratchet secateurs is about more than just cutting. It’s about comfort, durability, sustainability, and value for money. By focusing on quality materials, ergonomic design, and spare part support, you’ll be investing in a tool that will serve you—and your garden—for years to come.
Explore the range of professional-grade ratchet secateurs at CutAbove Tools, and make pruning easier on your hands—and better for the planet.
