Source: Deutsche Nachrichten
Young shoots, dry wood, and sturdy branches all place different demands on pruning shears. The cutting mechanism, blade geometry, and power transmission are crucial factors. Original LÖWE categorizes the GardenPRO models based on their intended use and explains why handle material and repairability also play a role in the selection process.
Bypass for young shoots and precision work
When dealing with young shoots and more delicate woody plants, the blade should cleanly sever the plant material. Bypass shears have a design advantage for such tasks. On the Original LÖWE 11 and 12, a slim precision cutting head ensures that the shears can be positioned effectively even in tight branches.
In contrast, thick or dry material requires greater force transmission. The Original LÖWE 8 and 10 combine the anvil principle with a curved blade. This hybrid geometry is designed for thicker branches.
Blade Geometry and Lever Action Determine the Force Required
How comfortable a pair of pruning shears is to use does not depend solely on their size. Blade geometry, blade sharpness, and the distance between the material being cut and the pivot point determine how much force is required for the cut.
With the Original LÖWE 5, the short, slender blade and the cutting point close to the pivot ensure that tougher branches can be cut with minimal effort. The cutting capacity is 16 millimeters, and the model is also designed for smaller hands. For thicker branches over 20 millimeters, GardenPRO offers models with greater cutting capacity, including the Original LÖWE 8 POWER CUT one-handed shears and the Original LÖWE 22 POWER CUT loppers for diameters up to 45 millimeters.
Plastic or wood – it’s a personal choice
In addition to the cutting task, the handle material plays a role. Some users prefer plastic handles, while others prefer the feel of wood in their hands. That’s why Original LÖWE natural applies the technology of select PROFESSIONAL models to shears with solid wood handles.
The one-handed pruning shears feature hickory wood handles. For example, the Original LÖWE 8 natural uses the same POWER CUT technology as the model with plastic handles. The Original LÖWE 9 natural is designed as a bypass pruning shear with CLEAN CUT technology. Ash wood is used for the larger pruning shears: The Original LÖWE 21 natural operates on the bypass principle, while the Original LÖWE 22 natural operates on the anvil-hybrid principle.
The handle material does not determine which shears are suitable for a particular cutting task. However, it does influence how the tool feels when in use.
Replace Wear Parts Instead of Replacing the Shears
Even garden shears change over time with use. Blades become dull, pads wear out, and springs can get lost. With Original LÖWE, replacing tool parts is part of the design. Even on the classic Original LÖWE 1, wear parts can be replaced. An older, trusted pair of shears therefore doesn’t have to be replaced just because of a worn blade or a missing screw.
With the Original LÖWE 2 VARIO, wear on the blade and anvil can also be compensated for via the continuously adjustable handle width. This allows both parts to be used longer before replacement is necessary. This feature is also found in the anvil shears of the PROFESSIONAL series, which additionally feature maintenance-free bearings. Suitable replacement parts are available for all models.
Over time, the wooden handles of the natural series develop a unique patina that visibly reflects the use of your favorite shears.
Four model series for different needs
GardenPRO divides its product line into four model series. ECONOMIC is the entry-level series, featuring compact pruning shears with a somewhat simpler design. CLASSIC builds on the original LÖWE principle. PRECISION is designed for precise, fine cuts. PROFESSIONAL adds technical features depending on the model, such as quick blade replacement, maintenance-free bearings, or a continuously adjustable handle width.
The selection therefore does not follow a simple hierarchy. The key factor is which shears are best suited to your specific work and the material you’re cutting.