Source: Deutsche Nachrichten
In the garden, you’re faced with a decision: Should I use bypass pruners or anvil pruners? Each has its strengths. While bypass pruners, with their blades that glide past each other, are particularly suited for tender, soft foliage, anvil pruners really shine when cutting thicker, dry or woody material.
How an anvil pruner works
The principle is delightfully simple: The blade strikes a solid surface – the anvil. This provides stable support for the material being cut and severs it with a controlled cut. The practical advantage is obvious: You need less force, especially when dealing with thicker branches or older wood. For anyone who prunes regularly or wants to use less hand strength, this is a real plus.
A common misconception
You often hear: “Anvil pruners crush the plants.” That’s too broad a generalization. Whether a cut is clean depends on three key factors, a sharp blade, the right anvil, and proper handling. Dull pruner cause damage to the plant, no matter how well they’re designed, and an anvil with deep grooves damages the bark. On the other hand, a good anvil pruner works very precisely even with challenging material and is also easy on the wrist.
The right pruning shears for the right task
“For young, succulent shoots and delicate foliage, bypass pruner are usually the better choice – they simply cut more cleanly and precisely. For dead branches, sturdier material, old fruitwood, or dry branches, an anvil pruner performs significantly better,” says Jürgen Usinger, product manager at Gebr. Schroeder GmbH – Original Loewe (Original LÖWE).
What to look for when buying
Anyone who regularly cuts sturdy, hard, or dry wood should look for sturdy construction, a blade that can be resharpened, and replaceable wear parts. This extends the tool’s lifespan and maintains cutting quality – especially with frequent use.
A time-tested principle
History shows that this technology is timeless. Walther Schröder, founder of the Original Loewe brand, developed the anvil principle as early as 1923 in Kiel, Schleswig-Holstein, and it continues to shape many classic garden pruner to this day. Modern models preserve this basic principle and combine it with ergonomic design and robust materials.
The practical rule of thumb
Ultimately, what matters isn’t the abstract question “anvil or bypass?” but the specific material being cut. Fresh, tender foliage requires a fine, clean cut. Sturdy, dry wood is often easier to handle with anvil pruner. Those who use both systems intentionally work with less effort, faster and above all in a way that’s gentler on the plants.
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Gebr. Schröder GmbH | Original LÖWE
Original LÖWE – The Inventor of the Anvil pruning shears
Since 1923, Original LÖWE, a brand of Gebr. Schröder GmbH, has stood for quality, innovation, and tradition in professional cutting tools. As the inventor of the anvil pruning shears, we have been developing and manufacturing distinctive shears designed for long-term use and repairability for more than a century. Our tools are used worldwide by professionals in horticulture, viticulture, and fruit growing, as well as in industry and the trades.
Made in Germany – since 1923
Our pruners and cutters are manufactured in our own production facilities in Germany. We rely on precise manufacturing techniques, high-quality materials, and decades of experience to produce robust and precise cutting tools built to last. Original LÖWE stands for precise craftsmanship and tools that meet the highest standards.
Today, we employ around 60 people, collaborate with partners from social institutions, and produce over 100 different models – from all-purpose shears to specialty shears. Our tools are used in over 100 countries worldwide.
Innovation Meets Tradition
From the first anvil pruners to modern hybrid models, our products combine proven technology with modern engineering. We continuously refine our models in close collaboration with users. This results in solutions that enable efficient and effort-saving work.
Thoughtfully Designed Down to the Last Detail
Whether it’s professional pruners for continuous use or our new high-quality wooden handles – every detail of our tools is carefully considered. Our products combine precise cutting performance, ergonomic design, repairability, and meticulous craftsmanship. Anyone who has ever worked with an Original LÖWE pruning shears an d cutters can tell the difference.
Corporate Responsibility
As a third-generation family-owned business, we place great importance on social responsibility. The electricity we source externally for our manufacturing operations at our Flintbek facility comes from renewable energy sources; the corresponding certifications are documented annually. In addition, we generate electricity using our own photovoltaic system.
Our tools are designed for long-term use and are repairable. Replacement parts are available for wear-and-tear components, even for older models. This means that many Original LÖWE tools can be repaired and continue to be used as needed.
Original LÖWE – Precision That Inspires
Our cutting tools stand for quality, performance, and tradition. Discover the world of Original LÖWE and experience precise cutting technology developed and manufactured in-house.
Because nature connects us.
With the Original LÖWE-natural sub-brand, we focus on carefully selected natural materials and clearly defined product features: ergonomically shaped wooden handles, packaging made of uncoated cardboard without plastic film, and paper cable ties with a recycled and biodegradable fastener. The choice of materials and the design geared toward long-term use define the unique character of this product line.