Bypass pruners and anvil pruners are both types of hand-held pruning tools used for trimming and shaping plants. However, there are several differences between the two types of pruners.
Bypass pruners have two sharp blades that pass by each other to make a clean cut. They work similar to scissors or a paper cutter, with one blade sliding past the other to make the cut. These pruners are ideal for cutting live or green wood, as they create a sharp, precise cut without crushing the plant tissue. Bypass pruners are also excellent for making clean, precise cuts on small or delicate plants.
On the other hand, anvil pruners have a single sharp blade that cuts down onto a flat, metal anvil. This type of pruner is ideal for cutting dead or woody stems, as the anvil helps provide extra leverage to cut through tough material. However, the anvil can sometimes crush live plant tissue if used improperly, so it is important to use anvil pruners only on dead or woody material.
In terms of ergonomics, bypass pruners are generally lighter and easier to handle than anvil pruners. They also require less force to make a cut, which makes them a good choice for gardeners with weaker hands or arthritis. Anvil pruners, on the other hand, are often heavier and require more force to make a cut, which may make them more difficult to use for some gardeners.
In summary, the main differences between bypass pruners and anvil pruners are the cutting mechanisms, the types of material they are best suited for, and the amount of force required to make a cut. Bypass pruners are ideal for live or green wood and are easier to handle, while anvil pruners are best suited for dead or woody stems and require more force to use effectively. When choosing a pruner, it is important to consider the type of plant material you will be cutting, as well as your own strength and dexterity.