Testing criteria and findings

We briefed our testers to use these four criteria when giving their scores: HANDLING – comfort, weight and balance, use of safety clips The handle grips are often softened with coatings, but we found that well-designed raw metal handles scored highly, too. Safety catches are an important operational feature. Testers preferred it when the catch could be closed and released with one hand. Testers commented on weight in their feedback, but it was apparent that where a tool is well balanced in the hand, the weight is less important. CUTTING – robustness, efficiency, manoeuverability Most secateurs have hardened steel blades. Some manufacturers gave maximum cut diameters, but we found that the cut capability really depended on hand strength. Most models cut stems of pencil thickness very effectively. Narrow blades are easier to manoeuvre in among congested stems. Anvil secateurs cut more efficiently when the stem is at right angles to the blade. MAINTENANCE – potential for blade sharpening, replacements and guarantees We checked that cleaning the blades and lubricating the tool would be easy, based on the design of the secateurs. This makes the blade opening widths important for accessibility. We also checked that blades could be removed for cleaning and replacement. Some tools also come with long guarantees. VALUE FOR MONEY – balancing the other scores against price The more expensive tools are well engineered, often beautifully designed and finished, and offer more access to replacement parts and even servicing. Our testing highlighted the fact that some lower-priced tools still do the job really well, so it is possible to get a good pair of secateurs for a reasonable price.