For typical backyard landscaping and cleaning, I often find that manual pole saws are efficient enough to get the job done. It’s important to note, though, that not all options offer the same length or features, so you may end up with a tool unsuited to your needs.
If you’d rather not spend time searching for the right one, allow me to provide you insights on some of the best manual pole saws I’ve tested.
Reviews of the Top Manual Pole Saws
1. Fiskars 92406935K
While the Fiskars 92406935K may not come with the budget-friendly price tag of some other manual pole saws, it certainly justifies the cost through its unique rope-free design. This feature may not be widely known, but it proved to be highly effective in untangling and removing snags.
The Fiskars manual pole is equipped with a 15-inch saw blade, which greatly facilitated my experience in cutting thicker branches. Moreover, it functions as a precision-ground steel pruner that’s capable of tree pruning at different angles.
Furthermore, one of the standout attributes of the Fiskars extendable pole is its impressive 12-foot reach. This meant I didn’t need to bend when reaching tight spots during the operations.
What I Like
- The 12-feet maximum pole length enhanced the pole saw's usability
- It was able to prune branches at complex angles
- The hardened steel blade retained its sharpness and was exceptionally resistant to rust
- It confidently tackled thick tree branches
- Lightweight but durable, which made it easy to use even for extended periods
What I Don't Like
- The blade may need resharpening over time
- While it offers a respectable reach, it's not the longest extension pole I've tested
2. Jameson Store LS-Series Tree Pruner
Although it isn’t a popular option, I found the Jameson Landscaper Pole to have a distinct advantage when it comes to cutting thick branches, all thanks to its impressive 16-inch saw blade. Unlike a regular manual pole saw, it includes a system that allows you to adjust the extension pole to three different heights.
It’s a great pole saw for tree trimming because its saw head has a low-profile design. This feature made cutting through dense foliage a much more manageable task than I initially anticipated.
Taking a closer look at the design, you’ll find a 6-foot extended pole in addition to its base pole of the same length. When you factor in the saw head, this setup provides an impressive reach of around 18 feet.
What I Like
- The 16-inch extendable pole made reaching tall trees and high branches effortless
- The cutting performance is consistent because the impulse-hardened teeth kept the blade sharp
- Great for cutting palm trees and dense foliage
- Setting up this saw was quick and straightforward, which saved me time compared to some professional options
What i Don't Like
- It's noticeably heavier than most manual pole pruners
- When extended, it doesn't exhibit the same level of durability as I'd prefer
3. HOSKO B0896V9697 Tree Pole Pruner
If you’re on the lookout for an affordable manual pole saw, the HOSKO B0896V9697 might just meet your requirements without straining your budget. Despite its lower price range, a HOSKO pole saw has a one-sided barb design and sharp teeth that can cut tree branches seamlessly.
I’ve found its 12-inch curved blade to be quite efficient, allowing me to complete tasks more quickly compared to many other pole saws. The blade’s width also helps reduce the need for back-and-forth sawing when cutting branches.
Another noteworthy feature is its three detachable extensions, making this pole pruning saw reliable for cutting branches overhead.
What I Like
- The wide saw blade makes for quick effortless cutting, which has been a time-saver for me
- It's easier to control when trimming lower branches on trees
- The extra-sharp saw blade has made trimming branches a breeze
- I appreciate how easy it is to disassemble and store
What I Don't Like
- It's better suited for cutting smaller branches rather than larger ones
- While it's a decent choice, I wouldn't consider it the top pick for a professional-grade manual pole saw
4. Buyplus B08S79X5FZ Manual Pole Pruner
Another budget-friendly manual pole saw for basic cutting tasks is Buyplus B08S79X5FZ. Its high-grade 12-inch steel saw blade makes this pole saw much lighter but durable enough to cut branches easily.
What I appreciate about this tool is its versatility. It’s not just a one-trick pony; it’s capable of handling various tasks, whether it’s tree trimming, branch pruning, or grooming logs. Moreover, it features a saw head replacement that allows you to transform it into a telescopic pole saw.
I found the adjustable extension pole to be quite handy, ranging from 3 to 12 feet. This 4-stage extension feature proved effective not only for branch trimming but also for tasks that require extending the pole, adding to its overall utility.
What I Like
- The saw's lightness makes it easy to carry and maneuver
- The maximum 12-foot extension provided me with the flexibility to reach various heights and positions
- It's practical, especially since it's compatible with other tasks requiring extension poles
- I noticed a significant improvement in my control, thanks to the anti-slip handles
What I Don't Like
- The saw's thinner blade is a notable drawback that affects its cutting efficiency
- I've found that it's not as durable as some other options on the list
5. Notch 40207 Manual Pole Saw
It’s not every day that you come across a fiberglass pole saw, so as a tool enthusiast, I couldn’t resist the opportunity to put the Notch 40207 to the test. This saw boasts a durable 6-foot pole complemented by a 15-inch blade, expertly wrapped in chrome plating. This feature not only resists rust but also keeps the blade sharp over extended use.
One standout feature of this extendable manual pole saw is its maximum length of 18 inches (excluding the blade). This versatility made it a valuable asset, equally effective in both residential and commercial settings.
But what truly sets the Notch pole saw apart is its distinctive tooth design and fast-cutting mechanism. It effortlessly dispatched loose limbs with remarkable speed and precision.
What I Like
- The secure locking system offers peace of mind during operation, preventing mishaps and accidents
- The saw's extra sharp blade and extended reach allowed me to easily cut branches that were farther away or harder to reach
- The cast aluminum construction is impressively durable
What I Don't Like
- More expensive than regular pole saws
- It's noticeably heavier than some other options I've used
6. Corona TP 6870 Tree Pruning Pole Saw
Having put the Corona TP 6870 Tree Pruning Pole Saw to the test, I can attest to the convenience of its 14-foot reach. I didn’t have to go through the hassle of climbing ladders for any cutting task. The addition of the action pulley system is also a nice touch.
Its ability to handle branches up to 1-1/4 inches in diameter at maximum power is also impressive. Plus, the exclusive PowerGlide rope pulley system and the 13-inch curved blade contribute to its versatility, making it suitable for various tasks.
I also want to mention the twist-lock adjustment feature because it’s pretty handy. It not only keeps the pole firmly in place but also adds an extra layer of safety, reducing the chances of unexpected accidents.
What I Like
- This pole saw is incredibly versatile and handy for different cutting jobs
- The extensive cutting capacity and generous reach allowed me to tackle branches and limbs with ease, even in those hard-to-reach spots
- I'd recommend it for casual and residential users
- It has a reasonable price with lifetime warranty policies
What I Don't Like
- The shorter length compared to other pole saw models was a bit limiting
- It's not well-suited for demanding and heavy-duty jobs
7. ARS LA-180ZR203 Tree Pruner Pole Saw
Among the tools on this list, ARS LA-180ZR203 is the simplest pole saw to use and assemble. While it may lack some advanced features, its single-lever operation adds a layer of convenience, especially for newcomers and casual users.
With a reach of only 7 feet, it’s no surprise that this pruner is incredibly lightweight, even lighter than some modern mobile phones. This lightweight design greatly enhances mobility, allowing for extended use without the risk of muscle fatigue.
I particularly appreciated the ergonomic handle during my hands-on experience with this tool. It made the entire process much more comfortable compared to some other pruners I’ve tested in the past.
What I Like
- The simple assembly was a real plus, especially for newbie users
- It's easy to carry around because of the lightweight design. I found it easy to maneuver through different cutting tasks without feeling weighed down
- It works through a single-lever operation, making everything straightforward and efficient
What I Don't Like
- The limited pole reach was a bit restrictive
- It's not the best choice for overhead tasks
Manual Pole Saw Buyer’s Guide
Intended Use
When it comes to choosing the right manual pole saw, I’ve learned that it’s all about considering where and how you plan to use it. What might surprise you is that not all options excel in the same conditions, whether it’s softwoods or hardwoods, shorter or taller trees.
It’s always a good idea to understand what your pole saw is best suited for to ensure optimal cutting results. Don’t underestimate the manufacturer’s recommendations, especially in terms of whether the tool is better suited for residential or commercial use.
Speaking from experience, many professionals lean towards pole saws with longer reach and impulse-hardened blades for enhanced performance.
Blade Material
Now, why do professional users prefer poles with impulse-hardened blades? Simple, because it means its material was sharpened through high impulses and power. This process makes the blade flexible, durable, and hard.
Teeth Per Inch
Using a pole saw for tree trimming could be sold with a coarse or fine blade. These categories are determined through the saw’s teeth per inch (TPI). If you’re cutting softwood, I highly suggest buying pole saws with coarse blades because they have five to six TPI configurations.
Meanwhile, fine blades should work well with cutting hardwoods because they’re made of over 11 teeth per inch (TPI) [1].
Pole Saw Weight
Unfortunately, manual pole saw options aren’t the lightest cutting tool on the market. Since they’re extendable, the material has to be sturdy, making the overall weight heavier than handy tools.
These models could range around 11 lbs, but you can find some poles weighing 8 lbs that are easier to maneuver.
Pole Saw Height
When selecting a pole saw, it’s best to opt for one with extendable reach, as this feature proves to be useful for various cutting tasks. Depending on your specific needs, you can find models that expand from five to thirty feet long.
Pole Construction
When it comes to the construction of these poles, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of durability, especially when they’re extended. The last thing you’d want is for the pole to bend or flex under even slight pressure during cutting operations.
Opting for poles made of aluminum is a smart choice. While aluminum is lightweight, it still provides the necessary strength for your pole saw to effectively cut overhead branches.
2-in-1 Purpose
Most tools on this list are used for sawing and pruning. What I’ve found quite handy with these models is their pulley system, which comes in handy when you encounter branches that are a bit tricky to cut. The system allows you to snap branches more easily if you’re having difficulty cutting them off.
Price
Many of these tools are affordable, but that doesn’t mean they’re automatically the best options to consider. Pole saw models with sturdy and durable constructions are often priced higher. However, they can last longer, making them more economical.
How to Use a Manual Pole Saw
1. Remove debris from the space.
When using a manual pole saw, it’s crucial to clear out anything in the way that the operator may trip on. If you have any furniture or decorations in the area, kindly remove them to avoid getting damaged by fallen branches.
2. Think about the areas you’re planning to cut.
I know it’s tempting to dive in and start cutting, but this could lead to wrong measurements and cuts. If you want a better cutting experience, try to examine the tree and make a plan on how to cut the area you want.
3. Start working on the lower branches.
After examining the tree, start your cuts on the lower part of the tree. If you start from the top, there’s a chance that the higher branches may fall and tangle with the lower ones.
4. Position yourself correctly.
The tool must be aligned with your chest correctly. Don’t stand below the branch you’re cutting, and try to stay on the side to prevent the branch from falling on you.
5. Adjust the pole saw accordingly.
Depending on how high or low the branches are, ensure that your cutting tool is extended appropriately.
6. Start cutting.
Start sawing at a perpendicular angle. If you can, go slow and control the cut carefully to get the saw’s teeth into the branch thoroughly. When the branch is in a slope position, you’ll notice that the tool will slip sideways.
If that happens, pause the cutting and return it to the original angle before cutting again.
7. Finish the cut.
Once the groove is set into the branch, you can speed up the sawing process to finish the cut. Use the pull and push motion to make cutting faster. However, you should also ensure you’re not in the area where the branches will fall off.
8. Clear the space to prepare for the next cuts.
After the cut, get rid of the fallen tree branches before doing the next cut. This will avoid tripping over and accidents.
9. Cut the next sections and clean up after each cut.
Repeat the steps above for the next cut. Don’t forget to clean right after every cutting session.
FAQ
What pole saw do professionals use?
Most professionals use gas-powered pole saws that are commercially graded. As for manual models, they tend to go for ones equipped with impulse-hardened blades.
What is the longest manual pole saw you can buy?
The longest manual pole saw you can buy is a DocaPole tool, with an extended reach of around 30 feet.
How thick of a branch can you cut with a pole saw?
You can cut 2 to 9 inches thick branches with a pole saw. However, it still depends on the blade equipped with the tool.
Are pole saws worth the purchase?
If you need to cut wood branches with a diameter of 2 to 9 inches, using a pole saw is your best option and is worth every penny you spend on it.
How long can the pole can reach in a manual pole saw?
It depends on the brand and model, but a standard pole saw can reach up to 16 feet.
Will I be able to put down a tree using a pole saw?
Yes, you can cut down a tree using this tool. However, it’s not the easiest option to consider as it’s designed for lighter jobs.
My Top Pick For a Manual Pole Saw:
Fiskars 92406935K
After putting the best manual pole saws to the test, the Fiskars 92406935K is my top pick in this review. Not only does it boast high ratings, but its construction and performance strike a perfect balance for handling everyday cutting tasks.
What’s more, its lightweight design allows for effortless maneuverability, making it a reliable choice when reaching those tricky, hard-to-access areas.
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Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
