The Best Hedge Shears

Gas-powered Shears

• Gas-powered hedge shears are the best shears for larger jobs. A gas-powered shear can cut branches up to 1 inch thick. A double-sided blade provides more mobility than other hedge shears, allowing you to cut quickly and experience less fatigue if you are trimming a large area. Some brands offer a pivoting head that rotates 180 degrees. The very best gas hedge shears utilize new developments in technology that limit vibration, providing for the smoothest possible operation.

Electric Hedge Shears

• The best electric hedge shears eliminate the use of a power cord all together to make sure you don't accidentally cut through it. Cordless shears have a rechargeable battery. A good quality electric hedge shear will make use of dual reciprocating blade that eliminates vibration, making them easier to handle. It is important to also consider the quality of the blade. "Forged, ground, high-carbon blades wear longer and are worth the extra investment compared with models that have stamped-steel blades," according to Grounds Maintenance. Articulating blades are best on long-reach trimmers because they make up for restricted movement.

Hand Shears

• Topiary specialists will argue that hand shears are the best shears for hedge trimming because they are healthier for the plant. Hand shears provide sharper cuts, allowing you to trim only what is necessary. Short blades of 6 inches or less are best when trimming up close, while a blade of 12 inches is best when you need to reach or work up high. Hand shears also provide many handle options including length and material. Fiberglass handles provide strength but are also lightweight, while wooden handles provide a natural feel.

Best Hand Shear Blades

• The best hedge shear blades for hand trimmers are made of carbon steel with a Rockwell hardness of 52+. The blades provide a clean cut with little effort. They are also the easiest to sharpen. Sharper blades don't stick or jam and are better for your hedges and plants. Wavy blades are best for cutting vines and other hedge plants that can easily slip from straight blades, while blade-and-edge shears have a flat lower edge and sharp upper edge that are good for hedges with soft leaves.