Tiger Jaw Loppers

Everything You Need to Know Before Purchasing These Powerful Pruning Tools

Tiger Jaw Loppers are one of the most popular hand pruners used by gardeners and landscapers today. Known for their ability to cut through thick branches with ease, Tiger Jaw Loppers utilize a gear-driven mechanism that provides extra leverage and cutting power.

But with many styles and brands of loppers on the market, how do you know if Tiger Jaw Loppers are the right choice for your pruning needs? This comprehensive buying guide covers everything you need to consider before purchasing Tiger Jaw Loppers.

What Are Tiger Jaw Loppers Used For?

Tiger Jaw Loppers are ideal for pruning thick tree branches and overgrown shrubs. Their hardened carbon steel blades powered by gear-driven jaws can cut through branches up to 2 inches thick with minimal effort. This makes them perfect for managing mature trees and shrubs.

They work well on most wood types including fresh green branches as well as older hardened growth. The added leverage in the jaws multiplies the cutting force so you don’t have to strain as much. This helps reduce hand fatigue for big pruning jobs.

In addition to branch pruning, Tiger Jaw Loppers are great for:

• Cutting through vines and woody weeds
• Harvesting fruits from trees
• Clearing brush and undergrowth
• Forestry applications like forest thinning
• Prepping firewood and tinder

With their strength and versatility, Tiger Jaw Loppers are designed to take on any heavy-duty cutting task in the yard and garden. Their ability to lop through thick branches with minimal effort makes pruning easier and faster.

How Do Tiger Jaw Loppers Compare To Other Loppers?

There are a few key differences that set Tiger Jaw Loppers apart from standard anvil loppers and bypass loppers:

• Cutting Mechanism – The gear-driven jaws on Tiger Jaw Loppers provide much more leverage and force than other lopper types. This allows them to cut through thicker branches.
• Blade Design – Tiger Jaw Loppers have a longer blade length with both upper and lower blades being hardened steel. This improves cutting efficiency.
• Weight – The aluminum and steel construction makes Tiger Jaw Loppers a bit heavier than other options. But the weight lends added cutting power.
• Grip – Tiger Jaw Loppers feature contoured grips and rubber bumpers to absorb impact and reduce hand strain.
• Durability – The robust build stands up to frequent heavy-duty use much better than standard loppers.

While bypass loppers work well for green stems and anvil types excel at dry dead growth, Tiger Jaw Loppers are the best overall option for cutting thickness and strength. Their gear-driven jaws generate significantly more cutting force than other types.

Are Tiger Jaw Loppers Good for Thick Branches?

Tiger Jaw Loppers really shine when cutting thicker branches 1-2 inches in diameter. The compound leverage in the jaw mechanism allows them to sever thick branches that would be very difficult or impossible with typical loppers.

When cutting a thick branch, the gears in the Tiger Jaw pivot to gain momentum and multiply the cutting force applied. This makes fast work of large diameter wood that requires significant strength to cut through.

The jaws are designed to grip better as more force is applied. This prevents the blades from slipping on the wood as pressure increases.

Additionally, the upper and lower blades are both made of hardened carbon steel with fine serrated edges. This further improves the cutting ability on thick branches.

While the maximum capacity depends on the specific model, most Tiger Jaw Loppers can cut branches up to 2 inches thick easily. This enables you to prune mature trees and overgrown shrubs without needing to saw them or drag out a chainsaw.

For taming dense growth and old thick branches, Tiger Jaw Loppers are one of the best choices for a manual hand tool. The gear-driven mechanism provides the power needed to successfully prune mature landscape plants.

Where Can I Buy Tiger Jaw Loppers Online?

Tiger Jaw Loppers are sold by many major online retailers that carry tools and lawn & garden supplies. Some reputable places to buy them include:

• Amazon – Amazon carries a wide selection of Tiger Jaw Lopper models from brands like Tabor Tools and ML Tools. They offer competitive pricing with free shipping for Prime members.
• Home Depot – The Home Depot website has numerous Tiger Jaw Lopper options to choose from with free delivery on orders over $45.
• Walmart – Walmart sells several top-rated Tiger Jaw Lopper brands online with free 2-day shipping on orders over $35.
• Lowe’s – Lowe’s offers free delivery for online orders and has a good assortment of Tiger Jaw Loppers available.
• Ace Hardware – Check Ace Hardware’s website for Tiger Jaw Loppers that are eligible for free home delivery.
• Target – Target has some Tiger Jaw Lopper models in stock for fast delivery through their website.

When buying online, be sure to compare prices across retailers. Check product ratings and reviews to buy from a reputable brand. Top manufacturers of Tiger Jaw Loppers include Tabor Tools, ML Tools, Corona, and Fiskars.

What is the Blade Size of Tiger Jaw Loppers?

One specification to consider when choosing Tiger Jaw Loppers is the blade size. This impacts the maximum diameter of wood they can sever.

Most standard Tiger Jaw Lopper models have blade lengths between 3.5 and 4.5 inches. The blades are usually 1.5 to 2 inches wide.

Longer curved blade designs in the 4 to 5 inch range have more cutting edge surface and can tackle thicker branches.

Shorter blades around 3 inches are better suited for precision pruning of smaller stems. They provide a more controlled cut for detail work.

In terms of blade configuration, some Tiger Jaw Loppers have both the upper and lower jaws made of razor-sharp hardened steel. Others have a steel upper blade but a softer aluminum lower jaw. The all-steel design typically allows for better grip and cutting capacity.

When searching for Tiger Jaw Loppers for large pruning jobs, look for models with 4 to 5 inch steel blades. This ensures you have the length and strength to sever thicker wood. However, shorter blades under 4 inches are easier to maneuver in tight spaces.

How Do You Sharpen Tiger Jaw Loppers?

To keep your Tiger Jaw Loppers cutting cleanly and efficiently, periodic sharpening is recommended. Here are some tips for sharpening them properly:

• Use a coarse diamond sharpening stone or Mill Bastard file specially designed for garden tools. Move the blade edge back and forth across the sharpening stone at a 20 degree angle.
• Apply moderate pressure as you sharpen and check the edge frequently. Several passes along the blade are needed to establish a crisp edge.
• Focus on maintaining the original bevel angle of the blade. Keep the sharpening stone lubricated with light oil or water.
• Use a whetstone to further hone and polish the cutting edge after sharpening with the file or stone. This refines the edge.
• Lubricate the jaw pivot point with light oil and work the mechanism several times to distribute the oil after sharpening.
• Wipe the blades clean before storing to prevent corrosion.
• Check the blade edge regularly when using the loppers and sharpen again as needed to maintain performance. Signs of dulling include increased effort to cut and ragged/torn cuts.

Proper sharpening is crucial for maximizing cutting power and efficiency with Tiger Jaw Loppers. Investing in a quality diamond sharpening tool and keeping the blades honed ensures they are always ready to prune.

Are Tiger Jaw Loppers Durable?

Tiger Jaw Loppers are built to withstand frequent heavy-duty pruning jobs and last for years of regular use thanks to their solid construction.

• The hardened carbon steel upper and lower blades keep their sharp cutting edge through prolonged use and resist bending or deforming.
• The high-tension steel springs providing closing force for the jaws are extremely durable. They retain consistent strength over time.
• Durable aluminum or steel handles fitted with cushioned grips resist cracking and breaking.
• The pin joints connecting the articulated jaws are made of hardened steel and designed for maximum sturdiness.
• Lubricated pivot points and bearings prevent wear and keep the mechanism moving smoothly.

Quality brands engineer Tiger Jaw Loppers with robust components able to endure the demands of regular pruning. They utilize durable metals reinforced for strength at stress points.

The gear-driven design is engineered to multiply leverage as well as withstand the forces involved in cutting tough branches. Proper care also improves the longevity of Tiger Jaw Loppers.

Overall, the durable construction allows Tiger Jaw Loppers to perform consistently even after years of frequent use without significant wear. This makes them an investment that will last.

What is the Maximum Cutting Capacity of Tiger Jaw Loppers?

The maximum cutting diameter Tiger Jaw Loppers can sever depends on the model, but most have capacities of:

• 1.5 to 2 inches for standard designs
• Up to 2.5 inches for heavy duty models

This is significantly thicker than typical bypass or anvil loppers that max out at around 1.5 inches.

The gear-driven mechanism provides the amplified force necessary to cut branches over 2 inches thick that require hundreds of pounds of cutting pressure.

Longer upper and lower steel blades give Tiger Jaw Loppers more cutting surface and strength to power through thicker wood.

Of course, the optimum cutting capacity also depends on the hardness and wood type. Green living branches are easier to cut than old dry brittle wood.

Despite most models being limited to 2 inch capacity, Tiger Jaw Loppers make light work of mature woody growth that would challenge other hand pruners.

Cutting capacity should be a key factor when choosing the right Tiger Jaw Lopper for your pruning requirements. Look for a model rated for the maximum branch diameter you need to manage.

How Do You Clean and Maintain Tiger Jaw Loppers?

Regular cleaning and maintenance helps preserve the performance and extend the lifespan of your Tiger Jaw Loppers. Here are some tips:

• Wipe the steel blades clean after each use with a dry cloth to prevent sap, resin, and debris buildup.
• Occasionally clean blades with mild soap and water using a soft brush. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
• Apply a rust inhibitor spray or lightweight machine oil to the blade surface to prevent corrosion.
• Oil pivot joints and lubricate moving parts with light penetrating oil monthly.
• Inspect jaws and tighten any loose screw fasteners as needed.
• Sharpen blades once signs of dulling appear to restore a clean sharp edge.
• Adjust the blade alignment if cutting becomes uneven or requires extra force.
• Store loppers out of direct sun and moisture when not in use to prevent weathering.
• Consider replacing the rubber bumpers/grips if they become excessively worn.

With proper care and maintenance, Tiger Jaw Loppers will remain in prime cutting condition for many seasons. Taking the time to clean and inspect them regularly is time well spent.

Are Tiger Jaw Loppers Lightweight for Extended Use?

Due to their solid steel construction and gear-driven mechanism, most Tiger Jaw Loppers are slightly heavier than other pruning loppers. Weights range from:

• 2 to 4 pounds for standard models
• Up to 7 pounds for industrial strength designs

The added heft comes from thick steel cutting jaws and durable aluminum or steel handles. This gives them stability when cutting tough branches.

While the weight lends power, extended overhead cutting can become tiring. Choosing a shorter handled model around 20 inches long can help offset weight for prolonged pruning sessions.

Newer lightweight variants such as Fiskars PowerGear2 Loppers weigh under 3 pounds. The fiberglass handles reduce arm fatigue while cutting capacity isn’t compromised.

Comfort features like contoured grips, shock absorbers, and lever locks also lessen hand strain when using Tiger Jaw Loppers for long periods.

In summary, Tiger Jaw Loppers are slightly heavier than other loppers but designed to manage the weight well. The leverage of the gears means you don’t have to apply as much manual force. This helps minimize fatigue from the weight even for all-day pruning jobs.

What Materials Are Tiger Jaw Loppers Made From?

Tiger Jaw Loppers combine different materials strategically chosen for durability and performance:

• Carbon steel blades – The curved cutting blades are hardened carbon steel with fine serrated edges for grip. This maintains a sharp edge during heavy use.
• Aluminum or steel handles – The handles are made of lightweight aircraft-grade aluminum or powder-coated steel for resilience.
• Rubber grips – Contoured grips made of rubber or thermoplastic provide comfort while absorbing impact.
• Steel springs – Heavy-duty steel coil springs supply the closing force necessary for the gear-driven jaws.
• Hardened steel pivot joints – Steel bolts, nuts, and washers reinforced for strength act as pivot points.
• Powder coating – Parts are coated for weather and corrosion resistance with a colored enamel finish.

The use of robust metals in vital components boosts the structural integrity of Tiger Jaw Loppers. This enables them to generate high cutting forces repeatedly when pruning thick branches.

Careful material selection maximizes strength without adding unnecessary weight. This achieves the power of steel with the manageability of aluminum or polymer handles.

Can Tiger Jaw Loppers Be Used for Professional Landscaping?

With their ability to power through thick branches, Tiger Jaw Loppers are well-suited for professional landscaping needs:

• The durable steel construction stands up to daily heavy use and abuse.
• Quick cuts through mature trees and shrubs make short work of large gardens.
• Compact size allows access to tight spaces and small branches.
• The gear mechanism multiplies force so less physical exertion is needed.
• Cushioned grips reduce hand fatigue from repetitive motion.
• Easy blade adjustments keep cutting aligned during high-volume use.
• Two-handed operation provides more leverage and control.
• High-capacity cutting jaws handle the demands of landscaping tasks.

In the hands of a professional landscaper, arborist or gardener who works on trees and shrubs often, Tiger Jaw Loppers are a very worthwhile investment.

They have the durability, power and features necessary to withstand daily pruning tasks without slowing down. The efficiency they provide translates into time and money saved.

Do Tiger Jaw Loppers Have a Telescoping Handle?

While some lopper models feature telescoping handles that extend to add reach, most standard Tiger Jaw Loppers do not have this feature.

The articulated gear-driven jaws require a solid one-piece handle to create maximum leverage. A telescoping handle would lose some power transfer needed for cutting thick branches.

That said, a few Tiger Jaw Lopper designs do offer a telescoping upper handle while keeping a solid lower arm. This allows the user to adjust the length from 18 to 30 inches for more versatility.

The lower handle must remain fixed at a standard 12 to 18 inches to properly control the jaw mechanism. But the added reach of the telescoping upper handle enables pruning higher branches.

When shopping for Tiger Jaw Loppers, decide if adjustable length is a priority for your needs. Telescoping models provide useful versatility but may sacrifice some leverage for cutting capacity.

How Do You Replace the Blades on Tiger Jaw Loppers?

Eventually, the cutting blades on Tiger Jaw Loppers will need replacing after years of heavy use. Here are the steps to switch out the blades:

1. Remove the old blades by unscrewing the mounting bolts using a wrench or socket. This detaches the blades from the steel jaws.
2. Thoroughly clean the jaw mounting plates where the new blades will attach using a wire brush. Remove any rust or debris.
3. Apply oil to the jaw pivot bolt and mechanism. Check for wear and replace pivot hardware if needed.
4. Line up the new replacement blades and insert the mounting screws through the proper holes.
5. Tighten down the mounting bolts firmly using the wrench but do not overtighten.
6. Test the new blade action and alignment. The blades should meet evenly and close smoothly with spring action.
7. Adjust the blade bolts as needed until proper alignment is achieved.

With quality carbon steel blades, you may only need to replace Tiger Jaw Lopper blades every 4-5 years with moderate use. But inspecting blades and replacing when worn improves cutting performance and safety.

Are Tiger Jaw Loppers Rust-Resistant?

Tiger Jaw Loppers made by reputable brands use materials and protective finishes that help resist rust including:

• Carbon steel blade alloy with added chromium to deter corrosion.
• Powder-coated paint on steel surfaces seals out moisture.
• Aluminum handles do not rust.
• Plastic jaws and grips are impervious to rust damage.
• Zinc-plated pivot bolts prevent rust formation.

However, because steel blades are vulnerable to moisture, proper maintenance is still needed to limit rust over time:

• Wipe blades dry after each use and store oiled and dry.
• Apply silicone lubricant to pivot points.
• Use preventative sprays like Boeshield T-9 to displace water.
• Avoid letting sap and debris accumulate on blades.
• Touch up paint chips that expose steel to moisture.
• Sharpen blades to remove any light surface oxidation.

While Tiger Jaw Lopper materials fend off rust well, taking steps to keep blades clean and dry extends their lifespan and cutting performance. With proper care, rusting should not be an issue.

What Are the Customer Reviews for Tiger Jaw Loppers?

In online reviews, customers consistently praise Tiger Jaw Loppers for their:

• Power – Ability to cut through thick branches with easy leverage. The gearing mechanism provides outstanding force.
• Quality – Durable steel construction that withstands years of heavy use. Made to last.
• Versatility – Ability to prune green or dry wood. Capacity for all-around property maintenance.
• Comfort – Well-designed handles that absorb shock and reduce hand fatigue. Provides a good grip.
• Value – An investment that’s worth the price for demanding homeowner and professional use.

Satisfied customers report Tiger Jaw Loppers make pruning large trees and shrubs much easier. The effortless cutting ability is a major time and energy saver.

Many reviewers were impressed at how thick and dense branches these loppers can sever. They tackle mature woody growth with power to spare.

Negative feedback is rare but a few mentioned issues with faulty springs or loose pivot screws needing adjustment out of the box. Overall though, most users agree Tiger Jaw Loppers deliver unmatched cutting performance and durability.

Are Tiger Jaw Loppers Suitable for Cutting Live or Dry Wood?

A major advantage of Tiger Jaw Loppers is their versatility to cut both fresh live wood and older dry growth efficiently:

• The sharp bypass-style blades make clean cuts through live green wood without crushing or tearing.
• Lower jaw serrations grip dry brittle branches to prevent slipping as pressure is applied.
• Hardened steel maintains a razor edge needed for smooth cuts in both wet and dry conditions.
• The force multiplying design provides enough power for dense old wood as well as tender new growth.
• Lacquered finishes prevent sap and resin buildup during pruning of live vegetation.
• The grippy handle pattern allows a solid hold whether branches are wet or dry.

While anvil loppers work better for dead wood and bypass styles excel on green branches, Tiger Jaw Loppers do an excellent job across the board.

Their hardened steel blades, serrated grip, and high leverage are equally effective for live or dry cutting tasks. This versatility supports year-round pruning needs.

How Much Do Tiger Jaw Loppers Cost?

Pricing for Tiger Jaw Loppers ranges from:

• $25 to $60 for standard residential models with 24 inch handles.
• $70 to $120 for commercial grade designs with longer handles and higher cutting capacity.
• $150 and up for industrial strength loppers built for constant rugged use.

More expensive models feature larger steel components, thicker alloy blades, sturdier construction, and smoother gear mechanisms.

Budget-friendly Tiger Jaw Loppers under $30 lack durability but offer adequate strength for occasional homeowner use.

For frequent cutting jobs, spending $50 to $100 gets you a good quality tool built to withstand years of heavy-duty work. This is the best value for most homeowners.

Professional landscapers benefit from investing in ultra-tough titanium or carbon steel models in the $100 to $150 range optimized for all-day use.

What is the Warranty for Tiger Jaw Loppers?

Most major brands like Tabor Tools, Corona, and Fiskars offer limited lifetime warranties for defects and workmanship issues on their Tiger Jaw Loppers.

This means if failure occurs due to a manufacturing defect rather than normal wear and tear, the manufacturer will repair or replace the loppers free of charge.

Be sure to register your warranty by submitting your information online to the company’s website. This grants coverage if problems arise.

Warranty will be void if loppers are misused or damage occurs due to improper maintenance. But for issues covered under normal operation, the lifetime warranty provides helpful protection on your investment.

Before buying, check that the seller or website confirms the Tiger Jaw Loppers are sold with a manufacturer’s warranty. Avoid models that do not come with warranty coverage.

Where Are Tiger Jaw Loppers Manufactured?

The majority of Tiger Jaw Loppers are manufactured in China to specifications set by popular American and European brands that design and sell them.

Top manufacturers and country of origin include:

• Fiskars (Finland) – Assembled in China with global materials
• Corona (USA) – Heads made in Italy, assembled in China
• Felco (Switzerland) – Components from Switzerland, China, Taiwan
• ML Tools (USA) – Assembled in China
• Tabor Tools (USA) – Blades made in Taiwan, assembled in China

Affordable labor costs allow Chinese factories to produce quality loppers at moderate prices while brand name companies manage design and quality control.

Some high-end lopper models are still crafted completely in Europe but most contain imported parts.

When buying, look for reputable Western brands that back their products regardless of manufacturing origin. Robust materials, smart engineering, and sturdy construction determine performance more than country of assembly.

Conclusion

From their powerful gear-driven jaws to ergonomic handles and durable steel blades, Tiger Jaw Loppers have features that enable quick efficient pruning of branches up to 2 inches thick.

Their strength and cutting capacity excels for taming overgrown trees and shrubs, yet they remain nimble enough for detail pruning.

By following this comprehensive buying guide, you can determine which Tiger Jaw Lopper model best fits your pruning needs and budget. Their unmatched versatility and leverage makes short work of cutting tasks that would challenge most other hand tools.

Once you experience the robust construction and effortless power Tiger Jaw Loppers provide, you’ll be hooked on these rugged pruning tools built to tackle the toughest yard and garden projects. They are an investment that pays dividends in yard beauty and maintenance for years to come.