What is a Pole Saw
A pole saw is a tool with a long handle that helps to extend your reach for tree trimming and pruning. It comprises a pole, a cutting attachment (a saw or chainsaw) and a handle.
How They Work
Attaching a cutting tool at the end of a long pole extends your reach. This allows you to trim your branches efficiently. A pole saw offers a safe tool to keep your branches neat and eliminate the need for ladders.
Three types of pole saws work differently. The manual one uses human strength to operate the saw. The electric and gas-powered pole saws rely on motors to drive a saw-like cutting tool.
Read the manual for safety information about your specific pole saw model. Wear protective gear to keep yourself safe while working with the pole saw.
When to Use
Tree care becomes easy and simple with the right type of pole saw. Its primary purpose is to reach high branches that are difficult to access. It allows you to shape your trees and get rid of any deadwood safely from the ground.
Other than trees, you can use it to trim and shape taller hedges as well. You can use pole saws to reach trees that may be blocked by fences or other obstructions.
Wear protective gloves and headgear and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using this power tool.
Before You Buy
Whenever you set out to buy a pole saw, there are some factors that must be considered. Take into account the weight and balance of the pole saw to ensure safety and ease of use. Your physical abilities play a role in choosing the ideal pole saw. Also, ensure you have enough space to store the pole saw when it’s not in use.
Let’s delve deeper into the factors to be aware of deciding what type of pole saw is the best.
Assess Your Needs
Examine your yard size to determine the perfect size for your pole saw. A manual or electric pole saw is ideal for smaller yards. A gas-powered one would work better for large yards due to its greater capacity. The height of your trees determines the length of your pole saw. The higher the tree branches, the longer your pole saw should be.
If you prune or trim your trees frequently, a gas-powered pole might be more efficient. For occasional users, a manual or electric one might suffice. The terrain of your yard also makes a difference. If you have uneven grounds, a lightweight pole saw might be convenient to maneuver. These factors can help you choose a pole saw that meets all your needs.
Set Your Budget
When you decide on a pole saw, make sure that it fits in your budget. Manual ones are the most affordable. They’re perfect for occasional use and light-duty tasks. Electric ones have a diverse price range. Cordless models are more expensive than corded electric pole saws. They also offer more power than the manual ones.
The gas-powered ones have a higher price range due to their engine and other pole saw parts. When setting your budget, also consider the cost of batteries, fuel and chargers.
Types of Pole Saws
Now that you know what type of pole saw is best for you based on your use and needs, consider the power source you want. Each offers pros and cons that can help you understand which one meets your needs.
Manual
Manual pole saws are the most common type of pole saw. They rely on human power for operation. They consist of a long pole with a saw blade for pruning trees. Budget-friendly and easy to maneuver, they offer efficient yard cleaning.
But, they result in significant strain and exertion for larger branches. So, manual ones are best for smaller branches and occasional use.
Always apply controlled and steady pressure while working with a manual saw to prevent strain on yourself or the saw.
Electric
An electric motor powers a chainsaw-like tool attached to one end. Electric pole saws are available in corded and cordless options. This type of pole saw offers better cutting power and is less physically demanding compared to manual ones. Getting a cordless one offers more freedom of movement and better ability to maneuver.
If you get a corded one, you might have to work in a limited area based on the length of the cord. A corded electric pole saw runs on battery, making it a convenient option. But, the battery life may be an issue for extended use. It can be heavier compared to manual models especially for longer poles.
Gas
Gas-powered pole saws are preferred for their power and versatility. They’re supplied with power through a gasoline engine. They’re ideal for frequent use and large properties. No matter how thick the branch is, a gas pole saw has no difficulty cutting through it. Furthermore, it doesn’t rely on batteries or cords, allowing for a hassle-free tree care solution.
This type of pole saw requires regular maintenance and oil changes. It also results in fume emissions and can be noisy. It’s also the heaviest option out of the three.
Pole Saw Buying Guide
This pole saw buying guide introduces pole saw parts that are essential to consider. These components make a difference in the efficiency of their operation. Each type of pole saw has different maintenance requirements. Consider these factors to decide which fits your needs the best.
Pole Length and Weight
Consider the length of the pole to get the perfect reach. A heavier pole can cause more strain and make it difficult to maneuver. If you have higher branches, invest in longer poles. But, they can be heavier and difficult to handle. A lighter one limits your reach. A pole saw should have good balance to reduce strain on your hands and shoulders.
Cutting Efficiency
Whether you have a cutting bar or blade depends on the type of pole saw. Longer blades may be more difficult to maneuver. Getting an appropriate blade size based on your ability is ideal. The length of this bar or blade affects the size of branches you can cut. To choose the ideal cutting length, evaluate the average size of branches in your yard. If you have trees with thick branches, getting a long blade is more convenient. For smaller and thin branches, a shorter cutting blade might suffice.
For electric and gas-powered models, the chain speed is essential. A faster chain improves cutting efficiency. Also consider the motor power for electric models. Higher wattage motors offer better cutting power.
Maintenance Requirements
Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure smooth performance for all types of pole saws. Manual pole saws require cleaning of the blade after each use. This is to prevent rust and sap buildup. You can also sharpen the blade if it becomes dull. Apply a coating of rust preventive oil if the blade is exposed to moisture to protect against rust.
Clean the cutting bar and chain of electric pole saws after use. Also, lubricate the chain frequently for it to work smoothly. For cordless ones, charge the battery after using and store it in a cool, dry place. Gas-powered models offer a manufacturer’s maintenance schedule. This helps you understand when to change the oil and fuel filter. You also need to check and replace the air filter regularly and keep the spark plug clean.
Additional Features
Additional features might not be essential but can enhance the usability of your pole saw.
Anti Vibration Handle
This feature reduces hand strain and discomfort when you use the pole saw for a long period.
Auto Oiler
This is a feature available in gas-powered models. It automatically lubricates the chain to prevent wear and tear.
Quick Adjust Tensioning System
This allows for easy adjustment of chain tension without using any tools. You can tighten or loosen the chain with a knob or lever. This saves on time and effort.