Fiskar Pruning Shears have become a foundation of my trail maintenance tool kit. Easy to tote in a pack or waist pack, and paired with a set of durable gloves and a compact folding saw, you can easily assist in keeping many of your favorite trails passable.
Trails in the Pacific Northwest quickly can be overgrown if seldomly used or unmaintained, and as we’ve been exploring a lot of less utilized natural surface trails, double tracks, and social trails, having the right tool for clearing the way means being able to continue, or just keeping your favorite local loop accessible. These shears make quick work of blackberry vines that can quickly take over.
I currently have two sets of these shears. This particular model is the Forged Pruner, which I picked up at our local Home Depot or Fred Meyers – but I also have the less expensive model. They both get the job done, but having used them both, the Forged Pruner at $26 bucks is definitely worth spending a bit more for. I use them regularly for clearing ivy and around our yard and the smooth action and easy cutting is well worth the additional investment. With a bit more time on my hands, I’ve been doing a far better job maintaining my gear and equipment.
I realize I’m stating the obvious, but its amazing how cleaning, lubing, and sharpening your tools really improves the experience of using them.
If you’ve never stopped to help do trail work, bringing along pruning shears can go a long way toward improving the trail experience for all.
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