Fiskars 28 Bypass Lopper Review: A Reliable Pick for Easier, Healthier Pruning

Pros
- Lightweight design reduces arm fatigue during extended pruning sessions.
- Precision-ground, hardened steel blades make clean cuts that help maintain plant health.
- 28-inch length offers extra reach and leverage for trimming taller shrubs or branches without a ladder.
- Non-slip ergonomic handles provide a secure grip and better control, even with sweaty or gloved hands.
- Rust-resistant blade coating increases durability for long-term outdoor use.
Cons
- Not designed for cutting branches thicker than 1.5 inches, so it may struggle with heavier pruning tasks or very mature growth.
- Bypass blades work best on live wood; they can sometimes bind or struggle when used on dry, brittle branches.
- While the 28-inch size adds reach, it may feel a bit long for those needing a compact tool for tight or low spaces.
Quick Take: The Fiskars 28” Bypass Lopper is a sturdy, no-nonsense tool designed for homeowners, gardeners, and weekend yard warriors who want to tackle thick branches without breaking a sweat — or breaking their tools. If you’ve ever struggled with trimming overgrown shrubs or thicker limbs with a dull lopper that sticks halfway through the cut, this tool aims to change that. It combines strong leverage, sharp bypass blades, and a comfortable grip to breeze through branches up to 1.5 inches thick. Whether you're maintaining a tidy hedge line or pruning fruit trees in early spring, this lopper offers the extra reach and cutting power to make the job feel manageable, even satisfying. For anyone looking to invest in a tool that actually makes yard work easier, not more frustrating, Fiskars might just have your back with this one.
Why We Picked It
We chose the Fiskars 28” Bypass Lopper because it strikes a sweet spot between comfort and cutting strength — two things that really matter when you're doing regular yard maintenance. What stood out most is the tool’s precision-ground steel blade, which stays sharp through repeated use. That makes it ideal for folks who do seasonal pruning, light tree trimming, or general upkeep around the yard. Instead of hacking at branches or fighting with sticky cuts, you’re getting clean slices with far less effort. And with its 28-inch handles, it offers enough reach for most shrubs and low limbs without needing to haul out a ladder. This is a reliable pick for homeowners who want one lopper that can handle most of what the backyard throws at them — without added strain on your hands or shoulders.
What We Liked
In real-world use, the Fiskars Lopper delivers on its promise of smooth cutting with minimal effort. Thanks to its precision-ground, hardened steel blade, the tool doesn’t crush branches — it slices cleanly. That’s healthier for your plants and less frustrating for you. The non-stick blade coating also means sap and debris don’t gum it up after a few cuts, which keeps maintenance easy. The lightweight build is another highlight — it feels manageable for longer periods of use, unlike heavier tools that leave your arms sore. But it doesn’t sacrifice durability; the steel handles are reinforced and feel solid in hand. The orange grip handles even add a nice touch, making the tool easy to spot if you set it down in the grass mid-job. Overall, it’s a tool that makes you want to keep working — because it’s just that functional.
Room for Improvement
While the Fiskars Bypass Lopper is highly capable for most yard jobs, it does have its limits. The 1.5-inch cutting capacity is solid for your average pruning session, but it may not handle very thick or dead hardwood limbs as easily. Some users might wish for a geared lopper for extra leverage on denser cuts. That said, for typical around-the-yard tasks, this isn’t likely to be a major dealbreaker — it just helps to know your tool’s limits.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a homeowner with trees, shrubs, or hedges that need regular tending, the Fiskars 28” Bypass Lopper is a well-rounded, dependable addition to your garden shed. It's especially useful for anyone who wants clean cuts without straining their grip or dealing with stuck blades. With its lasting sharpness, lightweight feel, and solid build, this lopper empowers you to keep your outdoor space in check without the usual frustrations. Whether you're shaping up the landscape before guests arrive or tackling fall clean-up, it's a tool you’ll reach for often. Check price and reviews on Amazon.