Neither is better in every yard: a rope saw reaches limbs above a pole's range, while a pole saw handles branches within its pole's reach and doubles as a hand saw for lower limbs. Both keep the work on the ground, without climbing or running a chainsaw overhead.

How does a rope saw cut differently from a pole saw?

By being pulled up into the limb rather than worked along it. A rope saw's chain blade rises into the branch from below on two ropes, sawing in both directions and on three sides at once, while a pole saw's blade is worked back and forth from the end of a pole, the way a hand saw cuts.

When does a rope saw make more sense?

For branches higher than a pole can reach. Getting the blade up to a limb without a ladder is the job of the throwing weight and two 25 foot ropes on the TreeHelp Rope Saw: Homeowner, which lift its 24 inch carbon steel chain blade into place from the ground.

When is a high branch a job for a professional instead?

When the job is more than a homeowner can manage, or when it calls for skill with tools like chainsaws. At that point, hiring an expert is the next step.

When does a pole saw make more sense?

For limbs within reach and for jobs that mix overhead and ground level cutting. To trim lower canopy branches and then move on to brush and logs, the EZ Smart Pruning Saw With 16' Pole snaps onto its 16 foot pole for overhead work or serves as a handheld saw, with a 14 inch blade whose hooked ends take off smaller suckers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does either saw need fuel or power?

No. Both are manual saws, which avoids the hazards of working with a power chainsaw.

How thick a limb can a rope saw cut?

It depends on the model. The homeowner and professional rope saws list no maximum diameter, while the smaller camping version is rated for limbs up to 10 inches.

Does a rope saw need a clear path over the branch?

Yes. The throwing weight has to carry the rope over the limb before the blade can be pulled into it.

Does the EZ Smart pole saw carry a warranty?

Yes. It comes with a two year limited warranty.