Show Date: 2 Mar 10
oh MY!  The idea behind any pruning is to make clean cuts.  To do that you need the proper tool.  If you’re cutting a branch larger than 1/4 to 1/2 inch, you’ll want to use loppers or a handsaw. 

Felco loppers

There are MANY types of loppers and handsaws.  You need to choose what works best for you, what fits your hand, what length you can wield easily and how hard you want to work!  Most important is to buy quality!