How to Sharpen Bypass Pruners Properly

Ola Pettersson
2026-03-21T21:08:36+01:00

Don't ruin your pruners by sharpening the wrong side! As garden season arrives, a sharp bypass pruner makes all the difference. Learn the essential 'one-side-only' rule to avoid creating gaps in the blade, and watch our quick video guide on how to restore a perfect edge with a diamond sharpener.

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Sharpen bypass pruners – step by step

Get your pruners cutting like new in a minute

This guide shows you how to sharpen bypass pruners quickly and correctly – without damaging the edge.

Sharpen your pruners now

Using anvil pruners? See the guide here

How bypass pruners work

Bypass pruners cut with the blade passing by the counter surface (the “hook”), similar to scissors. This gives clean cuts – but requires sharpening the correct side of the blade.

How to do it

1. Open the pruners fully to access the blade

2. Place the sharpener on the edge and follow the existing angle

3. Sharpen along the edge until it becomes even and clean

4. Carefully remove the burr from the inside

Important – only sharpen the outside

If you sharpen the inside of the blade or the counter surface, a gap will form between them. This makes the pruners perform worse – similar to loose scissors.

Should you remove the burr?

Yes. A remaining burr will quickly dull the edge again. Remove it carefully – it won’t damage the pruners even though it’s done on the inside.

Result

Less force needed when cutting

Cleaner cuts

Longer lifespan for your pruners

Sharpen your pruners now