Frequently Asked Questions ...

Since when has Original LÖWE existed?

Walther Schröder invented and patented the world's first anvil pruner as early as 1923. This marked, in a sense, the birth of Original LÖWE pruners. Over the decades, we have developed further models and continuously improved existing products. Original LÖWE pruners have thus been available for 100 years now.

Sustainability has always been a top priority at Original LÖWE. Therefore, you can repurchase almost every component of our pruners. Nevertheless, you may still have some questions regarding spare parts.

How do I know which spare parts I need?

A product number is typically found on the inside of the handle of Original LÖWE pruners. Using the product number of your Original LÖWE pruner, you can identify the required spare part on our website and acquire it from our authorized dealers.

On my old Original LÖWE pruner, I cannot find the part number. How can I then find the suitable spare parts?

To ensure accurate identification of your model, simply send us a photo of your Original LÖWE pruner, and we will inform you of its specific model. This way, you can always obtain the suitable spare parts for every model type.

Alternatively, you can remove the blade of your Original LÖWE pruner. The model series designation of your Original LÖWE pruner is embossed on the blade. This information will also help you locate the corresponding spare parts for your model.

When do I replace individual parts?

If the cutter jams, binds, or snags, and this condition is attributable to a single component, then that component should be replaced.

Where can I get spare parts for my Original LÖWE pruner?

Typically, any hardware store or garden center in your area can order the desired spare part for you, and you can pick it up locally.

We would be pleased to assist you in locating a suitable dealer in your vicinity; kindly contact us. Alternatively, spare parts can also be acquired online.

Can I also order a different anvil for the industrial cutters from the respective model series as a spare part and then – depending on the application – simply replace it?

Certainly! You can interchange the anvils of the respective product series.

Depending on your intended application, you can use several anvils within the individual model types. To do this, simply loosen the anvil screw with the cutter open (CAUTION: RISK OF INJURY), carefully pull out the anvil, insert the new anvil, and tighten the screw again.

How long are the spare parts for Original LÖWE cutting tools available?

Generally, there will always be spare parts for Original LÖWE pruners and cutters, as long as they are available in our product range.

We still receive cutters today, some of which are over 80 years old, with requests for refurbishment. Furthermore, modern spare parts remain compatible with those original cutters.

Are spare parts only available in specific sets?

You can purchase the spare parts either individually or as a set.

Should a specific replacement part not be available individually, we will undoubtedly find a tailored solution for you, ensuring you can continue to effectively utilize your Original LÖWE pruner.

I occasionally lose the spring of my Original LÖWE pruner. Am I doing something wrong?

If a branch snags the spring while working in dense branching, and you nevertheless extract the pruner from the branches, the spring may be dislodged from the pruner by this tensile force and subsequently lost.

The technical compression and vine springs integrated into certain models of our product range are not permanently affixed to the pruners. This design would be disadvantageous, for example, in the event of contamination or a required spring replacement. Alternatively, we recommend the Original LÖWE 1, 2, 5, or 10, as these models incorporate internal leaf springs that cannot be misplaced.

Which spring is the best?

Each model series is equipped with its own specific and most suitable springs, including internal leaf springs, technical compression springs, and vine springs. As a standard, all springs are tested for a minimum of one million cuts, thereby fulfilling the stringent requirements of Original LÖWE.

We strive to accommodate both the individual ergonomics of various hand sizes and a wide range of applications. Nevertheless, users still have questions, which we are pleased to answer for you below.

Are other handle colors also available for Original LÖWE pruners?

No. For many decades, the orange handles have been one of the distinguishing features of Original LÖWE quality.

The handle color was deliberately selected by us at the time and remains unchanged today. The orange handles are not only one of the distinctive features of Original LÖWE pruners, but they also offer the added benefit of being more easily located, preventing them from inadvertently ending up in garden waste after use. Consequently, we have decided to offer this handle color exclusively. Alternatively, for the Original LÖWE 1 and Original LÖWE 3 models, you can also obtain them without plastic handles.

Should I use the standard handle, the "inward-curved handle," or a rotating handle?

The selection of the appropriate grip design is primarily contingent upon your hand size.

For small to medium-sized hands, we generally recommend using the 'inwardly curved handle'. Conversely, the standard handle is advised for larger hands. The rotating handle is particularly recommended for very intensive use and for numerous small cuts with the pruner, as its rotating action can help prevent pressure points and blisters on the hand. Ultimately, however, the choice always remains a subjective preference of the user. Therefore, physically trying out the pruner before purchase is highly recommended.

Can I replace the plastic handles of Original LÖWE shears?

You can obtain every spare part for our Original LÖWE pruners individually or as a set, including the plastic handles.

To easily remove the existing plastic grips, place the handles in a container of hot water for approximately 1-2 minutes, or heat them in an oven at about 80°C for roughly 5 minutes. The heat will cause the plastic sleeves to expand, allowing them to be effortlessly pulled off the handles. For the new plastic sleeves, follow the same procedure: simply place them in hot water or an oven, then remove and slide them onto the pruner handles. As they cool, the plastic sleeves will firmly contract over the handles of your Original LÖWE pruner, making it ready for operation.

Are the contents of the plastic handles hazardous to health?

The composition of the plastic used for the handles of Original LÖWE cutters is entirely harmless and poses no health risks. This has also been verified by an independent analysis report from an external laboratory.

Do I need to wear gloves when using an Original LÖWE pruner?

This is primarily a matter of personal preference. Gloves are not required for the mere use and handling of Original LÖWE pruners.

The more you work with Original LÖWE pruners, the more comfortable and secure their grip will become in your hand over time. However, should you consistently prefer to wear gloves during your work, this likewise presents no impediment to the use of Original LÖWE pruners.

What is the purpose of a rotating handle?

The rotating handle is utilized in all applications where numerous small cuts must be performed rapidly.

A vintner performs approximately 12,000-15,000 cuts per day. Even if the vines to be pruned are not particularly thick or hard, the frequency of cuts throughout the day leads to continuous strain on the hand, wrist, and fingers. This can result in blisters, calluses, or tendonitis. The rotating handle prevents this by moving with the hand during the cutting action, thereby subjecting the hand to less strain. You should individually test whether the use of a rotating handle suits you in practical applications, trusting your own feel.

The Original LÖWE blade

Depending on the application, our Original LÖWE blades are engineered for either maximum durability or ultimate sharpness. In this context, users also posed the following questions, among others:

How long does the blade of my Original LÖWE pruner stay sharp?

There is no single, general answer to this question. The duration of a blade's edge retention depends on its usage intensity, and the material being cut also influences the blade's sharpness.

Original LÖWE tools are generally characterized by high edge retention, a quality particularly appreciated by professional users. Very hard materials tend to dull the blade more readily than softer ones. Regardless of the material you are cutting: as soon as you perceive a decrease in the cutting power of your Original LÖWE tool and find yourself applying more force during the cut, it is time to sharpen the blade.

How do I sharpen my Original LÖWE pruner?

To do this, place the long edge of your blade sharpener on the cutting edge of the blade and draw the blade several times at an angle of approximately 20°-30° without applying excessive pressure. For anvil pruners, repeat this process on the other side of the blade as well; for bypass pruners, only draw the blade from one side.

If the Original LÖWE cutting performance no longer matches the original cutting feel, the blade should be sharpened. For optimal resharpening of your Original LÖWE pruner, we recommend our Original LÖWE blade sharpener. We do not recommend grinding or sharpening with a conventional grinding stone or a grinding machine, as these tools can negatively affect the blade's properties.

What is the best way to sharpen my Original LÖWE pruner?

Sharpen your Original LÖWE pruner with our Original LÖWE blade sharpener, specifically designed for our blades, or for particularly fine and precise sharpening – the Original LÖWE diamond file.

Can I cut any conceivable material with an Original LÖWE cutter?

With an Original LÖWE cutter, you can cut almost any material that is significantly softer than the blades. However, the blades are not suitable for cutting metal or wire.

Which replacement blade do I need for my Original LÖWE pruner?

On the inside of the handle of Original LÖWE pruners, a label indicating the part number of the respective pruner is typically affixed. If this label is missing, an engraved model number can be identified on the individual blades when disassembled.

Using these article or model numbers, you can acquire the necessary replacement blade compatible with your Original LÖWE pruner. Should you ever be uncertain which replacement blade is the correct one for your needs, please contact us; we will be glad to assist you further.

I would like to replace the blade of my Original LÖWE pruner. What is the exact procedure?

Should the time come when you need to replace your Original LÖWE blade, an instruction guide and a video tutorial detailing the blade replacement process are available on our website. This blade replacement can be executed independently by any user.

I don't feel confident performing a blade replacement myself. What can I do?

In this case, you can ask your trusted specialist dealer for support and blade replacement.

As a special service, we offer blade replacement directly at our factory. Simply send us your cutter for this. In this instance, you only cover the material and shipping costs, as our labor for the blade replacement is complimentary.

If I perform a blade replacement, should I also replace the anvil?

Whether the anvil of your Original LÖWE pruner should also be replaced during a blade replacement generally depends on the condition of the anvil.

If the anvil is already heavily worn and degraded, a replacement is strongly recommended. However, if the anvil shows little to no signs of wear, replacing it is not necessary.

Doesn't the blade of an anvil pruner automatically become dull?

The hardness of the blade's steel is four times greater than that of the anvil. Consequently, when cutting with an Original LÖWE anvil pruner, the blade's impact on the anvil does not affect its sharpness.

The blade's sharpness is solely determined by the cutting frequency and the material being cut.

Proper Storage, Care, and Maintenance

The longevity of your Original LÖWE pruner depends, among other factors, on its proper care and storage. Below, you will find the most frequently asked questions and their answers concerning this topic.

How do I best store my Original LÖWE pruner?

Ideally, cutting tools should not be exposed to the elements, as this can lead to corrosion on the tool body or blade.

To ensure the longevity of your Original LÖWE pruner, we recommend storing it in a dry environment. Our Original LÖWE pruner holster can provide additional support in this regard.

How do I clean and maintain my Original LÖWE pruner?

After using your Original LÖWE pruner, you should remove plant residues, dirt, soil, or similar debris. Furthermore, the pruner should be dried to prevent moisture exposure. We recommend regularly sharpening your Original LÖWE pruner and lubricating it as required.

How do I clean and maintain my Original LÖWE pruner?

You can perform your maintenance and cleaning operations using a standard household brush, a standard household cloth, and soapy water. Should the pruner become stiff to operate, inspect it for any significant contamination, excessive bearing tightness, or insufficient lubrication, and rectify these issues if required.

Do I require specialized tools for the maintenance or replacement of spare parts?

For the aforementioned tasks, only screwdrivers (Phillips/slotted), wrenches (varying sizes depending on the model) or hex keys are required. No special tools are necessary.

How do I use my pruner?

On our YouTube channel, we have provided various application videos of our Original LÖWE cutting tools, which elaborate on their diverse fields of application.

Generally, you can use our pruners for all wood and plant cuts. On our packaging, you will find pruner-specific instructions and tips for the application of the pruner you have purchased. Further application information can be found on our website under “Products”.

When should I use an anvil pruner and when a bypass pruner?

The suitability of an anvil pruner versus a bypass pruner depends on the material you intend to cut. While an anvil pruner is more appropriate for harder and thicker wood, a bypass pruner is more effective for thin, 'green' plant material with fibrous bark.

How exactly do I operate Original LÖWE cutters and for what material are they designed?

On our YouTube channel, you can find a variety of application videos featuring our Original LÖWE cutters, which clearly demonstrate the specific purposes for which each individual cutter was developed.

Of course, you can also use these videos as a reference to approximate the material you have and need to cut as closely as possible. Generally, our Original LÖWE cutters can be used to cut a wide variety of materials, such as wood, PVC, rubber, hoses, strips, leather, sealing profiles, pipes, and much more. However, you should not cut metal with Original LÖWE cutters, as this can permanently damage the blade.

The pruners are quite expensive. What is the justification for this?

Original LÖWE pruners are designed for professional applications in fruit growing, viticulture, horticulture, landscaping, and forestry, targeting users who rely on them for their daily work. Professionals require uncompromising quality in their tools.

We manufacture all our cutting tools exclusively as „100% MADE IN GERMANY“ products. We do not use standard steel, and we perform the heat treatment of our blades entirely in-house. Thanks to our focused expertise, we are able to meet the highest product requirements, which professional users have valued for decades. However, ambitious hobby gardeners and DIY enthusiasts also rely on our quality for good reason, as an Original LÖWE pruner usually lasts a lifetime. For example, the internal leaf spring of the Original LÖWE 1 is tested for one million cuts. When calculated against the purchase price, this yields a peak efficiency of 0.002 CENTS per cut. Cutting cannot be more economical!

How long can I use an Original LÖWE pruner?

If you don't lose, misplace, or have your Original LÖWE pruner stolen, then an Original LÖWE pruner will last forever.

For instance, we offer a lifetime warranty on the tool body. The replacement of wear parts, such as the blade or anvil, depends on your individual cutting habits and frequency of use. An Original LÖWE pruner – for a lifetime!

How do I identify a counterfeit of your Original LÖWE pruners?

Our Original LÖWE cutting tools can be identified by the embossing of the brand name and logo on the tool body, as well as the 'Made in Germany' designation. Furthermore, you can also identify counterfeits by a disproportionately low price compared to our MSRP. And finally, you will also recognize Original LÖWE cutting tools by their unparalleled cut and lasting sharpness.

Unfortunately, as with all high-quality brand products, there are also copies of our Original LÖWE pruners. However, the aforementioned quality criteria should help you to always identify the original.

How authentic is your 'Made in Germany' claim?

We at Original LÖWE have, since the inception of our company, manufactured Original LÖWE cutters entirely in Germany. From the conceptualization of products and the heat treatment of blades to the steel we process – every component is 100% sourced from Germany. No cutter can be more authentically 'Made in Germany'.

What type of steel is the body of an Original LÖWE 1 (2, 3, 5 and 10) made from?

The cutter body of these model series is manufactured from micro-alloyed fine-grain structural steel. This steel combines the properties of high strength and exceptional toughness.

The special steel of these Original LÖWE pruners makes these model series an extremely robust tool that is virtually indestructible. For this reason, we also offer a lifetime warranty on the pruner body of the aforementioned models, even under conditions of proper use.

My pruner has a slight wobble or rattle and exhibits some play. What can I do?

If you feel that your Original LÖWE pruner rattles or wobbles, the retaining nut has likely come slightly loose. In this case, simply take a suitable wrench and tighten the retaining nut a little tighter.

If you overtighten the bearing nut, the cutter will no longer self-open. In this case, loosen the nut slightly.

My pruner has become quite old and no longer cuts properly. I am not confident in performing a repair or maintenance myself. What can I do?

In this case, we offer a repair and maintenance service.

We restore your Original LÖWE pruner so that it cuts like it did on the first day. In this case, you only bear the costs for the spare parts and shipping; we waive our labor costs for the spare parts replacement, repair, and maintenance!

I am interested in purchasing an Original LÖWE pruner. Where can I acquire one?

Typically, any local hardware store or garden center can order the desired model for you, allowing you to acquire it on-site.

We would be pleased to assist you in locating a suitable dealer in your vicinity; please do not hesitate to contact us. Alternatively, our products are also available for purchase online.

I have a specific material that needs to be cut in a particular manner. I am unsure if you offer a suitable cutter for my requirements within your product range. What can I do?

The suitability of one of our Original LÖWE cutters for processing a specific material according to your special requirements is best clarified through a personal consultation. Alternatively, you may send us sample material along with a brief description of your cutting requirements; we will then test it with our cutters to identify the model best suited for your needs.

A wide range of our industrial cutters can also process materials beyond their initial design specifications. Please feel free to contact us to collaboratively explore your specific needs.

What warranties does Original LÖWE offer on its pruners and cutters?

Generally, as a consumer, you have a statutory warranty claim of 24 months for new goods.

As the manufacturer of Original LÖWE cutting tools, we offer a lifetime warranty on our tool bodies, as the tool body is indestructible with proper use. Original LÖWE cutting tools are used worldwide in over 90 countries and on all continents. Users have valued the high quality of our cutting tools for many decades. The continuous satisfaction of our users with our products is paramount to us, and a virtually non-existent complaint rate enables us to confidently provide such a warranty.

My product arrived in a non-functional state. What steps should I take now?

Should this be the case, we kindly request that you contact us so that we can ascertain the exact problem, restore the functionality of your pruner, or, if necessary, arrange for an exchange.

I cannot find your pruners in the hardware store. Why not?

To date, we have focused on specialist retailers, a strategy largely attributed to the in-depth and individualized consultation they provide. Furthermore, premium garden centers and plant nurseries now also stock our products.

Does Original LÖWE also offer children's shears?

No, you will not find special children's shears in our professional assortment.

This also involves liability-related considerations, which we would be pleased to explain to you in person.

Which Original LÖWE pruner is the best in the range?

This question cannot be answered universally, as it depends on both your cutting habits and cutting intensity, but also, and primarily, on the specific application of the cutter.

We would be pleased to advise you personally by phone or email to help you determine which of our Original LÖWE pruners and cutters would be most suitable for your individual requirements.

Is there an Original LÖWE cutting tool for all purposes?

Since 1923, the LÖWE 1 has been the pruner in our product range that is universally applicable in both garden and workshop settings.

However, it is essential to consider the application area, the cutting frequency, and the personal preferences of the users. These factors, however, are often diverse and varied. To find the ideal cutting tool for your individual requirements, we are pleased to offer our consultation services; please do not hesitate to contact us.

Do you also offer pruners without plastic handles within your product range?

Yes, the LÖWE 1.101, 1.102, and 3.101 are also available without plastic coatings.

However, in practical application, the ergonomics of Original LÖWE pruners have proven more comfortable with plastic coatings.

What do the article numbers of your pruners represent, and what is their meaning?

The item numbers for our Original LÖWE pruners are always 4 or 5 digits long. The first digit before the decimal point indicates the model series to which the pruner belongs. The subsequent digits after the decimal point specify the configuration of the handle shape.

For one-hand pruners, the decimal point is typically followed by three digits:

• .104 designates the standard handle,
• .107 the inwardly curved handle and
• .109 the rotating handle.

For the loppers, the numbers following the decimal point indicate the handle length, for example:

• .080 a total length of 80cm.

What do the article numbers of your industrial cutters represent, and what is their meaning?

In the mitre, moulding, and cable duct cutters, the individual model series feature varying final digits, where the numbers following the decimal point denote the type of fence.

This means:

• .104 here a mitre fence,
• .105 without fence and
• .106 with right-angled fence.

I am left-handed. However, I cannot find any left-handed pruners in your product range. Why is this the case?

The unparalleled advantage of anvil pruners is, among other things, that they can be used by both right-handed and left-handed individuals.

This is inherently not the case for bypass pruners. Unfortunately, we currently do not yet offer a left-handed bypass pruner in our product range.

Do you also offer cutters with a wire cutter in your product range?

No, we offer our cutters without a wire cutter.

User experiences and feedback have shown us that, even when a wire cutter is present, the wire is often cut with the blade. This effectively renders a dedicated wire cutter superfluous.

Do you also have electric cutters in your product range?

Our focus is on the development, continuous improvement, and optimization of our manual Original LÖWE cutters.

You receive the finest cutting tools, which we manufacture with utmost passion and dedication. For this reason, too, electric cutting tools are not planned for our product range.

Does Original LÖWE also offer saws?

No. Saws are not included in our Original LÖWE product range.

Do you also offer sheet metal cutters in your product range?

We do not offer sheet metal shears in our Original LÖWE product range.

Are there also pruners with a leverage system or ratchet system from Original LÖWE?

Professional users in fruit growing, viticulture, and horticulture typically operate without lever-assisted pruners or ratchet systems.

The blades of our Original LÖWE pruners are engineered for extreme sharpness and superior edge retention, making the cutting action up to 70% lighter compared to similar products. Consequently, for pruning plants and wood, which are inherently softer materials, a ratchet system or a leverage system is rendered superfluous in our pruners.

Do you also offer hedge pruners in your product range?

No, we do not offer hedge shears in our Original LÖWE product range.

Why does Original LÖWE offer such a wide range of pruners?

To meet all requirements and customer needs, many models feature modifications that offer the appropriate Original LÖWE cutter for every user.

The requirements for cutting tools are highly varied depending on the application. For our one-hand pruners alone, we offer approximately 12 different models, each available in three distinct handle designs. We specialize in pruners and strive to provide every user with the most suitable model for their specific needs.

Why does Original LÖWE offer such a wide range of cutters?

In industrial and craft sectors, a diverse range of materials must be cut, depending on the specific trade or application. This necessitates a wide array of distinct cutting solutions.

From rubber to PVC, wood, leather, and even flat ribbon cables, the demands are extremely diverse, and the application areas for these cutters vary significantly. To facilitate the work for various trades by using a cutter instead of a saw, we have progressively developed a comprehensive range of cutters.

Why do some industrial cutters feature a leverage system?

The leverage system assists users in cutting flat and hard materials, providing a force reduction of up to 80%.

Especially at the end of the cut, users must apply maximum force when working with these materials, sometimes only managing to sever the material with considerable effort. This is where the leverage system assists the user. The cutting process becomes significantly easier, and particularly for tasks requiring repetitive cutting, the leverage system provides substantial ergonomic relief.

Why are there different fences or anvils for the cutters among the respective models?

The required fence depends on the outcome the user expects from the material being cut. 

Depending on the specific requirements for the cut or the material to be processed, we offer various fences for most models. These models are available with a 90° fence for precise right-angle cuts, with a 45° fence for mitre cuts, or without a fence for flexible customization.

The fastener of my Original LÖWE 1, 2, 5, 7, 8, 9 or 10 is loose. What can I do?

The fastener is secured to the Original LÖWE pruner with a Phillips screw. You can easily tighten this screw a bit more with a Phillips screwdriver. This should ensure the fastener fits more securely again and remains in its chosen position.

Naturally, the screw or the fastener may also experience wear and tear, depending on the intensity and duration of use. Should this occur, you can obtain the appropriate spare parts from your dealer.

The fastener on my Original LÖWE 1, 2, 5, 7, 8, 9, or 10 is very difficult to move. What can I do?

In this case, loosen the Phillips screw of the fastener and partially extract it.

Fine dirt particles or sand can accumulate under the fastener, and moisture can also cause the plastic of the fastener to swell slightly. In these cases, the fastener may have become stuck.

What is the purpose of the slotted screw located on the top of the fastener on my Original LÖWE 1, 2, 5, 7, 8, 9 or 10?

This screw regulates the flush and secure closure of your Original LÖWE pruner.

The significance of this screw becomes apparent after a period of use of the Original LÖWE pruner. The blade wears down over time with intensive use and repeated sharpening, resulting in a slight material removal. The anvil also undergoes wear in the same manner. The result of this material removal is that the handles of the Original LÖWE pruner close further over time, and the fastener with its adjustment screw can no longer be secured at its original retention point on the pruner body. You can compensate for this difference by unscrewing the slotted screw, and your Original LÖWE pruner will close flush, as you are accustomed to.