Best tool to trim bushes and branches on trails.

[First-light]

So I maintain and mow my trails. Branches and bushes are starting to encroach above and on the sides. What do

you guys use? I have hand clippers thats about it. Is there a power tool, electric or gas?

Thanks FL

[Wildcat]

I use gas powered hedge trimmers...   A bit heavy after a while, but they make quick work of things..

[airedale]

Major trail maintenance I have used pole saws small chain saws and lopping shears. When hunting I am on the move a lot and will sometimes carry a small set of pruning shears that fit in my game bag to clean up small branches and bushes in a place I might want to sit for a while. I also have a small easy carrying folding saw that I have used at times for something that may obstruct my view. 

Al

[Farflung]

what Airedale said, plus just recently I have acquired a 20 volt battery operated pole saw. seems to work well. I have a gas operated one, but it is pretty heavy for long hauls (as I am old)

[cas]

If you have a weed whacker with sufficiant power, you can buy a saw blade head for it.  They also sell brush blades for them. But I've cut saplings several inches thick with the saw blade.  (for making / widening / clearing trails, you wouldn't want to use it for tree branches. I mean... I HAVE lol, but it perhaps wasn't my best idea. 

Edited July 21, 2023 by cas

[First-light]

Thanks guys. I'm thinking battery operated hedge clippers and a heavy duty branch clippers. 

[wolc123]

I usually use a small gas  chainsaw and a pair of loppers. I use the 3 point carryall on the back of my Ford 8n to lift myself up for a little more height.  A nice thing about that tractor is that you can reach the lift control handle while you are standing on the back platform.   

 

[squirrelwhisperer]

I have a Milwaukee electric pole saw that i can change the saw head for a hedge trimmer head, a gas powered chain saw for the big stuff and a small (6") handheld electric chainsaw for small stuff. I also carry pruning shears and a folding saw in my pack, just in case. I usually drive thru the woods so I trim enuff room for my truck and then trim tree branches and shooting lanes for my stand.

Man I can't wait to get started!!  

[First-light]

I bought 3 things. A saw, branch loper and a 40v Colbolt trimmer. 

[airedale]

13 hours ago, First-light said:

I bought 3 things. A saw, branch loper and a 40v Colbolt trimmer

You should be all set for most situations.

Al

[fasteddie]

I have several tools to take . I bought a machete a few years ago and have never used it .