Compared to other pruners available, the ratchet pruner makes it so much easier for people who have hard times trimming thick stems and branches. They have an additional portion that enables you to chop and trim the branch in sections rather than all at once. Squeezing the shears causes them to latch, allowing you to release and squeeze again. This is a little more complicated than making a single straight cut, but these shears work great and are ideal for folks who have injured or weak hands and wrists. Furthermore, many ratchet pruners have "D" handles that allow you to grip them correctly, and they also have a safety latch for added safety while in use.