The lopper has long been a go-to tool for pruning tree branches. Typically, we see the long-handled design, which certainly has its benefits. For one, this variation enhances reach. Furthermore, it enables you to leverage the muscles in your entire arm rather than your hand and wrist. And, certainly, they beat the heck out of the small hand pruners we use for branches that aren’t much thicker than twigs. Of course, there is a tool out there with shorter arms, more robust grips, and a formidable set of chompers. Indeed, with battery power and the bite of a mini chainsaw, you don’t need muscle. Enter the Black and Decker Alligator Lopper (LLP120B).
Join us for a tour of this pint-sized, but nonetheless, toothy solution.
Lop off tree limbs, not your own. Explore our Chainsaw Safety Tips!
Black and Decker Alligator Lopper Performance
To the guys down at our Florida HQ, the LLP120B’s cutting head probably has a familiar look. You know, jaws and teeth like the gators that they sometimes spot lurking near their yards. In this case, there’s no need to be afraid, unless you’re a tree branch or limb.
Specs
- Model: Black and Decker LLP120B
- Battery: 20V lithium-ion
- Bar length: 6 in
- Chain speed: ~10 fps (2.987 mps)
- Cutting capacity: 4 in
- Weight: 8.063 lbs
Driving Black and Decker’s Alligator Lopper is a 20V lithium-ion battery. This pack powers the LLP120B’s 6-inch saw, delivering chain speeds of roughly 10 feet per second (2.987 meters per second). Compared to conventional mini saws, this is definitely on the slow side. That said, this isn’t a conventional mini saw.
The fact is that Black and Decker designed its Alligator Lopper to clamp down on and saw through branches and brush in a scissor-action motion. However, we will say that it performs like a mini chainsaw in terms of cutting capacity. Indeed, the LLP120B should handle anything up to 4 inches in diameter, which gives you a decidedly diverse range of applications.
And, concerning runtime, Black and Decker says to expect about 150 1.5-inch cuts per charge.
Black and Decker Alligator Lopper Design
Design-wise, we like the handles on this tool. Specifically, the grips feature texture overmolding. Also, the hand guards are wide enough to accommodate work gloves.
Moreover, at 8 pounds, the tool is quite manageable.
Black and Decker LLP120B Price
The Black and Decker Alligator Lopper sells bare for $83 and comes backed with a 2-year limited warranty.
