The Black & Decker LP1000 Alligator Lopper easily bites through branches or tree trunks up to 4 inches in diameter. Its scissor-style handles assure good control and maneuverability. Essentially, the Alligator Lopper is a mini electric chain saw.

The cutting mouth of the Alligator Lopper opens like an alligator's mouth, and the top of its mouth carries a 6-inch chain saw bar and chain. The fixed bottom jaw holds the branch or trunk in place while the bar and chain cut through it. The operator uses two hands to squeeze the scissor-style handles together. A 4.5-amp electric motor sends power to the Alligator Lopper's short cutting bar.

We found the Black & Decker Alligator Lopper to be a handy addition to a household power tool collection. It is well designed, making it surprisingly easy and even fun to use. And it weighs just 6.5 pounds. It grips wood firmly while you close the cutting bar down to begin cutting. It zips through smaller branches quickly and cleanly. With both hands securely holding the two handles, our hands and fingers were safely away from the blade while it was running. The Alligator Lopper works quietly. We found it easy to maneuver the mouth into cutting positions that would be awkward for a traditional chain saw. On the downside, we had to oil the chain every few minutes to maintain good operation. And, since the Alligator Lopper is a corded model, we were limited in portability by the extension cord. Experts recommend 100 feet as the effective limit of an extension cord for an outdoor power tool.

The Black & Decker LP1000 Alligator Lopper is a useful, innovative chain saw. It may be the perfect pet tool for your small wood cutting jobs. It's designed to cut wood up to 4 inches in diameter. That means it can prune most of the trees in the typical yard.


Pros: Lightweight, compact, relatively safe, quiet, cuts well
Cons: Limited portability

Warranty
2 years