1. Introduction
The Fiskars Universal Garden Cutter UPX86 with Saw is a versatile tool designed for efficient and safe pruning of branches at various heights. This telescopic tool combines a bypass pruner for fresh branches and an adapter pruning saw for thicker branches, allowing users to maintain trees and shrubs without the need for ladders. Its robust construction and thoughtful design ensure ease of use and durability.
Key features include a telescopic pole extending from 2.4 to 4 meters, providing a total reach of up to 6 meters (including user height), a 230° rotatable cutting head for optimal positioning, and an integrated rope system to prevent snagging. The bypass pruner is suitable for branches up to 3.2 cm in diameter, while the adapter saw can handle branches up to 8 cm.
2. Safety Instructions
Always prioritize safety when operating the Fiskars Universal Garden Cutter UPX86. Failure to follow these instructions may result in injury or damage to the tool.
- Read the Manual: Before first use, thoroughly read and understand all instructions in this manual.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate safety gear, including safety glasses, gloves, and sturdy footwear. A hard hat is recommended when working overhead.
- Check Surroundings: Ensure the area around you is clear of people, pets, and obstacles. Be aware of power lines and other utilities.
- Stable Footing: Maintain a stable and balanced stance while operating the tool. Do not overreach.
- Inspect Tool: Before each use, inspect the tool for any damage, loose parts, or wear. Do not use if damaged.
- Sharp Blades: Blades are extremely sharp. Handle with care. Keep fingers and other body parts away from the cutting area.
- Proper Use: Use the tool only for its intended purpose: pruning and sawing branches. Do not attempt to cut materials beyond the recommended diameter.
- Storage: Store the tool in a dry, secure place, out of reach of children and unauthorized users.
- Weather Conditions: Avoid using the tool in wet or icy conditions, or during strong winds.
3. Product Components
The Fiskars Universal Garden Cutter UPX86 consists of the following main components:
- Telescopic Pole: The main shaft of the tool, adjustable in length.
- Bypass Pruner Head: Located at the top of the pole, designed for cutting fresh branches. Features a non-stick coated top blade and a 230° rotatable head.
- Internal Rope System: A pull-cord mechanism integrated within the pole for activating the pruner, preventing snagging on branches.
- Adapter Pruning Saw: A separate saw blade that can be easily attached to the pruner head for cutting thicker branches.
- Operating Handles: A main handle near the base of the pole and an additional handle along the pole for activating the cutting mechanism.
Figure 3.1: Overview of the Fiskars Universal Garden Cutter UPX86, showing the telescopic pole, bypass pruner head, and the separate adapter saw attachment.
Figure 3.2: Close-up of the pruner head mechanism, highlighting the chain drive and spring, along with a view of the internal rope system within the pole.
Figure 3.3: The pruner head with the adapter saw attachment securely mounted, ready for use.
Figure 3.4: Detailed view of the adapter pruning saw blade and its attachment mechanism.
4. Setup
Follow these steps to prepare your Fiskars Universal Garden Cutter UPX86 for use:
- Extend the Telescopic Pole:
To adjust the length of the pole, locate the locking collars on the shaft. Twist the collars to loosen, extend the pole to the desired length (between 2.4m and 4m), and then twist the collars firmly to lock the sections in place. Ensure the pole is securely locked before use.
Figure 4.1: The telescopic pole extended, showing the adjustable length range of 240-400 cm.
- Attach the Adapter Pruning Saw (Optional):
If you need to saw branches, attach the adapter pruning saw to the pruner head. Align the saw's attachment point with the corresponding slot on the pruner head and secure it firmly. Refer to Figure 3.3 for proper attachment.
- Adjust the Cutting Head Angle:
The cutting head of the pruner can be rotated up to 230° to achieve the optimal cutting angle for different branches. Locate the adjustment mechanism near the pruner head, rotate to the desired angle, and lock it in position. This allows for precise cuts from the ground.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Using the Bypass Pruner
The bypass pruner is ideal for cutting fresh, green branches up to 3.2 cm (1.25 inches) in diameter.
- Positioning: Extend the pole to the required length. Position the pruner head around the branch you wish to cut. Ensure the branch is fully seated within the jaws of the pruner.
- Activating the Cut: There are two ways to activate the cutting mechanism:
- Lower Handle: Pull the orange handle located near the base of the pole downwards.
- Mid-Pole Handle: For shorter reaches or more control, pull the additional handle located along the pole.
Pull the handle smoothly and firmly until the branch is severed. The internal rope system ensures smooth operation without external ropes snagging.
- Maximum Diameter: Do not attempt to cut branches exceeding 3.2 cm in diameter with the pruner. For larger branches, use the saw attachment.
Figure 5.1.1: The maximum recommended cutting diameter for the bypass pruner is 32 mm.
Figure 5.1.2: A user demonstrating the use of the pruner head to cut a branch from below.
Figure 5.1.3: A user operating the extended telescopic pruner to reach and cut high branches.
5.2 Using the Saw Attachment
The adapter pruning saw is designed for cutting larger, tougher branches up to 8 cm (3.15 inches) in diameter.
- Attachment: Ensure the saw attachment is securely fastened to the pruner head as described in Section 4.
- Sawing Technique: Position the saw blade on the underside of the branch first to make a small undercut (to prevent bark stripping), then move to the top of the branch. Use long, steady strokes, allowing the saw's teeth to do the work. Do not apply excessive downward pressure.
- Safety: Be mindful of falling branches. Ensure no one is directly below the cutting area.
Figure 5.2.1: A user demonstrating the use of the saw attachment to cut a branch.
5.3 Maximizing Reach
The telescopic pole allows for significant reach, up to 6 meters including the user's height. Always ensure the pole is fully locked at the desired length before operating. For very high branches, use the lower handle to activate the cutting mechanism, as this provides the most leverage and control.
Figure 5.3.1: A user utilizing the full extension of the tool to prune very high branches from the ground.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance will extend the life and performance of your Fiskars Universal Garden Cutter UPX86.
- Clean Blades: After each use, clean the pruner and saw blades with a damp cloth to remove sap, dirt, and debris. For stubborn sap, use a specialized blade cleaner or rubbing alcohol.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Periodically apply a light oil to the pivot points, spring, and chain mechanism of the pruner head to ensure smooth operation.
- Sharpen Blades: The blades will dull over time. Sharpen the pruner blade with a suitable sharpening tool, following the original bevel angle. The saw blade can also be sharpened or replaced if excessively dull or damaged.
- Inspect Rope System: Regularly check the internal rope system for any signs of fraying or wear. If significant wear is observed, contact Fiskars support for guidance.
- Storage: Store the tool in a clean, dry environment. It is recommended to retract the telescopic pole to its shortest length for compact storage and to protect the internal mechanisms.
7. Troubleshooting
Here are some common issues and their potential solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty cutting branches with pruner. | Dull blades, branch too thick, sap buildup. | Clean and sharpen blades. Use the saw attachment for branches over 3.2 cm. |
| Telescopic pole not locking securely. | Locking collars not tightened sufficiently, debris in locking mechanism. | Ensure collars are twisted firmly. Clean any debris from the locking areas. |
| Rope system feels stiff or sticky. | Lack of lubrication, internal debris. | Apply light lubricant to moving parts of the pruner head. Inspect for any obstructions. |
| Saw blade not cutting effectively. | Dull blade, incorrect sawing technique. | Sharpen or replace the saw blade. Ensure you are using long, steady strokes. |
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Fiskars |
| Model Number | UPX86 |
| Item Weight | Approximately 1 kg (2.2 pounds) |
| Blade Material | High Speed Steel (Pruner & Saw) |
| Saw Blade Length | 45 cm (17.7 inches) |
| Hand Orientation | Ambidextrous |
| Pruner Cutting Capacity | Max. 3.2 cm (1.25 inches) diameter (fresh branches) |
| Saw Cutting Capacity | Max. 8 cm (3.15 inches) diameter |
| Telescopic Pole Length | 2.4 m - 4 m (7.9 ft - 13.1 ft) |
| Total Reach (including user) | Up to 6 m (19.7 ft) |
| Material | Aluminium, Steel |
| Special Features | Cutting head adjustment up to 230°, quick coupling saw blade, adjustable saw angle, internal rope system. |
9. Warranty and Support
Fiskars products are known for their quality and durability. For specific warranty information regarding your Fiskars Universal Garden Cutter UPX86, please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or visit the official Fiskars website.
For technical support, spare parts, or any other inquiries, please contact Fiskars customer service through their official website or the contact details provided in your product packaging. Always provide your product model number (UPX86) when seeking support.
You can find more information and support at the Fiskars Store on Amazon.