1. Introduction
This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and effective use, maintenance, and care of your Fiskars Telescopic Hedge Shears HS13. These shears are designed for shaping and trimming hedges, bushes, and small shrubs. They are suitable for both right-handed and left-handed users.
The shears feature telescopic handles for extended reach, adjustable from 63 cm to 83 cm in total length. Lightweight and stable plastic lever arms, equipped with joint-protecting buffers, ensure comfortable operation. The non-slip SoftGrip handle ends provide a secure hold. High-quality steel blades are integrated for efficient cutting performance.
Image 1.1: Fiskars Telescopic Hedge Shears HS13, showcasing the overall design.
2. Safety Instructions
Always prioritize safety when using garden tools. Read and understand all instructions before operation.
- Wear Protective Gear: Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including gloves and eye protection, to prevent injuries from flying debris or sharp blades.
- Inspect Before Use: Before each use, inspect the shears for any damage, loose parts, or dull blades. Do not use damaged tools.
- Keep Clear: Ensure no bystanders, especially children or pets, are in the immediate work area.
- Maintain a Secure Grip: Always hold the shears firmly with both hands, utilizing the SoftGrip handles for stability.
- Proper Stance: Maintain a balanced and stable stance while cutting to prevent loss of balance.
- Avoid Overreaching: Do not overreach or cut above shoulder height. Use the telescopic feature to extend reach safely.
- Sharp Blades: Blades are sharp. Handle with care. Keep fingers away from the cutting edge.
- Storage: Store the shears in a safe place, out of reach of children, with the blades closed.
3. Components
The Fiskars Telescopic Hedge Shears HS13 consist of the following main components:
- High-Quality Steel Blades: Durable and sharp for efficient cutting.
- Telescopic Handles: Adjustable length for extended reach.
- SoftGrip Handle Ends: Non-slip material for a comfortable and secure grip.
- Joint-Protecting Buffers: Integrated into the lever arms to reduce impact and protect joints during use.
- Locking Mechanism: Secures the telescopic handles at the desired length.
Image 3.1: The hedge shears with blades closed, highlighting the handle design.
4. Setup and Adjustment
The Fiskars HS13 Telescopic Hedge Shears come pre-assembled and ready for use. The primary adjustment required is the handle length.
- Unlock Handles: Locate the locking mechanisms on each handle. Release them to allow the handles to extend.
- Adjust Length: Extend or retract the telescopic arms to achieve the desired total length, ranging from 63 cm to 83 cm. Choose a length that provides comfortable reach and leverage for your task.
- Lock Handles: Once the desired length is set, securely engage the locking mechanisms on both handles. Ensure they are fully locked before beginning to cut to prevent accidental retraction during use.
Image 4.1: Illustration of the telescopic handle adjustment, showing minimum (63 cm) and maximum (83 cm) lengths.
5. Operating Instructions
Follow these steps for effective and safe operation of your hedge shears:
- Prepare the Area: Clear the work area of any obstacles or debris. Ensure you have a stable footing.
- Adjust Handles: As described in Section 4, adjust the telescopic handles to the appropriate length for the task.
- Positioning: Hold the shears with both hands. Position the blades around the branch or hedge material you intend to cut.
- Cutting: Apply steady pressure to close the handles, allowing the blades to cut through the material. For optimal cutting power, aim to cut with the part of the blade closest to the pivot point.
- Material Capacity: These shears are designed for trimming hedges, bushes, and small shrubs. Avoid attempting to cut excessively thick or hard branches that exceed the tool's capacity, as this can damage the blades or cause injury.
- Even Trimming: For an even trim, use smooth, sweeping motions along the hedge line.
Image 5.1: The hedge shears with blades open, illustrating the cutting position.
Image 5.2: Diagram illustrating proper use for hedge trimming and highlighting key features like SoftGrip.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your Fiskars Hedge Shears.
- Cleaning Blades: After each use, clean the blades thoroughly to remove sap, plant residue, and dirt. A damp cloth and mild soap can be used. Dry the blades completely to prevent rust.
- Sharpening Blades: The high-quality steel blades will eventually dull with use. They can be sharpened using a suitable sharpening tool, such as a diamond file. Fiskars offers maintenance kits (e.g., item no. 1001640) that may include appropriate sharpening tools. Sharpening should be done carefully to maintain the blade's edge.
- Lubrication: Periodically apply a light machine oil or specialized tool lubricant to the pivot point and along the blades. This helps ensure smooth operation and protects against corrosion.
- Inspection: Regularly check all components for wear, damage, or loose fasteners. Ensure the telescopic locking mechanisms function correctly. Replace any damaged parts immediately.
7. Storage
Proper storage protects your shears and ensures they are ready for the next use.
- Clean and Dry: Always clean and dry the shears thoroughly before storing.
- Close Blades: Ensure the blades are fully closed and, if applicable, secured with any built-in locking mechanism.
- Safe Location: Store the shears in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight, moisture, and corrosive substances.
- Child Safety: Keep the shears out of reach of children and unauthorized users.
8. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Fiskars Hedge Shears, consider the following:
- Difficulty Cutting:
- Blades may be dull: Refer to Section 6 for sharpening instructions.
- Blades may be dirty or sticky: Clean blades thoroughly to remove sap and debris.
- Material is too thick: The shears are designed for hedges and small shrubs. Do not force them through overly thick or hard branches.
- Stiff Handle Movement:
- Lack of lubrication: Apply light oil to the pivot point and blades as described in Section 6.
- Dirt or debris: Clean the pivot area and moving parts.
- Telescopic Handles Not Locking:
- Ensure the locking mechanisms are fully engaged. Check for any obstructions preventing them from locking securely.
If problems persist, contact Fiskars customer support.
9. Specifications
| Brand | Fiskars |
| Model Number | HS13 (1027527) |
| Total Length (Telescopic) | 63 - 83 cm |
| Weight | 1.55 Kilograms |
| Blade Material | High-carbon steel |
| Handle Material | Plastic (SoftGrip) |
| Blade Type | Bypass (Hollow Edge) |
| Hand Orientation | Ambidextrous |
| Color | Black/Orange |
| Country of Origin | Finland |
10. Warranty and Support
For detailed information regarding product warranty, customer service, or to purchase replacement parts and accessories, please visit the official Fiskars website or contact their authorized customer support channels. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
