I do not know if there is any difference in them, but I would not expect much from either of them.

The rope ends may not be long enough, you might need to extend them if you go this route.

How big is the branch? If the branch is of any size and has a decent amount of weight on it, you could do significant damage to the tree when the branch "peels" away and strips bark from the tree. Best way to remove is to first undercut the branch, then cut from the top. Very difficult to do with a rope saw.

I have tried with my power pole saw at 15 feet and on a latter still could not reach it. It is my only choice. branch is only 2 in diameter.

If you are only going to use the rope saw once or very few times, I'd say get the cheap one.

To minimize the peeling, do your cuts from the side. This way the teeth will wrap around the side and partially underneath the branch. Cut a little from the left side and then a little from the right side or vice versa. You'll be able to almost reach the underside of the branch but not quite if you have room and rope to maneuver far enough to the sides.

Additionally, you want to cut from the sides anyway so that the branch does not fall on you.

Good luck.

I've used the one sold at Sears. It's not easy to get the rope into position (How's your throwing arm?) but once you get it there, they cut pretty well. For the situation you describe, it's about the only option you have.

Well I have lots of four story high plus Oaks and White Pines on my one acre property. So will have some use, think I might spring for the $60 one vs. the $20 one.

I don't know that the $60 will get you anything more than the $20. If the $20 one has a blade that can not be sharpened and the $60 one does, well then maybe. The usefulness of the rope saws is very limited from what I have heard. It might be okay for this one but I would not expect you will be doing alot of pruning of all your trees with it.

Sears has one for sale at there stors, GREAT will not have to wait and pay shipping now, thanks a lot Gregd!!!

Just looked on Sears.com and can't find it Gregd how long ago you buy one at Sears?

shortlid,

I'ts been several years. I got mine at a Sears Hardware, it was in a blister pack next to tree pruners and the like....

I will take a look and see if they have them on the rack, thanks.