Black & Decker Cordless Chainsaw, Alligator Lopper

If you're looking for a versatile and user-friendly tool for yard work, the Black & Decker Cordless Alligator Lopper (model LLP120) might just be what you need. This tool is designed to cut branches and logs up to 4 inches thick, and it does so with impressive efficiency, thanks to its 20V MAX Lithium-Ion battery. After spending some time with this lopper, I have a comprehensive understanding of its strengths and weaknesses, which I'll share in this review.

First off, the Alligator Lopper is a breath of fresh air for those who find traditional chainsaws intimidating. It has a unique design with patented clamping jaws that make cutting safer and more controlled. These jaws grip the wood as you cut, which significantly reduces the risk of kickback—a common issue with conventional chainsaws. This feature alone makes it a fantastic option for individuals who are new to using power tools or who simply want a safer alternative for their yard work.

One of the standout features of this tool is its battery life. The 20V MAX Lithium-Ion battery provides a good amount of power, allowing for approximately 150 cuts of 1.5-inch diameter per charge. In my experience, this battery life was more than adequate for most small to medium-sized yard tasks. Charging the battery takes about an hour, which is quite reasonable, especially if you have a second battery to swap in while the first one charges. The tool also comes with a wall-mountable charging base, which is a convenient addition for those who like to keep their workspace organized.

However, the Alligator Lopper is not without its quirks. One of the more noticeable issues is its weight. At 9.4 pounds, it's not the lightest tool in the shed. While this heft can be beneficial for stability during cutting, it may be cumbersome for extended use, especially for older individuals or those with less upper body strength. I found that using it for prolonged periods could be tiring, particularly when working on overhead branches.

Another point of contention is the oil reservoir. The tool requires frequent oiling to keep the chain running smoothly, and the reservoir is relatively small. I had to stop every 10-15 minutes to refill it, which interrupted the workflow. While this isn't a deal-breaker, it is an inconvenience that could be improved with a larger reservoir.

In terms of performance, the Alligator Lopper excels in cutting horizontal branches and logs. It slices through wood up to 4 inches thick with ease, making it perfect for pruning trees and clearing fallen branches. However, it struggles a bit with vertical cuts. The jaws tend to jam when cutting vertically growing branches or small bushes, which can be frustrating. The user manual advises against using the tool for felling trees, and based on my experience, this is sound advice. It performs best when used for its intended purpose—pruning and trimming rather than heavy-duty cutting.

The safety features of this tool are commendable. It has dual-hand switches that ensure the tool only operates when both hands are engaged, reducing the risk of accidental starts. This is a valuable feature, especially for those who may be less experienced with power tools. The enclosed blade design also adds an extra layer of safety, making it less likely to come into contact with your body during use.

One minor but noteworthy annoyance is the design of the oil bottle that comes with the tool. The attached cap tends to close when inserted into the oil hole, preventing the oil from flowing through. I ended up replacing the bottle with one that had a removable cap, which solved the problem. It's a small issue, but one that could easily be addressed by Black & Decker in future iterations.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Alligator Lopper has a lot going for it. It's easy to use, even for those who are not particularly handy with tools. The battery life is impressive, and the cutting performance is more than adequate for most yard tasks. It's also a safer alternative to traditional chainsaws, thanks to its unique design and safety features.

Would I recommend the Black & Decker Cordless Alligator Lopper? Absolutely, but with some caveats. If you're looking for a tool that can handle light to medium yard work with ease and safety, this is a great option. It's particularly well-suited for those who find traditional chainsaws intimidating or cumbersome. However, if you need a tool for more heavy-duty tasks or extended use, you might want to consider something lighter and with a larger oil reservoir.

In conclusion, the Black & Decker Cordless Alligator Lopper is a versatile and user-friendly tool that fills a niche between traditional loppers and chainsaws. It's not without its flaws, but its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, making it a valuable addition to any homeowner's tool collection.