Big garden shears are also known as pruning shears, loppers, or hedge shears. These terms are all used interchangeably to refer to a type of cutting tool that is designed for larger branches and stems. Garden shears come in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the most common type has two blades that meet in the middle, similar to scissors. Some models also have a ratchet mechanism that multiplies your cutting power by allowing you to make several small cuts with each squeeze of the handles.