What tool would you use for trimming and shaping hedges?

Hedge shears are the ideal tool for trimming and shaping hedges due to their design, which features long blades specifically suited for cutting through thick greenery. They provide leverage and allow for a clean cut, making them effective for achieving a precise shape and maintaining the health of the plant by encouraging new growth. The blades on hedge shears are typically bypass or anvil types, which are optimal for cutting through branches and stems, resulting in a tidy and polished appearance for hedged areas.

In contrast, a half hatchet is primarily used for chopping wood or small branches, which doesn’t align with the needs for fine trimming of hedges. A hammer drill serves a completely different function, primarily used for drilling into hard surfaces, and is not relevant to gardening or landscaping tasks. Meanwhile, a half round file is designed for shaping and smoothing metal or wood, which is not appropriate for plant maintenance. Therefore, hedge shears are the most suitable tool for the job.