Choosing the right blade: a guide to every crop and cut

In the world of agriculture, precision and efficiency are paramount. The INFACO F3020 electric pruning shear stands out as a versatile tool designed to meet the diverse needs of American farmers. With interchangeable cutting heads tailored for specific crops and tasks, the F3020 ensures optimal performance across various agricultural applications.

The F3020 electric shear offers three interchangeable pruning heads and specialized attachments, all powered by one battery system. In this guide, we’ll help you match the right blade to the right job, reduce costly cutting mistakes, and keep your gear field-ready. 

Match blade to task

The F3020 offers multiple cutting heads, each designed for particular tasks. Here’s a breakdown of each F3020 cutting head and what it’s designed for:

Standard head (1.57” / 40 mm)

• Best for: grapevines, blueberry bushes, cane fruit
  
  

• Use case: quick, repeated cuts with minimal resistance
  
  

• Why it works: lightweight, agile, and ideal for dense row crops
  
  

Medium head (1.77” / 45 mm)

• Best for: apple trees, stone fruits (cherry, plum), citrus
  
  

• Use case: mixed-orchard management where limb size varies
  
  

• Why it works: strikes a balance between power and speed
  
  

Maxi head (2.16” / 55 mm)

• Best for: almonds, olives, nut trees, thick orchard limbs
  
  

• Use case: heavier cuts with larger-diameter wood
  
  

• Why it works: wider blade opening and reinforced for strength
  
  

Hoof trimming adapter

• Best for: sheep, goats, and small livestock
  
  

• Use case: occasional hoof care in mixed-farm operations
  
  

• Why it works: precise and cordless, powered by the same battery system as your pruning gear
  
  

Choosing the right head for your crop

Every crop has unique pruning demands. Here’s a quick reference guide:

Swapping blades on the F3020

One of the F3020's standout features is its modular design, allowing users to switch between cutting heads seamlessly.

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off and unplug the tool from the battery.
   
   

2. Loosen the locking screws on the head with the INFACO-supplied tool.
   
   

3. Remove the old blade head and position the new one.
   
   

4. Tighten all fittings securely and double-check alignment.
   
   

5. Calibrate blade opening via the trigger or Bluetooth app (if installed).
   
   

Most operators can change heads in under 5 minutes, even in the field.

Avoid overcutting errors

Using an inappropriate blade for a specific task can lead to overcutting, which may harm plants and reduce yield:

• Blade size mismatch: Using a larger blade on delicate plants can cause unnecessary damage.
  
  

• Improper calibration: Failing to adjust blade opening settings can result in incomplete cuts or strain on the tool.
  
  

• Neglecting maintenance: Dull blades or loose components can compromise cut quality and safety.
  
  

Regularly inspect and maintain your F3020, and always choose the appropriate blade for the task at hand to ensure optimal results.

Blade care and maintenance tips

A clean, sharp blade makes your day easier—and extends your tool’s lifespan.

• Clean your blade daily: remove sap and dirt with a soft cloth
  
  

• Lubricate pivot points after every use
  
  

• Sharpen regularly with the INFACO sharpener or send in for service
  
  

• Inspect for cracks or chips—replace if necessary
  
  

On average, a well-maintained blade head lasts 2–3 seasons, depending on crop and usage.

FAQs

Q: Can I use the same blade for pruning and hoof trimming?
A: No. The hoof trimming kit is a dedicated attachment for livestock use. Always swap back to your pruning head before resuming crop work.

Q: How often should I replace the blade?
A: That depends on use, but most operators replace blades after two seasons or 3,000–5,000 cuts, whichever comes first. If you choose to undergo the annual maintenance, blades are automatically replaced by new ones, to keep your tools sharpened and efficient for more than a decade.

Q: Is it safe to swap heads during the same day?
A: Yes, just make sure to power down and clean the tool between uses.

Q: Are the heads compatible with extension poles?
A: Absolutely. All F3020 heads work with INFACO’s carbon fiber extension poles for high pruning jobs.

Internal resources and video support

📺 Want to see each blade in action?
→ Watch our official blade head tutorial series on YouTube

🔧 Need help with your next switch?
→ Read the full tool + head compatibility guide

📬 Curious about tying, crimping, or hoof trimming too?
→ Explore our articles

Choosing the right blade for your INFACO F3020 is not just a technical decision—it’s a business strategy. Matching your head to your crop can improve speed, reduce tool wear, and deliver cleaner, more consistent results. Whether you're pruning trellised grapes, taming a nut orchard, or cleaning up olives before harvest, the right blade makes all the difference.

INFACO offers a lineup of precision-engineered cutting heads that let you tackle multiple crops, manage seasonal shifts, and keep downtime close to zero. And when you add in tool-free swaps and intuitive blade calibration, you get a smarter workflow with less crew fatigue and better results.