• Skip to main content
  • Skip to secondary menu
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Contributing Writers
  • Site Directory
  • Home
  • About Us
  • Privacy / Disclaimer
  • Contact Us

Chainsaw Journal

Power Equipment for A Modern World

  • Electric Generators
    • Portable Generators
    • Portable Power Stations
    • Inverter Generators
    • Educational
  • Chainsaws
    • Cordless / Battery-Powered
    • Corded-Electric
    • Gas-Powered
    • Chainsaw Reviews
    • Education / How-to
  • Power Equipment
    • Log Splitters
    • Snow Blowers
    • Wood Chippers / Shredders
    • Leaf Blowers
    • Lawn Mower
  • Workshop Tools
    • Shop Heaters
    • Woodworking tools
    • Table Saws
    • Miter Saws
    • Automotive
    • Air Compressors
  • Informative
  • Pools
    • Robotic Pool Cleaners
    • Pool Pumps
    • Pool Heaters
  • Indoor Home
    • Air Conditioners
    • Outdoor Cooking
    • Vacuum Cleaners
    • Kids
  • Blog
Home » Blog » Review : Black and Decker Alligator Lopper

Review : Black and Decker Alligator Lopper

Last Updated: February 1, 2023 / at: 4:09 pm

Scissor-action = effortless. ★★★★½ ►Amazon

If you’ve never heard of the Black and Decker Alligator lopper my only question is: Where have you been?  When I stumbled upon this tool I have to be honest, I was somewhat in awe of it. Why? Because this tool is exceptional at what it does is fill a need that consumers yearn for – an easier way to cut wood, and in this case, it safely cuts wood under 4 inches.

In fact, the Black and Decker Alligator lopper is so good that you don’t need a chainsaw if your yard work doesn’t require cutting wood any larger than 4 inches. Some customers claim that it can cut wood up to 5 inches in diameter. Even better. Manufacturers are typically conservative when it comes to their recommendations, and in this case, to your advantage.

Table of Contents...

  • 1 Work Safer —  Black+Decker Alligator
    • 1.1 Alligator Lopper : Model Comparison
    • 1.2 Watch the Alligator Lopper cutting wood:
    • 1.3 Black and Decker Alligator | LLP120B
    • 1.4 Black and Decker Alligator Lopper LLP120
    • 1.5 Black and Decker Alligator LP1000 | Electric
    • 1.6 Black & Decker Alligator NLP1800
      • 1.6.1 Conclusion | Black and Decker Alligator Lopper

Work Safer —  Black+Decker Alligator

It’s far too common for people to think that a chainsaw is the only tool available for cutting branches, logs, twigs, vines or even small trees. But lets face it, chainsaws can be very intimidating, especially if you’re a first time user. Chainsaws are highly effective and useful for cutting wood but they do require a certain degree of skill; forcing you to learn the nuances of chainsaw operation and have knowledge of proper safety procedures.

20V Battery — Black and Decker Alligator Lopper — LLP220

Black and Decker LLP120 Alligator Lopper.
Work with complete freedom. No cords. No gas. (Buy from Amazon)

Another big advantage of the Black and Decker Alligator lopper is the fact that it’s safer to use than a chainsaw due to its advanced design. See the video in this article to see how it works and you’ll quickly understand why. Plus it’s much lighter than a chainsaw.

Watch out Black+Decker, there’s a new tool in town.

New 2019 : Compare to ► Craftsman 20V Looper ★★★★⅓

CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Lopper
Released in 2019 : Heavy-duty battery looper (Buy from Amazon)

Features :

  • Patented clamping jaws easily and safely grab and cut tree limbs
  • Scissor type action fast cutting in one easy motion
  • Cuts up to 4″ Diameter ideal for storm clean up
  • Compact design for pruning trees & shrubs
  • Includes battery and charger

The WORX JawSaw is another chainsaw alternative you might want to consider. It has a unique design that makes it stand out from the Alligator Looper.


Alligator Lopper : Model Comparison

[table id=12 /]

I certainly wouldn’t recommend a chainsaw for everyone and in all honesty, in some cases they’re completely unnecessary and would be considered overkill. They are a dangerous tool especially for people who treat them like any other power tool. For people who aren’t comfortable using a chainsaw there are alternatives and I’m here to introduce you to a great one: the Black and Decker Alligator lopper.

So, if you’re someone who needs to do some light cleanup work around your home, which might include: cutting branches (limbing) around your yard, cutting small logs or even felling a very small tree, you’re in luck. Yup, Black and Decker has come up with a fantastic tool to help you to tackle these projects for cutting wood up to 4″  in diameter, and even slightly larger. Perhaps closer to 5″ according to customers.

The tool we’re spotlighting here is the Black and Decker Alligator lopper. There are three models for you to choose from; which you can see in the comparison chart included in this article.

Watch the Alligator Lopper cutting wood:

YouTube video

I love choices but sometimes I wish they just made one version of a tool so I don’t have to sift through all the data. They say that too many options actually degrades our level of happiness because as humans we tend to over-analyze and strive to make the best decision. So even after we make a decision we still wonder, “Did I make the best decision?”

Lately, I’ve been forcing myself to make decisions quicker by settling on the first choice that satisfies my criteria, otherwise known as “satisficing.” whether this is for a product or deciding on where to go eat lunch, the principle still applies. Thankfully, there are only three choices here and once you understand the differences I think you’ll be able to make a quick decision.

You can see the electric Black and Decker Alligator Lopper (LP1000) in action by watching the video below.  I can write about the Black and Decker Alligator all day but it’s one of those tools that you have to see in action to really understand it and then determine if it’s the right tool for you. Watch the video below of the Black and Decker Alligator in action.

Watch this video of the Alligator Lopper in action:

YouTube video

So, what do you think of the Black and Decker Alligator in action? I’m genuinely impressed or I wouldn’t be spending the time to write this article.

Features:

  • Heavy-duty 6 inch cutting bar and chain
  • 4″ maximum cutting capacity
  • Grab and cut in one simple motion
  • Accidental starting prevention with dual-hand switches that need to be activated to initiate cutting
  • The Alligator Lopper™ is ideal for tree pruning and clearing brush and is a great alternative to chainsaws, manual loppers, handsaws and clippers
  • Powerful. Fast cutting
  • Patented clamping jaws grab and cut limbs, logs and brush safely in one easy motion.
  • Cuts limbs too big for manual loppers
  • Innovative clamping jaws

Generally, all three of these models are the same tool with the main difference being in the power source: Electric vs Lithium Ion vs NiCad (Nickel-cadmium) but there are a few other differences that I want to point out here.

Black and Decker Alligator | LLP120B

The Black and Decker Alligator (LLP120B) does not come with a battery or charger so you need to buy both of these items separately. Yes, you read that correctly. Obviously if you buy this model then you need to purchase the battery and charger as well. If you forget to buy the battery and charger, well, then you’ll have an expensive pair of scissors to play with.

Black-&-Decker-L2AFCBST-charger
Black-&-Decker-LBXR20-20-Volt-battery-

The advantage of the Black and Decker Alligator lopper (LLP120B) over the other two models is the Lithium-ion batteries it’s built upon offers a longer overall lifespan than NiCad (Nickel-cadmium) batteries, which is what the Black and Decker  Alligator lopper (NLP1800 uses. NiCad are older type batteries. The Li-ion (Lithium-ion) retains its charge 5x longer than similar 18V NiCad batteries, and you obviously don’t have to worry about an extension cord, which is what the Alligator LP1000 has. The greatest advantage of Li-ion batteries is they recharge quickly.

If you want to learn more about the different rechargeable battery types read the first section of the Battery Chainsaw Guide.


Black and Decker Alligator Lopper LLP120

Black and Decker LLP120 Alligator Lopper.
An excellent alternative for people who don’t like using a chainsaw.
"Buy from Amazon" button

Other benefits are that you’ll get approximately 150 cuts of 1-1/2-inch branches per charge – according to Black and Decker. As you know, sometimes these estimates are generous so I’d be a little skeptical about those figures. Also, the Li-ion battery weighs about 50 percent less than the NiCad battery.

So, in summary, it’s basically lighter, will cut longer on a charge, be quicker to recharge and will have a longer lifespan. If you only plan on using the Black and Decker Alligator occasionally then these stats don’t matter much. In that case, save your money and buy the cheaper Black and Decker Alligator lopper (NLP1800) which comes with the battery and charger.

What’s included in the box? The Black and Decker Alligator lopper LLP120B, a wrench; bar and chain and oil bottle.

  • Learn more about this model: Alligator Lopper | LLP120B
  • Learn more about the Battery: 20V MAX Lithium-Ion battery | LBXR20
  • Learn more about charger: Lithium-Ion Fast Charger (with Flash Charge) | L2AFCBST

You might also want to consider buying the longer lasting battery since it lasts twice as long as the LBXR20. If you plan on using this tool on a consistent basis then I would consider buying an extra battery: LB2X4020.

If you’re like me, I hate when my batteries die on me. I went on a trip to Kauai recently and brought three batteries for my camera – and I’m glad I did. Often I’d be out for the full day, usually going for a hike then ending up at the beach for some boogie boarding. By the time I arrived back at the hotel I was on my third battery. I wouldn’t have been too happy if I ran out of battery power when I was out exploring the island. The point is that batteries never last as long as you need them to. Again, it depends on how you plan to use the Black and Decker Alligator lopper.


Black and Decker Alligator LP1000 | Electric

Black-&-Decker-LP1000-Alligator-Lopper-inset
Black & Decker LP1000 : It’s electric so need to worry about batteries.
buy1._V192207739_

The Black & Decker Alligator lopper LP1000 is the corded version of the tool and also has the most reviews on Amazon with over 680 reviews at 4.7 out of 5 stars. That’s very impressive. What I’m trying to say is that customers who actually purchased this saw absolutely love it so there’s nothing more that I can really add to that. True validation comes from customers who use the device on a regular basis.

If you don’t mind dealing with an extension cord and you need to do a lot of cutting then this is certainly the model to buy. You can use this model all day long without ever having to worry about when the battery will die on you, which is makes yard work more pleasant and less stressful. If you don’t already have one, don’t forget to buy the right extension cord, and I’ve created a guide that goes into detail on how to decide: Extension Cord Buying Guide.

What’s included in the box?

  • Oil Bottle
  • Wrench

Perfect for:

  • Pruning branches up to 4″ in diameter
  • Cutting branches into manageable pieces
  • Cleaning up after a storm
  • Cutting for extended periods of time

Black & Decker Alligator NLP1800

No longer available

Black-&-Decker-NLP1800-Alligator-Lopper-inset
Black & Decker NLP1800: NiCad battery version of the Alligator Lopper

The Black & Decker NLP1800 is identical to the other models except for the fact it uses the inferior NiCad battery and it’s heavier than the other versions. But it is cheaper and it comes with a battery and charger, which the Lithium-ion (Li-ion) LLP120B version does not.

This tool is such a great tool for cutting limbs and logs that I would expect that more people would buy one if they were aware that it’s the ideal alternative to chainsaws. It’s also the reason I wanted to spotlight this product for people who weren’t aware of it.

What’s included in the box?

  • NLP1800 18V Alligator Lopper
  • 18V Battery
  • Battery Charger
  • Oil Bottle, Bar, and Chain
  • Wrench

If you plan on using this for any reasonable length of time then I definitely recommend getting an extra battery because this tool requires a lot of power, as you can imagine. Cutting through wood requires quite a bit of power so don’t expect the batteries to last as long as you want. If you’re only doing small jobs now and again then the battery that comes with it should be just fine for you.

Black-&-Decker-HPB18-OPE-18-Volt-battery-NiCad
Replacement battery for the NLP1800 Alligator Lopper

Perfect for:

  • Cutting Limbs up to 4″ Diameter
  • Limb and Branch Pruning
  • Storm Clean-up

Conclusion | Black and Decker Alligator Lopper

There you have it. Three great versions of the same Black and Decker Alligator. Think about what you plan on doing with this tool and how much you’ll actually need to use it. Obviously your budget matters as well, and will factor into the model that’s right for you pocketbook.

If you need to do a lot of cutting then the LP1000 is definitely the model for you. If you only have a need for the lopper intermittently then the NLP1800 (NiCad) will suffice. But if you’re like me and want the versatility and freedom to move around then I’d personally buy the LLP120B (Li-ion) for its longer lasting battery, fast charging, and lightweight.

Honestly, the Black and Decker Alligator lopper is a fantastic tool because for a certain percentage of homeowners, it completely eliminates the need for a chainsaw, and instead, allows people to simply cut wood under 4″ without any fuss. The Black and Decker Alligator is a relatively safe tool that anybody can use.

Don’t forget to buy an extra battery! I’m confident the extra money you spend on it will pay you back in reduced frustration and greater productivity.


If you’re not sure if the Black and Decker Alligator Lopper is right for you, I suggest you read our other guides to determine what type of chainsaw you need. Start with our buying guide to understand the basics.

  • Chainsaw Buying Guide
  • Best Chainsaw for the Money
  • Top Chainsaws for Homeowners
  • How to Buy an Extension Cord
  • Top Handle Chainsaw for Homeowners
  • Cheap Chainsaws you can Afford
  • Quality Gas Chainsaws for Homeowners
  • Electric Chainsaws
  • Battery Chainsaws
  • Released in 2019 : Top Rated Chainsaw based on customer ratings

Last Updated: February 1, 2023 at 4:09 PM / by Gio Sasso

Primary Sidebar

☄️ Home Emergency Backup

2023 Reviews : Best 9500 Watt Generators / New Models with CO Sensors

2023 Reviews : Best 9500 Watt Generators / New Models with CO Sensors

Last Update ► January 5, 2023

Look no further, above you will see the Westinghouse WGen9500c generator --- one of the best 9500 watt generators you can buy. Period!

🐶 Keep A Tidy Yard…

Reviews : Best Resin Shed in 2023? Backyard Storage, Big & Small

Reviews : Best Resin Shed in 2023? Backyard Storage, Big & Small

Last Update ► April 12, 2023

Resin backyard storage sheds are a great addition to any home or garden. Made from durable, weather-resistant materials, these sheds offer a convenient and secure way to store tools, equipment, and other outdoor essentials.

🐱 The Future is Cordless

Best Cordless Chainsaw 2023 Buying Guide – Chainsaw Journal

Best Cordless Chainsaw 2023 Buying Guide – Chainsaw Journal

Last Update ► May 7, 2023

What's the best cordless chainsaw for 2023? If you're smart you'll take our advice and choose from our list of fantastic battery-powered chainsaws.

👂🏼 Quiet RV Power

2023 Picks : Best RV Generator | Quiet Inverter & Power Stations

2023 Picks : Best RV Generator | Quiet Inverter & Power Stations

Last Updated March 12, 2023

What's the best RV generator for you in 2023? Lucky for you, big brands offer some exceptional inverter generators in a wide range of power output and price points. So, don't worry, there's something here for everyone. I'm focusing on inverter generators because it's essential to have a quiet generator for your RV

🐭 Quiet Backup Power

2023 Reviews – Best Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator / Top Rated Models

2023 Reviews – Best Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator / Top Rated Models

Last Update ► May 2, 2023

Choosing the best dual-fuel inverter generator is a little more difficult today than it was only a year ago as many new, high-quality models have entered the market, & they're fantastic...

🌲 Firewood Facts…

2023 : How Much is a Cord of Wood? — & More Firewood Facts.

2023 : How Much is a Cord of Wood? — & More Firewood Facts.

Last Updated February 24, 2023

This article focuses on the always popular topic of firewood. It’s an essential thing for many people. Wood, we need it.

⚡️ Powerful Generators…

2023 Reviews : Best 12000 Watt Generators | New Top Rated Models

2023 Reviews : Best 12000 Watt Generators | New Top Rated Models

Last Updated January 23, 2023

What do you need it for and what's your budget? We take a deep dive and review many great 12000W generators.

🪑 The Craft of Wood Turning

Reviews – Best Wood Lathes from WEN, JET, Powermatic & More

Reviews – Best Wood Lathes from WEN, JET, Powermatic & More

Last Update ► May 9, 2023

There are some tools that separate the best from the rest. I consider a wood lathe to be one of these. A machine that shows you’re a true craftsman. If you’re interested in buying the best wood lathe, you have my greatest respect. Using these machines, you’re able to turn perfectly molded ornate pieces, cut precision holes for screwless joins, and a lot more.

🌟 Clean, Portable Power

2023 Reviews : Best Camping Generator & RV / Quiet Inverter & Battery Power

2023 Reviews : Best Camping Generator & RV / Quiet Inverter & Battery Power

Last Updated March 7, 2023

Generators come in a variety to types, which you may or may not be aware of. Everyone has different needs when it comes to choosing the best camping generator their needs. The question is how much power do you need? What's your budget? Are you looking for an inverter generator or a portable power station?

🔥 Intelligent Pool Heaters

Review Guide − Best 400,000 BTU Pool Heater / NG + Propane

Review Guide − Best 400,000 BTU Pool Heater / NG + Propane

Last Update ► February 15, 2023

Back in 2020 I'm sure a lot of us wondered if we'd ever make it to 2023, and here we are. We made it! The world is slowly going back to normal and now we're looking to find a fast-heating and energy efficient, 400,000 BTU pool heater. Why?

🌍 Clean Energy Chainsaws

Guide to the Best Electric Chainsaws for 2023 — Expert Reviews

Guide to the Best Electric Chainsaws for 2023 — Expert Reviews

Last Updated June 2, 2023

You'll find a lot of differing opinions on what the best electric chainsaw is. The reason is because there is no right answer. I know, this might...

💨 Prepare for the Worst

2023 REVIEWS : Best Portable Power Station for CPAP / Top Picks

2023 REVIEWS : Best Portable Power Station for CPAP / Top Picks

Last Update ► February 14, 2023

What's the Best Portable Power Station for a CPAP? If you're using a CPAP machine at night the last thing you want to worry about is having the power go in the middle of the night ---

🪑 For Work or Play

Reviews – What’s the Best Table Saw Under $1000?

Reviews – What’s the Best Table Saw Under $1000?

Last Updated April 7, 2023

A good portable table saw can easily be had for under $1000, but you won't be able to find a quality cabinet saw for that amount. This guide will save you a lot of time.

🌿 Powerful String Trimmers

2023 Reviews – Best Commercial Weed Eater / PRO String Trimmers

2023 Reviews – Best Commercial Weed Eater / PRO String Trimmers

Last Update ► March 25, 2023

If you're interested in a true professional-grade cordless string trimmer then you need to seriously consider the Makita 40V model.

☄️Never Let the Power Die

Reviews— Best Dual Fuel Portable Generator / Gas & Inverters

Reviews— Best Dual Fuel Portable Generator / Gas & Inverters

Last Update ► February 12, 2023

What's the best dual-fuel portable generator in 2023? Well, like the answer to most questions in life, my answer is, "It depends."

🌒 Whisper-Quiet Clean Power

2023 Update : Westinghouse iGen4500 Review / iGen4500c CO Sensor

2023 Update : Westinghouse iGen4500 Review / iGen4500c CO Sensor

Last Update ► March 6, 2023

Well, the Westinghouse Electric Company built their first commercial electric power station in 1886 to supply Great Barrington, Massachusetts. Since then...

💎 The Most for your Money

2023 Reviews : Best Chainsaws for the Money  / Top Value Models

2023 Reviews : Best Chainsaws for the Money / Top Value Models

Last Update ► March 10, 2023

We have a chainsaw for a wide range of applications and budgets. I know the needs of consumers vary and there's no such thing as the "best" chainsaw for everybody. Whether you have a budget of under $100 or over $300 to buy a PRO-grade chainsaw, I have options for you to consider.

🔋 Compare New Explorer PRO

REVIEW — Jackery Explorer 1000 + PRO E1000 / Best Solar Power Station

REVIEW — Jackery Explorer 1000 + PRO E1000 / Best Solar Power Station

Last Update ► March 11, 2023

Welcome to my review of the the Jackery Explorer 1000. Jackery stands out as one of the best manufacturers of portable battery power stations and solar generators.

🍀 Shred Yard Debris

Reviews : Best Chipper/Shredder in 2023 — Gas & Electric

Reviews : Best Chipper/Shredder in 2023 — Gas & Electric

Last Updated February 22, 2023

What's the best chipper/shredder for 2023? Keeping your lawn neat, tidy and clean requires a lot of work and tools. A chipper/shredder is one of better ways to spend your money for your home, alongside of a generator, lawn mower and chainsaw.

🔥 Time to Split Firewood

Reviews – Best 22 to 30-Ton Log Splitters / New Top Rated Models

Reviews – Best 22 to 30-Ton Log Splitters / New Top Rated Models

Last Update ► March 11, 2023

Welcome! 2023 is a great year to buy a log splitter. New machines are here for us to discuss. The Swisher LS22E is one of the best 22-ton electric log splitters available today. You can see it above. It's a standout among the crowd of "me too" models. It's a 120V electric 22-ton splitter and works with any standard home outlet.

👩🏻‍🦰 Watch Out Trees!

2023 Review — Husqvarna 460 Rancher / Top Rated Gas Chainsaws

2023 Review — Husqvarna 460 Rancher / Top Rated Gas Chainsaws

Last Update ► March 16, 2023

The 460 Rancher is designed for homeowners, farmers and ranchers who have a need to fell large trees in a single cut (or two), to cut firewood or to harvest large timber.

🍂 Ergonomic Leaf Blower

2023 Reviews : Best Backpack Leaf Blower / Top Rated Models

2023 Reviews : Best Backpack Leaf Blower / Top Rated Models

Last Update ► March 4, 2023

I think you'll be surprised to learn that in 2023, reputable brands are making cordless backpack leaf blowers that are equal to, or more powerful than many gas backpack leaf blowers --- and they're cheaper.

🍰 Generator Sweet Spot

Reviews — Best 7500 Watt Generators for the Money / New Models

Reviews — Best 7500 Watt Generators for the Money / New Models

Last Update ► January 24, 2023

As far as value, you won't find a better overall generator than this WGen7500 series from Westinghouse. For starters, Westinghouse has been in business since 1886 so they know how to make generators, among other things. For 2023, this is the best 7500 watt generator for homeowners looking for emergency backup power.

💡 The Power of 3 Fuels

Reviews : Champion 100416 vs DuroMax HXT — Best Tri-Fuel Generator

Reviews : Champion 100416 vs DuroMax HXT — Best Tri-Fuel Generator

Last Update ► February 20, 2023

A tri-fuel generator is quite a novel concept. I’m sure not too many folks are aware they even exist. Hybrid generators have become common. Most of us know a bit about dual-fuel generators. These can run on propane or gasoline, making them very convenient. An obvious question, I’m sure many of you are asking has to be: What is a tri-fuel generator?

👷🏼 Cheap Backup

DuroMax XP10000EH Review – All the Features You Need…Almost

DuroMax XP10000EH Review – All the Features You Need…Almost

Last Updated February 26, 2023

The DuroMax XP10000EH has been a popular dual-fuel generator for many years. The reasons for its success is rather simple, in fact the entire EH series from Duromax has been incredibly successful because of the overall build quality and reliability.

Footer

DMCA.com Protection Status
Do Not Sell My Personal Information

1199 Marinaside Crescent, Vancouver, Canada
T: 604/437/8033

© 2014–2023 • Chainsaw Journal • Affiliate Disclaimer • —Stay Strong