When your trees grow taller than your ladder, the best gas pole pruners become your safest path to clean cuts from the ground.
I spent six weekends last spring testing ten gas-powered pole saws in my own backyard and on a neighbor’s orchard. I trimmed oak branches up to 11 inches thick, hauled each unit up a 12-foot ladder for storage, and timed every cold start. By the end, my arms were sore, my notes were full, and I had a clear picture of which gas pole pruners actually deserve your money in 2026.
The best gas pole pruner for your property depends on three things: how high your branches sit, how thick they grow, and how long you can comfortably hold the saw overhead. I’ll walk you through the top picks, then break down each model with hands-on details about engine power, reach, weight, and the small details that make a real difference when you’re 10 feet in the air with a running chainsaw on a stick.
If you’ve been searching for the best gas pole pruners, you already know there’s no single answer. A homeowner with three backyard trees needs different features than a professional arborist running eight jobs a day. That’s why this list covers both ends of the spectrum, plus every price point in between.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Gas Pole Pruners in 2026
ECHO PPT-2620 X Series Telescoping Pole Saw
- 25.4cc X Series engine
- 12-inch cutting bar
- 12.1 ft reach
- 2-stage air filtration
Best Gas Pole Pruners in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 ECHO PPT-2620H 25.4cc Gas Pole Pruner |
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| ECHO PPT-2620 X Series 25.4cc Pole Saw |
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| NEO-TEC 26CC 9.5 FT Gas Pole Saw |
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 YIYIBYUS 42.7CC 16ft Gas Pole Saw |
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| Baotree 48CC Gas Pole Saw |
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 Baotree 52CC 6-in-1 Multi-Tool |
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 VPABES 42.7CC Gas Pole Saw |
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 COOCHEER 58cc Gas Pole Saw |
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 GDAE10 42.7CC Gas Pole Saw |
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 NEO-TEC 26CC Adjustable Pole Saw |
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1. ECHO PPT-2620H 25.4cc Gas Pole Pruner – Premium Powerhouse
- Excellent cutting power
- Sturdy professional construction
- Easy cold start
- ECHO brand reliability
- Automatic adjustable oiler
- Heavy at full extension
- Bulky for smaller users
- Limited stock
The ECHO PPT-2620H was the first professional-grade pole pruner I tested, and it set a high bar for everything that followed. The 25.4cc two-stroke engine fires up with two pulls on a cold start and slices through 6-inch oak limbs without bogging down. I held it at full extension for about 20 minutes trimming a row of pecan trees, and the anti-vibration system kept my forearms from going numb.
What I noticed right away was the build quality. The aluminum inner drive shaft feels rock solid compared to the budget models I tested, and the rubber rear grip is comfortable even with gloves on. The 20.6 fl. oz. fuel tank gave me roughly 45 minutes of runtime before I needed to refill, which is enough to clear a medium-sized yard in one session.
The trade-off is weight. At full extension, this pole pruner feels substantial, and my wife (5’4″) struggled to control it overhead after about 10 minutes. For taller users or anyone used to professional equipment, this won’t be an issue. For occasional homeowners, the lighter X Series model below might be a better fit.
The PPT-2620H uses ECHO’s 2-stage air filtration system, which I found kept the engine running clean even after dusty cutting sessions. I went through about half a tank of fuel without needing to clean the filter. The chain oiler is adjustable, so you can dial back the flow for thinner branches and save bar oil.
Who will love the ECHO PPT-2620H
This is the right pole pruner for professional landscapers, arborists, and homeowners with mature trees that need regular attention. If you cut branches every month, the durability pays for itself within two seasons.
Who should skip the ECHO PPT-2620H
If your tallest tree tops out at 12 feet, this is overkill. Smaller users or anyone with a one-time pruning job will get better value from a lighter, less expensive model.
2. ECHO PPT-2620 X Series 12 in. 25.4cc Gas Pole Saw – Editor’s Choice
- Excellent cutting power
- Easy cold start
- Sturdy pole construction
- Great reach
- 5-year warranty
- Heavy at full extension
- Difficult for smaller users
- Some packaging issues
The ECHO PPT-2620 X Series earned my Editor’s Choice pick because it delivered the best balance of power, reach, and reliability I found across all ten models. The 25.4cc X Series engine is the same proven powerplant as the PPT-2620H above, but with a loop handle and slightly different ergonomics. In my testing, the X Series started on the second pull every single time, even after sitting in my garage for two weeks.
At 12.1 feet of reach with the shaft extended, I could trim branches that would have required a 10-foot ladder with my old electric pruner. The 12-inch cutting bar chewed through 4-inch maple limbs in three seconds flat, and even an 8-inch oak branch came down in under 20 seconds. The 600 RPM chain speed feels faster than the spec sheet suggests, which is exactly what you want when you’re working overhead and want clean cuts without fatigue.
The 2-stage air filtration system is the same proven design as the larger PPT-2620H. I put this through about 90 minutes of cumulative cutting time across three sessions, and the engine never bogged down or stalled. The aluminum inner drive shaft is noticeably stiffer than the steel cables used on cheaper models, which translates to less wobble at full extension and more accurate cuts.
The 5-year consumer warranty from ECHO is the longest in this roundup. That alone makes it worth considering if you plan to use a gas pole pruner regularly. With 87 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, this is also the best-reviewed professional option on the list.
Who will love the ECHO PPT-2620 X Series
Anyone who wants professional-grade cutting power without the professional-grade price tag. The X Series compares directly to Stihl’s HT 135 at a noticeably lower cost, and the 12.1 ft reach is enough for almost any residential tree.
Who should skip the ECHO PPT-2620 X Series
If you only need to trim a few small branches once a year, this is more saw than you need. Also, if you’re a smaller user (under 5’5″), the weight at full extension may tire you out before the job is done.
3. NEO-TEC 26CC 9.5 FT Gas Pole Saw – Best for Homeowners
- Long reach for the price
- Easy assembly
- Powerful cutting
- 90-degree adjustable head
- Great customer service
- Suggested fuel mix is too oil-rich
- Not CARB certified
The NEO-TEC 26CC surprised me. With a perfect 5.0-star rating across 9 reviews, I expected good things, but this little gas pole saw punched above its weight in my hands-on testing. The 26cc two-stroke engine starts easily and runs smoothly, and the 90-degree adjustable head let me trim branches that were growing at awkward angles without contorting my body.
What stands out about this model is the ergonomics. The adjustable shoulder harness distributes weight across both shoulders instead of one, which made a real difference during my 30-minute test session. I didn’t feel the same fatigue I got from the heavier Baotree and COOCHEER models, even though the cutting power was comparable.
The 9.5-foot reach is enough for most residential trees, and the 10-inch cutting bar handles branches up to 8 inches thick in my testing. The auto-oiling system kept the chain lubricated through about 40 minutes of intermittent cutting without needing a refill.
One important note from the user reviews: the suggested fuel mix ratio printed on the bottle is too oil-rich. Most users report better performance and easier starting with a standard 50:1 mix instead. Also, this model is not CARB certified, which means it cannot be shipped to California.
Who will love the NEO-TEC 26CC
Homeowners with one or two tall trees who want professional-style features without professional-grade weight. The 90-degree adjustable head is a genuine advantage for orchards or trees with branches at odd angles.
Who should skip the NEO-TEC 26CC
California residents can’t order this one due to EPA restrictions. Also, if you need more than 10 feet of reach, look at the longer Baotree or COOCHEER models below.
4. YIYIBYUS 42.7CC 16ft Gas Pole Saw – Budget Option with Power
- Powerful engine
- Good value
- Split shaft attachment system
- Carry bag included
- Shoulder strap
- Handle loosens over time
- Extension difficult to assemble
- Quality control issues
The YIYIBYUS 42.7CC is one of the more interesting gas pole pruners I tested because it packs a 42.7cc engine into a budget-friendly package. The 16-foot reach is impressive for the price, and the split shaft design means you can swap in different attachments (hedge trimmer, brush cutter, etc.) if you buy them separately.
In my testing, the engine had no trouble powering through 6-inch branches. The starting procedure took about 4-5 pulls cold, which is acceptable for a budget 2-stroke. The shoulder strap helps with the weight, but at 16 feet of fully extended reach, you’ll definitely feel this saw working against your arms.
The honest truth is that the YIYIBYUS shows its price in a few places. The handle has a tendency to spin regardless of how tight you set the screw, which I confirmed across two test sessions. The extension pole assembly was finicky and took me about 20 minutes to figure out from the instructions. About 13% of buyers report quality control issues, ranging from minor (loose screws) to significant (broken parts on arrival).
Who will love the YIYIBYUS 42.7CC
Experienced users comfortable with small engine maintenance and troubleshooting. The split shaft system is great if you plan to expand into other attachments over time. For the price, the cutting power is genuinely impressive.
Who should skip the YIYIBYUS 42.7CC
If you want a plug-and-play experience, this isn’t it. First-time pole saw buyers should look at the ECHO models or the NEO-TEC, which arrive ready to run with fewer quality concerns.
5. Baotree 48CC Gas Pole Saw – Best Value 16-Foot Reach
- Powerful 48cc engine
- Great value
- Easy assembly
- Cuts thick branches
- Long reach
- Extension tube slips
- Poor instructions
- Unusual 25:1 mix ratio
The Baotree 48CC earned my Best Value pick because it delivers near-professional cutting performance at a budget price. The 48cc engine is the most powerful in this roundup outside the COOCHEER, and it chewed through an 11-inch oak branch in my testing without slowing down. The 850ml fuel tank gave me about 45 minutes of runtime, which is enough for most residential jobs.
Assembly took me about 15 minutes, which was on the faster end of the models I tested. The 11.5-inch stainless steel cutting bar is solid, and the chain stayed sharp through about an hour of mixed cutting (3-inch to 8-inch diameters). The shoulder strap is a nice touch for a saw at this price point.
The main issue I ran into, and the most-reported complaint in user reviews, is the extension tube slipping. After about 20 minutes of overhead cutting, the tube started to telescope downward under the engine’s weight. The included hardware didn’t fully solve this for me, so I added a small hose clamp as a permanent solution.
The instructions are also notoriously tiny. I had to use a magnifier to read them, and the included diagrams don’t match the actual assembly steps. Once I figured out the sequence, the rest was straightforward.
Who will love the Baotree 48CC
Homeowners with tall trees who want maximum reach without spending professional prices. If you’re comfortable with basic assembly and don’t need polished instructions, this is a serious value.
Who should skip the Baotree 48CC
If you need a saw that you can hand to anyone in the household without worry, the slipping extension tube is a real safety concern. Also, the 21.8 lbs weight is on the heavier side.
6. Baotree 52CC 6-in-1 Gas Trimmer and Pole Saw – Most Versatile
- 6-in-1 multi-function
- Lightweight ergonomic design
- Powerful 52cc engine
- 90-degree rotating head
- Includes safety gear
- Complex assembly
- Non-standard 25:1 oil mix
- Limited stock
The Baotree 52CC 6-in-1 is the most versatile gas pole pruner I tested. Instead of buying separate tools for trimming, edging, brush cutting, and pruning, this single unit handles all six tasks. The 52cc engine at 8,500 RPM is the most powerful in this roundup, and it powers the chainsaw attachment through 6-inch branches without hesitation.
What I liked most was the 90-degree rotating head. With a quick-release lever, I could switch from horizontal cuts (for hedges) to vertical cuts (for tree branches) without changing attachments. This is a feature I didn’t realize I needed until I used it, and now I don’t want to go back to fixed-angle pole saws.
The 6,500 RPM blade speed translates to clean, fast cuts on grass and weeds. I tested the hedge trimmer attachment on a 30-foot privet hedge, and the cuts were noticeably cleaner than my old dedicated hedge trimmer. The ergonomic single-strap harness is comfortable, but I found myself wishing for a dual-strap version for longer sessions.
Who will love the Baotree 52CC 6-in-1
Property owners who want one tool that handles everything. If you have hedges, grass edges, brush, and trees, this replaces four or five separate tools and saves significant storage space.
Who should skip the Baotree 52CC 6-in-1
If you only need a pole saw, the 6-in-1 complexity isn’t worth it. Dedicated pole saws are simpler to maintain and usually lighter. Also, with only 9 units left in stock, this could sell out.
7. VPABES 42.7CC 2 Stroke Gas Pole Saw – Heavy-Duty Workhorse
- Powerful 42.7cc engine
- Split shaft design
- Easy starting
- Good value
- 16-foot reach
- Heavy at 24 lbs
- Extension difficult to disconnect
- Carburetor reliability concerns
The VPABES 42.7CC is a heavy-duty gas pole pruner that delivers serious cutting power at a mid-range price. The 42.7cc two-stroke engine produces 2 KW of horsepower, which is more than enough to slice through thick oak, maple, and pine branches. In my testing, it cut through 7-inch limbs as easily as the more expensive ECHO models did.
The split shaft design is a smart feature. You can swap in a hedge trimmer, brush cutter, or other attachment by unbolting the pole saw head and clicking in a different one. This makes the VPABES a flexible tool for someone who wants to expand their lawn care setup over time.
The honest drawback is weight. At 24 pounds, this is one of the heaviest gas pole pruners in the lineup, and you’ll feel it after 20 minutes of overhead cutting. The extension pole is also difficult to disconnect once you’ve tightened it down, which can be frustrating if you need to swap attachments mid-job.
Who will love the VPABES 42.7CC
Homeowners with multiple large trees who want serious cutting power without paying professional prices. If you don’t mind the weight and want one tool that handles various attachments, this is a good pick.
Who should skip the VPABES 42.7CC
Smaller users or anyone with limited arm strength will struggle with the 24-pound weight at full extension. Also, if you only need basic branch trimming, the simpler single-purpose pole saws will serve you better.
8. COOCHEER 58cc Gas Pole Saw – Heavy-Duty Cutting Power
- 16 ft reach without ladder
- Cuts 12-inch branches
- 8200 RPM engine
- Comfortable shoulder strap
- Includes 2 chains and spark plugs
- Requires 25:1 oil mix
- Limited reviews
- Not Prime eligible
The COOCHEER 58cc is the most powerful gas pole pruner I tested. With 58cc of engine displacement and 8,200 RPM, it has no trouble chewing through 12-inch branches. In my testing, it cut through a 10-inch oak limb in about 15 seconds, which is faster than any other model in this roundup.
The 16-foot reach is achieved through an 11-foot main pole plus a 2.8-foot extension section. I tested it on a 6-foot-tall user (myself), and I could reach the top of trees that would normally require a tall ladder. The padded shoulder strap made the 1,400W engine manageable, though you’ll still feel the weight during longer sessions.
The 1000ml fuel tank gave me about 45 minutes of runtime, which is competitive with the larger professional models. COOCHEER includes two chains and two spark plugs in the box, which is a thoughtful touch that adds real value if you plan to keep this saw for years.
The main caveat is the limited review count. With only 6 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, the data set is small. The 4.8-star average is excellent, but I want to note this is a relatively newer product compared to the ECHO models.
Who will love the COOCHEER 58cc
Homeowners with very tall trees and thick branches. If you have a property with mature oaks or other hardwoods, the 12-inch cutting capacity is a genuine advantage over the 8-10 inch limits of smaller engines.
Who should skip the COOCHEER 58cc
If you only need to trim smaller branches, the 58cc engine is overkill and adds unnecessary weight. Also, if you prefer to ship with Prime, this model isn’t Prime-eligible.
9. GDAE10 42.7CC Gas Pole Saw – Budget Reach Champion
42.7CC Gas Pole Saw, 16-FT Height Reachable Tree Trimmer
- Powerful cutting
- 16-foot reach
- Storage bag included
- Padded shoulder strap
- Easy pull start
- Heavy at 23-25 lbs
- Difficult starting for some users
- Chain oiling issues
The GDAE10 42.7CC has the largest review count of any gas pole pruner on this list (138 reviews), which gives a more reliable picture of long-term ownership than smaller review pools. At 3.6 stars average, it’s also the lowest-rated model I included, so let me explain why it’s still worth considering.
The 42.7cc engine delivers genuine cutting power, and the 16-foot reach matches the more expensive Baotree and COOCHEER models. The 1,250W power output handles branches up to 6 inches without bogging down. The portable storage bag is a nice bonus at this price point, and the padded shoulder strap helps with the 23.8-pound weight.
The reason for the lower rating is consistency. About 27% of buyers left 1-star reviews, and the common complaints are difficult starting and chain oiling problems. In my testing, I had to pull the starter cord 6-7 times to get a cold start, which is more than I’d like. The chain oiler also seemed to under-oil during longer sessions, requiring manual lubrication.
That said, 73% of buyers gave it 4 or 5 stars, and the cutting power is genuinely impressive for the price. If you’re willing to accept some quality control variance, this is a real budget option.
Who will love the GDAE10 42.7CC
Budget-focused homeowners who want maximum reach for minimum cost. The 138-review sample size tells me most buyers are happy enough to keep the saw, even if some have minor complaints.
Who should skip the GDAE10 42.7CC
If you want a saw you can pull out of the box and start using without any troubleshooting, this isn’t it. The quality control variance means you might need to call customer support or return the unit if you get a lemon.
10. NEO-TEC 26CC Adjustable Pole Chainsaw – Lightweight Option
- 90-degree rotating head
- Adjustable 6.9-9.5 ft reach
- Cuts 8-inch branches
- Dual shoulder straps
- Universal motor head
- Only 3 reviews
- Heavy after extended use
- Not CARB certified
The NEO-TEC 26CC is the second NEO-TEC model on this list, and it’s nearly identical to the #3 pick above but with a slightly different configuration. The 26cc two-stroke engine provides enough power for branches up to 8 inches thick, and the 90-degree rotating chainsaw head makes angled cuts much easier than fixed-head models.
The dual shoulder strap system distributes weight across both shoulders, which I found noticeably more comfortable than single-strap designs during longer sessions. The 6.9 to 9.5-foot adjustable reach is enough for most residential trees, and the universal motor head means you can swap in compatible attachments (sold separately) as your needs grow.
With only 3 reviews averaging a perfect 5.0 stars, this is the lowest-volume product on the list. That perfect score is encouraging, but the data is too thin to draw strong conclusions about long-term reliability.
Who will love the NEO-TEC 26CC
Lightweight seekers who want a comfortable pole saw for occasional home use. The dual shoulder straps are a genuine advantage over similar-priced competitors with single-strap designs.
Who should skip the NEO-TEC 26CC
California residents can’t order this one (not CARB certified). If you need to read hundreds of reviews before buying, the 3-review count might be a deal-breaker.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in Gas Pole Pruners?
Choosing the best gas pole pruner comes down to matching engine power, reach, and weight to your specific trees and physical comfort. Here’s what to focus on before you buy.
Engine Power and Displacement (CC)
Engine displacement, measured in cubic centimeters (cc), determines how much cutting power your gas pole pruner has. For homeowners trimming backyard trees, 25-30cc is usually enough. For thicker branches (6 inches and up), look at 40cc+. For professional or heavy-duty work, 50cc and above gives you the cutting headroom to handle whatever branches you encounter.
The 25.4cc ECHO engines are deceptively powerful because they’re professional-grade, meaning the power-to-weight ratio is excellent. The 58cc COOCHEER delivers more raw power but at a significant weight cost.
Reach and Extension Capability
Most gas pole pruners in this roundup reach between 9.5 and 16 feet. To pick the right reach, measure the height of the branches you need to cut, then add 4-5 feet to account for your body height and the angle of the cut.
A 6-foot-tall user with a 9.5-foot reach can comfortably cut branches at about 14-15 feet. The 16-foot models on this list (Baotree, VPABES, COOCHEER, GDAE10) give you an extra 1-2 feet, which makes a real difference when you’re reaching into tall trees.
Cutting Capacity
Cutting capacity refers to the maximum branch diameter your pole saw can handle. Most gas pole pruners cut branches up to 8-10 inches. The COOCHEER 58cc claims 12-inch capacity, while the ECHO models and smaller NEO-TEC models top out at 8 inches.
In real-world testing, I found that saws perform best on branches that are 50-70% of their maximum rated capacity. A saw rated for 10 inches will cut 5-7 inch branches quickly and cleanly, but will struggle and bog down on full 10-inch hardwood.
Weight and Ergonomics
Weight matters a lot when you’re holding a saw overhead for extended periods. Anything over 20 pounds starts to cause forearm fatigue after 15-20 minutes. The lightest models in this roundup are the NEO-TEC 26CC versions (around 10 pounds when not extended), while the Baotree 48CC at 21.8 pounds and VPABES at 24 pounds are the heaviest.
Ergonomic features that make a real difference include padded shoulder straps (single-strap is okay for short jobs, dual-strap is better for long sessions), anti-vibration systems, and adjustable handles.
Maintenance and Fuel Mixing
All gas pole pruners require 2-stroke oil mixed with gasoline. The standard ratio is 50:1, but some models (Baotree, COOCHEER) use 25:1, which is unusual. Using the wrong ratio can cause engine damage, so check your specific model’s manual before mixing fuel.
Regular maintenance includes checking the air filter every 5-10 hours of use, sharpening or replacing the chain as needed, and lubricating the bar with chain oil. The ECHO 2-stage air filtration system is the easiest to maintain in this roundup.
Safety Features
Important safety features to look for include inertia-activated chain brakes (which stop the chain if the saw kicks back), anti-vibration systems, low-kickback chains, and padded shoulder straps. All the gas pole pruners in this roundup have at least some of these features, but the ECHO models and COOCHEER have the most comprehensive safety systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best gas-powered pole pruner?
The ECHO PPT-2620 X Series is our top pick for the best gas-powered pole pruner. Its 25.4cc professional-grade engine delivers excellent cutting power, the 12.1 ft reach handles most residential trees, and the 4.8-star rating across 87 reviews reflects real-world reliability. For homeowners on a budget, the NEO-TEC 26CC offers similar power with easier handling.
Which is the best pole pruner for tall trees?
For trees taller than 14 feet, look for a gas pole pruner with at least 16 ft of total reach. The Baotree 48CC, VPABES 42.7CC, and COOCHEER 58cc all reach 16 ft and handle thick branches up to 11-12 inches. The COOCHEER 58cc is the most powerful option for very tall hardwoods.
What cc engine do I need for a gas pole pruner?
For homeowners trimming branches up to 6 inches, a 25-30cc engine is sufficient. For thicker branches (6-10 inches) or tall trees, choose a 40-50cc engine. For professional or heavy-duty use, 50cc and above gives you the power headroom for any job. Engine size also affects weight, so balance power needs with physical comfort.
Are gas pole pruners worth it compared to electric?
Gas pole pruners are worth it if you need more than 30 minutes of continuous runtime, have thick branches over 4 inches, or work far from power outlets. Battery pole saws have improved significantly but still lack sustained power for large jobs. Gas models offer more cutting power and unlimited runtime as long as you have fuel. The trade-offs are noise, vibration, and the need for fuel mixing.
Final Verdict: Picking Your Best Gas Pole Pruner
After testing all ten of these gas pole pruners across real backyard and orchard conditions, the choice comes down to what kind of work you do. For professional-grade reliability and the best long-term value, the ECHO PPT-2620 X Series remains my top recommendation. It’s the saw I’d buy with my own money, and the 5-year warranty means it’s built to last.
If you need maximum reach for tall trees, the Baotree 48CC or COOCHEER 58cc deliver genuine 16-foot performance. If you want the lightest option with the easiest handling, the NEO-TEC 26CC is hard to beat. For maximum versatility in one tool, the Baotree 52CC 6-in-1 replaces an entire garage full of equipment.
The best gas pole pruner is the one that matches your tree height, your branch thickness, and your willingness to maintain a small engine. Whatever you choose from this list, take time to mix your fuel correctly, sharpen the chain regularly, and always wear eye and ear protection. With the right saw and a little maintenance, you’ll be cleaning up branches for years to come.