Okatsune 103 Bypass Secateurs

Product Information

The cuts are really clean with no tearing or crushing of plant material, which is good news for your hands in avoiding repetitive strain issues .

They are lightweight, which is the first thing you will notice, and there are no cheap plastic pieces that look like they will break off easily the first time you drop them. New tools won’t need sharpening for some time, but after a while you’ll notice them gradually lose their edge, especially if you’re box clipping (you need REALLY sharp blades to get a good finish with box). Use the Niwaki Sharpening Stones for best results (#1000 grit is best for general sharpening).

The cut is clean and effortless. The stainless steel blade has a cutting capacity of diameters of 20 mm – less than the Felco and Okatsune secateurs featured here, but more than the Wilkinson pair above. Smooth blades all have their limits, says Jake Hobson. Steel is hard and sharp, but it can chip if abused. Try not to cut wire, metal, stone, plastic or any other hard material. Even bamboo fibres and some very hard woods, especially knots, burrs and dead wood, can damage steel edges. One common problem we come across with models that have exposed springs is that the springs can get dislodged and fall out. Most standard-looking secateurs have these types of springs, including all Felco models, it’s not a bad thing but something to be aware of. You can buy spare springs for some models including Felco, but unfortunately, with some models, you cannot get spare springs so if you lose the spring, then they are only fit for the bin. This is usually true for the cheaper models where the springs are not as well-fitted. Are ideally suited to pruning small trees and shrubs. They are an essential tool for a gardener and are the perfect tool for making precise sharp cuts. According to topiary expert Darren Lerigo, most gardeners will find bypass secateurs to be the better bet, because they make for a cleaner cut. How do I care for the blades of my secateurs?

If you suffer fromcarpal tunnel, arthritis or have the distinct disadvantage of having smaller or weak hands, then these are the best choice for you. Known to Hobson affectionately as his “double yellows”, the bright yellow Niwaki GR Pro secateurs are made with KA70 carbon steel, they’re a 23cm long pair of whoppers, weighing 239g. Most of our sharp tools are made from carbon steel - this means they may, through regular use, stain (and eventually rust) and gradually lose their edge. Caring for them involves three things… 1. Correct Use:When buying secateurs there are 3 types which perform different functions. Bypass which is used for pruning fresh growth. Anvil which is used for cutting dead or larger branches. Snips which are used for finer pruning such as dead-heading flowers. The non slip, red coated handles make these garden secateurs easy to find in sunny conditions (if your forgetful like me). They are comfortable in the hand and feel well balanced.