Okatsune 103 Bypass Secateurs

Product Information

The top mounted safety catch is great for when working up ladders etc as it can be operated with the cutting hand. What makes this pair of secateurs exceptional are the cutting blades. Made from the finest Japanese steel (the same as used to make Samurai swords) they are sharp, incredibly sharp and being crafted from the finest steel, stay sharp! Measuring 202mm, this model is suitable for smaller hands, making them perhaps a good choice for many ladies. The blades of these secateurs have been forged from the finest grade of Japanese steel, in other words, the same steel used to craft the Katana sword of the Samurai. The outcome is a razor-sharp secateurs that easily cuts through branches of roses, shrubs and other plants, up to 25mm in diameter which is the same as most Felco models. If you are a gardener by trade or wanting to invest in the ‘best secateurs’, then these Felco model 2are what you’re looking for. They also come with a lifetime guarantee, that no other company comes close to.

With its ingenious rotating handle the P961 takes up to 3x less effort when pruning. This is due to the load being spread across all joints. TheseFelco Model 6 secateurs are nearly identical to the Felco model 2. The handles are made from the same forged aluminium steel which makes them very strong, lightweight and nearly unbreakable. They have the same hardened steel blade that can be changed if needed and it produces a very precise clean cut on all the different types of stems we tested them on. Our recommendation The most important part of any bypass secateurs is the blade. Precise cutting, sharp blades will cut cleanly through stems and branches which reduces the chance of disease and infection spreading into the the pruned cut. Less effort will also be needed as a super sharp blade should the like cutting through cucumber on a chopping board. As the blades on bypass secateurs have a scissor design, they're generally best if you're right-handed. Left-handed pruners do exist, though, and most premium brands offer models for lefties. Blade cutting diameterKnown 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.

According to gardening writer Anna Pavord, he approaches the subject “with the eye of an artist”, and as a result, his loppers – in particular these limited edition S-Type secateurs – are a work of art in themselves. The only reason the Okatsune pruners pipped them to the post here is because of the price: but really, I’d highly recommend both – it just comes down to aesthetics. How smoothly the contraption can be manoeuvred one-handed will impact the efficiency of your green-fingered endeavours. Just make sure you invest in a quality product – which means good, sharp steel. The sharper the blade, the stronger the cut and the less force is required, which makes it the gentler on the wrists, says topiary expert Darren Lerigo who runs the Modern Mint online tool and gardening shop. If the blades can be sharpened, all the better. You will also benefit from precise cutting no matter the plants or foliage you’ll be trimming. The SK5 carbon steel blades are sure to offer long-term service without losing their cutting edge, whilst the finger protection guard will ensure there are no accidental injuries. 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.The Okatsune 101 has an overall length of 180mm and is the most compact pruner of the 3 models, they are particularly suitable for a small hand. The blades of this razor-sharp pruner are forged from the finest Japanese steel (the same steel from which the Katana sword of the Samurai are made), and enable you to effortlessly cut through branches up to 25mm, such as shrubs, roses, fruit trees, and creepers. Being hardened steel they keep a sharp edge for longer between sharpening’s. Handy if your not that diligent at keeping your tools sharp.

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. We really like the lifetime warranty on this product because it means total peace of mind and, even so, parts are readily replaceable if necessary which is more than you can say for most other models. You definitely want a tool that won’t cause hand blisters and ligament strain, and this one is ergonomically designed to use comfortably all day long making it perfect for professionals who really do need nothing but the best tools.According to Telegraph gardening expert Helen Yemm, secateurs usually jam because of a build-up of dried sap and general garden grot on the blades. A good clean, followed by a wipe with an oily rag, sorts the problem out. Presumably you have tried that.

These are perfect for beginners and avid gardeners but probably not the best choice for professionals or anyone who does lots of pruning regularly. If you tend to experience fatigue and aching hands from continuous pruning but don’t prune on a weekly basis, these secateurs are life-saving and probably the most affordable pair. Cushioning: Some secateurs have soft and cushioned handles so they’re more comfortable to use over long periods. When you buy from a leading secateur maker you’ll be able to buy with confidence and own a tool that will give you years of service.Davoen is a British manufacturer that you can always rely on for high-quality affordable products and are best for busy home gardeners. The Davoen Pro Bypass Secateurs have a quirky design that makes them stand out from the competition. The handles of these secateurs are well designed, with their auto-rotating feature that allows you to spread your fingers and use the tool without too much effort. Issues such as hand fatigue, muscle cramps and blisters are not common with these secateurs and that’s really a good thing. Those who suffer from hand ailments or the elderly will benefit greatly from these secateurs and you won’t find a better-priced pair. Revolving handle: This feature allows one handle to rotate with you as you grip, so it moves with your hand to make the movement more natural.