****** - Verified Buyer
4.5
As far as tools go, this is a very good one. In the box you will find a complete parts list for anything that wears out. Don't know how expensive the parts are, but there is no doubt that the maker had the user in mind. That is also very apparent upon use of the tool, however if you haven't used this type of tool before, I recommend holding off on any critism until you get used to using it. For example, upon first use I found the grabbers in the way a little, as they jutt forward ever so slightly of the blade. It didn't take long to realize that the trade-off was enormously in favor of the overall user experience. In other words, the tiny bit that the grabber is in the way is far exceeded by it's usefulness. A lot of thought went into making this tool. Anyway leave it to the Japanese to make anything this sharp, and when it gets dull just order another blade.Update: I have used this tool now for just over 3 months. I have much to trim in my garden because it is all trellised. This tool has become indispensable. The swiveling blades come in handy very often. Be forewarned though, it is easy to abuse, not because it's weak but because it's strong. You will likely be temped to cut branches that are larger than it is designed for. If you can keep from doing that, like I can't, this tool will undoubtedly last a very long time. Even with extensive, and sometimes brutal use, mine is still going strong, and remains sharp. The only thing that would make this tool better, in my view, would be a few more inches of length.
