Saboten Professional Anvil Pruning Shears – No.1257 | Precision-Crafted Japanese Garden Tool

What are Saboten Professional Anvil Pruning Shears No.1257?

Saboten No.1257 are Japanese-made anvil pruning shears designed for controlled, powerful cuts. They feature a high-carbon steel blade with a non-stick coating and a comfortable soft-grip handle, making them well suited to tougher garden pruning jobs.

What does “anvil pruning shears” mean, and why choose them?

Anvil pruners cut by pressing a sharp blade down onto a flat anvil surface. This design usually requires less hand effort on harder or drier wood, making cuts feel more decisive compared to bypass pruners.

What are Saboten No.1257 best used for?

They’re ideal for pruning small branches, fruit tree maintenance, cutting back shrubs, and general garden pruning where firmness and control matter more than ultra-delicate slicing.

When should I use Saboten No.1257 instead of bypass pruners?

Choose them when working on thicker, drier, or tougher stems where bypass pruners start to feel hard to squeeze. For soft green growth that needs the cleanest possible slice, bypass pruners often perform better.

What is the cutting capacity of Saboten No.1257?

They’re rated for branches up to around 20 mm in diameter, depending on wood hardness and blade condition. If you’re forcing the cut or the branch bends instead of cutting, it’s time to switch to loppers or a pruning saw.

Do Saboten No.1257 crush stems?

Anvil pruners can crush very soft green stems if used on the wrong material or pushed beyond their comfort zone. Used within capacity and with a clean, confident squeeze, they deliver reliable, controlled cuts.

What are the blades made from, and what does the coating do?

The blade is high-carbon steel for edge retention, with a fluorine non-stick coating. The coating helps reduce sap buildup and improves glide, though it will gradually wear with heavy use or abrasive cleaning.

Are Saboten No.1257 comfortable for long pruning sessions?

Yes. The soft-grip handle and anvil action help reduce hand strain, especially when cutting tougher wood. Many gardeners with hand fatigue find anvil pruners easier than bypass styles.

How big are Saboten No.1257, and where are they made?

They’re approximately 205 mm (8 inches) long and made in Japan. Japanese pruners are widely respected for consistent build quality and durable blade heat treatment.

How do I get the cleanest cut with Saboten No.1257?

Seat the branch deeper into the blade, keep it steady, and make one smooth squeeze without twisting. Twisting during the cut is a common cause of ragged edges and bark damage.

How should I clean Saboten No.1257 after use?

Wipe sap off after pruning. For sticky residue, use warm soapy water or rubbing alcohol with a cloth, then dry thoroughly. Avoid dishwashers, abrasive pads, or harsh solvents that damage the coating.

How do I sharpen and maintain Saboten No.1257?

Sharpen the cutting blade only using a fine stone or file, keeping the original bevel. Oil the pivot occasionally. If cuts stay poor after sharpening, alignment or anvil damage may be the issue.

What’s the biggest mistake people make with Saboten No.1257?

Trying to cut branches that are too thick, or using them on wire, plastic, or gritty roots. Staying within the tool’s intended use keeps cuts clean and extends blade life.