What are the Saboten Professional Pruning Shears Bypass – No. 1255?
They are Japanese-made bypass pruning shears designed for clean, precise cuts on live plants. The bypass (scissor-style) action helps avoid crushing stems, making them ideal for everyday pruning, shaping, and detailed garden work.
What types of plants are these pruning shears best for?
They’re excellent for live wood, green stems, roses, shrubs, herbs, vegetables, and thicker indoor plant stems. Bypass pruners like these are especially good where clean cuts matter for plant health and recovery.
What is the maximum cutting thickness?
The comfortable cutting limit is around 20mm in ideal conditions. Softer wood may cut slightly thicker, but forcing larger or very hard branches can damage the blade or pivot over time.
What should I avoid cutting with these pruning shears?
Do not cut wire, metal, plastic ties, or gritty materials. Avoid thick hardwood beyond the rated capacity. Misuse dulls the blade quickly and can permanently damage alignment.
How do I get the cleanest cuts with Saboten No. 1255?
Place the stem deep near the pivot for maximum leverage, then make one smooth squeeze without twisting. Clean, sharp blades and cutting within capacity prevent crushing or ragged cuts.
What materials are the blades and handles made from?
The blades are high carbon steel with a low-friction, rust-resistant coating that reduces sap buildup. The handles are durable, ergonomic plastic designed for grip and comfort during extended use.
Do these pruning shears rust?
They are rust-resistant, not rust-proof. Wipe them clean and dry after use, especially in wet or humid gardens, and apply light oil occasionally to protect the steel.
How do I clean and sterilise the pruning shears?
Wipe blades after use to remove sap. For disinfecting between plants, use isopropyl alcohol or a garden-safe disinfectant, then dry and lightly oil the blades and pivot.
How often should I sharpen Saboten No. 1255 pruning shears?
Sharpen when cuts start tearing instead of slicing. Many gardeners do light touch-ups a few times a year. Maintaining the original bevel on the cutting blade is key.
Are the spring and pivot adjustable?
The shears are spring-loaded to reduce hand fatigue. If action feels stiff or rough, clean the pivot area and add a small drop of oil. Some pivot tension adjustment may be possible depending on the bolt design.
Do these pruning shears suit small or large hands?
The compact 8-inch size suits average to smaller hands well. Larger hands can still use them comfortably, though heavy-duty or long-session pruning may suit a bigger pruner.
Are they left-handed friendly?
They are primarily right-handed, but many left-handed users find them usable. Comfort can vary depending on grip and cutting angle.
Do the pruning shears have a safety lock?
Yes, there is a thumb-lock latch that keeps the blades closed for safe storage and transport. It’s generally easy to use, even with gloves.
Are Saboten No. 1255 pruning shears made in Japan?
Saboten is a Japanese tool brand, and this model is marketed as made in Japan. Always check packaging markings if country of origin is critical for you.
Why choose Saboten No. 1255 over cheaper pruners?
You get cleaner cuts, better edge retention, smoother action, and less hand fatigue. Over time, they’re more enjoyable to use and less frustrating than budget pruners that fight you mid-cut.
How do I keep these pruning shears performing like new?
Use them within capacity, clean off sap, dry after wet use, lightly oil the pivot, and sharpen before they get very dull. Simple care goes a long way with quality tools.
