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How to use Japanese pruning scissors
Part names on a Japanese pruning scissor
Types of Japanese pruning scissors
Choose pruning scissors / shears accordingly to your required task.
Cutting performance
The size / length of the blade will determine the size of the branch you are able to cut.
Handling performance
- When fully gripped, the handle should fit snuggly
- The pivot/hinge should not feel too loose, or too stiff
- Smooth opening and cutting motion
- Easy to fully open the blade edges
- The back of the back is inline with the cutting edge
Material of the scissor
Steel scissors
Advantage of all-steel scissors is that the end of the blades can be constructed to bevery thin and will still resist from being easily bent. Many small pruning scissors are made from steel.
Forged Iron and Steel scissors
Scissors made from iron with steel blades are quite common in Japan. The steel blades are quenched to increase strength and to improve durability.
Stainless Steel scissors
The resistance against rust is a very appealing point of stainless steel scissors. There have been rumours that stainless steel dulls very quickly, but this is simply not true. Though these days, there are plenty of other strong rust resistant materials used to make scissors.
How to use a kibasami
Do no abuse new scissors, handle them with care. When cutting thick and tough branches, use the inside of the blade and try to cut the branch on an angle. (or cut in a circular motion) Ki basami, Pruning scissors/shears blades are set to cut branches, hence thin materials like plastic will not easily cut. The blade can be damaged if dropped, so please handle with care.
Differences according to style
- For crowded branch areas, Koedagiri, Long armed bonsai & Satsuki scissors are recommended for the extra reach
- For thicker branches; Gardening, Shrubery, and Ookubo scissors are recommended. (there are also many other kinds of blades available)
- For flower scissors; Ikenobou or Koryuu styles are recommended (165mm sizes are the most common)
Use for crowded branched areas.
Scissors for thick branches
Scissors for flowers.
Maintenence
When finished using, apply a drop or two of oil onto the pivot/hinge bolt and wipe down the whole scissor with an oiled cloth. When sharpening, only sharpen the cutting edge. If the backside is sharpened or polished, your scissor may fail to cut properly. If the pivot/hinge screw loosens, simply tighten. If the pivot/hinge bolt loosens lightly tap with a hammer to re-tighten.
*When sharpening, only sharpen the side with the blade edge.
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