Japanese secateurs for Australian gardens

Hand forged bypass pruning shears for clean cuts and all day use.

Discover our range of hand-forged Japanese secateurs, used by gardeners across Perth and Australia. These Japanese garden secateurs are built for precise pruning and reliable everyday work.

Made from high-carbon steels chosen for edge stability and ease of sharpening. If you are deciding between common steels used in Japanese secateurs, see our comparison of [SK85] and [KA70] carbon steels, which explains how hardness targets, sharpening feel, and maintenance differ in real use.

Japanese secateurs: what sets them apart


Japanese secateurs are built for clean, plant safe cuts and long service life. Makers use high carbon steels and careful heat treatment so the edge bites cleanly and stays sharp. The result is less crush on live wood, smoother wound closure, and more reliable pruning in Australian gardens.

Steel and build


Most good Japanese secateurs are drop forged and hand finished. Precise grinding and a tight pivot keep the blades aligned under load. Convex cutting edges add strength at the tip while still feeling keen in the cut. For a deeper look at how traditional blade steels differ, see our comparison of Aogami #2 and Shirogami #2.

Fit, size, and patterns


Common sizes run from about 180 to 210 mm overall. Choose a handle that fills your palm without forcing your wrist. Smaller hands often prefer 180 to 190 mm for control, while 200 to 210 mm suits larger hands or tougher wood. You will find standard bypass bodies, roll handle ergonomics for long days, and large loop handles for gloved work.

Care to keep the edge


High carbon edges reward simple care. Wipe sap, dry after use, and oil the pivot and blades lightly. Touch up with a fine stone that follows the factory bevel, and avoid twisting through cuts. For background on why carbon steel takes such a keen edge, read our article on why forged carbon steel matters.

Maker spotlight: Tobisho


Tobisho is a Yamagata forge known among orchardists and arborists for rigid, precise tools that hold alignment. The A Type pattern is made for repeatable cuts in hardwoods. East West Tools imports Tobisho secateurs into Australia and ships them from Perth, so you can buy professional Japanese garden secateurs with local support.

Explore the full range here:Tobisho secateurs.

Quick picks

  • Hard, keen edge for clean pruning and less crush.
  • Forged bodies for strength and long term alignment.
  • Ergonomic options in sizes and handle shapes to reduce hand strain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which size secateurs should I choose?

Most Japanese secateurs come in 180 mm (small hands/light pruning), 200 mm (medium/most users), and 210 mm (large hands/heavier cuts). If you’re between sizes, choose the smaller for control and reduced fatigue. The tool should close comfortably in your palm without the handles pinching.

What can they cut, and when should I use something else?

Bypass secateurs are ideal for living stems up to about 15–20 mm(species and model dependent). For thicker or very hard, dead wood, switch to loppers or a pruning saw to protect the edge and your hands. Avoid cutting wire as this will damage the cutting edge.

Can I sharpen them myself?

Yes. Use a water stone (≈1000–3000 grit). With the blades open, hone only the outside bevel of the cutting blade, keeping the factory angle; then wipe and lightly de-burr the flat back. Don’t grind the inside faces, doing so can create gaps and cause the blades to bind.

Tools that sharpen, not replace

Built for longevity. Proper care reduces waste and improves performance over time.

Care guide

Crafted in Japan

Forged by skilled makers using time-honoured techniques. We buy direct from small workshops.

Fast dispatch from Perth

Orders placed before 12pm ship same day from Perth. Delivery times vary by location.

Shipping policy

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