Tobisho Ikiru Pruning Shears

Tobisho Ikiru Pruning Shears

$250.00

Ikiru pruning shears from Tobisho blend sharp carbon steel blades with two tone Italian leather grips. Developed in Yamagata with regional partners, they balance artisan detail and plant care philosophy. Perth dispatch with practical guidance for setup, service, and sharpening.

EAST WEST TOOLS QUALITY GUARANTEE

We stand behind the quality of our tools with a 30-day return policy
and support for exchanges or repairs when needed. Read the full policy here.

SHIPPING

We dispatch every weekday from Perth.
Orders over $250 ship FREE over $100 for our local legends.
Regular: $12.50 Express: $19.00 Read the full shipping policy here.

PRODUCT CARE

Proper care keeps your tools performing for decades. Read the full guide.

 

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Description

Ikiru pruning shears with artisan leather grip and clean carbon steel edge


Built in Yamagata and available in Australia, the Tobisho Ikiru pruning shears are a 200 mm tool designed for sharp, clean cuts. Perth dispatch ensures fast delivery, and we support the tool with guidance on care and sharpening so it performs season after season.


The Ikiru project was developed with YX-Yamagata Transformation and backed by Yamagata Shimbun. The philosophy is simple: “cut is love.” A clean cut supports healthier, longer-lived plants. Blades are forged in carbon steel for responsive sharpness and easy maintenance. Handles are wrapped in two tone Italian leather grips made by La lumiére de l'ombrage, giving a comfortable hold that gains character with use. Fit and finishing are in line with Tobisho standards, with a precise serviceable joint and positive spring.

Tip: treat the leather as you would a fine belt or wallet. A little care preserves grip and deepens the patina.

Specifications
  • Sizes stocked: 200 mm
  • Steel stocked: Japanese Carbon steel
  • Other sizes available to order: Contact us for other Tobisho models
  • Handles: Two tone Italian tannin tanned leather, handmade
  • Joint: Serviceable centre joint tuned for smooth action
Maintenance

Clean sap and moisture after use, then dry thoroughly. Apply camellia oil to the blades, spring and pivot before storage.

For sap cleaner, oil, stones and rust removal, browse the Japanese tool care and sharpening range. For current pruning options, browse Japanese secateurs and pruning shears.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Ikiru pruning shears different?

They were developed as part of a regional project in Yamagata with the idea that a clean cut promotes plant health. They combine sharp carbon steel edges with artisan leather handles.

What are the leather grips made from?

They use Italian tannin tanned leather, handmade by La lumière de l'ombrage near the Tobisho factory. The grips are comfortable and develop patina as you use them.

How do I care for the leather handles?

Wipe them clean after use and allow to dry. Apply a small amount of leather conditioner from time to time to keep them supple and prevent cracking.

How do I maintain the carbon steel edge?

Wipe sap and moisture away after work, dry fully, and oil the pivot. Touch up the bevel with a fine waterstone to maintain sharpness. See our Care & Maintenance blog for details.

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Introducing

Tobisho Ikiru Project

Tobisho has roots in Yamagata swordsmithing, forging pruning shears with a reputation for sharpness and balance. The Ikiru project was developed in partnership with YX-Yamagata Transformation and supported by the Yamagata Shimbun. It brings together regional industry, media, and makers to create a tool that reflects both heritage and innovation. Ikiru expresses the philosophy that a clean cut is an act of care for the plant and a commitment to healthy growth. Perth dispatch ensures you can put this tool to work quickly in your garden or orchard.

What sets the Ikiru model apart is its fusion of steel and leather. The carbon steel blades give responsive sharpness, while the artisan grips in Italian tannin tanned leather add comfort and individuality. Each handle is handmade near the Tobisho factory by La lumiére de l'ombrage, making every pair distinct. Together with Tobisho’s tidy finishing, precise joint, and spring feel, Ikiru offers a functional pruning shear that also embodies craftsmanship and story. It is a tool built for people who care about plants and value detail in what they use every day.

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What Sets Our Tools Apart

Philosophy of the cut

Ikiru pruning shears were created with the idea that every cut matters for the health of the plant. Instead of crushing tissue, they are designed to cut instantly so that the plant hardly notices. This cleaner cross section heals faster and supports vigorous growth. The name Ikiru reflects this philosophy. It means to live, and the shears embody this by encouraging long and healthy growth in fruit trees, vines, and ornamentals. Each detail, from the blade grind to the balance in the hand, was designed with this outcome in mind.

Leather grip craftsmanship

The Ikiru model is fitted with two tone Italian leather grips in green and tan, handmade by La lumiére de l'ombrage. This local atelier works near Tobisho’s factory and crafts each grip to match the steel handles precisely. Tannin tanned leather is chosen for its durability and the way it develops patina with use. The result is a grip that is not only comfortable but also gains individual character over time. By blending steelwork and leatherwork, Ikiru becomes more than just a pruning shear. It is a tool with layers of craftsmanship in every part of its construction.

Steel and maintenance

Ikiru blades are forged from carbon steel that sharpens easily and takes a fine edge. With basic care they will serve season after season. Wipe sap, dry fully, and apply oil at the pivot. Touch the bevel on a fine stone before dullness sets in. The leather grips also benefit from occasional conditioning, keeping them supple and enhancing patina. Simple routines protect both steel and leather. For accessories and care products, explore Japanese Secateurs in our range or see our Care & Maintenance blog. A little attention ensures the edge remains sharp and the grips stay strong and comfortable.