Forged Japanese Pruners (Higurashi GR Secateurs)

• Weight: 7.9 oz
• Dimensions: 8 x 2 x 0.8 in
• Blades: 2.2 in.
• Max cut: Ø0.4 in
• Materials: Made from KA-70 Carbon Steel with Yellow Vinyl handles

Most of Niwaki's sharp tools are made from carbon steel - this means they will, through regular use, stain (and eventually rust) and gradually lose their edge. Caring for them involves three things…

1. Correct Use:

• Japanese steel is hard and sharp, and can be more brittle than some people are used to - it will chip if abused
• Do not cut wire, metal, stone, plastic or any other hard material (even bamboo fibres and some very hard woods, especially knots and burrs, can damage steel edges)
• Do not twist or apply uneven pressure
• Cut diagonally across branches (not straight across) so you cut along the fibres
• Pay attention to our maximum cut dimensions, and don’t overdo it (shears are not loppers)
• Use the base of the blades, not the tips, for heavier cuts
  

2. Keeping Them Clean:

• Remove leaf resin, rust and gunk with a Crean Mate and water
• Dry, wipe over with Camellia oil and store in a dry place
  

3. Keeping Them Sharp:
New tools won’t need sharpening for some time, but after a while you’ll notice them gradually lose their edge, especially if you’re box clipping (you need REALLY sharp blades to get a good finish with box). Use the Niwaki Sharpening Stones for best results (#1000 grit is best for general sharpening).

• Sharpen Secateurs every couple of weeks
• Sharpen Shears and Topiary Clippers EVERY TIME you use them - the difference is amazing

Founded in 1996, Niwaki began when Jake Hobson traveled to Japan to explore the tradition of cherry blossom viewing, or hanami, and became deeply inspired by Japanese gardens and tree care. After training and working in a traditional nursery in Osaka—where he learned pruning, shaping, and cultivation techniques—Jake brought this knowledge back to the UK.

There, he introduced Japanese gardening tools like tripod ladders, secateurs, and topiary clippers, quickly proving their effectiveness not just for bonsai, but for all types of gardens and plants. What started as a personal passion evolved into a business rooted in sharing these thoughtfully designed, highly functional tools.

Named after the Japanese word for “garden tree,” Niwaki reflects the artistry and intention behind Japanese gardening. Today, the brand offers tools that are tried, tested, and used daily—built to last and designed to bring precision and joy to gardening of any kind.