ARSHP-VS8R Rotating Handle Hand Pruner, 8-Inch

This was more of a purchase made from curiosity than need. Most of us have only used basic pruners, that while get the job done, tend to hurt our hands when we need to squeeze hard on their handles. So, after researching between three of the best hand shears money can buy (Felco, Bahco, and Ars), I chose this Ars tool. You can get the Japan-retail version from sellers in Japan, but Ars has licensed a US distributor to sell their products online (Wood Avenue) as well.The Ars tool came pre-lubricated and ready for immediate use. The first time using it, I spent about 30 minutes trimming down some shrubs in my front yard. I found it a joy to use aside from one minor issue of the blades getting stuck together periodically as I was working (this only happened when cutting some of the thicker branches). While worrisome at first, hindsight now 20/20, the tool was actually not broken in yet, and this was a relatively thorough pruning session with some thick branches.It's very easy to use. You can lock it into place by pressing a little notch upward. You can conveniently unlock it again by just squeezing the handles as if you were cutting.It's also very comfortable to use.The black handle rotates, very helpful on my hands when I needed to squeeze tightly to be able to cut some of the thicker branches. There is a spring that compresses as you squeeze the handles when you prune. And I really liked how the tool felt in my hands, the handles are very smooth feeling.The blades will cut through just about any reasonably sized (finger width) branch you throw at it. Very clean cuts, and most of the time effortlessly.Overall, a great, strong, and easy to use tool. Made in Japan, which I'm guessing adds to the price tag. Is it worth the premium? If you appreciate a quality tool and plan to keep it for a lifetime, I truly think it will be a great investment.2015 Update ARS HP-VS8R VS Bahco PXR-M2________________________________________I recently purchased the Bahco PXR-M2 as a gift for my mother, who loves gardening in her spare time. This is basically Bahco's version of this ARS VS8R tool, rotating handle and medium size. The Bahco's build quality is right up there with the Ars unit. The Bahco does have a more preferably matte finish on the handles, and the Bahco does "look" like the higher quality/better tool to me in person. The Bahco is made in France and is also a pricey tool like this one... But looks/quality aside, I think the Ars is easier on the hands to use, and its rotating handle and locking mechanism are implemented better. Overall, the Ars tool is the slightly better tool in my opinion,2016 Update___________I had initially rated this tool 4 stars mainly due to cost, but now after two years and no trouble, I feel this has now proven to be a 5 star pruner.

I would never have spent this much for a hand pruner. It was my wife's doing. Furthermore, there's not a word of English on the packaging. Nevertheless, the five-star rating is not a mistake. These are by far the best pruners I have ever used. They appear to be extremely well-made and incredibly sharp. I had no idea why a pruner would have a "rotating handle," but now that I've used it, I understand completely. Using any gripper device over and over again can really tear up your fingers – sometimes even when wearing gloves. As your fingers curl the lower gripper handle (the black handle on this particular model) slides up your fingers from a location nearer the tip of the fingers to a position nearer the palm of the hand. Since you're squeezing, the sliding motion creates lots of friction. With the rotating grip on the bottom handle, that friction is alleviated. The lower handle basically rolls up your fingers as you squeeze. As a result, you don't really need gloves, and you're not likely to end up with blisters or irritated skin. I expect these pruners to last the rest of my life, and – in retrospect – I don't mind the expense.

This is the best pruner I’ve ever bought. Absolutely no more worries about getting a blister as the one rotating handle swivels eliminating friction and hotspots .Would definitely buy again and recommend.

These pruners are the bypass style which allows for nice clean cuts. The rotating handle takes some getting use to and may be difficult for people with smaller hands. I have had these pruners for about 5 years and use them regularly on my roses and other plants. I have been able to cut branches up to 3/4" in diameter without much trouble. The blades are still sharp and I haven't had any problems with the spring or locking mechanism.

Yes, this is a superb pair of secateurs - the rotating handle takes a substantial amount of fatigue away after prolonged use. The Japanese have thought long and hard about what matters with prolonged usage - a superb result - I highly recommend this product