Niwaki Sentei Secateurs
Tested November 2024
Niwaki describe these secateurs as designed for light use but at Barnsdale Gardens we don’t generally do light use, so they’ve been put through their paces. All the Niwaki tools I’ve ever used are of a high quality and these are no exception.
The secateurs come packaged in a sturdy cardboard presentation box with Garden Trees written in Japanese (I’ve been reliably informed).
There are no bright plastic handles with these secateurs, they are black bare metal, made from drop forged carbon steel. The handles are smooth but unpolished, meaning they grip well in the hand. Unlike other secateurs the blades and handles are forged from one piece of metal so they’re very solid; my only slight reservation is that the blades can’t be replaced as they can on others but I’d expect with regular sharpening and maintenance they’ll last well.
I really like the locking catch which is at the base of the handles; it gives a pleasing click when locked and a strong spring keeps it open when the secateurs are in use. The main ‘torsion’ spring for the opening and closing of the blades seems strong and secure so unlikely to fall out as other types can, there’s also a spare in the box.
These have performed really well in the garden; the blades are razor sharp and have worked well to cut down perennials as well as some light shrub pruning. I’m confident that they’ll perform well for many years.
Conclusion: I love the simplicity - they're made to do a job well with no frills or gimmicks. The dark colour might mean they’re easily left in a border so I’d recommend a pouch to keep them in.
Replacement springs, bolts, pouches and accessories are available from Niwaki.
