ABOUT OUR BONSAI TOOLS

Most all of the tools we supply are from JOSHUA ROTH LTD., who provides a wide range of superior Japanese tools to the Bonsai community at competitive prices.  Our product lines are oriented towards providing the most appropriate selection of tools within each of the four tool grades described below.

In general, the life of a tool relates directly to the hardness of the steel used in its construction, to the manufacturing method employed, and to the detail taken during assembly.  The harder the steel, the more difficult it is to manufacture, hence the variations in cost from grade to grade.

Our “Joshy” STUDENT/NOVICE grade consists of the most basic tools needed by beginners.  They are constructed with high quality steel and are finished very well for the price.  Their cutting edges provide good utility as well as good life.  Some suppliers offer much wider ranges of beginner grade tools and represent them as comparable to better grades in order to offer lower prices.  Often it is difficult to distinguish between two different grades of similar tools.  The surest way to know that one is getting the quality expected is to buy a reputable name brand that clearly states the tools features.

INTERMEDIATE grade provides better quality, longer life tools in a wider assortment, appropriate for enthusiasts with 1 to 10 years of experience.  High carbon steel extends the life of our tools in this grade, and provides cutting edges that stay sharp longer.

PROFESSIONAL grade is by far the widest range of tools we offer.  Longer life is achieved using steel alloys with higher contents of carbon than in our intermediate line, and more attention is paid to detail during their manufacture.  These are lifetime tools for Professional and Master Bonsaiists, as well as  serious enthusiasts who appreciate fine tools.

MASTER gradeconsists of high quality stainless steel shears and cutters.  When considering the purchase of stainless steel tools, one should be aware of the difference between tools described a “stainless” verus “Stainless steel”.  Tools advertised as “Stainless” are made with non-stainless steel and then nickel-plated or covered with a rust-free coating.  The plating and coating eventually wears or chips off, exposing the steel construction beneath, losing the rust-free utility for which it was purchased.  True stainless steel, on the other hand, exhibits stainless properties throughout its construction and its life.