Hard-wearing, heavy-duty 'double yellow' clippers for box clipping, slightly rougher chopping back, and the stubby blades are tough enough for a touch of woodier work too. They're shorter than a topiary clipper, longer and stronger than a pair of snips, for those in-between jobs. And if you've misplaced them after a long day in the garden, the yellow vinyl grip handles will stand out and show up so they can be safely put away.

Hand-forged in Sanjo, Japan from KA-70 carbon steel, these clippers have a solid, chunky catch at the bottom and a robust spring. They fit nicely in the standard-sized single holster, sold separately, which we thoroughly recommend for all sharp tools.

This range of clippers is made by a small family business in Yamagata, Japan. Second-generation Mr Kudo still puts in a full day's work as he approaches 80, assisted by his wife and their two sons.

How to care for your new clippers:

• Clean with a Crean Mate and Camellia oil and then sharpen with a #1000 stone every few weeks. Your new tool won't need sharpening for some time, but after a while you'll notice it will gradually lose its edge.
• 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 rather than straight across so you cut along the fibres.
• Pay attention to maximum cut dimensions, and don't overdo it.
• Use the base of the blades, not the tips, for heavier cuts.