Wallace Forged Bypass Pruner

I've bought a number of pruners in my life and when it was time to get another pair for the garden I decided on these after reading a lot of different reviews. I was positively biased towards the "Fiskars" name but when I looked at many of their pruners, they had plastic components that reviewers complained broke easily.Well, aside from the handles, no plastic components here! The first thing I noticed when I pulled these out of the box was 'Oh my gosh they are HEAVY'... they are solid steel construction and they didn't skimp -- these are a good size and they appear to be made to last. Even the spring in the middle seems heavier than the other pruners I have.I abuse pruners... I leave them out in the rain, I lose them for weeks at a time, I never sharpen or oil them.... so I don't like to spend a lot on them. I figure a few good seasons and they are done. Well these are so solid I'm guessing they are going to last a long time. And yes, they tackle good side branches (1/2"") easily with no bending or struggle.I'm very happy with these and hope this helps you in your pruner shopping!(will update review if they prove less durable than expected)UPDATE July 2014: I've used these for a couple of months and like them so much I ordered two more pair. They are really solid and sharp... and have taken abuse (dropped, wet, etc) and still work great. Favorite pruners.

Feel solid and have worked great so far

Looks like they used to, before plastic replaced metal. Looks solid and heavy-duty, cuts well (so far -- its new). Most of the others had plastic rivets, doomed to quick failure.

Even after reading reviews telling me this, I was still surprised how heavy duty the pruner is. Locking clasp looks like it will last too. Great buy for the price.

Was somewhat disappointed in these shears. They work fine, but to cut 1/2" branches, you need some power. My daughter and wife were unable to use effectively. I thought the workmanship, etc. was acceptable/good, but it just did not have the power to cut thicker branches. My older (different one) does it with ease, but no longer returns to "ready" position quickly. If I had got at Home Depot/Lowes, they would be going back, but I am unwilling to pay shipping for this item to return it.

Great little pruners. I used them once and they were just what I need for the job. Sharp right out of the package. Heavy enough to think they will be around for a while. Nice hook that is easy to secure to keep them closed.

Very good for the money. Only complaint is the rubber falls off the handles.

Great sturdy and sharp pruning shears