Kamikaze KM770 Two-Handed Pruning Shears Review

What Makes Kamikaze KM770 Two-Handed Pruning Shears Stand Out?

The Kamikaze KM770 Two-Handed Pruning Shears enter a market saturated with options, promising a blend of robust design and enhanced cutting power. Manufactured by Kamikaze, these bypass pruning shears are aimed at the semi-professional user, someone who demands more than just basic functionality. The key standout feature is the pivot mechanism with a rack system, designed to amplify cutting force, making tough jobs easier.

I’ve spent years battling unruly branches and overgrown shrubs. The need for a reliable tool that could handle thicker branches without excessive strain led me to the Kamikaze KM770. My old loppers were simply not cutting it, requiring Herculean effort for anything over an inch in diameter.

Upon unboxing, the initial impression was one of solid construction. The weight, at just over a kilogram, felt reassuring, suggesting durability without being unwieldy. The fiberglass reinforced PA handles and the overinjected TPE grips looked and felt substantial.

I considered other options, including the Felco 220 and the Corona SL 7180, both respected names in the pruning world. However, the Kamikaze KM770’s unique rack and pinion system promised a different level of power assistance at a lower price point than the Felco, while boasting a larger cutting capacity than the Corona. I was intrigued by the potential for effortless cuts on thicker branches.

My first impression was definitely excitement mixed with a touch of skepticism. Could these shears truly live up to the hype of amplified cutting power? Only real-world use would tell, but the initial feel was promising.


Real-World Testing: Putting Kamikaze KM770 Two-Handed Pruning Shears to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground was my own overgrown backyard, a veritable jungle of neglected fruit trees and thorny bushes. The conditions were dry, with a slight breeze, perfect for a pruning session. I immediately tackled some apple tree branches that were around 1.5 inches in diameter.

The amplified cutting power was immediately noticeable. The rack and pinion system genuinely reduced the effort required to slice through the branches. While my old loppers would have required considerable force and multiple attempts, the KM770 made clean cuts with relative ease.

The only minor issue was getting used to the longer handles. They required a slightly wider stance and a different grip than I was accustomed to. But after a few minutes, it felt natural.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Kamikaze KM770 has proven to be a reliable workhorse. I’ve used it to prune everything from delicate rose bushes to stubborn oak saplings. The shears have consistently delivered clean cuts, and the blades have remained sharp.

So far, there are minimal signs of wear and tear. The Teflon coating on the blade seems to be holding up well, resisting rust and corrosion. The handles remain sturdy and comfortable, even after extended use.

Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper loppers, the KM770 is a significant upgrade. It outperforms them in terms of cutting power, durability, and overall comfort. It has made pruning less of a chore and more of an enjoyable task.

Breaking Down the Features of Kamikaze KM770 Two-Handed Pruning Shears

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: Kamikaze
  • Color: Black/Red
  • Gender: Unisex
  • Age Group: Adults
  • Type: Bypass pruning shears
  • Blade Material: Hardened steel with Teflon coating
  • Handle Material: Fiberglass reinforced PA with overinjected TPE grips
  • Cutting Capacity: 50 mm (2 inches)
  • Length: 720 mm
  • Weight: 1.119 kg

These specifications translate directly into performance. The hardened steel blade ensures long-lasting sharpness and cutting ability. The Teflon coating provides corrosion resistance for durability. The reinforced handles contribute to the overall robustness of the shears. The 50mm cutting capacity means these shears can tackle substantial branches, increasing their versatility.

Performance & Functionality

The Kamikaze KM770 excels at its primary function: cutting branches. The rack and pinion system provides a significant mechanical advantage, requiring less physical effort from the user. The bypass blade design ensures clean, precise cuts, minimizing damage to the plant.

The main strength lies in its power. It makes cutting thicker branches much easier compared to traditional loppers. A slight weakness is the slightly increased weight compared to smaller, less powerful shears, but this is a reasonable trade-off for the added cutting capacity.

The Kamikaze KM770 largely meets expectations, but with some minor caveats. While the rack and pinion system is a significant improvement, it’s not a magic bullet. Extremely tough or dead wood still requires some effort.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is solid. The materials feel robust and well-assembled. The weight is balanced, making the shears feel comfortable in hand, even during prolonged use.

The design is generally user-friendly. There is a slight learning curve in getting accustomed to the rack and pinion system and the longer handles, but it’s easily overcome with a few minutes of practice.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the robust construction and quality materials, the Kamikaze KM770 should last for many years with proper care. The hardened steel blade and Teflon coating should resist wear and corrosion. The fiberglass reinforced handles are designed to withstand significant stress.

Maintenance is relatively simple. Keeping the blades clean and lightly oiled after each use will help prevent rust and maintain sharpness. The pivot points should also be occasionally lubricated to ensure smooth operation of the rack and pinion system.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kamikaze KM770 doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond the shears themselves. There are no readily available customization options, such as different blade types or handle grips.

It is unlikely that many aftermarket accessories will be available due to the specific design of the rack and pinion system. The focus of the product is on its integrated features rather than modularity.

Pros and Cons of Kamikaze KM770 Two-Handed Pruning Shears

Pros

  • Enhanced cutting power: The rack and pinion system significantly reduces the effort required to cut thicker branches.
  • Durable construction: The hardened steel blade, Teflon coating, and fiberglass reinforced handles ensure long-lasting performance.
  • Clean cuts: The bypass blade design promotes healthy plant growth by minimizing damage to the cut surface.
  • Comfortable grip: The overinjected TPE handles provide a secure and comfortable grip, even during extended use.
  • Versatile cutting capacity: With a 50mm (2-inch) cutting capacity, these shears can handle a wide range of pruning tasks.

Cons

  • Slightly heavier: The added weight from the rack and pinion system may be fatiguing for some users during very long pruning sessions.
  • Limited Customization: Lack of aftermarket accessories limits options for personalization.


Who Should Buy Kamikaze KM770 Two-Handed Pruning Shears?

The Kamikaze KM770 Two-Handed Pruning Shears are perfect for semi-professional gardeners, landscapers, and homeowners with mature trees and shrubs that require regular pruning. They’re also ideal for anyone who struggles with the physical effort required to use traditional loppers.

Someone who only needs to prune small rose bushes or delicate flowers could skip this product. The KM770’s larger size and cutting capacity would be overkill for such tasks.

A must-have would be a blade sharpener to keep the blades at their optimal cutting performance. A can of lubricant to keep the moving parts working smoothly will also extend the life of the tool.

Conclusion on Kamikaze KM770 Two-Handed Pruning Shears

Overall, the Kamikaze KM770 Two-Handed Pruning Shears are a well-designed and effective tool that delivers on its promise of enhanced cutting power. The rack and pinion system makes pruning thicker branches significantly easier, reducing strain and fatigue. The robust construction and quality materials ensure long-lasting performance.

At $53.99, the price is justified by the increased cutting power, durability, and overall value compared to cheaper loppers. While not perfect, with some minor caveats, the Kamikaze KM770 offers an excellent balance of performance, durability, and affordability.

I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and powerful set of pruning shears that can handle a wide range of tasks. Upgrade your pruning game, reduce strain, and achieve cleaner cuts! Invest in the Kamikaze KM770 today!

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top