I lost my standard bow saw I’ve used for pruning fruit trees for years. I decided it was time to update my choice of handsaw as while the bow saw always cut good, there we times when I could not make close, clean cuts due to the obtuse design of the bow saw. I found this Samurai Ichiban 13″ curved pruning saw and was impressed with all the reviews so I decided to give it a try. It arrived on-time and in good condition. First, I was impressed with the packaging. Even though the saw is securely set into the hard plastic scabbard, they still covered the entire scabbard with a clear plastic sheath.Scabbard: The scabbard is substantial; hard and thick with a pivoting belt loop. I expect this scabbard will outlast the saw.Saw: The green, soft rubber-coated handle with finger grooves is sturdy and feels good in the hand. I would prefer a smooth grip handle as opposed to the finger groove hand, but that is my preference. Upon pulling the saw from the scabbard, I notices a 4 inch long plastic protector on the saw teeth just after the handle insertion. I believe this is here to protect the saw teeth from rubbing against the scabbard as the saw is drawn. The blade has a nice, simple curve that ads great stability when sawing. The staggered teeth are very sharp. I lightly presses my finger against the blades but not hard enough to draw blood, which, as one reviewer stated, will puncture your skin.Cutting: I immediately took my new Samurai saw to the apple orchard where I knew I had one crotch cut that needed to be made. I had left this cut for when I brought the saws-all out as my original bow saw would not work on this cut. This Samurai pruning saw cuts through wood easily, leaving a very smooth and clean cut. I cut through a 2-inch diameter branch with ease. I inspected the open cut of the removed branch closely and was very impressed with how smooth of a cut this blade leaves, much cleaner than my old bow saw or the pruning blade on my saws-all.I’m very happy with this purchase and would recommend to anyone who does a lot or even a little bit of pruning.