JRL Catalog - Page ii About Joshua Roth Tool Grades

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 greater the detail and 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 a 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 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’ construction.

Our 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 sharper longer.

Our 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 Bonsaists, as well as serious enthusiasts who appreciate fine tools.

Our Master grade consists of stainless steel shears and cutters in both standard (8") and small (7") sizes. When considering stainless steel tools, one should be aware of the difference between tools described as ‘stainless’ versus ‘stainless steel’. Tools advertised as ‘stainless’ are made with regular steel and then plated or coated with a rust-resistant finish which can eventually wear off, exposing the steel construction beneath and losing its rust-resistant utility. True stainless steel, however, keeps its stainless properties throughout its life, regardless of wear.

In addition to being made with superior grades of stainless steel, the cutting edges of our Master Grade shears are laminated with a high carbon compound to extend sharpness and life beyond the best of stainless steels. This additional process adds cost, but the results are tools that truly fit the designation of ‘Master Grade’